Arani to Munnar - Drive Through the Emerald Tea Gardens of Kerala
Munnar, the jewel of Kerala, is a breathtaking hill town located approximately 350 km from Arani at an altitude of 1,600 metres in the Western Ghats. Dotted with endless tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and mist-shrouded peaks, Munnar is one of the top honeymoon and nature destinations in India. It lies on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, making it a perfect cross-state road trip from Arani.
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance: Approximately 350 km via Coimbatore and Palakkad (NH-544)
- Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours
- Best Route: Arani to Salem to Coimbatore to Palakkad to Munnar (via Ghat Road from Adimali)
Top Attractions in Munnar
- Eravikulam National Park - Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the Neelakurinji flowers (bloom once every 12 years, next in 2030); also houses Anamudi Peak ??? the highest peak in South India at 2,695 metres
- Tea Museum (TATA Tea) - Learn the entire process of tea cultivation and production; fascinating interactive experience with tea tasting sessions
- Mattupetty Dam and Lake - A beautiful reservoir surrounded by tea estates; boating is available and the scenic drive is stunning
- Top Station - At 1,868 metres, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the Theni valley in Tamil Nadu
- Attukad Waterfalls - A 60-foot waterfall on the Munnar to Pallivasal road, surrounded by spice plantations
- Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary - On the Tamil Nadu border near Munnar; home to spotted deer, gaur, elephants, and giant grizzled squirrels
- Echo Point - A serene lake where your voice echoes back across the water; popular for morning walks
Best Time to Visit Munnar
March to May is peak season. September to December offers pleasant greenery post-monsoon. Peak winter (December to January) can be very cold with temperatures dropping to 5 degrees Celsius.
Taxi Fare from Arani to Munnar
- Sedan: Starting from Rs 4,800 one way
- SUV (Innova Crysta): Starting from Rs 7,000 one way
Book your Arani to Munnar taxi with Varun One Way Taxi and lose yourself in the green paradise of Kerala!
