Dr. Suresh Paul’s journey epitomizes a harmonious blend of medical excellence and deep-rooted love for Munnar’s natural splendor. Graduating from Thanjavur Medical College in 1984, his illustrious career saw him serve at renowned institutions like Sankara Nethralaya and Tata Tea. Specializing in eye care, he dedicated himself to cataract and squint surgeries while nurturing a family legacy in Munnar. His work extended across remote estate hospitals and local community care. Beyond medicine, Dr. Paul embraced conservation, engaging with Munnar’s lush landscapes, tea heritage, and cultural landmarks like Eravikulam National Park and CSI Christ Church.
Cataracts to conservation;A Doctor’s decade in Munnar
My journey in the medical field spans over two decades, shaping my dedication to both healthcare and my love for nature. After completing my medical degree from Thanjavur Medical College in 1984, I embarked on a journey that saw me serve in renowned institutions and establish a legacy of care. From my early years at Sankara Nethralaya (1985–1987) to my tenure at Tata Tea as an eye specialist (1987–1996), my professional growth was paralleled by personal milestones, including my marriage to my wife in 1990 whom I met in munnar. She was born in munnar at madupatty estate and was brought up at Munnar. My two children, Patrick and Abishek, were born in 1991 and 1995 at Kannimalay estate.
General Hospital in 1994
Both my children were born in General hospital, Munnar
Farewell photo taken during Farewell get together
General hospital 2025
The general hospital, a multi-specialty facility, catered to secondary and tertiary care, ensuring patients had access to a variety of specialists, including those in emergency medicine, pediatrics, and other essential fields.
TaTa – Finley Football tournament with the author Dr. Suresh Paul playing Right Back / wing back for the Medical Team
Medical day sports
Most of my time is spent in munnar at General Hospital seeing patients with eye problems and doing cataract and squint surgery.
Nyamakad Hospital
Nyamakad hospital in 2025
Nyamakad Doctors Quarters 1987 and life in Nyamakad
Nyamakad Quarters 2025
I spend 2 years in Nyanmakad hospital visiting Rajamallay hospital situated in side the Eravikulam National Park every day and my house was very near to Anamudi Peak.
Rajamallay hospital 1987
Rajamallay hospital 2025
Pettimudi landslide
The Pettimudi landslide occurred on August 7, 2020, in Munnar, Kerala, due to heavy monsoon rains. The landslide struck the Pettimudi area in Idukki district, burying workers' quarters in tea plantations. Around 70 people lost their lives, and several homes and roads were destroyed. Rescue efforts by the NDRF and Indian Air Force were challenged by continuous rainfall and unstable terrain. This disaster highlighted the vulnerability of Kerala’s hilly regions, underscoring the need for improved disaster preparedness and better environmental conservation in the Western Ghats. I was tendering health care to this area through rajamala estate when I was working Tata tea
Rajamallay gap
Dr. Suresh Paul in Rajamallay gap 1987
Rajamallay gap 2025
Rajamallay Gap, located in the Western Ghats near Munnar, is a picturesque and strategic pass that connects the highland estates of Munnar with the lowland regions. Nestled between the lush hills of Rajamallay and Eravikulam National Park, it is known for its breathtaking views, rich biodiversity, and serene atmosphere. The gap plays a significant role in local transportation, especially for tea plantations, enabling movement between different elevations. Surrounded by dense forests, it is also home to diverse wildlife, including Nilgiri Tahr. The Rajamallay Gap is a perfect spot for nature lovers and trekkers to explore Kerala’s natural beauty.
Kannimallay Hospital
Kannimallay hospital in 1990
Kannimallay hospital in 2025
Then I moved to Kannimallay, During my tenure there both my children were born.
While describing the landscape of Munnar I have to mention High Range Club, C.S.I Church and Eravikulam National Park
Medical landscape of Munnar is huge and I worked in remote areas like Nyamankad, Rajamallay, Kannimalaay, Kadalar, and Chokanad. My surgeries and consultations at the general hospital exemplified my hands-on approach to healthcare.
Kannimallay Quarters II in 2025
Kannimallay doctors quarters 1993
Kannimallay Doctors house in 1989
All estate hospitals in Munnar usually have a twenty-bedded facility with a dedicated team, including two nurses, a female and male attender, and a sweeper. The hospital was designed to provide essential care with a personal touch, ensuring that each patient felt comfortable and well looked after. The hospital also boasted a beautifully maintained garden, creating a serene environment that promoted healing.
1993
2025
Water tank in front of the house where Elephants drink
Kannimallay doctors house 2025
From our house Anamudi Peak was clearly visible as you can see in the photo
On average, the hospital catered to 50 to 80 patients, focusing primarily on offering primary and secondary treatments, especially in conjunction with the general hospital care and a holistic approach, which greatly benefited the local community and contributed to the well-being of many in Munnar.
Anamudi peak
Anamudi Peak, the highest in South India, rises to 2,695 meters (8,841 feet) in the Western Ghats, Kerala. Located within Eravikulam National Park, it is known for its scenic beauty, rich biodiversity, and lush forests. The name "Anamudi" means "elephant’s forehead," reflecting the peak's shape. It is home to rare wildlife, including the Nilgiri Tahr, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Though trekking to the summit is restricted for conservation, visitors can explore nearby trails and enjoy the park's diverse flora and fauna. Anamudi is a key spot for nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts.
Kannimala Factory
Kannimalai Factory, located in Munnar, Kerala, is a renowned tea processing unit nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats. Established during the British colonial era, the factory specializes in the production of high-quality tea, particularly the famous Nilgiri tea. Surrounded by lush tea plantations, it offers a glimpse into the traditional methods of tea processing, from plucking the leaves to packaging the final product. Visitors can tour the factory, learn about the tea-making process, and enjoy freshly brewed tea. The factory is an essential part of Munnar's rich tea heritage and contributes significantly to its economy.
Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam National Park, located in Kerala's Idukki district, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning biodiversity and scenic landscapes. Spanning over 97 square kilometers, it is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a species of mountain goat. The park features rolling hills, dense forests, and shola grasslands, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. Visitors can explore wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and various bird species. The park is famous for its annual Neelakurinji bloom, where the landscape turns violet once every 12 years. Eravikulam is a haven for nature lovers, trekkers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
High range club
The Highrange Club, located in Munnar, Kerala, was established in 1854 by British planters. Set amidst the lush Western Ghats, it reflects the colonial history of the region, featuring classic architecture and serene landscapes. Initially a retreat for tea planters, it now serves as a recreational club for members. I enjoy playing tennis, golf, and various indoor games here. The club is also a popular spot for those interested in the region’s heritage and tea culture. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities, the Highrange Club is a distinctive and charming destination in Munnar.
CSI Church Munnar
The author with Rev. Nitten Bose and family
The CSI Christ Church in Munnar, Idukki, is a historic Anglican church built in the Gothic style using rough-hewn granite. Established in 1911, it features stunning stained-glass windows, brass plaques honoring British tea planters, and rosewood pews. The nearby cemetery holds tombs dating back to 1894. The church, founded by Sir A.K. Muir and inaugurated by Reverend W.F.B. Hoysted, serves as the headquarters of the CSI Munnar Pastorate, supporting over a thousand Tamil families and 18 outstation churches.
In 1996, I left Tata Tea and ventured into establishing my own practice, Dr. Suresh Eye Hospital in Marthandam, continuing my path of service to the community. Throughout these years, Munnar’s natural beauty remained a constant source of inspiration, enriching my work and personal life.
Click here for : Tamil eye related Blogs: https://tamilsuresh.com/
Click here for : English eye related Blogs : https://www.suresheyehospital.in/