Munnar at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Kerala |
| Famous For | tea plantations, hill station, western ghats |
| Best Time to Visit | September to May |
| Ideal Duration | 3-4 days minimum |
| Language | Malayalam, Tamil, English |
| Nearest Airport | Cochin International Airport (COK), 110km from city |
| Nearest Railway | Aluva (AWY) |
| From Kochi | 130 km · 3h 45m |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹20+ (varies) |
| Best For | nature and adventure seekers |
Munnar: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Munnar, located in Kerala, is a picturesque hill station known for its sprawling tea plantations and scenic landscapes. Situated in the Western Ghats, it offers a refreshing escape with its cool climate and lush greenery.
Munnar is a great place to visit for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. The tea plantations are beautiful, and the weather is pleasant. However, it can get crowded during peak season and the roads can be winding and challenging.
How to Reach Munnar: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
directions_car Driving to Munnar: Road Routes & Highways
| From | Distance | Drive Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kochi | 130 km | 3h 45m | NH-85 |
| Kodaikanal | 140 km | 3h 00m | NH-85 |
| Coimbatore | 160 km | 4h 30m | NH-85 |
| Alleppey | 180 km | 5h 00m | NH-85 |
| Ooty | 240 km | 5h 00m | NH-85 |
train Train to Munnar: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Aluva (AWY) — Nearest major railway station, about 110 km from Munnar. Well-connected to major cities.
- From Delhi: 30-35 hours (₹1500-3000)
- From Mumbai: 24-28 hours (₹1200-2500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Munnar: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK), 110km from city
- Delhi: 3 hours (₹4000-8000)
- Mumbai: 1.5 hours (₹3000-6000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹2500-3500
- Uber/Ola: Not readily available
directions_bus Bus to Munnar: Services & Timings
- From Kochi: 4 hours (₹200-400)
- From Madurai: 6 hours (₹300-500)
Trains are generally more comfortable for long distances.
Best Time to Visit Munnar: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: September to May
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: September to May | 15-25 degrees C | This is the best time to enjoy the tea gardens, visit the national parks, and ex | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: June to August | 18-28 degrees C | The landscape is at its greenest, and you can enjoy a quieter experience with fe | Be prepared for potential landslide |
| Avoid: March to May (Specific Years) | 25-35 degrees C | The weather can be quite unpleasant making outdoor activities difficult. The tea | If you must visit during this time, |
Peak season note: Expect higher prices for accommodation and tours during peak season. Book your accommodations and tours in advance to secure the best deals.
2-Day Munnar Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Top Highlights
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Mattupetty Dam
Mattupetty Dam is a storage concrete gravity dam built in the mountains of Kerala. It creates a beautiful lake and surrounding sce…
💡 Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful boat ride.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
⛰️ Eravikulam National Park (Rajamalai)
Eravikulam National Park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park also offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and …
💡 Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for trekking and carry water and snacks.
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🎨 Tea Museum
The Tea Museum showcases the history of tea cultivation in Munnar. It offers insights into the processing of tea leaves.…
💡 Don't miss the tea tasting session at the end of the tour.
Top Places to Visit in Munnar: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 📍 Mattupetty Dam | ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 09:30-17:00 daily |
| 2 | ⛰️ Eravikulam National Park (Rajamalai) | ₹120 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | 3-4 hours | 08:00-17:00 daily |
| 3 | 🎨 Tea Museum | ₹75 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | 2 hours | 09:00-17:00 daily |
| 4 | ⛰️ Anamudi Peak | ₹50 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) | Full day | Limited access, check with park authorities |
| 5 | 📍 Echo Point | ₹30 | 1 hour | 06:00-19:00 daily |
| 6 | 🏖️ Lakkam Waterfalls | ₹20 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners) | 1-2 hours | 08:00-17:00 daily |
| 7 | 📍 Pothamedu View Point | Free | 1 hour | Open all hours |
📍 1. Mattupetty Dam
Mattupetty Dam is a storage concrete gravity dam built in the mountains of Kerala. It creates a beautiful lake and surrounding scenery.
Honest take: Worth a visit for the scenic views and boating, but can get crowded.
📍 Getting there: Taxi or auto-rickshaw from Munnar town, 13km
⛰️ 2. Eravikulam National Park (Rajamalai)
Eravikulam National Park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park also offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations.
Honest take: A must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
📍 Getting there: Bus or taxi from Munnar town, 15km
🎨 3. Tea Museum
The Tea Museum showcases the history of tea cultivation in Munnar. It offers insights into the processing of tea leaves.
Honest take: A good place to learn about the history of tea in Munnar.
📍 Getting there: Located in Munnar town
Food & Restaurants in Munnar: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Appam with Stew, Karimeen Pollichathu, Puttu and Kadala Curry, Kerala Parotta with Beef Fry
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Dosas, idlis, and uttapams | ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two) | Munnar Town |
| Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes | ₹₹ (₹500-700 for two) | Munnar Town |
| Butter Chicken, Biryani | ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two) | Munnar Town |
🛺 Street Food: Munnar Market — Local snacks like pazham pori (banana fritters) and vada (₹50-100 per person)
Munnar Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-1200/night | ₹2500-4000/night | ₹8000+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Hotels in Munnar: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Zina Cottage
₹800-1200/night
Near Munnar Town
JJ Cottage
₹700-1100/night
Near Tea Museum
🏨 Mid-Range
The Leaf Munnar
₹2500-4000/night
Chinnakanal
Chandys Windy Woods
₹3000-4500/night
Pallivasal
⭐ Luxury
Windermere Estate
₹8000+/night
Near Bison Valley
The Panoramic Getaway
₹7000+/night
Near Munnar Town
Munnar Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers: Always negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
- ✓ Fake spice sellers: Buy spices from reputable shops or government-approved outlets.
- ✓ Pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather. Bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and trekking.
- ✓ Available in Munnar town
- ✓ Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. Purchase a SIM card at the airport or in Munnar town.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Munnar
How many days are enough for Munnar?
3-4 days minimum is ideal for Munnar. Day 1 covers Mattupetty Dam and Eravikulam National Park (Rajamalai), while Day 2 explores Tea Museum.
What is Munnar famous for?
Munnar is famous for tea plantations, hill station, western ghats.
What is the best time to visit Munnar?
The best time to visit Munnar is September to May. Pleasant and cool with clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Occasional showers may occur.
How do I reach Munnar from Kochi?
Munnar is 130 km from Kochi by road, approximately 3h 45m drive via NH-85. The nearest railway station is Aluva (AWY). The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), 110km from city.
Is Munnar worth visiting?
Yes, Munnar is worth visiting for tea plantations, hill station, western ghats. It is especially recommended for nature and adventure seekers and can be combined with a visit to Thekkady.
What is the budget for a trip to Munnar?
A 2-day trip to Munnar costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹800-1200/night per night.