The road trip from Mumbai, the City of Dreams, to Kerala, the God’s Own Country, is an odyssey through vibrant landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and culinary delights. It is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that everyone needs to have. Covering a distance of roughly 1,400 kilometres, this journey offers the perfect blend of coastal charm, hill station serenity, and historical intrigue. Planning a successful Mumbai to Kerala road trip can be a hassle if you don’t have your plans in order. This definitive guide will take a closer look at all the details you need to know about planning your mesmerising road trip with ease.
Best Time To Plan Mumbai To Kerala Road Trip
Choosing the right time for your Mumbai to Kerala road trip is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. But the question is, ‘When is the right time?’
Like most road trip plans in India, you must plan your expedition from Mumbai to Kerala during the winter months, preferably between October and February. The weather is pleasant, calm and peaceful during this period, making driving along the coastal lines comfortable and risk-free. Furthermore, avoiding the monsoon season (June to September) is advisable due to heavy rainfall and the possibility of roadblocks and landslides. Summers (March to May) can be scorching, particularly in southern regions, making travel uncomfortable.
Moreover, at the end of the day, these are the outlines that most people follow when researching their Mumbai to Kerala car route. However, let’s say that you don’t like crowds and want to avoid travelling during the winter months. The shoulder season becomes a better option during that case.
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Route For Mumbai To Kerala Road Trip
The distance from Mumbai to Kerala is around 1,425 km, which is quite a lot. To offer options and variance, there are two distinct routes from Mumbai to Kerala that you can consider for your road trip expedition.
Route 1 – Mumbai To Kerala Via NH66
This route is renowned for its coastal beauty. It passes through Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, and finally reaches Kerala. The first stretch of the trip is roughly 590 km from Mumbai to Goa. You will pass through cities like Alibaug, Murud, and Ratnagiri, each offering charm and attractions.
Furthermore, the second phase of the trip is approximately 100 km between Goa and Karwar. The route offers stunning coastal vistas as you drive along the NH66, passing through quaint fishing villages and coconut groves. In Karwar, you can explore many of the local beaches.
Moreover, the next part of the trip is from Mangalore to Kasaragod, where you will enter Kerala and explore places like Bekal Fort. Next, plan and make your way to Kannur, followed by Calicut to reach Kochi and end your road trip there finally.
Route 2 – Mumbai To Kerala Via NH48
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While NH48 offers a slightly different route, passing through Maharashtra and Karnataka, it also promises scenic vistas and cultural experiences.
The trip starts from Mumbai to Pune, followed by Pune to Satara. As you make your way towards Kolhapur from Satara, stop to try out the local delicacies and indulge in glimpses of rural life in Maharashtra. You can then make your way to Belgavi, followed by Hubli. One of Hubli’s prolonged road trip experiences is that you must travel through various towns like Dharwad, Haveri, and Chitradurga to reach Bangalore. As you traverse Bangalore to Mysore, the last stretch of your road trip takes you through Bandipur National Park Wayanad and finally to Calicut and then Kochi.
Must-Visit Places En Route Mumbai To Kerala Road Trip
With the finalised Mumbai to Kerala car route, next comes shortlisting the places you will stop at during your Kerala to Mumbai road trip. These places are as follows:
1. Mumbai
Kickstart your adventure in the melting pot of Mumbai. Explore iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, a majestic archway commemorating British colonialism. Also, immerse yourself in the grandeur of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Victorian Gothic architecture.
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2. Goa
If you are travelling via the coastal route, Goa is a must-visit stopover. Relax on pristine beaches like Calangute and Colva, which are popular for their golden sands and water sports activities. Furthermore, indulge in the delectable seafood cuisine, from fresh prawns and lobsters to curries infused with coconut and local spices. Also, don’t miss the vibrant Saturday Night Market in Arpora.
3. Satara
Ascend the majestic hill fort of Sajjangarh, offering panoramic views of the surrounding plains and the shimmering Koyna River. Also, explore the Kaas Plateau, a captivating landscape that transforms into a colourful spectacle during the monsoon season (August to September) when seasonal flowers bloom in vibrant hues.
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4. Belgaum
Delve into Jain heritage at the magnificent Gommateshwara Bahubali statue, an awe-inspiring 16th-century monolithic sculpture carved from a single rock face. Seek serenity at the cascading Dudhsagar Falls, especially during the monsoon season.
5. Wayanad
Wayanad is an eco-tourist paradise. Hike through lush green hills, spot wildlife like elephants, tigers, and leopards in diverse national parks like Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and explore ancient caves like the Edakkal Caves.
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6. Munnar
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This enchanting hill station offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, sprawling tea plantations, and misty valleys. Trek through the Shola grasslands, enjoy a scenic boat ride on Kundala Lake and witness the diverse flora and fauna of Eravikulam National Park.
7. Kovalam
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Conclude your distance from Mumbai to Kerala in the serene beach town of Kovalam. Relax on the pristine beaches, indulge in Ayurvedic treatments, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. Moreover, visit the historic Vizhinjam Lighthouse for breathtaking coastal views.
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These are some of the most popular spots that must be part of your itinerary for the Mumbai to Kerala road trip. Some of these stopovers might be detours, but ensure that you take the time to assess the pros and cons to decide which one is worth visiting.
Tips To Keep In Mind During Mumbai To Kerala Road Trip
As you make the final touches to your road trip planning, start by sorting out details about the distance from Mumbai to Kerala. To further simplify your Kerala to Mumbai road trip experience, the following are a few practical tips to keep in mind:
Research And Plan
If you want to make the most of the experience, you must create a detailed itinerary and execute the trip accordingly. When researching the best routes, you also need to focus on road conditions and cross-check for any blockages or road issues along the way.
Be Aware Of The Road Conditions
Be prepared for a mix of well-maintained highways, single-lane roads, and ghats (mountain passes) with winding sections. Drive cautiously, especially during night hours.
Fuel Up
Keep your vehicle fueled up and plan refuelling stops strategically, especially in remote areas. Since there are multiple rest stops along the way, what you can do is plan the stops according to the availability of petrol pumps.
Safety
Always prioritise safety. Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol and be cautious while overtaking on single-lane roads. Park your vehicle in designated areas and avoid carrying valuables while unattended.
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The Mumbai to Kerala road trip is a journey for the senses, a road trip woven with vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and delectable cuisines. With careful planning and these informative tips, you can embark on an unforgettable adventure, creating memories that will last a lifetime. As you plan your next trip to Kerala, adding these experiences is bound to make the most out of this road trip experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Mumbai to Kerala Road Trip
What is the estimated cost of the Mumbai to Kerala road trip?
The cost of the road trip from Mumbai to Kerala depends on your travel style. A rough estimate for a two-week trip with a mid-range budget could be ₹30,000 - ₹50,000 (excluding fuel costs).
What festivals can I potentially experience during this trip?
Onam (harvest festival) in August/September is a vibrant celebration in Kerala. Depending on the time of your travel, you might encounter other regional festivals along the route.
Are there any historical sites worth visiting?
There are quite a few historical sites that are worth exploring on your way from Mumbai to Kerala including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (Mumbai), Belgaum Fort (Karnataka), and Kannur Fort (Kerala).
What are some unique experiences one can include in my trip?
Consider attending a Kathakali performance (classical dance drama) in Kerala, participating in a cooking class to learn local recipes, or taking an Ayurvedic massage for a rejuvenating experience.
What are some souvenirs one can buy?
Kerala is known for its spices, handcrafted Kasavu sarees, coir products, and Ayurvedic wellness products, so get the ones that best suit your needs.
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