Journey from Kochi to Munnar: A Scenic Escape into Kerala’s Mountains

Kerala is a land of contrasts—where serene beaches give way to lush mountains within just a few hours. In this part of our Kerala Travel Series, we transition from the coastal beauty of Kochi to the misty hills of Munnar, witnessing one of India’s most stunning landscapes. This journey wasn’t just about reaching a destination; it was about experiencing the culture, adventure, and hidden gems that make Kerala so unique.

From Beaches to Mountains: The Journey Begins

Our morning in Kochi began with a reflection on its peaceful sunrises and island explorations. But the real excitement was about what lay ahead—our road trip to Munnar.

En Route Stop: Witnessing Kalaripayattu – Kerala’s Ancient Martial Art

Before heading into the mountains, we took a slight detour to experience Kalaripayattu, one of the world’s oldest martial art forms. Watching the performers at a traditional Kalari training center was nothing short of mesmerizing. The precision, agility, and centuries-old traditions left us in awe. If you ever visit Kerala, experiencing a live Kalaripayattu performance is a must!

Best Way to Reach Munnar & Ideal Time to Visit

How to Reach Munnar

• By Road: The best way to reach Munnar is via a scenic 130 km drive from Kochi, which takes around 4-5 hours.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), followed by a road trip.

• By Train: The closest railway station is Aluva (110 km away), but trains aren't the best option for reaching Munnar directly.

Best Time to Visit Munnar

• Winter (October - February): The best time for stunning landscapes and cool weather.

• Monsoon (June - September): Ideal for lush greenery but can be tricky due to landslides.

• Summer (March - May): A great escape from Kerala’s coastal heat.

Road Trip to Munnar: A Drive Through Paradise

The drive to Munnar was an experience in itself. Winding roads, waterfalls cascading down hills, and a crisp mountain breeze welcomed us. However, due to a landslide, our original plan to visit Kolukkumalai Peak had to change. But that’s the beauty of travel—sometimes the unexpected brings even better experiences.

Alternative Sunrise Spot

Even though we couldn't reach Kolukkumalai (the world's highest tea plantation), we found an alternative viewpoint that offered breathtaking sunrise views over the misty valleys of Munnar. The golden hues over the tea gardens were truly unforgettable.

Best Things to Do in Munnar

1. Visit Kolukkumalai Tea Estate (If Accessible)

Perched at 7,900 feet above sea level, this is the highest tea plantation in the world. Accessible only by a rugged jeep ride, it offers unparalleled sunrise views and a chance to taste some of the finest organic tea.

2. Explore the Tea Gardens & Museums

Munnar is synonymous with tea. The Tata Tea Museum offers insights into the region’s tea-making legacy, while the rolling tea plantations provide a picture-perfect setting for travelers and photographers.

3. Experience Offbeat Trekking Trails

For adventure lovers, trekking through the Lakshmi Hills, Meesapulimala, or Chokramudi Peak offers breathtaking landscapes away from tourist crowds.

4. Visit the Hidden Waterfalls

Munnar is home to several lesser-known waterfalls like Attukad Waterfalls and Thoovanam Waterfalls, which provide stunning picnic spots.

5. Wildlife Spotting in Eravikulam National Park

Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this national park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and is best visited between September and March.

6. Stay in a Treehouse

For a truly unique experience, staying in a treehouse in the middle of a tea plantation offers breathtaking views and a complete escape into nature.

Unique Experiences You Can’t Miss in Munnar

1. Stargazing at Silent Valley Tea Estate

This lesser-known spot offers a clear night sky with zero light pollution, making it perfect for astrophotography.

2. Camping in the Western Ghats

Set up camp on a secluded hilltop, waking up to panoramic sunrise views over rolling tea plantations.

3. Jeep Safari to Lockhart Gap

An adrenaline-filled ride to this fog-covered viewpoint offers some of the most stunning valley landscapes in Kerala.

4. Tea Tasting with a Local Planter

Skip the commercial tea tasting spots and join a local tea planter to learn about traditional tea-making techniques over a cup of fresh brew.

Where to Stay in Munnar

Munnar offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to eco-friendly stays. Here are our top picks:

• Luxury: Spice Tree Munnar – Perfect for a romantic getaway with infinity pools overlooking tea gardens.

• Mid-Range: The Fog Munnar – Offers cozy rooms with stunning mountain views.

• Budget-Friendly: Green View Homestay – A warm and welcoming stay with local hosts.

• Unique Stay: Dream Catcher Plantation Resort – Stay in a treehouse with breathtaking valley views.

Final Thoughts & What’s Next?

Despite a few detours, our journey from Kochi to Munnar was nothing short of magical. From exploring Kalaripayattu, to chasing sunrises, to discovering hidden gems of Munnar, this leg of our Kerala adventure left us craving more!

📍 Next Stop: Stay tuned as we continue our journey through Alleppey, where we experience the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters on a traditional houseboat.

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