Munnar’s tea estates shape its iconic landscape but have also driven significant ecological change. Large-scale plantations replaced native shola forests and grasslands, leading to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and altered water regimes. Intensive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides contaminates soil and streams, affecting wildlife and downstream communities. Monoculture plantations increase vulnerability to landslides and climate stress in this fragile mountain ecosystem. While tea supports livelihoods and tourism, its environmental footprint raises urgent questions. Sustainable practices, reduced chemical use, landscape restoration, and protection of remaining shola ecosystems are essential to balance economic activity with ecological integrity in Munnar.