Hill Stations Near Kochi: Serene Escapes Amidst Kerala’s Misty Mountains

Kochi’s beaches and coastal beauty have a special appeal. The fishing nest, backwaters, coconut and palm plantations make the place a scenic wonder. But the place extends its charisma beyond the coastal stretch into the surrounding areas. The hill stations near Kochi are no less! The misty mountains, valleys, rolling tea estates, and waterfalls make these places dream-like and attractive. One can enjoy the most pleasant weather, scenic drives, and romantic trails. People planning Kochi vacations often combine these hill retreats to experience Kerala’s diverse yet stunning geography. 

Here come the all-inclusive details of destinations to visit near Kochi for the best holiday memories. Pack your bags now! 

Why Visit Hill Stations Near Kochi?

Kochi has several small hill stations nearby that are ideal for a blissful weekend break. Enjoy the peace and beauty, and indulge in fun and adventure. 

• Climate Contrast: These hill stations near Kochi offer a perfect escape from the humid and scorching climate of the coastal areas. One can enjoy pleasant weather with soothing temperatures, misty surroundings, rain, and cool breezes.
• Perfect for All: The nearby hilly areas are a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers. These destinations are romantic abodes for couples. Moreover, they are refreshing weekend getaways for those seeking a short break from city life, with opportunities for photography, nature walks, and adventure.
• Accessibility: Most of these places are easily accessible by road. So the scenic drives are a perk to the holidays.
• Ideal Travel Season: The best time to visit these destinations is between October and March. The weather is cool and pleasant and perfect for all outdoor activities. Those who love rain and mist can also plan between June and September. The surroundings look green and fresh, delighting nature lovers.

Top Hill Stations Near Kochi

Plan your holiday in these amazing hill stations near Kochi. They are ideal for family vacations, leisure breaks, honeymoons, and solo trips. 

Munnar—The Crown Jewel of Kerala Hills

Munnar is one of the most popular hill stations near Kochi, known for misty hills, lakes, waterfalls, and tea gardens. With year-round pleasant weather it offers scenic charm and relaxation. The drive from Kochi to Munnar is delightful. 

• Distance: 130 km from Kochi
• Highlights: Echo Point, Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park, Lockhart Gap, Kanan Devan Tea Museum, and Anamudi Peak.
• Best for: Honeymooners, photographers, and nature lovers.
• Things to Do: Enjoy stunning views from Top Station and Echo Point; tour tea factories and relish freshly brewed tea; and go boating and zip-lining at Mattupetty Dam. Guided tea plantation tours, hiking in Eravikulam National Park, and spotting Nilgiri Tahr are also fun activities.

Vagamon—The Untouched Paradise

Vagamon is known for serenity and peace, and the comfortable weather soothes the mind and soul. Though it is the nearest hill station to Kochi, this place is not so popular; hence, it remains one of the least crowded destinations in the Idukki district. The pine forests, green hills and valleys enhance its charm. 

• Distance: 110 km from Kochi
• Highlights: Murugan Hills, Thangal Para, Vagamon Meadows, and Karikadu View Point
• Best for: Solo travellers, adventure lovers, and romantic couples. 
• Things to Do: Trekking, paragliding, camping, and boating at Vagamon Lake

Idukki—Nature’s Reservoir of Calm

Located close to Vagamon, Idukki is another scenic gem. A perfect weekend getaway from Kochi, this is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers. From forests and wildlife to lakes and dams, the place has it all. 

• Distance: 120 km from Kochi
• Highlights: Idukki Arch Dam, Hill View Park, Idukki wildlife sanctuaries, and Cheeyappara Waterfalls.
• Best for: Nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and offbeat travellers.
• Things to Do: Trekking, hiking, nature camping, boating, wildlife safaris, and guided tours of tea and coffee plantations. Staying in treehouses and eco-lodges is the ultimate excitement. 

Thekkady—A Blend of Spice and Wilderness 

Surrounded by green hills, Thekkady is one of the cleanest and untouched hill stations near Kochi for a refreshing break. Known for the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and the Periyar Lake, this place attracts adventure-loving folks. 

• Distance: 155 km from Kochi
• Highlights: Periyar Tiger Reserve, Periyar Lake, Spice plantations
• Best for: Wildlife lovers, photographers, and couples.
• Things to Do: Forest jeep safari, boat safari, bamboo rafting, spotting wildlife, elephant rides, and guided tours of spice gardens. Book a night safari and walk in the forest for the best thrilling experience. One can also watch Kalaripattu and Kathakali shows and explore local markets in Kumily town. 

Ponmudi—The Golden Peak

This is a popular choice for a weekend holiday in one of the hill stations near Kochi. Located at an altitude of 1000 meters, this is a heaven for trekkers. The waterfalls, stunning viewpoints, winding roads, and wildlife sanctuary attract travellers for a relaxing escape.

• Distance: 220 km from Kochi. 
• Highlights: Peeppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Kallar Meenmutty Waterfalls, Neyyar Dam, and Agasthyakoodam. 
• Best for: Trekking enthusiasts and road trip lovers.
• Things to Do: Enjoying stunning views, watching sunsets, trekking, photography, camping, wildlife spotting, and picnicking by the waterfalls.

Peermade—The Hidden Gem

The aroma of spices, coffee, and tea plantations attracts every traveller to Peermade, another offbeat hill station near Kochi. The hills, waterfalls, and viewpoints are picturesque, like a canvas. This place was the summer destination of the Maharajas of Travancore, thereby carrying historical significance. 

• Distance: 130 km from Kochi
• Highlights: Thrissanku Hills, Panchalimedu, Summer Palace of Maharajas of Travancore, and Pattumala. Coffee and cardamom plantations, waterfalls, and scenic valleys.
• Best for: Offbeat explorers, history lovers, and peace seekers.
• Things to Do: Guided walks for coffee, tea, and spice plantations; cycling; horseback riding and trekking through Peeru Hills, Grampi, and Karandakapara Hills.

Ideal Itineraries From Kochi

Many vacation packages from Kochi include visits to nearby hill stations. The packages are structured and well-planned for a hassle-free holiday experience. 

Weekend Getaway (2 Days): Kochi → Munnar → Kochi

• Day 1: Reach Munnar from Kochi before lunch. Visit Valara and Cheeyappara waterfalls en route for photography. After lunch, visit Echo Point, Mattupetty Dam, and tea plantations. Evening at leisure. 
• Day 2: After breakfast, check out and head to the Tea Museum and Factory. This is followed by departure for Kochi.
• Average Cost: INR 10,930 per person 

Inclusions: Accommodation in a 3-star hotel, breakfast, airport or railway station transfer from Kochi, fuel cost, toll and parking charges, vehicle for sightseeing

Exclusions: All meals except breakfast, airfare, charges for early check-in and late check-out, tips, entry fees, and personal expenses. 

Romantic Escape (3 nights and 4 days): Kochi → Vagamon → Thekkady → Kochi

• Day 1: Reach Vagamon from Kochi before lunch. Visit Elaveezha Poonchira—a stunning viewpoint en route for relaxation and photography. After lunch, visit Suicide Point and Kurisumala Hills. Evening at leisure. 
• Day 2: After breakfast, head to Vagamon Falls, Vagamon Meadows, and Thangalpara. After lunch, depart for Thekkady. Visit the Kumily local market for spices and tea en route. Evening at leisure. You can enjoy a candlelit dinner by the forest if booked in advance. 
• Day 3: After breakfast, head for a jeep safari. In the evening, it’s a boat safari on Periyar Lake. 
• Day 4: Check out after breakfast and depart for Kochi airport or railway station.
• Average Cost: INR 13,200 per person 

Inclusions: Accommodation in a 3-star hotel, breakfast every day,  airport or railway station transfer from Kochi, sightseeing, fuel cost, and toll and parking charges.

Exclusions: All meals except breakfast, airfare, charges for early check-in and late check-out, charges for special honeymoon packages such as candle-lit dinners, tips, entry and permit fees, and personal expenses. 

Family Long Weekend Adventure Holiday (5 nights and 6 days): Kochi → Munnar → Idukki → Peermade → Kochi

• Day 1: Head to Munnar from Kochi. Explore Valara and Cheeyappara waterfalls en route for a quick break. After lunch, head to Echo Point and Mattupetty Dam. Evening at leisure. One can plan a show of Kalaripattu or Kathakali with prior booking. 
• Day 2: After breakfast, trek to Eravikulam National Park to spot Nilgiri Tahr. Keep the second half to visit the Kanan Devan Tea Museum. Explore the local market for spices, tea, homemade chocolates, and aromatherapy oils. 
• Day 3: After breakfast, check out and head to Top Station and Lockhart Gap. Enjoy stunning views, click photos, and take nature walks. After lunch, head to Idukki. En route, take a guided tour of coffee and tea plantations. 
• Day 4: After breakfast, visit the Idukki Arch Dam and hike in the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary.  Enjoy the sunset from Hill View Park. 
• Day 5: After breakfast, check out and head to Peermade. Visit the Summer Palace and Valanjankanam Waterfalls. Evening at leisure. 
• Day 6: After breakfast, check out and depart for Kochi.
  
• Average Cost: INR 15,000 per person 

Inclusions: Accommodation, breakfast, sightseeing, transfers, and toll and parking charges. 

Exclusions: Airport transfers, all meals except breakfast at the hotel, shopping expenses, entry charges for guided outdoor activities, and tips. 

Offbeat Hill Escapes Few Know About

Along with the popular hill stations near Kochi, some offbeat places are no less. The surreal landscapes and misty weather make them a loved choice. 

• Ramakkalmedu: 

Located in the Idukki district, Ramakkalmedu offers jaw-dropping views of the hills and valleys. With quite a few wind farms, this place is among the windiest in Kerala. 

Distance: 140 km from Kochi

Attractions: Twin statues of Kuravan and Kurathi, Ramakkalmedu View Point, Tortoise Rock, and Kurivikkanam Wildmill Farm. 

• Silent Valley: 

This is a unique, offbeat yet stunning hill station near Kochi, known for the last remaining tracts of undisturbed tropical evergreen forests in India. A slice of paradise for nature lovers and eco-tourists, one can find rare species of flora and fauna, such as the lion-tailed macaque. 

Distance: 180 km from Kochi

Attractions: Mukkali Watch Tower and Kunthi River. Enjoy hiking, guided tours, and jeep safaris. 

• Elaveezha Poonchira: 

If you are in search of a less-crowded hill escape near Kochi for a romantic or peaceful short stay, Elaveezha Poonchira is the place. Literally translating into “the valley where leaves don’t fall,” this hill station is known for the best sunrise and sunset views.

Distance: 80 km from Kochi

Attractions: Hiking to Kannadipara, the highest point, and Mankunnu, Kodayathoormala, and Thonippara for the breathtaking view, Nilayara Cave, and Kazhukankulimali Waterfalls. 

Travel Tips For Visiting Hill Stations Near Kochi

Take a glance at the quick tips to make the hill station holidays seamless and peaceful. 

• Best time to go: The best time to visit the hill stations near Kochi is between October and March. The weather is cool, comfortable, and perfect for all outdoor activities. Those who love rain and admire the greenery and freshness of the hills can plan to visit during the monsoon. Experience the calm and soothing beauty of the mountains from June to September. 
• What to pack: Light woollens, trekking shoes, and go-to snacks are essential for the holidays. If you are travelling during the monsoon, do not forget to carry rain gear and insect repellent.
• Getting around: Hiring local cabs is the wisest choice. The local drivers are well familiar with the routes and tricks for driving in hilly terrain. If you are passionate about driving, you can take your car and enjoy the scenic route. 
• Stay options: The hill stations near Kochi offer accommodations of all kinds. One can find hotels and resorts of all categories, eco stays, homestays, and plantation resorts. 
• Food to try: Local delicacies include sadhya meals, appam stew, meen curry, and parotta. Try banana fritters and cardamom tea from the local shops. 

How to Reach Hill Stations From Kochi?

The hill stations near Kochi are easily accessible. Here’s how you can plan your travel. 

• By Road: One can drive or hire local cabs from Kochi to reach these hill stations. Most of the places can be reached via NH49 and state highways connecting Kochi to Munnar, Idukki, etc.
• By Train: The nearest railway stations to most hill retreats are Kottayam or Aluva. However, the closest railway station to Ponmudi is Trivandrum. 
• By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to all the hill stations.

Conclusion

Those who think Kochi is only for beaches and backwaters, check again. There are quite a few fascinating hill stations near Kochi that offer breathtaking views, adventure, relaxation, and solace. Ideal for honeymoons, fun, family time, and solo travel, these hill escapes delight travellers of all kinds. If you wish to know the beauty of the diverse landscape of Kerala, step ahead of Kochi and experience the beauty and scenic charm of these hill retreats. There are many holiday packages, curated by TravelTriangle, that include these hill stations. All the packages are structured and can be customised for a seamless holiday experience. If you are looking for a refreshing escape to the hills from Kochi, do check it out and plan your next vacation.

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Ritika Agarwal

Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.