The Ultimate Bangalore to Munnar Drive: A Complete Guide

Bangalore, India's bustling city to Munnar's peaceful mountain by Paul is amazingly insightful. In saying goodbye to the high-fueled rush of the country's silicon city, nature becomes the landscape it formulates into boundless flats, and car noises get lost in its songful chant. This highway, which is around 480 kilometres long, offers a sweet break from urban vitality, taking tourists deep into Kerala's green heaven. The two locations could not be more different: Bangalore, the innovation capital of technology, and Munnar, the hill station garbed in green tea plantations, misty valleys, and mountain air. The ride itself is an adventure, across mixed terrain from Karnataka's dry plains to Kerala's green. On the drive south, the air grows cooler, the weather relaxed, and the scenery a quilt of hills, waterfalls, and curved roads. Break points along the way such as Salem, Coimbatore, and Marayoor shatter the windows of the South Indian melting pot of food and culture. With each turn in the road, there's a treat to behold a stunning view of the Western Ghats or an elephant herd crossing the road by a forest sanctuary.

Arrival in Munnar is walking into a fantasy. Found at about 1,600 meters above sea level, Munnar is a heaven for travellers with its salubrious climate, rolling tea gardens, and postcard-worthy landscapes. Tea and eucalyptus drift sugary scents through the atmosphere, while faraway birdsong of exotic birds all around fill the air with peacefulness. Munnar has something for all if you are an adventure seeker, nature enthusiast, or just looking to relax. From walking through the Eravikulam National Park to hiking through the Anamudi Peak to enjoying a steaming hot cup of tea at a plantation stay, the experiences are as varied as they are memorable. This Bangalore-Munnar sojourn is more than a geography shift—it's a soul-reviving visit, an opportunity to mend fences with nature, and an open invitation to relax, take a deep breath, and absorb the beauty of the mountains.

Best Places to See in Munnar

1. Eravikulam National Park

• Renowned for: Nilgiri Tahr, Neelakurinji flowers (which occur once every 12 years) and Anamudi Peak.

• The UNESCO-designated national park, Eravikulam is a haven for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and offers rolling hill vistas. Trek to Rajamalai viewpoint and if fortune smiles upon you, catch a glimpse of wildlife in the shola forests.

• Tip: Visit between November and April for the best wildlife spotting. The monsoon closed.

2. Mattupetty Dam

• Popular for: Boating, photography, and picnic spots.

• Located approximately 13 km from Munnar, Mattupetty Dam is a serene location where you can have a paddle boating experience surrounded by the beauty of hills. It is also a nice place to watch birds, the best time being early morning.

• Don't Miss: The echo effect when you scream near the water body!

3. Tea Museum (KDHP)

• Renowned for: Munnar's tea heritage and live tea-making.

• Peer inside to find out how Munnar emerged as India's Tea Capital. The Tea Museum features antique machinery, and colonial-era photographs, and allows you to observe tea being made from leaf to cup.

• Bonus: Sample freshly brewed tea straight from the plantations.

4. Echo Point

• Renowned for: Panoramic vistas and natural echo effect.

• 15 km from Munnar, Echo Point is a travel spot well known for echoing sounds. Located among hills and trees, it's a picturesque and fun spot, especially for children and families.

• Try this: Shout your name and listen to it echo!

5. Kundala Lake

• Famous for: Pedal boating, cherry blossoms, and peaceful surroundings.

• Surreal artificial lake en route to Top Station, Kundala Lake is great for a rest stop. You can rent a pedal or Kashmiri-style shikara boat and sail across the serene water between forested hills.

• Optimal time: Morning for clear skies and mirror-like reflections.

6. Top Station

• Famed for: Panoramic vistas of the valley and Tamil Nadu-Kerala border.

• It is named for being the highest station, and Top Station boasts some of the finest raised and beautiful scenery in Munnar. You can view from afar on a clear day deep valleys and distant hills that fade away into Tamil Nadu.

• Fun Fact: Former transhipment point for tea to Kodaikanal.

7. Attukal Waterfalls

• Known for: Beautiful cascades of scenery through dense greenery and rocky landscape.

• At a distance of only 9 km from Munnar town, Attukal Waterfalls is a destination to be visited during or after the monsoon season. The fall is situated amidst hills and forests and is heaven for photographers and nature walk lovers.

Adventure & Activities in Munnar

Aside from its peaceful tea gardens and scenic views, Munnar is also an adventure site. Whether it is trekking along misty paths, boat rides around peaceful lakes, or cycling in secluded forests, there are lots of adrenaline-driven activities to take part in here in this hill resort.

Trekking Trails

• Meesapulimala Trek: The second-highest point in South India (2,640 m), Meesapulimala provides a stunning trek over grasslands, rhododendron forests, and ridge lines. It is a day trek and ideal for solitude and view enthusiasts.

Anamudi Peak (Within Eravikulam National Park)

• Anamudi, the South Indian highest peak, is a restricted zone, and direct trekking is not allowed. However, treks within Eravikulam National Park provide short treks with stunning views of the peak.

• Tip: Always opt for forest permits or get a licensed guide for treks.

Boating at Kundala & Mattupetty Dam

• Kundala Lake: Enjoy a pedal boat tour or an easy shikara-type boat ride amidst cherry blossoms and eucalyptus trees.

• Mattupetty Dam: Try speed boating or an easy paddleboat tour amidst beautiful mountain scenery.

• Good for: Families, couples, and all those who want scenic water relaxation.

Jeep Safaris & Wildlife Tours

• Take a jeep safari into Munnar's hilly terrain and dense forests with a local guide. Some of the routes available are:

• Kolukkumalai Sunrise Jeep Safari: Drive through one of the world's highest tea estates to experience an unforgettable sunrise.

• Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Tour: Spot elephants, deer, langurs, and—if luck is on your side—a leopard, driving through this biologically diverse landscape.

• Insider Tip: Ride the early morning or late evening safaris to experience the best wildlife spotting.

Offbeat Travels & Biking Trails

• Off-road cycling and mountain biking destinations in the scenic hills of Munnar and trekking trails are a paradise:

• Chinnakanal to Suryanelli: Downhill hillside tour with tea plantation landscape.

• Munnar to Anayirangal Dam: This more challenging ride with an offbeat landscape and country village life.

• Ideal for: A lone backpacker or a group of three or four in an adventure-bred, nature-timed adventure.

Bonus Adventures:

• Campout at night amidst the starry sky in Silent Valley or Top Station.

• Rock climbing and rappelling at some of the adventure locations near Chinnakanal.

• Nature treks on cardamom plantation trails and forest trails.

How to Reach Munnar

Munnar, found within the Idukki district in Kerala, is an off-beat yet popular hill station. Although Munnar lacks any airport or train station, getting there is as easy as using a combination of air travel, railway transport, and car driving.

By Car (from Bangalore or Nearby Hometown Cities)

• Bangalore-Munnar Distance: ~480 km

• Duration: 9 to 11 hours by vehicle

• The most scenic and easiest way to Munnar is by road. Drive your car, take a taxi, or go on a private/state bus. The journey takes you via Salem, Coimbatore, and Udumalpet before it winds up into the Western Ghats. The final stretch is highly scenic with twisty mountain roads and greenery all around.

• RUTE: Bangalore → Hosur → Krishnagiri → Salem → Udumalpet → Marayoor → Munnar

• Bus Facilities: KSRTC and private buses run overnight bus services from Munnar to Bangalore. Alternatively, you can go by bus to Kochi or Ernakulam and taxi or local transport to Munnar.

By Airport

• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) – Around 110 km from Munnar

• Fly into Cochin if you are travelling from the rest of India. Drive or bus from the airport to Munnar. 3 to 4 hours and some lovely countryside scenery in between.

• Other Airports:

• Madurai Airport (TN) – ~140 km away

• Coimbatore Airport – ~160 km away

By Train

• Nearest Major Railway Station: Aluva (110 km), Ernakulam (125 km), or Madurai (135 km)

• Munnar does not have a railway station. The nearest alternatives are Aluva and Ernakulam (both in Kerala) or Madurai (in Tamil Nadu). Once you reach any of these stations, you can take a taxi or bus to Munnar.

• From Bangalore: You can go by train to Ernakulam or Coimbatore and then by road.

Best Time to Visit Munnar

October to March – Winter (Peak Season)

• This is the time to discover Munnar in all its glory. The weather is warm, chilly, and just right for visiting tea gardens, trekking, and sightseeing. It's also perfect for adventure enthusiasts who wish to trek to hilltops like Anamudi Peak or camp under the stars.

• June to September – Monsoon (Offbeat Season)

• Munnar is fairyland-like during monsoons with greenery all around, misty hills, and plunging waterfalls. Outdoor activities will be hampered by the heavy rain but are the best time for peace-loving individuals, those who seek seclusion, silence, and great bargains in stays.

April to May – Summer (Shoulder Season)

• Even in summer, Munnar is fresher than the rest of South India, and hence it's a good place to escape from the hot plains. This is also the period when the hill station is not as crowded as in the winter season.

Accommodation Options in Munnar

Munnar has something for every budget and mode of transport—from homestays amidst tea gardens to valley-view luxury resorts. Whether your holiday style is the romantic honeymoon, family vacation, or backpacking escapade—there's something for everyone.

 1. Budget Stays (₹800 – ₹2,000 per night)

• Perfect for backpackers, solo travellers, and budget travellers.

• Popular Options:

• Zostel Munnar – Trendy backpacker hostel with dorms & private rooms.

• Green View Holiday Inn – Basic budget-friendly rooms close to the town.

• Misty Homes – Homestay with cosy hospitality.

• Why Choose: Basic amenities, clean, safe, and affordable. Most of them are within walking distance of Munnar town and nearby places and transport.

2. Mid-Range Stays (₹2,000 – ₹5,000 per night)

• Best for couples and families wanting views and comfort at not-a-bomb prices.

• trending Options:

• Tea County by KTDC – Government hotel with excellent views and good food.

• Abad Copper Castle – Valley views rooms and peaceful ambience.

• Devonshire Greens – Colonial comforts with modern amenities.

• tips on Choosing: A combination of price, location, and comfort. Most provide guided tours, bonfires, and in-house restaurants.

Luxury Resorts (₹6,000 and above per night)

• Perfect for honeymoon couples, luxury lovers, and families looking for a serene retreat.Top Picks:

• Parakkat Nature Resort – Valley view, infinity pool, and romantic atmosphere.

• Fragrant Nature Munnar – Spacious rooms, spa, and tea garden atmosphere.

• Blanket Hotel & Spa – Attukad Waterfalls commanding view, for par excellence service.

Why stay here: Luxurious treatments with spa facilities, finicky eating, and best-in-class service. They all have private cottages and candlelit dining.

Why Book with escape2explore

When exploring Munnar’s trip from Bangalore and beyond, escape2explore stands out as a trusted name in adventure and experiential travel. Here’s why hundreds of travellers choose us for their getaways:

• Trusted, Well-Reviewed Local Operator: escape2explore has gained the trust of thousands of content tourists all over India. With persistent positive feedback and an unblemished reputation for delivering quality experiences, we assure your experience to be hassle-free, memorable, and value-packed. Our insider local knowledge guarantees that you to always be in safe hands.

• Seasoned Guides: Our trips are led by friendly, trained, and professional guides who are passionate about the outdoors and your safety. Whether it's a beach trek, a cultural tour, or a spiritual walk through temples, our team knows the terrain, the stories, and how to make each moment count.

• Safe & Curated Itineraries: Your safety is our number one priority. Each of our tour packages is thoughtfully crafted with safety measures, researched accommodations, and easy travel arrangements. We take care of the details so you can have the experience hassle-free and worry-free.

• Unique Experience That You Won't Find Anywhere Else: With escape2explore, you discover more than the tourist attractions. We go off the beaten track with hidden beaches, unusual treks, offbeat cultural destinations, and true interactions. Whether camping out beneath the stars or exploring a hidden beach cove, we present to you the other side of Munnar that not many get to encounter.