Munnar Road is a picturesque ascent from Kochi to Munnar, about 130 km (80 mi) in length. A three-hour drive along the curvy zig-zag NH 85 provides beautiful views of the mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. The road is somewhat narrow and broken with numerous bends and curves, plenty of blind spots, and some areas where the road borders a cliff. It can become rather dangerous during monsoons in mid-summer, so the best time for a ride is from August to mid-June.
Once you get closer to Adimali, you'll see lots of tea plantations and tea factories on both sides of the road. The view of the lush green plantations can be surpassed only by the aroma of the freshly gathered tea leaves that you will remember for the rest of your life.
Munnar is a beautiful resort town, one of the most popular destinations of Kerala. It is nestled in the midst of the Western Ghats mountains at an elevation of 1,700 m (5,600 ft) above sea level. Once in Munnar, there are plenty of great hiking routes. You can trek to Meesapulimala Peak, the second highest peak in the Western Ghats reaching up 2,640 m (8,661 ft). You can also visit a Kolukkumalai tea estate nearby. Another option is to trek to Chokramudi—the Lonely Giant with an elevation of 2,194 m (7,200 ft). For a different scenery try Mathikettan Shola Rain Forest Trek that passes the beautiful Cardamom forests.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Munnar Road and why?
The ideal time to travel to Munnar Road is between August and mid-June when the climate is serene, and the tea gardens are in full bloom. Monsoon season stretches from June to August, and several of the tourist destinations could be closed at that time. Drive with caution during the monsoon months since landslides can cause great harm. Show more
How long is Munnar Road and what can I expect to see along the way?
The length of Munnar Road is about 80 miles (130 km), and it takes about three hours to traverse. The road is thin and rugged, with plenty of hidden corners, bordering a precipice across some stretches. The way leads through hills, waterfalls, and tea plantations, and the fresh scent of tea leaves fills the surrounding air. As you cruise, you'll come across various tea-making factories. Show more
What are the top hiking routes to explore while in Munnar?
One of the most appealing treks to discover in Munnar is Meesapulimala Peak. The second tallest crest of the Western Ghats provides a magnificent view of the valley below. Trek to Chokramudi, also recognized as the Lonely Giant, situated at a height of 2,194 m (7, 200 ft). Mathikettan Shola Rain Forest Trek takes one through the eye-catching Cardamom forests while the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate Trek presents a spectacular view of the tea fields and the surrounding hills. Show more
Can I visit a tea estate while in Munnar and which one is recommended?
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is the highest tea estate in the world and is your go-to place to tour tea-making operations while in Munnar. At an altitude of 8000 ft above sea level, the site boasts an antique orthodox tea factory that uses century-old machines. After going through the manufacturing process, benefit from the panoramic views of the tea garden sceneries. Show more
What is the altitude of Munnar and what kind of weather can I expect during monsoon season?
Munnar sits as a retreat town on Western Ghat mountaintops at an elevation of 1,700m (5,600 ft) above sea level. The climate is damp and humid during the monsoon season(June to August), with moderate to heavy rainfall, fog, or mist. The temperature ranges from 19°C to 25°C (66°F to 77°F). The rest of the year has a soothing climate with temperatures varying between 5°C to 25°C (41°F to 77°F). Show more
