Munnar, set in the lush Western Ghats, is a stunning hill station known for its expansive tea gardens and peaceful scenery. It’s a perfect escape from busy city life, drawing visitors worldwide with its beautiful rolling hills and colorful flowers.
The town is a favorite for those who love nature and outdoor activities, offering trekking, mountain biking, and opportunities to watch wildlife. Key spots to visit are the Eravikulam National Park, where you can see the rare Nilgiri Tahr, and the historic Tea Museum, which tells the story of the area’s tea production during the colonial era. Munnar is where natural beauty meets rich culture, making it a memorable stop for anyone.
How to Reach Munnar by Air, Road, and Train
| Mode of Transport | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) Distance to Munnar: 110 km Travel Time: Approx. 3-4 hours by road from the airport |
| By Road | From Cochin: 130 km, approx. 4 hours From Madurai: 160 km, approx. 5 hours Bus Services: Regular buses available from major cities |
| By Train | Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station Distance to Munnar: 110 km Travel Time: Approx. 3-4 hours by road from the station |
See Also – Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple – Timings, Distance, History & More
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport
Cochin International Airport, about 110 kilometers from Munnar, is the nearest airport. It’s a major airport that welcomes visitors from around the world and across the country. It’s also the main access point to the peaceful hills of Munnar.
Once you land, you can grab a taxi or hop on a bus. The drive to Munnar takes around 3 to 4 hours, but it’s worth it. The route is stunning, with green landscapes and lush plantations that make the transition from city life to the calm of Munnar a beautiful experience. The airport is well-equipped with modern facilities to ensure your trip starts smoothly.
Nearest railway station: Aluva Station
Aluva Station is about 120 kilometers from Munnar and is the closest train station to the hill station. It’s a significant point for travelers from different parts of India to enjoy the beauty of Munnar. Thanks to its good location and strong rail connections, Aluva Station plays a vital role for tourists going to the Western Ghats.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Location: It’s 120 km away from Munnar, making it the nearest train station.
- Connectivity: You can catch trains from many big cities, so it’s easy for tourists across the country to get here.
- Facilities: The station has three platforms and several trains run daily, which makes it convenient for visitors.
- Passenger Use: Around 12,160 people use this station every day. It’s a busy place and a critical hub for reaching Munnar.
Distance from main cities: 3-5 hours
| City | Distance to Munnar | Approx. Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Cochin (Kochi) | 130 km | 4 hours by road |
| Madurai | 160 km | 5 hours by road |
| Coimbatore | 150 km | 4.5 hours by road |
| Kodaikanal | 165 km | 6 hours by road (via scenic route) |
| Trivandrum | 280 km | 8 hours by road |
| Thekkady | 110 km | 3.5 hours by road |
| Alleppey | 170 km | 5 hours by road |
Traveling to Munnar from major cities by air, road, or train usually takes between 3 to 5 hours, depending on how you travel.
- From Cochin, the closest airport, it’s about a 3.5-hour drive covering 110 kilometers.
- If you’re coming from Madurai, it’s a 150-kilometer trip that takes around 4 hours by road.
- From Coimbatore, the drive is about 160 kilometers and takes roughly 5 hours.
Each route offers beautiful views, making the journey just as pleasant as arriving.
Transport options: bus and taxi services
For those heading to Munnar, there are plenty of buses and taxis from nearby cities and airports, making it easy to reach this beautiful spot.
| Transport Type | Details |
| Bus Services | Regular buses from state and private companies run from big cities like Cochin, Coimbatore, and Madurai to Munnar. |
| Taxi Services | You can easily grab a taxi from nearby airports and train stations. They’re flexible with timing, so you can travel at your convenience. |
| Combined Tours | Many travel agencies put together bus and taxi trips to Munnar. This makes your journey smooth and hassle-free. |
See Also – Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple – Timings, History, Dress Code
Kochi airport to Munnar distance: 130 km
Kochi airport is the closest airport to Munnar, about 130 km away. You can grab a taxi or take a bus to Munnar from there. The drive takes around 3 to 4 hours and is quite scenic. You’ll see the lush Western Ghats, greenery, and waterfalls along the way.
It’s more than just getting from point A to B, it’s a chance to see some of Kerala’s beautiful landscapes. If you want an easy ride, many taxi services let you book in advance or just pick one up at the airport. This way, you can travel to Munnar without any stress.
Conclusion
Munnar is accessible to get to by air, road, or train, making it an excellent spot for travelers. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 110 km away. Driving from there to Munnar, you’ll see some beautiful scenery.
If you’re coming by train, Aluva Station is your best bet, located about 120 km from Munnar. Whether you fly, drive, or take the train, getting to Munnar is straightforward and lets you enjoy the stunning views.
Deepak Sharma is a passionate writer and avid traveler who specializes in uncovering the beauty and history of India’s attractions and temples. A graduate of Delhi University, Deepak has a deep-rooted love for his country and its rich cultural heritage.