Munnar’s history is closely linked to the British colonial period, when it was developed as a hill station and tea-growing region. The British established tea estates in the late 19th century, transforming the landscape into vast plantations that continue to define Munnar’s identity today. The region’s name, meaning “three rivers,” reflects its geographical setting at the confluence of three rivers. Over time, Munnar became an important center for tea production, with estates and factories playing a key role in its economy and heritage. Despite modernization, the colonial influence is still visible in old bungalows, tea factories, and the overall layout of the plantations. Munnar’s heritage is deeply tied to its natural environment and the history of plantation culture.