Hey there, curious explorer!

So you’re thinking of a trip from Munnar to Thekkady? Great choice. Most people zip between these two hill towns with windows up and GPS on. But if you want to feel the journey—smell the cardamom in the air, stop for chai at local stalls, and chat with farmers —then keep reading.

Let’s ditch the standard checklist and follow the scenic route—from misty mornings in Munnar to wild evenings in Thekkady. This isn’t just a road trip—it’s a local rhythm waiting to be discovered.

KERALA HOLIDAYS

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Glide through Alleppey’s backwaters, wander Munnar’s tea gardens and unwind on serene beaches with handpicked Kerala stays.

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Local Tip from Your Kerala Guide

Hi, I’m Bhavesh—city-born, village-charmed, and a travel planner at IndianHoliday.

When guests ask me, “What’s the best way to go from Munnar to Thekkady?” I always say, “Drive. But drive slow—and stop often.”

Once, while helping a solo traveler from Delhi plan her trip, I suggested she take the longer route through Pooppara. She ended up spending an hour at a roadside tea stall, chatting with a local farmer who gifted her a handful of fresh cardamom pods. She told me later—it was her favorite memory from Kerala.

That’s the magic of local travel. So here’s our guide to experiencing the road from Munnar to Thekkady not as a tourist, but as someone who belongs there.

Q&A: A Local’s Guide to the Munnar–Thekkady Journey

Which route should I take for the best experience?

There are two main routes—both equally scenic but with different vibes:

Route 1 – Munnar – Devikulam – Pooppara – Udumbanchola – Thekkady

• Distance: ~100 km

• Time: 3.5 to 4 hours

This route is lush, misty, and perfect to see valleys, spice plantations, and sleepy mountain villages.

Route 2 – Munnar – Chithirapuram – Anachal – Rajakkad – Karitode – Nedumkandam – Thekkady

• Distance: ~91 km

• Time: 3 hours

It’s the faster option with wider stretches. Good if you’re short on time but still want jaw-dropping views.

What places can I stop at along the way?

The journey itself is a highlight. But here are a few pit stops locals swear by:

• Kolukkumalai Tea Estate (near Munnar)
  World’s highest organic tea plantation, take the rugged jeep ride and sip on smoky black tea with the clouds at eye level.

• Karadippara Viewpoint
  Snap a few photos or just breathe in the fresh mountain air—it’s the silence you can hear.

• SN Waterfalls
  A lesser-known cascade near Pooppara. Locals sometimes bathe here. It’s a peaceful spot to rest your legs.

• Blossom Hydel Park
  A breezy garden where locals jog and kids run wild. Come here for fresh air and casual conversations.

Where do locals stop to eat?

Forget packed hotel lunches. This road trip is best experienced with crispy parottas and strong filter coffee.

Here are some favorites:

• Hotel Sri Nivas Restaurant (near Devikulam) – Known for its authentic masala dosa and coconut chutney.

• Tea Tales Café (Munnar) – Order the cardamom chai with a side of banana fritters.

• Tara’s Zaitoon Restaurant (Anachal) – Local biryani with just the right amount of spice.

• Al Haq Café (near Nedumkandam) – Small, simple, and soul-satisfying.

Can I join any morning rituals in Munnar before heading out?

Absolutely! Munnar wakes up early—with birdsong, temple bells, and steaming kettles.

Start your day like a local:

• Visit the Sree Ayyappa Temple in the early morning light. Bring a flower offering and join the soft chants.

• Walk through the Mattupetty market around 6:00 a.m. Watch vendors set up, smell fresh curry leaves, and sip on the first chai of the day.

• Take a quiet stroll near Kundala Lake. Mornings are serene, with mist hugging the water and fishermen getting ready for the day.

Are there any local artisans or workshops en route?

Yes—and they’re more than happy to let you peek into their world.

• In Pooppara, stop by a roadside cardamom drying shed. The workers often let curious travelers see how it’s sorted and stored.

• Near Chithirapuram, small cooperatives sell handmade soaps and oils infused with eucalyptus, cinnamon, and lemongrass. Ask to see how they’re made—it’s therapeutic.

What’s the vibe once I reach Thekkady?

By the time you reach Thekkady, the energy shifts—from misty hill calm to wild forest excitement.

Locals in Thekkady spend their evenings on slow walks along the Periyar Lake, sipping ginger chai near the Kadathanadan Kalari Center, or watching traditional martial arts performances.

Common Mistakes Travelers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

• ❌ Driving too fast on narrow roads – These are hilly routes with blind turns.
  ✅ Take it slow. Let the journey be the highlight.

• ❌ Missing roadside eateries – Hotel buffets don’t serve fried tapioca or raw mango pickle.
  ✅ Eat at shacks with busy tables and buzzing conversations.

• ❌ Skipping small temples and rituals – They’re the soul of the place.
  ✅ Watch, listen, and quietly participate.

• ❌ Overpacking for a one-day trip
  ✅ All you need: light clothes, good shoes, a refillable water bottle, and a sense of wonder.

• ❌ Traveling during the monsoon without checking the weather
  ✅ Expect fog, slippery roads, and sudden rain. Carry a shawl and drive safely.

KERALA HOLIDAYS

Dreaming of calm backwaters?

Glide through Alleppey’s backwaters, wander Munnar’s tea gardens and unwind on serene beaches with handpicked Kerala stays.

Check out our Kerala Packages➜

🧳 When to Go + What to Pack

Best Time to Travel

• 🌤️ October to March – Cool, fresh, and perfect for road trips.

• 🌧️ June to September – Lush and green, but be cautious of slippery roads.

Essentials to Pack

• Cotton or linen clothing

• A scarf or shawl (for temple visits or unexpected chills)

• Power bank & offline maps

• Sunscreen + sunglasses

• Reusable water bottle

• A notebook for jotting down local names, dishes, and moments