Munnar in Kerala’s Idukki district is experiencing a big jump in tourists due to early winter and frost. On December 27, Chenduvarai recorded a chilling -1°C, the lowest this season. Other spots like Letchmi and Silent Valley saw temperatures as low as 2°C and 3°C, respectively. This early cold snap started in the second week of December, earlier than usual. A thick frost covers the hills and valleys, adding to the area's charm. Tourism has surged as visitors rush to enjoy the cold weather. "After a brief lull, the hill station is seeing a steady flow of tourists eager to enjoy the chilly climate," said G. Sojan, coordinator of the “My Munnar Movement.” However, this popularity has caused long traffic jams, especially on the road to Rajamala in Eravikulam National Park, home to the Nilgiri tahr. Mr. Sojan suggested, "If the Forest Department begins picking up tourists from the Munnar High Altitude Stadium ground to transport them to Rajamala, it would greatly help reduce traffic congestion." While tourism shines, the tea industry suffers. Frost has damaged large areas of tea plantations owned by Kanan Devan Hills Plantations and Harrisons Malayalam Limited. The cold spell, though good for tourism, comes with high costs for local growers.