The verdant hills of Munnar and the wildlife-rich jungles of Thekkady are two jewels of Kerala, beckoning travellers with their distinct charm. But the journey between these destinations is no mere transfer; it’s a road trip that unveils the captivating essence of Kerala. As you plan a Munnar to Thekkady road trip, the experience takes you through different shades of nature, be it the hills, tea plantations or the lush greenery surrounding the area.
Best Time To Plan Munnar To Thekkady Road Trip
Kerala’s highlight lies in its tropical climate with distinct seasons. The period from September to February has a pleasant climate with temperatures between 20-28°C. Remember that this is the peak tourist season, so expect crowds in both destinations.
- If you don’t want excessive crowds but also want to experience the beauty of Kerala in its most unfiltered form, shoulder seasons are a great alternative. It is between March and May and October and November.
- The weather during these months is comfortable, and the verdant embrace of nature coats the hills during the journey. Monsoons transform the region into paradise. The greenery is beyond anyone’s comprehension, and the waterfalls along the way come alive.
- However, during that period, you also deal with landslides and slippery roads so that driving can be risky. To ensure the smooth execution of this short road trip, you must plan, research the best routes, and embark on this journey.
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Route For Munnar To Thekkady Road Trip
The distance from Munnar to Thekkady is roughly 98 km by road. So, the choice between the two main routes for your Munnar to Thekkady expedition depends on your priorities.
1. Route 1
Munnar to Devikulam to Pooppara to Udumbanchola to Ramakkalmedu to Thekkady (Distance: 100 km; Time: 3-4 hours)
This route winds through rolling hills and sprawling tea estates that blanket the landscape like a verdant carpet and offer access to some of Munnar’s most enchanting natural wonders. However, prepare yourself for narrow roads and traffic on the way. You need to be mindful of the sharp hairpin bends as well.
2. Route 2
Munnar to Chithirapuram to Anachal to Rajakkad to Karitode to Nedumkandam to Thekkady (Distance: ~91 km; Time: ~3 hours)
Considering how far Thekkady is from Munnar, this is the faster and more efficient alternative for tourists who don’t want to take the longer route. You’ll travel on wider roads, allowing for a potentially faster journey. However, the scenery might be less dramatic compared to Route 1. While you won’t encounter the same concentration of tea plantations, you’ll still get glimpses of these stunning green landscapes along the way.
7 Must-Visit Places Enroute Munnar To Thekkady
The distance of this particular road trip might not be a lot, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that there are multiple Munnar to Thekkady route sightseeing spots for you to stop and explore. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there are quite a few different options you will encounter, irrespective of the route you take.
1. Devikulam
Up first on the list is this quaint yet beautiful hill station known for its serene lakes. You will encounter this on the first route. Indulging in a boat ride on one of these lakes amid the stunning views of the surroundings makes this an ideal spot to stop and explore. Don’t miss the Sita Devi Lake, a natural heart-shaped lake.
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2. Pooppara
This underrated village in Kerala serves beauty like you have never seen before. Renowned for its mesmerising meadows adorned with wildflowers, this village comes to life, especially during the monsoons. During this season, the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colours, with exotic blooms like Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) and orchids carpeting the hillsides.
3. Top station
Image Source: Sajith Erattupetta for wikipedia commons
The highest point in Munnar offers panoramic views of rolling hills and sprawling tea estates. Be prepared for chilly winds, especially during the winter months. Make sure you carry a good camera or pull out your phone to capture the beauty of the surroundings. It’s beyond anyone’s imagination, and the view of the tea plantations underneath looks like a fever dream.
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4. Thoovanam Falls
A cascading waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery, perfect for a refreshing break and a dip in the natural pool (during safe water flow conditions). While you witness the beauty of this majestic waterfall, don’t forget to take the time to catch a glimpse of the clear skies and the unique birds in the vicinity.
5. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
En route to Thekkady, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Kerala’s most renowned wildlife reserves. Embark on a guided jungle safari or a boat cruise along Periyar Lake to spot elephants,deer, tigers, and many bird species in their natural habitat.
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6. Mangala Devi Temple
Unlike most of the sightseeing on the Munnar to Thekkady route, the Mangala Devi Temple is one of the most underrated options. Mangala Devi Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine situated atop a picturesque hill known for its architectural beauty and panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Take a short trek to the temple premises and soak in the spiritual ambience amidst the pristine wilderness.
7. Chellarkovil View Point
Before reaching Thekkady, make a detour to Chellarkovil View Point, which offers breathtaking vistas of cascading waterfalls, verdant valleys, and dense forests. It’s the perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature’s tranquility. Witnessing the grandeur and natural beauty of Kerala from viewpoints is an experience that every tourist has to experience at least once in their lives.
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Tips To Keep In Mind During Munnar To Thekkady Road Trip
Now that you know how far Thekkady is from Munnar, and have a brief idea about the places to add to your itinerary, let’s focus on the practical tips to ensure optimal safety during the road trip:
Check weather conditions
Kerala has very distinct seasons without any interference. The greenery and the serene weather define why the state is often termed ‘God’s own country.’. Before you plan and finalise the dates of your road trip, the first thing to cross-check is the weather conditions.
Pack and carry essentials
Pack essential items such as water bottles, vehicle documents, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a map or GPS device for navigation. Additionally, dress comfortably and carry lightweight clothing suitable for the prevailing weather conditions.
Respect nature
Preserve the region by disposing of waste and refraining from littering. Respect wildlife and adhere to rules and regulations while visiting protected areas and sanctuaries.
Fuel up
The distance between Munnar and Thekkady is short, which explains why many people aren’t usually worried about fuel consumption during the drive. However, if you want a carefree driving experience, get your tank full.
Drive safely
The hilly terrain of the road trip exposes sharp and hairpin bends, which can be a little difficult to navigate. As you embark on this road trip, prioritise safe driving to ensure you reach your destination without complications.
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The Munnar to Thekkady road trip is more than just a means to reach a destination; it’s an adventure. So, pack your bags, fuel your wanderlust, and embark on this unforgettable journey through the heart of Kerala. Remember, this is just the beginning. The next time you plan a
trip to Kerala, don’t miss out on including this short road trip in your itinerary.
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Munnar to Thekkady Road Trip
Can one complete the Munnar to Thekkady road trip in a day?
Given that the distance from Munnar to Thekkady is under 100 km, it is possible to complete the road trip within 3-4 hours without any stops. If you stop for sightseeing, set aside 8-9 hours for the journey.
Are there any wildlife spotting opportunities during the road trip?
While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, you might encounter monkeys, deer, or even birds like hornbills along the way.
Where can one stay during the road trip from Munnar to Thekkady?
The short distance between these two places means that you don’t have to book accommodation in the middle of the road trip. You can complete it, reach Thekkady and stay in your booked accommodation there.
What are some additional things to pack for the trip?
Depending on the time of the year you are travelling and the weather conditions, ensure to pack a mix of clothes. A few light cotton clothing with a few warmer ones should get you through the trip just fine.
What are some local festivals that one might encounter during my trip?
Kerala celebrates various festivals throughout the year. So, the possibility of experiencing local festivals during the road trip depends on which time of the year you are travelling. Onam occurs during August-September so that you can plan during that time.
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