Madurai to Munnar

160 km~4 hrsBest time: September to May

About This Destination

Book a Madurai to Munnar cab and cross into Kerala's most celebrated hill station — 160 km via the Theni–Kumily route, approximately 4 hours by road. Munnar sits at 1,600 metres in the Western Ghats, carpeted in tea estates and shrouded in mist. Entry into Kerala requires a state permit, which Royal Cabs arranges as part of the booking. An Innova Crysta is strongly recommended for the ghat roads from Kumily to Munnar.

Why Choose a Cab

The Kumily to Munnar stretch covers 40 km of steep mountain roads where a private cab gives you control over stops, timing, and safety. Munnar's sightseeing spots are scattered across 30 km of hill roads — a cab is the only practical way to cover them all in a day. Combining Thekkady with Munnar in a 2-day itinerary is easy with a private vehicle and saves significant money over booking separate transport for each leg.

Route & Journey Details

The route goes Madurai → Theni → Kumily (Thekkady) → Munnar. Theni to Kumily is a smooth highway; Kumily to Munnar is 40 km of scenic mountain road through the Kerala forest boundary. An alternate option is to visit Thekkady first (3 hours from Madurai), spend the night, and continue to Munnar the next morning — a popular 2-day itinerary. Kerala state permit charges apply and are quoted upfront.

What to See

Eravikulam National Park (Rajamala)

Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr — the park is a high-altitude grassland with panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Advance online permits required; Royal Cabs advises on timing.

Top Station

The highest point accessible by road in Munnar (1,700 m) — spectacular views into the Kundala Valley and the Kerala plains stretching to the horizon below.

Mattupetty Dam & Echo Point

A scenic reservoir surrounded by tea estates where you can shout and hear your voice echo across the water. Boating available at Mattupetty.

Tea Museum (KDHP)

The Kanan Devan Hills Plantations museum traces the history of tea cultivation in Munnar with antique machinery and tasting sessions.

Attukal Waterfalls

A picturesque waterfall 9 km from Munnar town — most impressive between June and November but scenic year-round against the backdrop of tea-clad hills.

Vehicle Recommendations

Innova Crysta: the recommended vehicle for this route — spacious, comfortable on Kerala ghat roads, and capable on the steep final climb to Top Station. Sedan: suited for budget-conscious couples but be aware of the climbing gradient. Tempo Traveller (12–18 seater): for pilgrimage or tour groups — keep in mind the ghat road has weight and width restrictions; our drivers are experienced with these routes.

Fare & What's Included

Fares for Madurai to Munnar cab start from ₹3,000 for a sedan (one-way). Kerala state permit charges apply and are included in the quoted fare. Driver bata and fuel are included. Toll, parking, and national park entry fees are extra at actuals.