Shola Crown Resort - Munnar

Mixed Experience at Shola Crown: A Blend of Nature and Challenges I recently stayed at Shola Crown with my family, and while the experience had its memorable moments, it also came with a few setbacks. Pros: Stunning Location: Nestled amidst the mesmerizing shola forests, often wrapped in mist, offering a breathtaking chill in the air. Spectacular Views: Room A5 offered a serene view of the Shola forest mountains. Friendly Staff: The staff, from the porter to the manager, were extremely helpful and attentive, ensuring our comfort. Prompt Housekeeping: Housekeeping was efficient and responsive. Adventure Opportunity: The staff arranged a jeep safari, an adventurous highlight for nature and wilderness lovers (those with back issues should exercise caution) . Kid-Friendly: The backyard play area, resembling a forest adventure, was a big hit with the kids, offering them a safe and fun way to engage with nature. Good Food Quality: The food served at the restaurant was tasty, albeit on the pricier side. Cons: Difficult Access: The entrance from the main road is challenging due to a hairpin bend and blind spots for oncoming traffic, especially when approaching from Munnar. No Elevator: The lack of an elevator made it difficult for elderly family members to navigate the stairs. Rooms: The rooms, while neat, showed signs of wear and tear and felt overdue for renovation. A well-executed refurbishment could significantly elevate the guest experience. Overpriced: The room pricing felt high for the value provided. Underwhelming Meals: The breakfast spread was limited and bland, with requests for items like cheese omelets declined. The buffet dinner also lacked variety. Frequent Power Cuts: Power cuts during our stay added to the inconvenience. Poorly Planned Layout: The hotel’s layout felt uncoordinated, with a hostel/lodge-like vibe in certain areas. Recommendation: A well-planned renovation would significantly enhance the appeal of this property and make it a more favorable destination. While nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts may find charm in its location, those seeking modern amenities and seamless convenience might want to consider other options. Final Thoughts: If you’re someone who loves the tranquility of the mountains, enjoys the misty charm of the forests, and appreciates good service, this hotel is worth considering. However, be prepared for its shortcomings, especially if you’re traveling with elderly family members or have high expectations for food variety. Had I known about these issues beforehand, I might have reconsidered booking this property. That said, nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts will likely appreciate its charm, but it’s not a place for everyone. Would I return? Perhaps, but only for the stunning location, the warm hospitality, and the unforgettable natural beauty.

Though little outside the Munnar city the view and weather is extremely pleasant due to a higher altitude. To enjoy real hill station weather it’s recommended to stay here. This area is at top point in the Bodi-Munnar road and above 1500m from see level while Munnar is on avg 1000-1200m. That makes a real difference. Property is nice and comfortable and provides excellent view of the Nilgiris. Evenings can be foggy and very cold. Resort also provides bonfire in lawn area with option to order tea, coffee and snacks and play nice music. Group of youngsters were enjoying the bonfire in night with dance. Some local cuisines are worth trying like Fish pollichathu, Kerala Meen curry , Nool porotta, etc. I would recommend to try the local cuisines here which they specialise in. Breakfast spread is nice with multiple options and a live counter for omelette. They serve mix of local food like idli, Vada, sambhar, kadala curry etc and North Indian like poori bhaji, stuffed paranthas etc and continental/kids menu like corn flake/chocos/ pancakes/bread with milk, butter and jam. There is an indoor activity room with chess, carom and table tennis. There are some outdoor activities as well like climbing the net etc. there is kids play area with trampoline which our kid enjoyed a lot. resort also concierge services for local site seeing and jeep safaris.