Munnar Kerala, India Travel Guide
Thekkady, home to Periyar National Park, stands approximately 56-62 miles (90-100 km) from Munnar, a three-hour drive. Thekkady is known for Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a habitat for elephants, tigers (rarely sighted), and various bird species. It features boat safaris on Periyar Lake, spice plantation tours, and cultural shows like Kalaripayattu and Kathakali. Access Thekkady by private taxi or local bus. Both organized tours and independent travel are options. Many tour operators feature combined Munnar-Thekkady packages. Independent travel offers greater flexibility. Thekkady often works as an overnight trip given its various activities. For organized tours and excursions, visit GetYourGuide's day trip booking section.
Vagamon is approximately 56 miles (90 km) from Munnar, a two-and-a-half to three-hour drive. This serene hill station is known for its expansive meadows, pine forests, and unique rock formations. It experiences fewer crowds than Munnar and serves as a seasonal paragliding spot. A private taxi is the recommended way to reach Vagamon. This journey works as a long day trip or an overnight stay for a more relaxed experience.
Discover Munnar's serene natural attractions and protected wildlife zones.
Lakkom Waterfalls present beautiful natural cascades originating from the Eravikulam stream. They are on the Munnar-Udumalpet road. The falls provide a setting for enjoying the cascades and occasionally swimming in the natural pools. Always verify local safety conditions prior to swimming.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is approximately 37 miles (60 km) from Munnar, about a two-hour drive, towards Marayoor. This sanctuary is recognized for its unique dry thorny forest ecosystem and rare species like the grizzled giant squirrel and star tortoise. It features trekking, accommodation in treehouses or log houses, and guided nature walks.
Option A (3-4 days extension): Munnar (2-3 days) → Thekkady (1-2 days) → Alleppey (1 day/overnight houseboat).
Option B (5-7 days extension, covering central Kerala): Munnar (2-3 days) → Thekkady (1-2 days) → Alleppey (1 day/overnight houseboat) → Fort Kochi (1-2 days).
For quieter hill stations and more serene backwater experiences, consider Munnar → Vagamon → Kumarakom. Kumarakom is another backwater destination near Alleppey. Combine Munnar with Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu, reachable via a scenic drive.
Extend your Munnar visit with diverse experiences across Kerala.
Visit Periyar National Park in Thekkady for diverse wildlife and unique natural settings.
Experience serene houseboat cruises on the famous backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom.
Explore Fort Kochi for its historical sites, colonial architecture, and rich cultural heritage.
Thekkady offers a range of activities. Engage in boat safaris for wildlife observation, explore spice plantations, and attend cultural performances.
Alleppey (Alappuzha) provides the famous backwater houseboat cruises. Spend a day and night floating through serene waterways, observing local life.
Further options for expanding your Kerala journey.
Explore Wayanad, another hill station in northern Kerala, recognized for its waterfalls, ancient caves, and diverse wildlife. This region has a different side of Kerala's natural beauty.
Unwind at beach destinations like Kovalam or Varkala. These coastal towns are recognized for their relaxing atmospheres and Ayurvedic resorts, ideal for rejuvenation.
Visit Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala's capital. Explore its significant landmarks, including the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple and the Napier Museum, for a glimpse into the state's heritage.
Connect Munnar with Kodaikanal, a popular hill station located in the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. A scenic drive connects these two elevated retreats.
A private car with a dedicated driver has the most efficient and comfortable travel between locations.
Kochi International Airport serves as a common departure point for international and domestic flights.
Regional connections and various combinations of destinations are possible to suit your preferences.
Tailor your Kerala journey with unique activities and destinations.
Begin your journey amidst Munnar's tea gardens and cool climate. Visit Eravikulam National Park.
Proceed to Thekkady for wildlife encounters, spice plantation visits, and cultural shows.
Experience a relaxing houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey for an overnight stay.
Tailor your journey to focus on history, food, adventure, family, or spiritual wellness.
Options range from backpacker-friendly stays to luxury resort experiences with private transport.
Plan your visit around monsoon greenery, winter trekking, or local festivals for distinct experiences.
