Ernakulam is a sprawling, residential area known for Marine Drive, a busy waterfront promenade where boats offer backwater cruises. The folklore and hill palace museums explore local heritage through art and antiquities. Shops along MG Road and Broadway sell fabrics, crafts, and spices, while the modern Lulu Mall also has a cinema and an ice rink. You can also explore the simple eateries that serve Keralan specialties and South Indian seafood. Hill stations near Ernakulam are blessed with greenery, wildlife reserves, mountains, and many more with pleasant weather throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Ernakulam is monsoon and winter season, between Octobers to February.
16 Hill Stations Near Ernakulam
Here are the top 16 most visited hill stations near Ernakulam whether for a family outing or a romantic tour. Let’s explore the beautiful hill station to have a memorable experience.
- Athirapally: Explore The Majestic Waterfall
- Vagamon: Enjoy Wildlife Safaris
- Idukki: For All Trekking Enthusiasts
- Lakkidi: Indulge In Water Sports And Birdwatching
- Munnar: Soak In The Calm
- Painavu: For Picturesque View
- Peermedu: For Horse Riding And More
- Devikulam: Take A Stroll Around The Tea Plantations
- Nelliyampathy: Witness The Flora And Fauna
- Malampuzha: Go For A Boat Ride
- Thekkady: Marvel At The Enchanting Surroundings
- Gavi: For Lush Greens And Misty Climate
- Ponmudi: Famous For Spice Plantations
- Vythiri: Relax Amidst Beauty And Tranquility
- Wayanad: For All Mountain Lovers
- Kotagiri: The Gorgeous Hill Station
1. Athirapally: Explore The Majestic Waterfall
Enjoy nature at its best at Athirapally waterfalls. It is famous for its majestic waterfalls, rich biodiversity, and enchanting rain forests. The cool spray of the waterfall and gushing rivers of Athirapally make everything in the surrounding area looks beautiful. People who have visited Athirapally once in their lifetime would always love to visit that place again.
Distance From Ernakulam: 67 Km
Best Time To Visit: Anytime
Ideal Trip Duration: 2days
Nearby Attractions: Athirappilly Falls, Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary
How To Reach: By Air: Kochi International Airport is the nearest airport
By Train: The nearest railway station to Athirapally is Chalakudy (25 km)
Places To Stay: Rain Forest Resort, Watergate Homestay, Golden Valley Residency
2. Vagamon: Enjoy Wildlife Safaris
A small hill station near Ernakulam, far away from the loud of the city. Nature or wildlife lovers must visit Vagamon. Here you can go for wildlife safaris, enjoy birds chirping, jungle camping, accommodated in a treehouse, and several other amazing activities. The place is located at a distance of 100 km from Ernakulam.
Distance From Ernakulam: 100 Km
Best Time To Visit: March to May, June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearby Attractions: Vagamon Falls, Kurisumala, Vagamon Lake, Pine Hill, Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary
How To Reach: By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International (150 km)
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kottayam station (44 km)
Things To Do: Waterfall Camping & Trekking, Paragliding, Off Roading, Trekking
Places To Stay: Honeycomb By Astral Inn, Falcon Crest, Lavender, The Kissing Mountains
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3. Idukki: For All Trekking Enthusiasts
Idukki is one of the most nature-rich hills stations near Ernakulam with more than half of the area covered with forest. It is the best place to spend an active holiday with trekking, hiking, and other sports adventures. You will also explore many wildlife sanctuaries, tea factories, and rubber plantations here.
Distance From Ernakulam: 105 Km
Best Time To Visit: March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 days
Nearby Attractions: Hill View Park, Nadukani, Kulamavu Dam, Idukki Arch Dam
How To Reach: By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport (98 km)
By Train: The nearest railway station is Theni (83 km)
Things To Do: Trekking, Camping, Boating, Paragliding
Places To Stay: Green Berg Resort, Misty Mountain Plantation Resort, Palette Hill View Resort
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4. Lakkidi: Indulge In Water Sports And Birdwatching
Lakkidi, a hill station that receives the highest rainfall in the country, due to this you can enjoy maximum water-based adventure activities here. The place attracts birdwatchers and wild animals from different parts of the world, including peacocks, Asian elephants, sloth bears, tigers, bulbuls, egrets, and babblers. The distance between Ernakulam to Lakikidi is 123 km.
Distance From Ernakulam: 123 Km
Best Time To Visit: June to August
Ideal Trip Duration: 4-5 days
Nearby Attractions: Lakkidi viewpoint, Phuket (Pookote) lake, Banasura dam, Kuruva Island, Waterfalls.
How To Reach: By Air: Karipur Airport is the nearest airport (100 km)
By Train: Kozhikode Railway Station is the nearest station (100 km)
Places To Stay: Anamala Serenity Homestay Kerala
Suggested Read: 12 Enthralling Adventure Sports In Kerala To Challenge Your Adventurous Souls!
5. Munnar: Soak In The Calm
Munnar is one of the top hill stations near Ernakulam, located 1600m above sea level. Munnar is also known as a “natural spa.” It is a perfect place to relax, as it is a serene green hill station, full of lush green tea plantations. The hill station is a real treat to nature lovers as you can also enjoy trekking all the way through its lush green surroundings and mountains.
Distance From Ernakulam: 125 Km
Best Time To Visit: October and November and January to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearby Attractions: Kundala Lake, TATA Tea Museum, Top Station, Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak, etc.
How To Reach: By Air: The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport (125 km)
By Train: The nearest railway station is Ernakulam Junction (120 km)
Things To Do: Tree House Stay, Tea Estate Tours, Camping And Trekking, Mountain Biking
Places To Stay: Talayar Valley Bungalow, Talayar Valley Bungalow, Veetee Midtown
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6. Painavu: For Picturesque View
A perfect destination due to the picturesque location and pleasing ambiance. If you are looking to enjoy the divine beauty of Kerala’s greenery, then there is no better place than Painavu. Painavu is at a height of 3900 m above sea level, having a distance of 127 km from Ernakulam. You will enjoy the sight of elephants sauntering on the roads.
Distance From Ernakulam: 127 Km
Best Time To Visit: September and May
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 days
Nearby Attractions: Periyar wildlife sanctuary, Hill View Park
How To Reach: By Air: Can access the nearest Airport – Cochin international airport
By Train: Kottayam is the nearest railway station (98 km)
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7. Peermedu: For Horse Riding And More
Peermedu is a lovely hill station located at a distance of 130 km from Ernakulam. Its surroundings are suitable for mountain adventures including trekking, cycling, and horse riding. The place comprises huge spreads of tea, coffee, and rubber.
Distance From Ernakulam: 130 Km
Best Time To Visit: December to April
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearby Attractions: Grampi, Peeru Hills, Pattumala, Wagamon, Kuttikanam
How To Reach: By Air: Cochin International Airport, about 110 km
By Train: Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 54 km
Places To Stay: Ruthira Inn, Gowthams Nest, Kamadhenu Residency
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8. Devikulam: Take A Stroll Around The Tea Plantations
Lovely large lawns, a glance of fauna and flora, and the cool breezes in Devikulam are enough to refresh your souls. The nature lovers can experience Heaven on earth at Devikulam with several tea plantations and the wildflowers. The place is perfect for eco-tourism and romantic holidays.
Distance From Ernakulam: 133 Km
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearby Attractions: Sita Devi Lake, Pallivasal Falls, Thoovanam Falls, Devikulam Tea Estate
How To Reach: By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest Airport
By Train: The nearest railway station Kottayam (132 km)
Places To Stay: Pine Tree Munnar, Munnar valley view, Pavithram Homestay
Suggested Read: 10 Charming Homestays In Ernakulam To Feel At Home Even While Being Away!
9. Nelliyampathy: Witness The Flora And Fauna
One of the popular hill stations near Ernakulam, Nelliyampathy is a magnificent place surrounded by coffee hills and tea plantations. During the hill journey, you will see views of hills, plantations, waterfalls during monsoon times, and a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Distance From Ernakulam: 144 Km
Best Time To Visit: September to February
Ideal Trip Duration: weekend
Nearby Attractions: Padagiri Peak, Pothundi Dam, Nenmara, Seethargundu Viewpoint
How To Reach: By Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore airport (120 km)
By Train: The nearest station is Palakkad station (60 km)
Places To Stay: Nelliyampathy Resort & Tent Camp, Nelliyampathy Tent Camp, Mango Village Farm House
Suggested Read: 6 Unusual Yet Exciting Things To Do In Ernakulam On Your Next Kerala Trip!
10. Malampuzha: Go For A Boat Ride
Malampuzha is one of the hill stations near Ernakulam to have beautiful mountain experience. Initiating from the fun-filled amusement parks to rock gardens, ropeway, boating, and fish-shaped aquarium, it offers a full entertainment package for a family outing and students.
Distance From Ernakulam: 149 Km
Best Time To Visit: August to April
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearby Attractions: Siruvani Waterfalls, Fantasy Park, Thread Garden, Rock Garden, Snake Park
How To Reach: By Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore Airport (43 km)
By Train: Palakkad Junction Railway is the nearest railway station
Places To Stay: The Grand Inn, Hotel KPM Tripenta, HOTEL CHANAKYA
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11. Thekkady: Marvel At The Enchanting Surroundings
Located at a distance of 150 km, Thekkady is another beautiful hill station near Ernakulam. The place is all about the pristine beauty of nature. Surrounded by the enchanting Western Ghats, the charm of the spice plantations and captivating wildlife, Thekkady is the stunning tourist destination.
Distance From Ernakulam: 150 Km
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearby Attractions: Vandanmedu, Kumily, Murikkady, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Periyar Lake, Kumily, Ramakkalmedu
How To Reach: By Air: Madurai Airport; around 136km from Thekkady
By Train: Kottayam Railway Station which is around 114km
Things To Do: Thekkady Boating Tours, Bamboo Rafting & Hiking in Thekkady, Jungle Night Patrol, Nature Walks
Places To Stay: The Elephant Court, Paradisa Plantation Retreat, The Mountain Courtyard
Suggested Read: 9 Holy Temples In Ernakulam You Can Visit For A Spiritual Detox!
12. Gavi: For Lush Greens And Misty Climate
Gavi is one of the most visited hill stations, famous for its green and misty climate. Tourists admire the natural beauty and scenic drive through the forests to reach Gavi. Get all the fun like trekking, wildlife exploration, bird watching, camping, staying in the treehouse and safari at the forest at a single point. Don’t miss the boating at Gavi lake.
Distance From Ernakulam: 170 Km
Best Time To Visit: September to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
Nearby Attractions: Periyar National Park, Neer Veezhcha WaterFalls
How To Reach: By Air: Nedumbassery Airport is the nearest airport (160 km)
By Train: Nearest railway station: Kottayam (128 km)
Things To Do: Gavi Trekking, Visit Sabarimala View Point, Take A Jeep Safari
Suggested Read: 10 Breathtaking Places One Must Visit In Ernakulam
13. Ponmudi: Famous For Spice Plantations
Ponmudi is among the most magnificent hill stations near Ernakulam. Ponmudi is a part of the Western Ghats Mountain located at a distance of 234 km from Ernakulam. Vibrant birds and butterflies flying through the spice plantations and tea estates make Ponmudi an attractive destination.
Distance From Ernakulam: 234 Km
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearby Attractions: Golden Valley, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Mini Zoo
How To Reach: By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport
By Train: Trivandrum Railway Station is the nearest station
Places To Stay: GOWRY ART RESIDENCY, Hill View Stay Inn Ponmudi, Hotel Rohini International
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14. Vythiri: Relax Amidst Beauty And Tranquility
A small hill station located at a height of 1300 m above sea level and at a distance of 240 km from Ernakulam. Vythiri is a nature lover’s place to relax and spend time in the pollution-free and refreshing air. The mountains of Vythiri give a great trekking opportunity and you can even enjoy rafting, and boating along with the landscape beauty of the place.
Distance From Ernakulam: 240 Km
Best Time To Visit: March, April, May, and October
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day
Nearby Attractions: Pookot Lake, Chembra Peak, Soojipara and Meenmutty Falls, and the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
How To Reach: By Air: The nearest international airport is Calicut (90 km)
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kozhikode
Places To Stay: Vythiri pool garden villa, Vythiri Glenwood Cottages, Holiday home Raz Inn Holiday Homes
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15. Wayanad: For All Mountain Lovers
Located about 1300m above sea level, Wayanad is a well-known place for its beauty. Wayanad, the picturesque hill station has its own charm for nature lovers, adventure and wildlife enthusiasts, and mountain lovers. The place is famous for its spice plantations and wildlife reserve, which has a huge variety of flora and fauna.
Distance From Ernakulam: 255 Km
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 days
Nearby Attractions: Kuruva Island, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Chembra Peak, Banasura Dam, Soochipara Falls
How To Reach: By Air: Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport (65 km)
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kozhikode (110 Km)
Things To Do: Visit Asia’s 2nd Largest Dam, Fly In The Hills Of Kerala, Experience Village Life, Experience River Dipping
Places To Stay: Wayanad Ranches Resort, Wayanad Fort Resort, Contour Island Resort And Spa
Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit Near Ernakulam For A Fun-Filled Escapade
16. Kotagiri: The Gorgeous Hill Station
Image Credit: Hari Prasad Sridhar for Wikimedia Commons
Kotagiri is the third-largest hill station tucked away in the gorgeous Nilgiri Hills. Kotagiri is one of the most beautiful hill stations around Ernakulam and is perfect for a weekend getaway. Beat the summer heat by visiting this hill station and get ready to relax amidst nature and lush greens. You can explore the famous tourist attractions in Kotagiri like Longwood Shola, Catherine Falls, and Rangaswamy Peak.
Distance From Ernakulam: 280 Km
Best Time To Visit: December to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearby Attractions: John Sullivan Memorial, Kodanad View Point, Rangaswamy Peak
How To Reach: By Air: The nearest airport is the Coimbatore International Airport
By Train: The nearest railway station is Coonoor Junction.
Things To Do: Camping And Trekking, Mountain Biking
Places To Stay: Garuda Park Resort, Green Nest Resort, Nahar Retreat, and Spa
Further Read: 20 Places To Visit In Kerala In December
So, here are the hill stations near Ernakulam that offer resplendent holiday experience. Start planning your Kerala tour with a handy list of hill stations and let the lush greenery of Ernakulam welcomes you. Refresh yourself today and visit these amazing places that make for a whole new experience in your tour to Ernakulam.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hill Station Near Ernakulam
Which airport is near to Ernakulam?
The nearest airport to Ernakulam is Cochin International Airport, which is nearly 29 km away from Ernakulam. What are the famous places in Cochin for shopping?
Lulu Mall, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Jew Town, Oberon Mall, etc. are some famous places to enjoy shopping in Cochin. What is the Specialty of Ernakulam?
Ernakulam is famous for temples, churches, and mosques. Lakhs of tourists get attracted every year to visit Ernakulam. How many days are required to visit Ernakulam?
There are various places, hill stations, activities to explore in Ernakulam. Usually, it takes 3-4 days to explore the most important attractions. What is the budget required to visit Ernakulam?
The budget is fully depending upon person to person and the type of hotel and places they are going to choose. On average, INR 6000 – INR 7000 per person is required for 2 days. What is there to do in Kochi at night?
You can enjoy the moonlight at Marine Drive, a game night at The Voyager, have to dance in Glow Discotheque, etc. What are the places to visit in Ernakulam for Couples?
There are many beautiful places to visit for couples in Ernakulam like Edappally Church Complex, Kashi Art Gallery, Subhash Park, Fort Kochi Beach etc.
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