Munnar, the picturesque hill station in Kerala, is famous for its tea gardens, misty mountains, and serene landscapes. But there’s more to Munnar than meets the eye. Deep in the forests of Munnar lies an ancient mystery waiting to be unraveled. The Muniyara Dolmens, a collection of megalithic structures, stand as a testament to the region’s rich history and culture.
What are Dolmens?
Dolmens are ancient structures made of large stones arranged in a specific pattern. They are found in many parts of the world and are believed to have been used for various purposes such as burials, ritualistic ceremonies, and as shelters. The Muniyara Dolmens are one such example found in Munnar.
History and Significance
The Muniyara Dolmens are estimated to be around 3000 to 5000 years old, dating back to the Neolithic era. These structures were built by the indigenous tribes of the region, and their purpose is still shrouded in mystery. Some believe that the dolmens were used for burials, while others speculate that they were used as shelters or places of worship.
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The dolmens are made of massive boulders arranged in a circular or rectangular pattern, with a small opening serving as an entrance. The largest dolmen in the region is over 15 feet long and 8 feet wide. The precision and craftsmanship involved in building these structures are a testament to the skill and knowledge of the ancient inhabitants of the region.
Exploration and Conservation Efforts
The Muniyara Dolmens were discovered by the British in the 19th century, but it was only in the 20th century that systematic exploration of the area began. Today, the dolmens are protected by the Kerala State Archaeology Department, and efforts are being made to preserve and conserve these ancient structures.
Visitors can explore the dolmens and get a glimpse of the region’s rich history and culture. The Muniyara Dolmens have become a popular tourist destination, and many travel to Munnar to experience the ancient mystery that lies hidden in the forests.
Mysteries and Legends
The Muniyara Dolmens are steeped in legends and mysteries. According to local folklore, the dolmens were built by a race of giants who roamed the region in ancient times. Others believe that the dolmens were the work of extraterrestrial beings who visited the region in the distant past.
Regardless of the origin, the Muniyara Dolmens continue to fascinate and intrigue visitors with their ancient beauty and enigmatic history.
Conclusion
The Muniyara Dolmens are not just a collection of ancient structures; they are a window into the past, offering us a glimpse of the lives and beliefs of the people who lived in the region thousands of years ago. They are a reminder that there is much to learn and discover about our world and its history, waiting to be explored.
Travel Tips & Tourist Attraction
- The best time to visit the Muniyara Dolmens is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain around the dolmens can be uneven and rocky.
- Carry a bottle of water and some snacks as there are no shops or restaurants in the vicinity.
- Avoid visiting the dolmens during monsoon season as the area can become slippery and dangerous.
- Combine a visit to the Muniyara Dolmens with other popular attractions in Munnar, such as the tea gardens, Eravikulam National Park, and Mattupetty Dam.
FAQs
- Can visitors explore the dolmens on their own, or do they need a guide?
- Visitors can explore the dolmens on their own, but it is recommended to hire a guide to learn more about the history and significance of these ancient structures.
- Are the dolmens accessible for people with disabilities?
- Unfortunately, the dolmens are located in a forested area and are not easily accessible for people with disabilities.
- Are there any restrictions on photography at the dolmens?
- Visitors are allowed to take photographs of the dolmens, but they are requested to not touch or damage the structures in any way.
- Is there an entrance fee to visit the dolmens?
- No, there is no entrance fee to visit the Muniyara Dolmens.
- How long does it take to explore the dolmens?
- It takes around 30 minutes to an hour to explore the dolmens, depending on how much time you want to spend admiring the structures and the surrounding natural beauty.
- Can visitors explore the dolmens on their own, or do they need a guide?
- Visitors can explore the dolmens on their own, but it is recommended to hire a guide to learn more about the history and significance of these ancient structures.
- Are the dolmens accessible for people with disabilities?
- Unfortunately, the dolmens are located in a forested area and are not easily accessible for people with disabilities.
- Are there any restrictions on photography at the dolmens?
- Visitors are allowed to take photographs of the dolmens, but they are requested to not touch or damage the structures in any way.
- Is there an entrance fee to visit the