The beauty of South India can be seen through a road trip from Coimbatore to Munnar. The drive is scenic, full of greenery, and allows you to enjoy the beauty of hill stations. Munnar, located in the Western Ghats, is famous for tea plantations, tranquil lakes, and hilly terrains. It is ideal for tourists who love nature and adventure, and those who wish to have a quiet vacation.
You can book a Savaari car rental in Coimbatore to make your road trip to Munnar safe and enjoyable.
Table of Contents
- Why Travel from Coimbatore to Munnar?
- Traveling from Coimbatore to Munnar by Car
- Best Time to Take a Road Trip from Coimbatore to Munnar
- Popular Routes to Travel from Coimbatore to Munnar
- Best Route from Coimbatore to Munnar
- Attractions in Munnar for Sightseeing
- Savaari Recommends: Popular Places to Eat in Munnar
- Hotels and Resorts: Accommodation in Munnar
- Nearby Road Trips from Munnar
- Highway Updates
Why Travel from Coimbatore to Munnar?
The journey from Coimbatore to Munnar is full of natural beauty, thrilling experiences, and a historical touch. It covers the green belts, meandering roads, and beautiful tea gardens and plantations. On the way, you can discover beautiful villages, historical temples, and gorgeous waterfalls.
By booking Savaari’s Innova taxi service in Coimbatore, one can stop at various places of interest and savor local cuisine, which makes the journey much more fun and relaxing.
Traveling from Coimbatore to Munnar by Car
If you love exploring new places, traveling from Coimbatore to Munnar by car is the best option. It is a scenic journey of about 150 kilometers through the Western Ghats. Depending on traffic and road conditions, it typically takes around 4-5 hours.
Start your trip from Coimbatore and head towards Pollachi, then follow the signs to Munnar. If you are not comfortable driving the distance, try Savaari’s outstation taxi service in Coimbatore for a hassle-free and safe trip. Download the Savaari car rental app today.
Important Highway Information: Coimbatore–Munnar Highway
Highway Name | National Highway |
Alternate Name | Coimbatore–Munnar Highway |
Highway Number | NH-83 |
Total Distance | 155 km |
Starting Point | Coimbatore |
End Point | Munnar |
Highway Quality | Excellent |
Quick Facts about Coimbatore to Munnar
Road Distance from Coimbatore to Munnar | 155 km |
Aerial Distance from Coimbatore to Munnar | 104 km |
Time to Travel from Coimbatore to Munnar by Road | 4–5 hrs |
Travel Time from Coimbatore to Munnar by Train | Not available (Closest station is Aluva) |
Best Routes from Coimbatore to Munnar | NH-83 |
Best Time to Visit Munnar | September–May |
Best Time to Take a Road Trip from Coimbatore to Munnar by Car
The best time for a road trip from Coimbatore to Munnar is from September to May. Avoid traveling in the peak monsoon months (June to August) because heavy rains can cause landslides and make the roads slippery.
For a hassle-free and comfortable trip, book an Innova cab in Coimbatore with Savaari to make your journey from Coimbatore to Munnar smooth and cost-effective.
Popular Routes to Travel from Coimbatore to Munnar by Car
There are several well-maintained, popular routes to Munnar from Coimbatore if you are traveling by car:
Route 1: Coimbatore to Munnar via NH-83
NH-83 is the best route to travel from Coimbatore to Munnar by car. The approximate distance from Coimbatore to Munnar is 150 kilometers, requiring a drive of 4–5 hours. Travelers mostly prefer this route because it is the fastest between the two cities, offers the best road conditions, and has the smoothest traffic flow.
Suggested Places Along the Way
- Aliyar Dam, Pollachi: This is a beautiful dam with a park offering scenic views and boating facilities. You can also check out this detailed guide on the top things to do in Pollachi.
- Monkey Falls, Pollachi: A serene waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a short break.
- Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Marayoor: Home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.
Popular Places to Eat On This Route
- Amirtham Restaurant, Pollachi: Known for its authentic South Indian cuisine and delicious dosas.
- Saravana Bhavan, Marayoor: Famous for its traditional Tamil Nadu dishes and warm hospitality.
Route 1: Coimbatore to Munnar Road Conditions
The road conditions from Coimbatore to Munnar via NH-83 are generally good, with well-maintained highways.
Route 2: Coimbatore to Munnar via Udumalpet – Palladam Road and Munnar – Udumalpet Road
Equally popular for driving between the two places, Udumalpet – Palladam Road and Munnar – Udumalpet Road take you through beautiful scenery. The Coimbatore to Munnar distance via this route is approximately 175 kilometers long, and it takes around 5 hours to reach Munnar.
If you are a group of more than eight members, you can also hire a tempo traveller in Coimbatore with Savaari and enjoy a group travel experience.
Suggested Places Along the Way
- Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Marayoor: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary offers diverse flora and fauna, perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying nature trails.
- Amaravathi Crocodile Farm, Near Manupatti: This farm is home to numerous crocodiles and offers a unique experience to learn about these fascinating reptiles.
Popular Places to Eat On This Route
- Hotel Gowri Krishna, Palladam: Famous for its rich, flavorful biryanis and mouthwatering curries, this popular spot is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
- Green Leaf Restaurant, Marayoor: Offers a variety of Indian and continental dishes in a cozy setting.
Route 2: Coimbatore to Munnar Road Conditions
The road conditions from Coimbatore to Munnar via Route 2 are practically the same as those on NH-83. The only difference is that this route takes an hour longer to reach Munnar.
Best Route from Coimbatore to Munnar
Both routes are equally popular among travelers. Still, Route 1 via NH-83 is the most preferred route from Coimbatore to Munnar as it takes less time to reach the destination and offers more places to visit along the way.
Other Means of Traveling from Coimbatore to Munnar
There are other modes of transportation as well that you can use to reach Munnar from Coimbatore:
How to Reach by Train?
As Munnar doesn’t have a railway station, there is no direct train from Coimbatore to Munnar. The nearest railway station to Munnar is Aluva, which is about 110 kilometers away. From Aluva, you can hire a Savaari taxi to travel through popular routes to Munnar. Many trains from Coimbatore Junction (CBE) can help you reach Aluva.
For Coimbatore to Munnar train bookings, visit the IRCTC portal. There, you can get the latest updates on trains and their live running status.
How to Reach by Flight?
The nearest airport to Munnar is Cochin International Airport (COK), located about 110 kilometers from Munnar. There are no direct flights from Coimbatore to Munnar, but you can take a connecting flight via Kochi. The nearest major airport is Coimbatore (Coimbatore International Airport), located 150 kilometers from Munnar. You can book an airport taxi in Coimbatore with Savaari and travel safely in chauffeur-driven cabs to Munnar.
How to Reach by Bus?
You can choose between state-run and private buses to travel by bus from Coimbatore to Munnar. The journey takes around 6–7 hours. You can book tickets online through their websites or apps. Buses usually depart from the Coimbatore Central Bus Stand or Omni Bus Stand.
Price Comparison for Choosing Different Travel Means
Here is a comparative price analysis of different travel means from Coimbatore to Munnar:
Travel Means | Estimated Cost |
Coimbatore to Munnar Cabs | INR 1860 |
Train (to Aluva) | INR 200–INR 600 |
Flight | No direct flights |
Bus | INR 400–INR 800 |
Consider renting a car with Savaari for an easy road trip from Coimbatore to Munnar. Enjoy comfort, convenience, and flexibility as you explore local culture and food. Savaari offers affordable rates with one-way drop options. Make your journey memorable with scenic stops for photos.
Attractions in Munnar for Sightseeing
Munnar is a lovely hill station in Kerala that you can visit any time of the year. Check out this comprehensive guide for some of the must-visit attractions in Munnar:
- Tea Gardens: Munnar’s tea gardens are a sight to behold, offering endless rows of tea bushes and picturesque vistas. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about tea processing, from plucking the leaves to the final product. The tour often ends with a tasting session where you can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea. The greenery and the aroma of fresh tea leaves make it a memorable experience for all.
- Mattupetty Dam: Mattupetty Dam is a popular picnic spot known for its breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The dam provides boating facilities, allowing visitors to paddle through the calm waters and enjoy the serene environment. It’s a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Munnar. The area is also rich in wildlife, and you might spot some local animals during your visit.
- Eravikulam National Park: Eravikulam National Park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a mountain goat found only in this region. The park offers excellent trekking opportunities with well-marked trails leading to the stunning Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India. Visitors can enjoy the park’s rich biodiversity, including various species of flora and fauna. The panoramic views and the chance to see the rare Nilgiri Tahr make it a must-visit.
- Top Station: Top Station is a breathtaking viewpoint located on the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. It offers stunning views of the Western Ghats and the Theni Valley, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. The cool climate and the mist-covered hills add to the charm of this location. It’s an ideal place to witness the natural beauty of the region and enjoy some peaceful moments.
- Kundala Lake: Kundala Lake is a serene and beautiful lake surrounded by greenery, making it perfect for boating and picnicking. The tranquil waters reflect the surrounding hills and trees, creating a picturesque scene. Visitors can rent pedal boats or rowboats to explore the lake. The nearby tea gardens and cherry blossom trees add to the scenic beauty, making Kundala Lake a delightful spot for nature lovers and families.
Savaari Recommends: Popular Places to Eat in Munnar
Some of the Savaari-recommended places to eat in Munnar are:
- Saravana Bhavan: A vegetarian restaurant known for its delicious South Indian meals.
- Rapsy Restaurant: Famous for its Kerala-style biryanis and seafood dishes.
- Hotel Gurubhavan: Offers a range of Indian and Chinese dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- Silver Spoon: A multi-cuisine restaurant offering a variety of dishes in a cozy setting.
Hotels and Resorts: Accommodation in Munnar
Munnar offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxurious resorts. Here are some recommended hotels and resorts in Munnar:
Hotel Name | Address | Phone Number |
The Leaf Munnar Resort | Chithirapuram, Aamakandam – Anachal Rd, Munnar, Kerala 685565 | +91 75103 44111 |
Fragrant Nature Munnar | Bison Valley Rd, Pothamedu, Munnar, Kerala 685612 | +91 4868 257 800 |
The Panoramic Getaway | Chithirapuram, Munnar Bypass, Kerala 685565 | +91 82818 88777 |
Blanket Hotel & Spa | Attukad Waterfall Road, Munnar, Kerala 685565 | +91 82818 06633 |
Nearby Road Trips from Munnar
Munnar is a great base for exploring the beautiful and culturally rich areas of Kerala. If you have more time and want to explore the surrounding areas, here are some nearby road trips from Munnar:
Destination | Distance (approx.) | Time Taken (approx.) | Price |
Munnar to Kochi (Cochin) | 124.7 km | 4 hrs | INR 1625 |
Munnar to Madurai | 160.2 km | 4.5 hrs | INR 1989 |
Munnar to Thrissur | 152.3 km | 4.5 hrs | INR 4143 |
Munnar to Thiruvananthapuram | 274.8 km | 7.5 hrs | INR 8975 |
With its stunning views, rich culture, and numerous attractions, a Coimbatore to Munnar road trip promises to be an unforgettable experience. Download the Savaari cab booking app and book a chauffeur-driven outstation cab today to start on a journey of a lifetime.
Highway Updates
- First phase of Coimbatore’s western bypass project to be completed by August 2025
- NHAI to complete upgrade of Kochi-Munnar NH 85 corridor