Munnar is one of the most rewarding places in Kerala for travellers who enjoy birds as part of the landscape rather than as a checklist. Forest edges, tea country, Shola vegetation, valleys and changing elevations create varied habitats within a relatively small area.
At Blackberry Hills, birdwatching begins inside the property itself. The 10-acre mountainside estate is deliberately kept quiet, with mature vegetation, ferns, native planting and forest-edge habitat attracting birds throughout the year.
Why birdwatching works well at Blackberry Hills
The cottages are spread across the slope instead of being concentrated in a single building. That means guests move through pathways, trees and different elevations during an ordinary day at the resort.
Some of the best sightings happen without a formal birding excursion: from a balcony, while walking to breakfast, during an early-morning estate walk or while sitting quietly near the valley edge.
Birds you may encounter
Sightings vary by season, weather and luck, and no species can ever be guaranteed. Birds recorded or regularly noted around the estate and wider Munnar landscape include:
- Malabar Grey Hornbill
- Malabar Whistling Thrush
- Nilgiri Wood Pigeon
- Nilgiri Flycatcher
- Black-and-orange Flycatcher
- Scarlet Minivet
- Emerald Dove
- Kerala Scimitar Babbler
- Grey Junglefowl
- sunbirds, bulbuls, wagtails and barbets
- raptors such as kestrels and kites
The point is not that every guest will see every bird. What makes the estate rewarding is that bird activity is woven into the stay itself.
Best time of day for birdwatching
Early morning is usually the most productive time, especially before the property becomes active. Late afternoon can also be rewarding. Mist, rain, temperature and flowering or fruiting plants can change what appears from one day to the next.
If birding matters to you, leave at least one morning unscheduled rather than trying to fit it between sightseeing stops.
Shola trek and guided nature walks
The guided Shola and nature trek is one of the best ways to explore beyond the immediate cottage area. The walk is not designed only for serious birders. It also introduces guests to the vegetation, smaller wildlife, terrain and seasonal changes that shape the estate.
A guide can also help identify calls and movement that casual observers might otherwise miss.
Birdwatching from the room
Because several cottages sit close to mature vegetation and valley-facing slopes, guests may see bird activity from balconies or outdoor spaces. This is especially useful for travellers who enjoy wildlife but do not want a long trek.
Keep expectations realistic: a balcony is not a hide, and wildlife will not appear on demand.
What to bring
- compact binoculars
- a camera with a moderate telephoto lens if photography matters to you
- a notebook or birding app
- comfortable footwear
- a light rain layer
- patience
Birdwatching etiquette
Good birdwatching depends on reducing disturbance. Avoid loud calls, chasing birds for photographs or playing recordings repeatedly. Stay on established paths where possible and keep a respectful distance from nests and feeding activity.
This fits naturally with Blackberry Hills’ wider policy of avoiding fireworks, loud music and unnecessary noise. The estate is shared with wildlife, not arranged only for guests.
Birding and conservation
The same habitat that supports birds also supports frogs, insects, moths, squirrels and other wildlife. Blackberry Hills continues restoration and biodiversity work across the estate, including habitat-sensitive planting and conservation efforts for the endangered Anaimalai Flying Frog.
That wider ecological approach matters because birdwatching is only meaningful when the habitat itself remains healthy.
Planning a bird-focused stay in Munnar
If birding is a major part of your trip, combine quiet estate time with visits to different elevations and habitat types around Munnar. Avoid trying to cover too much ground in one day. Weather can change quickly, and the best sightings often come when you are willing to wait.
For a broader nature-led trip, see our guide to outdoor and adventure activities in Munnar.
Explore stays at Blackberry Hills or check direct availability.