Munnar and Alleppey are two of the most famous travel destinations in Kerala, each offering a completely different experience. While Munnar is known for its rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, and cool weather, Alleppey is famous for its serene backwaters, houseboat cruises, and lush greenery.
If you’re planning to travel from Munnar to Alleppey, you have multiple options, including road, train, and bus. Since there is no direct train or flight, the journey mainly involves a scenic road trip through Kerala’s beautiful landscapes.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
Best routes from Munnar to Alleppey
Distance and travel time
Transport options (bus, taxi, train)
Budget and costs
Essential travel tips
Distance and Travel Time from Munnar to Alleppey
| Mode of Transport | Distance | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| By Road (Car/Bus) | 170 km | 5-6 hours | Comfortable & Flexible Travel |
| By Train (via Ernakulam) | 170 km (including road journey) | 6-7 hours | Budget-Friendly Travel |
| By Flight (via Kochi Airport) | 190 km (including road travel) | 6-7 hours | Fastest Option |
The most recommended way to travel from Munnar to Alleppey is by road, as it offers beautiful scenic views of Kerala’s countryside, waterfalls, and spice plantations.
Best Routes from Munnar to Alleppey
There are two main routes to travel from Munnar to Alleppey:
1. Route 1: Munnar → Adimali → Kothamangalam → Kochi → Alleppey (Most Popular Route)
Distance: 170 km
Time Taken: 5-6 hours
Road Condition: Well-maintained highways, scenic views
Why Choose This Route?
- Passes through Kochi, allowing you to take a break for sightseeing.
- Well-connected by public transport (buses & taxis).
- Best for travelers who want to stop at waterfalls & spice gardens.
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2. Route 2: Munnar → Thodupuzha → Kottayam → Alleppey (Scenic, Less Crowded Route)
Distance: 175 km
Time Taken: 5.5-6.5 hours
Road Condition: Mostly good, but some winding roads in hilly areas
Why Choose This Route?
- Quieter and less crowded compared to the Kochi route.
- Great for nature lovers, with views of forests and rivers.
- Passes through Kottayam, a major town with good food options.
How to Travel from Munnar to Alleppey?
Since Munnar does not have a railway station or airport, the only way to travel directly is by road. If you prefer a train journey, you will need to first travel to Kochi or Kottayam.
By Road: Car, Taxi, or Bus
The fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Munnar to Alleppey is by private taxi or bus.
1. By Taxi or Private Car
Duration: 5-6 hours.
Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 (one-way, depending on the car type).
Best For: Families, groups, or travelers who prefer flexibility.
Pros:
Comfortable and private.
Can stop at scenic viewpoints like Valara & Cheeyappara Waterfalls.
Can customize your itinerary.
Booking Options:
Online Taxi Services: Savaari, Gozo Cabs, Kerala Taxis.
Local Travel Agencies in Munnar.
2. By Bus (Budget-Friendly Option)
- Duration: 6-7 hours.
- Cost: ₹200 – ₹500 per person.
- Types of Buses: KSRTC (Kerala State Transport) and private buses.
- Where to Board: Munnar Bus Stand.
- Drop-Off Point: Alleppey Bus Stand.
- Frequency: Buses run every 1-2 hours.
Recommended Option: Take an AC Volvo bus for a more comfortable ride.
By Train: Munnar to Kochi/Kottayam + Train to Alleppey
Since Munnar does not have a railway station, you’ll need to take a bus or taxi to Kochi (Ernakulam) or Kottayam, and then board a train to Alleppey.
Step 1: Munnar to Ernakulam or Kottayam by Road
- Munnar to Ernakulam: 120 km (4-5 hours by taxi or bus).
- Munnar to Kottayam: 140 km (5-6 hours by taxi or bus).
Step 2: Train from Ernakulam or Kottayam to Alleppey
| Train Name | Train Number | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ernakulam–Alleppey Express | 16307 | 06:00 AM | 08:10 AM | 2h 10m |
| Kottayam–Alleppey Passenger | 56380 | 10:45 AM | 12:30 PM | 1h 45m |
- Train Fare: ₹100 – ₹500 (depending on class).
- Best For: Budget travelers who enjoy train journeys.
Recommended Train: Take Kottayam-Alleppey Passenger for a faster journey.
By Air: Munnar to Kochi Airport + Flight to Trivandrum + Taxi to Alleppey
Since Munnar doesn’t have an airport, this route is not practical for most travelers. However, if you’re coming from another city and want to include Munnar and Alleppey in your itinerary:
- Take a taxi from Munnar to Kochi Airport (110 km, 4 hours).
- Fly from Kochi to Trivandrum (1 hour flight).
- Take a taxi or train from Trivandrum to Alleppey (2-3 hours).
Recommended Only for Travelers Combining Flights with Other Destinations.
Best Travel Option Based on Budget and Convenience
| Preferred Mode | Best Option | Approx. Cost | Time Taken | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Travelers | Bus | ₹200 – ₹500 | 6-7 hours | Solo & Backpackers |
| Fastest Option | Private Taxi | ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 | 5-6 hours | Families & Couples |
| Scenic & Budget-Friendly | Train (via Kottayam) | ₹500 – ₹1,000 | 6-7 hours | Train Lovers |
Essential Travel Tips
Best Time to Travel: October to March (cool and pleasant). Avoid monsoons (June-September) due to heavy rains.
Pre-Book Taxis & Buses: Especially in peak season (November-January).
Carry Snacks & Water: The journey is long, with limited food stops.
If prone to motion sickness, take medication: The roads from Munnar are winding and hilly.
Plan a stop at scenic spots: Valara Waterfalls, Cheeyappara Waterfalls, and spice plantations.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the best way to travel from Munnar to Alleppey?
The best option is by taxi or bus, which takes 5-6 hours.
2. Can I take a direct train from Munnar to Alleppey?
No, you must first travel to Kottayam or Ernakulam, then take a train.
3. How much does a taxi from Munnar to Alleppey cost?
A private taxi costs ₹4,000 – ₹6,000, depending on the car type.
4. Is the road from Munnar to Alleppey safe?
Yes, but it has curvy hill roads. Drive carefully, especially during monsoons.
Conclusion
Traveling from Munnar to Alleppey is an amazing journey that takes you from misty mountains to peaceful backwaters. Whether you choose a private taxi for comfort, a budget-friendly bus, or a scenic train ride via Kottayam, the experience will be unforgettable.
Now that you know the best routes and travel options, start planning your Kerala adventure today!
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