Munnar, a beautiful hill station in Kerala, is renowned for its lush green landscapes, sprawling tea gardens, and peace environment. It’s a perfect getaway for anyone seeking a break from the bustling city life of Delhi. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide detailed information on the various ways to reach Munnar from Delhi, ensuring you have a smooth and memorable journey.
Before diving into the travel details, let’s briefly explore why Munnar should be on your travel bucket list:
1. Tea Plantations
Munnar is home to some of the world’s highest tea estates. A visit to the Tata Tea Museum is a must.
2. Eravikulam National Park
Spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy the stunning views of Anamudi Peak.
3. Waterfalls
Experience the beauty of cascading waterfalls like Attukal, Lakkam, and Chinnakanal.
4. Adventure Activities
Trekking, paragliding, and boating are popular activities for adventure seekers.
1. By Air: The Quickest Route
The fastest way to travel from Delhi to Munnar is by air. Although Munnar does not have its own airport, you can fly to the nearest airport and then continue your journey by road.
1. Flights from Delhi to Cochin International Airport
Cochin International Airport (COK), located in Kochi, is the closest airport to Munnar, approximately 110 kilometers away. Multiple airlines operate daily flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi to Cochin International Airport. Some of the major airlines offering this route include IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, and SpiceJet.
The flight duration is approximately 3 hours. To ensure a comfortable and economical journey, we recommend booking your tickets well in advance.
2. Road Journey from Cochin to Munnar
Upon reaching Cochin International Airport, you can hire a taxi or opt for a bus service to Munnar. The road journey takes around 3 to 4 hours, offering scenic views of Kerala’s landscape.
3. Taxi Service
Hiring a taxi is the most convenient option. Various taxi services are available at the airport, including prepaid taxis. The fare usually ranges between INR 3000 to INR 4000, depending on the type of vehicle and the time of travel.
4. Bus Services
For budget travelers, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular bus services from Kochi to Munnar. The buses are comfortable and affordable, with fares starting from INR 200.
2. By Train
Travelling by train is another popular option for those who enjoy scenic journeys. Although there is no direct train from Delhi to Munnar, you can travel to the nearest railway station and then proceed by road.
1. Trains from Delhi to Ernakulam Junction
Ernakulam Junction (ERS) is the nearest major railway station to Munnar, located approximately 126 kilometers away. Several long-distance trains connect Delhi to Ernakulam Junction, including:
- Kerala Express (12626)
- Mangala Lakshadweep Express (12618)
- Nizamuddin-Ernakulam Duronto Express (12284)
The train journey takes around 40 to 45 hours, depending on the train you choose. We recommend booking your tickets in advance through the IRCTC website to secure your seat.
2. Road Journey from Ernakulam to Munnar
From Ernakulam Junction, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar. The travel time by road is approximately 4 hours.
3. By Road: A Delightful Drive
For those who love road trips, driving from Delhi to Munnar is an exhilarating experience. The total distance between Delhi and Munnar is approximately 2,600 kilometers, and the journey takes around 40 to 45 hours by car.
1. Best Route
The most preferred route is:
Delhi – Agra – Gwalior – Nagpur – Hyderabad – Bangalore – Salem – Munnar
This route offers a mix of well-maintained highways and scenic landscapes. Here are some tips for a successful road trip:
- Plan your stops: Ensure you have planned stops for rest and refueling.
- Accommodation: Book hotels in advance along the route.
- Vehicle Check: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry a spare tire, tools, and first-aid kit.
2. By Bus
If you prefer not to drive, you can opt for a bus journey. Although there is no direct bus from Delhi to Munnar, you can take a bus to Ernakulam or Cochin and then continue to Munnar by another bus or taxi. Several private operators, as well as KSRTC, offer bus services on this route.
4. By Combining Air and Train Travel
For a more flexible travel plan, you can combine air and train travel. For instance, you can fly from Delhi to Coimbatore and then take a train or bus to Munnar. This combination can save you time and provide a unique travel experience.
1. Flights from Delhi to Coimbatore
Several airlines offer daily flights from Delhi to Coimbatore (CJB). The flight duration is approximately 3 hours.
2. Train from Coimbatore to Munnar
From Coimbatore, you can take a train to Aluva (AWY) or Ernakulam (ERS) and then proceed to Munnar by road.
5. Best Time to Visit Munnar
The best time to visit Munnar is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season (June to September) is also a great time to witness the lush greenery and waterfalls, but the heavy rains may cause travel delays.
Tips for a Comfortable Journey
- Advance Booking: Always book your tickets in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Packing: Pack light, comfortable clothing and carry essentials like medications, snacks, and water.
- Local Transport: Upon reaching Munnar, you can hire a taxi or rent a bike to explore the local attractions.
Summary
The distance from Delhi to Jim Corbett is approximately 240 kilometers via the most common route. This distance can be covered by road, making it a popular weekend destination. The journey typically takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
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