Best Road Trip Routes to Munnar from Kochi, Bangalore & Chennai

Munnar, the picturesque hill station nestled in Kerala’s Western Ghats, is a dream destination for road trip enthusiasts. The lush green tea plantations, winding roads, mist-covered valleys, and cool climate make it an ideal getaway. If you’re planning a road trip to Munnar from Kochi, Bangalore, or Chennai, here are the best routes, travel tips, and must-see attractions along the way.

Road Trip from Kochi to Munnar

Distance: 130 km

Travel Time: 3.5 – 4 hours

Best Route: Kochi – Aluva – Perumbavoor – Kothamangalam – Adimali – Munnar

Route Highlights:

1. Aluva: A scenic stop by the Periyar River where you can take a break before heading uphill.
2. Kothamangalam: The gateway to Kerala’s high ranges, known for its spice plantations.
3. Neriamangalam: Offers breathtaking views of the first waterfalls en route to Munnar.
4. Adimali: A small town famous for its spice markets and a great spot to buy fresh cardamom and tea.

Must-See Attractions En Route:

• Cheeyappara & Valara Waterfalls: Stunning waterfalls where you can stop for photography and relaxation.
• Tea Plantations: As you approach Munnar, endless tea estates provide breathtaking views.
• Pallivasal Dam: A quiet spot for a short break before reaching Munnar.

Travel Tips:

• Start early in the morning to avoid city traffic.
• The roads after Neriamangalam are winding; drive cautiously, especially during the monsoon season.
• Carry motion sickness medicine if you’re not used to curvy hill roads.

Road Trip from Bangalore to Munnar

Distance: 475 km

Travel Time: 9 – 10 hours

Best Route: Bangalore – Hosur – Krishnagiri – Dharmapuri – Salem – Udumalpet – Marayoor – Munnar

Route Highlights:

1. Hosur & Krishnagiri: Offers smooth highway driving and great pit-stop options.
2. Dharmapuri: Known for its pleasant climate and the scenic Hogenakkal Falls nearby.
3. Salem & Avinashi: Ideal places to take a food break before hitting the ghat roads.
4. Udumalpet: A beautiful town where you can experience Tamil Nadu’s rural charm before entering Kerala.
5. Marayoor: Famous for its sandalwood forests and prehistoric dolmens.

Must-See Attractions En Route:

• Hogenakkal Falls: A slight detour from Dharmapuri but worth it for the stunning waterfalls.
• Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: Located near Marayoor, perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
• Lakkam Waterfalls: A serene spot for a break before reaching Munnar.

Travel Tips:

• Opt for an overnight stay in Coimbatore or Udumalpet if you prefer a more relaxed drive.
• The route through Udumalpet and Marayoor is extremely scenic, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
• Ensure your vehicle is in good condition as the ghat sections require careful navigation.

Road Trip from Chennai to Munnar

Distance: 590 km

Travel Time: 10 – 11 hours

Best Route: Chennai – Villupuram – Salem – Dindigul – Theni – Bodinayakanur – Munnar

Route Highlights:

1. Villupuram & Salem: Smooth highway stretches make for effortless driving.
2. Dindigul: Famous for its biryani, making it a great lunch stop.
3. Theni: A scenic town with lush green landscapes and waterfalls.
4. Bodinayakanur: Known as the ‘Cardamom Capital of India,’ a great place to buy spices.

Must-See Attractions En Route:

• Silver Cascade Falls (Near Kodaikanal): A picturesque waterfall that makes for a refreshing stop.
• Meghamalai: A hidden gem for nature lovers, offering breathtaking valley views.
• Bodi Hills & Suruli Falls: Beautiful landscapes before starting the climb to Munnar.

Travel Tips:

Break the journey into two parts by staying overnight in Dindigul or Theni.

• • Break the journey into two parts by staying overnight in Dindigul or Theni.
  • The stretch from Bodinayakanur to Munnar is scenic but has steep curves, so drive carefully.
  • Start early from Chennai to cover most of the distance before nightfall.