The Best Kerala Roadtrip: From Kochi to Munnar
Looking for the perfect route to explore Kerala’s hill country? We’ve MADE the ultimate road trip through winding roads, lush green mountains, and endless tea plantations.
HOW MANY DAYS | 5 - 7
BEST TIME TO VISIT | Nov - Mar
WHERE TO STAY | View Valley Homestay , Periyar Inn, Vagamon Springs
TOP THINGS TO SEE | Munnar Tea Plantations, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Vagamon Jeep Tour
HOW TO GET AROUND | rent a car ot hire a driver
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, let us take you on our personal road trip through Keralas Whestern Ghats starting in Kochi and winding its way to Munnar. This journey is one of the most scenic drives we’ve experienced, with breathtaking views, lush landscapes, and charming spots along the way. Whether you're into nature, or just the thrill of the open road, this trip has it all. We’ve put together all the best stops and tips to help you make the most of your own Kerala road trip.
✈︎ Not sure how to plan your trip to India? Let us help! Check out our India Travel Essentials. Your one-stop guide to destinations, costs, packing, and more.
HOW MANY DAYS?
If you’re short on time, you can cover the highlights in 5 days. We recommend at least 7 days to see all the places we mention and enjoy the journey without rushing.
WHEN TO VISIT MUNNAR?
The best time to visit Munnar and Whestern Ghats is from November to March, when the weather is cool, dry, and ideal for sightseeing and hiking. April and May are warmer but still enjoyable, especially if you’re escaping the coastal heat. Avoid June to September, as heavy monsoon rains can make travel tricky even though the hills are at their greenest during this time.
HOW TO GET AROUND?
We rented a car from Kochi for 9 days, and it was surprisingly affordable. It gave us the flexibility to stop wherever we wanted, take scenic breaks, and explore sights along the way at our own pace.
To stay connected throughout the trip, we used an eSIM from Saily, super easy to set up and reliable even in more remote areas. Definitely a must if you're planning a road trip through Kerala!
PRICE | starting from ₹900 | €9 | US$10 per day
BOOK | Indusgo
If you don’t feel confident driving or don’t have an International Driver’s License, you can always hire a private driver instead. While we didn’t use one ourselves, many travelers recommend this option for a relaxed, hassle-free trip. You can easily arrange a driver through your accommodation in Kochi or contact a well-rated taxi service like Call Drivers Kochi.
PRICE | ₹3000 | €30 | US$35 per day
Driving in India: Our Experience in Kerala
Before arriving in India, we expected chaotic roads packed with traffic, especially since it was our first time here. The streets of Ernakulam (Kochi) were busy, but once we left the city behind, the roads cleared up and driving became surprisingly manageable. To be fair, Sven has experience driving in different countries around the world, which definitely helped.
The roads aren’t perfecta and you’ll come across dirt tracks, stone-paved stretches, and the occasional pothole. As long as you drive carefully and stay alert, you’ll be fine. We did get two flat tires along the way. But it was totally our fault for not checking the tire condition before setting off. (Learn from us and check out our blog post on car rentals below!)
Looking back, we wish we had booked a jeep. Unfortunately, we waited too long and they were all taken. A jeep would’ve given us more freedom to explore off the main roads and probably more fun too! Though on some of the narrower mountain roads, it might’ve been trickier to handle.
One thing that surprised us: another traveler asked if we were constantly stopped by the police. In our entire three months in India, we were never stopped: neither by car, nor by scooter. We always carry our International Driver’s License and read up on the local road rules, which likely helped us avoid any issues.
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DAY 1: FROM KOCHI TO MUNNAR
Attirapily Falls & Cheeyapara Falls
Start your day early and make a scenic detour to Athirappilly Falls on your way to Munnar. Often called the Niagara of India, this impressive 25-meter (80-foot) waterfall is a powerful sight. If you want to get close, be prepared to climb over some rocks. It’s worth it for the view!
Next, continue on to Cheeyapara Falls, which are much easier to access. These falls cascade down in multiple stages, with a total drop of around 300 meters (1,000 feet), making them one of the tallest in Kerala.
After soaking in the views, head toward your accommodation in Munnar and get ready for the cooler mountain air and tea-covered hills.
TIP | Wear trekking sandals or sneakers as the way to the falls can be slippery & stay hydrated.
Where to Stay in Munnar?
There are plenty of places to stay in Munnar – or better said, around Munnar. The town itself isn’t that nice: it’s loud, crowded, and full of traffic. We definitely recommend staying somewhere in the quieter outskirts instead.
We stayed at View Valley Homestay and really loved it. The owners were super friendly, the breakfast was delicious, and we got to eat it on a balcony overlooking the forest. The peaceful surroundings were exactly what we needed after a full day of exploring.
BOOK | View Valley Homestay
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DAY 2: VIEWPOINTS - SPICE FARM - ANAKULAM
Pothamedu Viewpoint - Attukad Waterfalls
Start your day with a drive to Pothamedu Viewpoint. Honestly, the road there was just as beautiful as the viewpoint itself, winding through lush hills with incredible views around every corner. From the top, you can see far across the valleys, making it a great stop for panoramic photos and a bit of fresh mountain air.
Afterwards, head to Attukad Waterfalls. We visited in mid-February and unfortunately didn’t see much water, but during or just after the monsoon, it’s supposed to be much more impressive.
Cinnamon Gardens Spice Plantation
We really enjoyed our visit to the Cinnamon Gardens. The tour takes you through the garden, where you can see various spices and native plants. We learned a lot about each spice and its uses in Ayurveda to prevent and treat various diseases. They also have a shop where you can purchase Ayurvedic supplements and the regional spices. The garden is beautiful, and the staff is incredibly passionate and gave us excellent explanations.
PRICE | ₹150 | €1.50 | $US1.80
Viripara Waterfalls
Start your journey to Anakulam after lunch, with your first stop at Viripara Waterfalls. It’s a beautiful spot but what makes it extra special is that you can actually swim here. Since we visited on a weekend, a few local families were also enjoying the scenery and cooling off from the heat.
If you’re planning to take a dip, make sure to bring a modest swimsuit. For more tips on what to wear (and what to avoid), check out our India packing list.
PRICE | ₹100 | €1 | $US1.20
Tiger Cave
Next, head to Tiger Cave. We weren’t sure at first if it was worth the stop, but we’re really glad we went. It is a short trek, the cave itself was beautiful, and even the little bridge along the way gave it a unique charm.
The cave is believed to have been used as a shelter by local tribes, and some say the name comes from tiger sightings in the region long ago. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothes. There’s a light trek at the beginning, and toward the end you’ll need to climb down a few rocks. We weren’t exactly dressed for it and ripped clothes and a minor twisted ankle were the result! It’s not a difficult or long hike, and to be fair, most locals don’t wear sporty gear either.
PRICE | ₹120 | €1.20 | $US1.40
Elephant Watching in Anakulam
End your day with the biggest highlight: watching wild elephants drink from the river in Anakulam. We were lucky and saw five elephants that stayed for at least an hour and honestly, no matter how often we see elephants in the wild, the excitement never fades.
They usually show up during the dry season, often around 5:30 PM, and sometimes stay for several hours. It’s said they’re drawn to a natural spring there that’s rich in minerals. Just keep in mind that sightings aren't guaranteed! On rainy days, the elephants tend to stay deeper in the forest.
Bring patience, stay quiet, and enjoy one of Kerala’s most magical wildlife moments.
PRICE | Free
DAY 3: MUNNAR & TOP STATION (OPTION 1)
Top Station - Kundala Dam - Echo Point & Mattupetty Dam
We left as early as possible after reading about potential traffic along the route and wanted to beat the crowds. Our first stop was Top Station, which offers sweeping views of the hills, but it can get packed. Try to get there before 8 AM for the best experience. We saw even prettier views just from the roadside along the way, but being able to see all the way into Tamil Nadu from here was pretty impressive.
Next was Kundala Dam, where local photographers offer to take and print your photo. You can also take a peaceful walk through the forested area nearby. It’s a nice stop if you want a short break in nature.
Then we headed to Echo Point, with beautiful views of the lake and hills covered in trees. The echo really works and don’t forget to shout and hear your voice bounce back off the mountains!
Our final stop was Mattupetty Dam, which honestly didn’t impress us much. There were lots of food stalls, heavy traffic, and big crowds, but the view itself didn’t feel special to us.
To be fair, nothing we saw that day really surprised us. It was all nice, but not everything felt like a must-see. We think these stops are especially popular with local families as part of a fun weekend getaway, but as travelers, we weren’t blown away.
CSI Christ Church & Tea Museum
This little church is worth a quick stop, it’s one of the oldest in Munnar, built in the 19th century by British tea planters. The architecture is beautiful, and it even has a connection to Hollywood: Life of Pi was filmed here! Unfortunately, we couldn’t go inside because there was a wedding happening, but from the outside alone, it’s already a charming spot.
As for the Tea Museum, we decided to skip it. It’s a popular stop for those interested in the history of tea in Munnar, with old machinery, photos, and tastings. But we’d say it’s more of an optional visit, depending on your interest level.
TIP | Only credit card payment accepted at the museum.
Day 3: Eravikulam National Park & Lakkam Falls (OPTION 2)
Eravikulam National Park is one of the most popular spots near Munnar and a great place to see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a mountain goat native to the Western Ghats. The park is known for its wide open landscapes, cool mountain air, and peaceful walking trails. It is a nice break from the busier parts of town.
Unfortunately, it is closed in February and March due to the seasonal closure for wildlife protection, so we didn’t get the chance to see it ourselves. But if it’s open during your trip, it’s definitely worth considering!
Nearby, you’ll also find Lakkam Falls, a scenic 15-meter waterfall surrounded by forest. There’s a short hike you can do to get a different view of the falls, and it only costs around ₹100. It’s a good alternative if you're looking to spend more time in nature..
PRICE | ₹500 | €5 | $US6
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DAY 4: DRIVE TO THEKKADY
Lockhart Tea Factory
If you're heading to Thekkady, it's absolutely worth taking the scenic route instead of the faster main road. The drive is beautiful, and one of the best stops along the way is the Lockhart Tea Factory.
Here, you’ll get a close look at the tea harvesting process, see the original machinery still in use, and learn how the leaves are processed into the tea we drink every day. The building itself is full of history and really feels like stepping back in time.
At the end of the tour, there’s a small tea tasting, and you can pick up some fresh tea to bring home. The staff were very friendly and happy to answer all our questions.
As passionate tea drinkers, we found the tour a little underwhelming though — especially after doing a more in-depth one in Sri Lanka where we learned a lot more about quality, flavor profiles, and the full journey from leaf to cup. But if you're curious or it's your first time at a tea factory, it’s still worth a visit for the experience and atmosphere.
PRICE | ₹600 | €6 | $US7
Lockhard Gap & Chinnakanal Waterfalls
Both the Lockhart Gap viewpoint and Chinnakanal Waterfalls are easy stops right along the road and no hiking needed! They offer stunning views of the hills and are perfect for a quick photo stop. As you continue along the scenic route, don’t miss the panoramic views over Anayirankal Dam. The landscape here is truly impressive.
For lunch, we had what might just be the best grilled chicken in all of India (maybe even our lives!) at Porch Grill. If you're a non-veg eater, this place is a must!
EAT | Porch Grill Nedumkandam
Kathakali & Martial Arts Performance
If you’re looking for something unique to do in the evening, consider catching a Kathakali or Kalaripayattu (traditional martial arts) performance at the Kadathanadan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali Centre in Thekkady.
We went to a Kathakali show in Kochi, and it was a fascinating cultural experience. You can read more about that in our Kochi blog post!
But something special at this center is the Kalaripayattu martial arts performance. This martial arts originated in Kerala and it is one of the oldest known fighting systems in the world. It is over 3,000 years old! It combines elements of dance, physical fitness, and mental discipline, making it a holistic practice.
WHEN | 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
PRICE | ₹300 | €3 | $US3.40
Where to stay in Thekkady?
We can genuinely recommend Periyar Inn. The rooms are tastefully decorated, each with its own balcony, and the atmosphere is super welcoming. The owners are incredibly friendly and serve a delicious homemade breakfast right in their home. It felt more like staying with friends than at a hotel, which made our time in Thekkady even more special.
BOOK | Periyar Inn
DAY 5: PERIYAR TIGER RESERVE
Full-day Bamboo Rafting & Trekking
Periyar is one of India’s most famous wildlife reserves, known for its lush forests, scenic lake, and rich biodiversity. The most popular activity is a boat tour on Periyar Lake, where you might spot elephants, bison, or deer along the shore, but there are also plenty of guided treks and nature walks available. Check out all the tour options and prices on their official website linked below.
We chose the full-day bamboo rafting, hoping that we had a higher chance of seeing more wildlife. We really enjoyed the trek, it was very easy. We only walked on an even path and it was not challenging or difficult. However, please cover yourself very good from the sun, either wear a long-shirt and long-pants or bring a lot of sunscreen. You will mostly be under the sun and at when we did the rafting, it was when sun was at its highest point. So, if you are wearing shorts, you will get completely sunburn. We saw 4 elephants from afar, many many wild boars, sambar deer, monkeys, birds and some gaur. We talked to our guide and she said that in 5 years she has only seen a tiger twice. The chances are very very rare, but we still encourage you to give the park a chance.
f you're heading to Thekkady, it’s a good idea to plan your visit in advance or leave a buffer day to sort out tickets on arrival. We weren’t able to book tickets online using a foreign credit card, so your best bet is to ask your accommodation or a local tour agency to help you book in advance.
Some experiences, such as especially the night walks and bamboo rafting tours can get fully booked days or even weeks ahead, so don’t leave it to the last minute if there’s something you really want to do.
WEBSITE | Periyar Tiger Reserve
Enjoy homemade chocolate
If you’re a chocolate lover like us, don’t miss Hachi Homemade Chocolate & Honey in Thekkady. We love dark chocolate, and Maggie’s praline bar (with cashews and caramel) was so good! We seriously regret only buying two! She makes a small but delicious selection of handmade dark and milk chocolates, with flavors like rum & raisin, praline, and almond.
DAY 6: DRIVE TO VAGAMON & JEEP TOUR
Pattumala Velankanni Matha Church
Dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health, this peaceful hilltop church is worth a quick stop on your way to Vagamon. It’s especially known for its stunning architecture and holds the record for the largest dome among Christian churches in India. Surrounded by tea plantations, the location also offers beautiful panoramic views.
Offroad Jeep Tour
If you're looking for an unforgettable adventure, we highly recommend an off-road jeep tour. You’ll drive through tough, exciting paths that regular cars can’t reach, discovering stunning views. In our tour we visited Uluppuni Top Station, waterfalls and the Arappukadu tunnel. Our guide spoke limited English, but he tried his best. He tried to show us all the spots, before other jeeps arrived and to make our experience memorable.
TIP | Bring a face mask, tie your hair up, bring a sports bra as it is very dusty and bumpy.
PRICE | ₹2500 | €25 | $US29
Where to stay in Vagamon?
Vagamon Springs offers modern rooms with balconies and great views over the tea plantations. There's also an on-site caretaker, and food can be arranged on demand. The staff seems very responsive and the setting is peaceful, making it a solid option if you’re looking to relax and enjoy the scenery.
BOOK | Vagamon Springs
DAY 7: VAGAMON MEADOWS & PARAGLIDING
On our next day in Vagamon, we visited the Vagamon Meadows. While they weren’t as lush and green as the pictures had promised, we already knew it wasn’t the ideal season. Still, we think it’s worth a visit, especially right after the monsoon, when everything is more vibrant.
Nearby, you can also stop at the Vagamon Pine Forest it is a peaceful spot for a short walk under tall, towering trees. It’s a great place to escape the heat for a bit, take some photos, or just enjoy the quiet atmosphere.
If you're in the mood for something more adventurous, paragliding is a popular activity in Vagamon. We had to skip it due to bad weather, but on a clear day, the views from the sky must be stunning.
Sunrise & Sunset Spots
Don’t miss the breathtaking views from Pullikkanam Hill or Thangalpara. Both are incredible spots to catch the sunrise or sunset, often with a magical layer of morning mist rolling over the hills. Peaceful, scenic, and definitely worth the early alarm or evening drive to soak in the beauty of Kerala’s landscape.
DAY 8: RETURN TO KOCHI
After a week of winding roads, misty hills, and unforgettable views, it’s time to head back to Kochi. If you’re planning to extend your Kerala trip, don’t miss the chance to explore the Kerala backwaters. It is a completely different side of the state’s beauty. We’ve written a full guide comparing the best places to experience them. Check out our Kerala Backwaters article for all the details!
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