Traveling to Munnar: Complete Guide for Visitors

Munnar, often referred to as the “Kashmir of South India”, is a breathtaking hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala. With its sprawling tea plantations, misty hills, and serene landscapes, Munnar is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, honeymooners, and adventure enthusiasts.

However, reaching Munnar requires a bit of planning, as the town does not have an airport or a railway station of its own. In this guide, we’ll explore the different ways to reach Munnar by air, rail, and road, along with tips and travel recommendations.

1. Reaching Munnar by Air

Nearest Airports to Munnar

Since Munnar does not have its own airport, travelers must fly to the nearest airports and then continue their journey by road. The closest airports are:

Cochin International Airport (COK): Approximately 110 km from Munnar, this is the most convenient airport for travelers.
Madurai International Airport (IXM): Located about 170 km from Munnar, this airport serves travelers from Tamil Nadu and beyond.
Trivandrum International Airport (TRV): About 270 km from Munnar, this airport is suitable for international travelers.

Airport to Munnar: Road Connectivity

From these airports, you can reach Munnar via:

Private Taxis: Taxis are available from all airports, with fares ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 depending on the starting location and vehicle type.
Public Transport: KSRTC buses operate from Cochin and Madurai to Munnar, offering an economical travel option.
Car Rentals: Self-drive car rentals are available at all major airports, providing flexibility and convenience.

2. Reaching Munnar by Train

Nearest Railway Stations

Munnar does not have a railway station, so travelers must deboard at one of the nearest railway stations and take a road journey to reach the hill station. The closest railway stations are:

Aluva Railway Station (AWY): 110 km from Munnar, this is the most accessible station for travelers coming from different parts of India.
Ernakulam Junction (ERS): 130 km away, a major railway hub connecting Kerala with major cities.
Madurai Junction (MDU): 160 km from Munnar, ideal for travelers from Tamil Nadu.

Train Station to Munnar: Transport Options

Once you arrive at one of these stations, you can reach Munnar through:

Taxis and Cabs: Prepaid taxis are available outside railway stations, costing around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 depending on the distance.
Buses: KSRTC and private buses operate regular services from Aluva and Ernakulam to Munnar.
Bike Rentals: Adventurous travelers can rent bikes from Kochi or Aluva and ride up the scenic ghats to Munnar.

3. Reaching Munnar by Road

Road travel is the best way to experience the mesmerizing beauty of Munnar. Whether traveling by private car, taxi, or bus, the road journey to Munnar is filled with winding roads, lush greenery, and breathtaking viewpoints.

By Bus

Kerala State Transport (KSRTC) Buses: Government-run buses operate from major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, Madurai, and Coimbatore to Munnar.
Private Buses: Luxury and semi-sleeper buses connect Munnar with Bangalore, Chennai, and other South Indian cities.

By Car or Taxi

From Kochi: The 4-hour drive (110 km) via NH85 is the most scenic and popular route.
From Madurai: A 5-hour journey covering approximately 170 km.
From Bangalore: A long but picturesque 9-hour drive (450 km) through Tamil Nadu and Kerala’s countryside.

Kerala Holiday Packages:

4. Best Routes to Munnar

From Kochi (110 km)

Route: Kochi – Aluva – Perumbavoor – Adimali – Munnar

This is the most commonly taken route and offers stunning views of waterfalls, tea plantations, and misty hills.

From Madurai (170 km)

Route: Madurai – Theni – Bodinayakanur – Devikulam – Munnar

This route provides an opportunity to explore Tamil Nadu’s rural landscapes before entering the lush greenery of Kerala.

From Bangalore (450 km)

Route: Bangalore – Salem – Udumalpet – Marayoor – Munnar

A long but rewarding drive that takes you through diverse landscapes and natural beauty.

5. Traveling Within Munnar

Once you reach Munnar, getting around is easy with:

Local Taxis & Auto-rickshaws – Available for short-distance travel.
Rentals (Bikes & Cars) – Several agencies offer rental services.
Public Buses – Affordable but limited in frequency.

6. Travel Tips for Reaching Munnar

Book your transport in advance, especially during peak seasons (October to May).
If traveling by road, start early to avoid traffic and enjoy the sunrise over the hills.
Carry motion sickness tablets if you’re not used to traveling through winding mountain roads.
Fuel up before starting your journey as petrol stations are sparse on the way.
Check weather conditions, especially during monsoons, as landslides may affect road travel.

7. Top Attractions to Visit in Munnar:

1. Eravikulam National Park

Famous for its population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park offers breathtaking landscapes and trekking opportunities.

2. Mattupetty Dam

A scenic spot known for its boating facilities and picturesque surroundings.

3. Tea Museum

A great place to learn about Munnar’s rich tea plantation history and sample fresh tea varieties.

4. Top Station

The highest point in Munnar, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats.

5. Kundala Lake

A serene lake surrounded by hills and lush greenery, perfect for a boat ride.

6. Pothamedu Viewpoint

Ideal for witnessing breathtaking sunsets and misty mountain landscapes.

7. Attukad Waterfalls

A stunning waterfall located amidst lush green hills, perfect for trekking and photography.

8. Anamudi Peak

The highest peak in South India, offering challenging trekking opportunities.

Essential Information:

Best Time to Visit: October to May offers the best weather conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Weather Conditions: Munnar enjoys a cool climate year-round, with winter temperatures dropping as low as 5°C.
Accommodation: Ranges from budget homestays to luxury resorts, with plenty of options available.
Local Cuisine: Must-try dishes include Kerala-style fish curry, appam with stew, and Munnar’s special tea varieties.

Conclusion

Reaching Munnar is an adventure in itself, with breathtaking landscapes, misty roads, and scenic routes making the journey as delightful as the destination. Whether you choose to fly, take a train, or embark on a road trip, this guide ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey to Munnar. So pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to explore this paradise in Kerala!

Further Reading:

How to Reach Munnar: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

1. Reaching Munnar by Air

2. Reaching Munnar by Train

3. Reaching Munnar by Road