History of Munnar
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From Tea Growing to Eco Tourism
From Tea Growing to Eco Tourism
The Anaimudi Peak - W.S.S Mackay in the Foreground
First load of tea going down the New Rope - 1901
Mid to Late 19th Century
1870:
John Daniel Munro, a British lawyer and official of the Travancore government, identified the agricultural potential of Munnar. He leased land from the Poonjar royal family, marking the beginning of tea cultivation in the region. This lease covered vast tracts of land, setting the stage for large-scale plantation agriculture.
1878:
The first tea plants were introduced to Munnar. Munro’s efforts led to the founding of the North Travancore Land Planting & Agricultural Society, which played a crucial role in developing the plantation infrastructure.
1880:
The Kanan Devan Hills Produce Company was formed to manage the expanding tea estates. Infrastructure development, including roads, bungalows, and processing factories, began in earnest. Laborers were brought in from Tamil Nadu to work in the tea plantations, laying the foundations for Munnar’s tea industry.
The High Range light railway, pre 1924
Pre-19th Century
Ancient History:
Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats, was primarily inhabited by indigenous tribal communities such as the Muthuvan and the Hill Pulayas. These tribes had a deep connection with the forested landscapes, living in harmony with nature and practicing subsistence agriculture and shifting cultivation.
Early 19th Century
1830s:
The Western Ghats, including the Munnar region, started attracting British explorers and officials. Their interest in the area grew due to its strategic location and rich natural resources.
The first Albion lorry 1910
Munnar-Aluva Road construction work in progress (1939)
Eric Francis(General Manager) was the first to introduce motorcycles to the hills of Munnar
Kundala Valley Railway of Munnar - Early 1900's
Monorail system used in Munnar in1900
Dhooli (Palanquin) transport from Bottom to Top Station, N.S. Cole and Mrs. Cole, 1921
The Christ Church, Built in 1911
Munnar Flood, 1924
Munnar railway and bride destroyed during the floods in 1924
Early 20th Century
1900:
Munnar’s infrastructure saw significant improvements. The construction of the High Range Club, established as a social club for planters, and various European-style bungalows reflected the growing British influence.
1910:
The construction of the Munnar railway, known as the Kundala Valley Railway, began. This narrow-gauge railway was built to facilitate the transportation of tea from the plantations to the Cochin port.
1924:
The Great Flood of 1924 caused extensive damage to Munnar. The floods destroyed plantations, infrastructure, and the Kundala Valley Railway. The rebuilding efforts post-flood saw the implementation of improved engineering and flood management practices.
Bungalow's after Flood, 1924
Mid 20th Century
1947:
Following India’s independence, the management of Munnar’s tea estates began transitioning from British to Indian hands. The Tata Group acquired a significant stake in the plantations, leading to the formation of Tata Finlay, a joint venture with James Finlay & Co.
1964:
Tata Finlay expanded and modernized the tea plantations. Innovations in tea processing and management practices were introduced, boosting productivity and quality.
Late 20th Century
1983:
Tata Tea was established as an independent entity, taking over the management of the tea estates from Tata Finlay. This period marked a phase of modernization and expansion in the tea industry.
1980s-1990s:
Munnar started gaining prominence as a tourist destination. Investments in tourism infrastructure by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) and private players helped develop attractions like the Eravikulam National Park, known for its endangered Nilgiri Tahr population, the Mattupetty Dam, and the Anamudi Peak.
First Independence Day celebration at Munnar, 1947
Gymkhana Race, 1930
Rolling room of the tea factory of the High Range Travancore Tea Estate in 1910
On the Hill - A.J.E Steven and his Shikari Kandasamy-Circa, 1945
21st Century
2000:
The Eravikulam National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting its importance in conservation efforts. The park became a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors to Munnar.
2005:
The Tata Tea Museum was inaugurated, showcasing the history and heritage of tea plantations in Munnar. It became an important educational and tourist attraction.
2018:
Munnar experienced severe flooding during the Kerala floods. The floods caused landslides and significant damage to infrastructure, affecting the local economy and tourism. The disaster prompted a renewed focus on sustainable development and disaster resilience.
Main Road from Top Station to Kundaly
Recent Developments
2020s:
Munnar continues to thrive as a major tourist destination. Efforts to promote sustainable tourism and environmental conservation have intensified. Initiatives to enhance eco-tourism, preserve local culture, and implement responsible travel practices are gaining momentum.
Ongoing:
Munnar’s tea industry remains a cornerstone of its economy. Tata Global Beverages (formerly Tata Tea) continues to play a significant role in the region’s tea production. The focus on sustainable practices and innovation in tea cultivation and processing is ongoing. Munnar’s history is a tapestry of natural beauty, colonial influence, and modern development. Its journey from a remote tribal land to a bustling tourist destination and tea production hub reflects resilience, adaptation, and a deep connection to its unique landscape.
Historical Snapshots
Historical Snapshots
Munnar Supply Association - early 1900’s
The High Range Club formally set up in 1909, group photo of members around 1910
Tea pickers with their supervisors in Chokkanadu Tea Estate in 1921
Workshop Staff including G.A Cole and C.A.V. Grant, 1920s
Sunday Meet, Kundaly Club, 1930s
Chokenad Estate - staff farewell party on occasion of retirement of A.J.E Steven, Manager, 1955
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