Ask most people where apples grow in India and they'll say Kashmir or Himachal. Hardly anyone says Kerala. But up in the high range of Idukki, in a small village called Kanthalloor, apple trees grow in farms and backyards, and if you visit at the right time, you can see the fruit on the branches and even pick some yourself.
Apples aren't the only surprise. Kanthalloor sits at about 5,000 feet above sea level, and the cool climate suits a whole basket of fruits and vegetables that you won't easily find elsewhere in Kerala. It's a lovely, quiet, farm-country detour if you're already in Munnar or Marayoor.
Kanthalloor at a glance
| Where | Idukki district, Kerala, near Marayoor |
|---|---|
| Altitude | About 5,000 ft above sea level |
| Known for | Apples and other cool-climate fruits and vegetables |
| Distance | About 40 km from Munnar, about 16 km from Marayoor |
| Regular apple season | July to August |
| Good for | Farm visits, village walks, a quiet day out from Munnar |
What grows in Kanthalloor
Apples get the headlines, but the real charm is how many things grow here. Along with apples, you'll find plums, strawberries, blackberries, oranges, mussambi (sweet lime), guavas, egg fruit, passion fruit, lychee, raspberries and peaches, plus a range of vegetables.
Because the hill climate is cool and mild, the fruit doesn't follow one fixed calendar. The regular apple season is July to August, but the weather lets trees bear fruit at other times too, so you may see something ripening on almost any visit. Ask the farmers what's in season that week.
The area is also tied to Marayoor jaggery, which is made from the sugarcane grown on the other side of the hills, and it's worth picking up a block on the way.
When to go
- July to August: the regular apple season. The hills are green, but expect rain, mist and slippery roads.
- October to February: clear, cool weather, great views and comfortable walking. Many other fruits and vegetables are in season too.
- March to May: warmer, but still pleasant at this altitude, and a good time to combine with Munnar.
Since fruit can be found in many months, the best approach is to call a local farm or homestay before you go and ask what's ripe.
How to reach Kanthalloor
Kanthalloor is a village in the high range, so you'll want a car or taxi.
- From Munnar: It's about 40 km, a scenic drive through tea, eucalyptus and forest, and the road passes the Marayoor side. Allow a couple of hours.
- From Marayoor: About 16 km, and a short drive with lovely views.
- By train: The main railway stations are in the Kochi area (Aluva and Ernakulam), well over 100 km away. Plan on a long drive from there.
- By air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest, about 139 km away.
Kanthalloor location map
Kanthalloor photo gallery
Nearby places
- Marayoor: famous for its sandalwood forests, jaggery making and ancient dolmens.
- Vattavada: a neighbouring village known for vegetables and strawberries, with some beautiful terraced farms.
- Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: a dry forest reserve with elephants, deer and the grizzled giant squirrel.
- Munnar: tea gardens, Eravikulam National Park and Top Station. See our guide to the hidden gems of Kanthalloor for more ideas in the area.
Check entry rules and opening hours before you go, particularly for the sanctuary.
Practical tips
- Call ahead. A quick call to a local farm or homestay will tell you what fruit is ripe and whether visitors are welcome.
- Carry cash. Small farms and roadside stalls often don't take cards or UPI.
- Fill up your tank and carry water and snacks. Services are limited in the village.
- Pack a light jacket. It's cool here, especially in the morning and evening.
- Drive carefully on the hill roads, and avoid them after dark.
- Buy local fruit, jaggery and vegetables directly from the farmers. It helps the community and the quality is excellent.
Questions people ask
Where is Kanthalloor?
Kanthalloor is in Idukki district, Kerala, about 40 km from Munnar and about 16 km from Marayoor.
Does Kerala really grow apples?
Yes. In the cool high range of Kanthalloor, apples grow well. The regular season is July to August, though the climate allows fruit in other seasons too.
What other fruits grow in Kanthalloor?
Plum, strawberry, blackberry, orange, mussambi, guava, egg fruit, passion fruit, lychee, raspberry and peach, among others.
What is Kanthalloor's altitude?
About 5,000 feet above sea level.
How to reach Kanthalloor from Munnar?
By road, about 40 km, in roughly two hours by car or taxi.
Read also
- Top Hidden Gems in Kanthalloor, Kerala: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
- Top 10 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala India
Picked an apple in Kerala? Tell us about your Kanthalloor trip in the comments, and share this post with a fruit-loving friend.
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