If you’re a travel lover with a taste for history, Munnar’s tragic past and the remnants of its
metre gauge monorail will surely captivate your imagination. This picturesque hill station in
Kerala, India, with its sprawling tea plantations and misty mountains, has a haunting story to
tell. Let’s delve into the history of Munnar and learn how modern-day travelers can
experience its tragic beauty.
Munnar’s history is deeply intertwined with the British colonization of India. During the late
19th century, the British Raj turned the region into a flourishing tea plantation haven. As the
tea industry boomed, the need for an efficient mode of transportation became apparent. This
led to the construction of the Munnar-Kodaikanal monorail, a unique metre gauge railway
system built on narrow wooden tracks suspended over steep ravines and valleys.
The monorail was an engineering marvel of its time, connecting Munnar with nearby towns
and providing a means to transport tea and other goods. However, tragedy struck on October
26, 1900, when a devastating landslide destroyed a portion of the railway track, leading to the
suspension of operations. The incident claimed the lives of numerous workers and left the
monorail in disarray.
Today, the abandoned remnants of the metre gauge monorail serve as a solemn reminder of
Munnar’s tragic past. As a traveler, you have the unique opportunity to witness this historical
relic and experience the nostalgia it evokes. The eerie beauty of the decaying wooden tracks
draped in mist creates a haunting atmosphere that transports you back in time.
To become a modern-day Munnar explorer and witness the tragic
history up close, here are 5 top tips to explore Munnar monorail:
1. Research and Plan: Before setting out on your journey to Munnar, familiarize yourself with
the history of the metre gauge monorail. Understand the significance of the railway system
and the impact it had on the region. This knowledge will enrich your experience as you
explore the remnants.
2. Visit the Lakkam Waterfalls: Located near Munnar, the Lakkam Waterfalls offer a scenic
backdrop for your monorail exploration. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfalls and soak
in the natural beauty of the surroundings. This will set the mood for your encounter with
Munnar’s tragic history.
3. Trek Along the Abandoned Tracks: Lace-up your hiking boots and embark on a trek along
the abandoned tracks of the metre gauge monorail. As you traverse the rugged terrain,
imagine the bustling railway that once existed in this very spot. Let your imagination bring
the ghosts of the past to life.
4. Capture the Tragic Beauty: Take out your camera and capture the tragic beauty of the
abandoned monorail. The juxtaposition of nature’s resilience and man-made ruins makes for
captivating photographs. Share your experiences with fellow travel enthusiasts and ignite
their curiosity about Munnar’s hidden gems.
5. Respect the History: While exploring the remnants of the metre gauge monorail, remember
to do so with respect. Avoid littering and damaging the structures, as these remnants are
crucial to preserving the historical significance of the site. Leave only footprints and take
away memories that will last a lifetime.
Munnar’s tragic history and the abandoned metre gauge monorail offer a unique experience
for travel lovers seeking to immerse themselves in the past. By following these tips, you can
become a modern-day Munnar explorer and bear witness to the echoes of the past. So pack
your bags, step into the misty mountains, and unlock the secrets of Munnar’s tragic beauty.