The winding roads, the lush greenery, and the cool mountain air –Bangalore to Munnar road trip is a must-do for any nature lover. Munnar, a hill station in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is known for its picturesque tea plantations, rolling hills, and serene lakes. The journey from Bangalore to Munnar is an adventure in itself, offering breathtaking views and a chance to experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Planning Your Road Trip
The distance between Bangalore and Munnar is approximately 300 miles (480 kilometers), and the drive takes about 10-12 hours. There are two main routes that you can take:
Route 1: Via Salem and Dindigul
This is the most popular route and is known for its good road conditions and scenic beauty. The distance is about 320 miles (515 kilometers), and the drive takes about 10-12 hours.
Route 2: Via Mysore and Gundelpet
This route is slightly shorter, at about 290 miles (467 kilometers), but the drive takes about 12-14 hours due to the winding roads. This route is also known for its beautiful scenery, including the Bandipur National Park.
Tips for a Smooth Road Trip
- Start early in the morning: This will give you plenty of time to enjoy the drive and make stops along the way.
- Map out your route in advance: This will help you avoid getting lost and make sure you have enough time to reach your destination.
- Take breaks every few hours: This will help you stay alert and prevent fatigue.
- Be prepared for traffic: Traffic can be unpredictable in India, so be prepared for delays.
- Enjoy the journey: The drive to Munnar is an experience in itself, so take your time and enjoy the scenery.
| Route | Distance (miles) | Distance (kilometers) | Drive Time (hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangalore – Salem – Dindigul – Theni – Munnar | 320 | 515 | 10-12 |
| Bangalore – Mysore – Gundelpet – Munnar | 290 | 467 | 12-14 |
The best time to visit Munnar
Munnar is a beautiful hill station in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India. It is known for its picturesque tea plantations, rolling hills, and serene lakes. The best time to visit Munnar is from September to May when the weather is pleasant and sunny. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, which can affect road conditions and make some tourist attractions inaccessible.
September to November
This is the peak season in Munnar, as the weather is at its best. The skies are clear and blue, and the days are warm and sunny. The nights can be cool, so it is a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater. This is also the time of year when the Neelakurinji flowers bloom, which is a rare and spectacular sight.
December to February
The weather is still pleasant during these months, but it is a bit cooler than in September to November. The days are still sunny, but the nights can be quite chilly. This is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.
March to May
The weather starts to get warmer during these months, and the days can be quite hot. However, the nights are still cool, so it is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.
June to August
This is the monsoon season in Munnar, and it is not recommended to visit during this time. The weather is rainy and cloudy, and the roads can be slippery.
Things to Do Along the Way: Bangalore to Munnar road trip
Embarking on a road trip from Bangalore to Munnar unveils a captivating blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Along the way, you’ll encounter a tapestry of rolling hills, verdant landscapes, and quaint villages, each offering unique experiences and attractions. Here are some of the highlights that await you along the journey:
Mettur Dam: Witness the grandeur of Mettur Dam, one of Asia’s largest dams. Marvel at its imposing structure and the serene beauty of the surrounding reservoir, Mettur Lake. Take a leisurely boat ride on the lake, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Hogenakkal Falls: Experience the mesmerizing cascades of Hogenakkal Falls, also known as the “Niagara of India.” The falls are particularly spectacular during the monsoon season, when the gushing waters create a thunderous symphony.
Antharagange Hills: Embark on an invigorating trek to the summit of Antharagange Hills, renowned for its ancient temples and breathtaking panoramic views. Explore the ruins of the fort and temples that once stood atop the hills, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the region.
Kabini River: Embark on a wildlife adventure with a boat ride along the Kabini River, home to an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and crocodiles. Cruise through the serene waters, keeping your eyes peeled for these majestic creatures.
Gundelpet: Discover the charm of Gundelpet, a town nestled amidst the verdant hills of the Western Ghats. Explore its local markets, lined with colorful stalls selling handicrafts, spices, and fresh produce. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the town, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine.
Bandipur National Park: Venture into the wilderness of Bandipur National Park, a haven for diverse wildlife species. Embark on a jeep safari or nature walk, spotting elephants, tigers, deer, and a variety of birds.
Coorg: Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Coorg, also known as the “Scotland of India.” Explore its rolling hills, lush coffee plantations, and picturesque waterfalls. Visit the Golden Temple of Bylakuppe, a renowned Buddhist monastery, and experience the serenity of its surroundings.
Mysore: Discover the rich cultural heritage of Mysore, the “City of Palaces.” Wander through the opulent Mysore Palace, adorned with intricate carvings and gilded interiors. Explore the bustling markets, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine.
Best places to visit in Munnar
Here are some of the best places to visit in Munnar, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience:
Eravikulam National Park: Embark on a wildlife adventure in Eravikulam National Park, a sanctuary for the endangered Nilgiri tahr. Trek through the verdant hills, spotting these elusive mountain goats grazing amidst the grasslands. Immerse yourself in the park’s diverse ecosystem, home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Anamudi Peak: Ascend to the summit of Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India. Conquer the challenging trek, rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Experience the tranquility of the mountaintop, enveloped by the cool breeze and serene atmosphere.
Top Station: Venture to Top Station, the highest point in Munnar, offering mesmerizing views of the surrounding landscape. Witness the sunrise or sunset from this vantage point, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Enjoy the cool mountain air and the serenity of the surroundings.
Mattupetty Dam: Explore Mattupetty Dam, an engineering marvel and a popular tourist attraction. Take a boat ride on the reservoir, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque scenery. Capture stunning photographs of the dam and the serene lake.
Echo Point: Experience the unique phenomenon at Echo Point, where your voice reverberates back from the surrounding hills. Witness the breathtaking views of the valley and the cascading waterfalls. Enjoy the cool mountain air and the tranquil atmosphere.
Meesapulimala: Embark on a scenic drive to Meesapulimala, a picturesque hill station known for its lush greenery and breathtaking views. Enjoy the panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys, and capture stunning photographs.
Rose Garden: Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and sweet fragrance of the Rose Garden, home to a vast array of rose varieties. Stroll through the garden, admiring the intricate patterns and delicate blooms. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the pleasant aroma of roses.
Kundala Lake: Take a leisurely boat ride on Kundala Lake, a serene reservoir surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the picturesque scenery. Capture stunning photographs of the lake and the surrounding hills.
Atukkad Waterfalls: Witness the cascading beauty of Atukkad Waterfalls, plunging into a serene pool amidst lush greenery. Embark on a trek to the falls, enjoying the fresh mountain air and the tranquil surroundings.
Lockhart Gap: Venture to Lockhart Gap, a scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding hills and valleys. Enjoy the cool mountain air and the serene atmosphere. Capture stunning photographs of the landscape.
Top resorts, homestays, and hotels in Munnar
Here are some of the top resorts, homestays, and hotels:
| Type | Name | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resort | SpiceTree Munnar Boutique Resort | 4.8 | ₹5,500 – ₹12,000 |
| Resort | The Leaf Munnar | 5.0 | ₹7,000 – ₹18,000 |
| Resort | Punnamada Resort Munnar | 4.5 | ₹3,500 – ₹10,000 |
| Resort | Munnar Serenity Resort | 4.7 | ₹4,000 – ₹11,000 |
| Resort | Mount Pleasant Resort | 4.6 | ₹3,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Homestay | Flower Valley Plantation Homestay | 4.9 | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 |
| Homestay | Maliyeckal Homestay | 4.8 | ₹1,200 – ₹2,500 |
| Homestay | Villoonnickal Homestay | 4.7 | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 |
| Homestay | Munnar Minds Homestay | 4.6 | ₹800 – ₹1,800 |
| Homestay | Drizzle Valley Cottage | 4.5 | ₹600 – ₹1,500 |
| Hotel | Blanket Hotel & Spa | 4.7 | ₹4,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Hotel | Heaven Inn Munnar Resorts | 4.9 | ₹2,500 – ₹6,000 |
| Hotel | Tea County Munnar | 4.5 | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Hotel | Munnar Heritage | 4.6 | ₹1,500 – ₹4,000 |
| Hotel | Munnar Inn | 4.7 | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 |
Here are some resorts for couples- https://themusafir.in/best-honeymoon-resorts-in-munnar/
