The land of backwaters, pristine beaches, lovely hill stations, coconuts, tea plantations, paddy fields, dense jungles, spectacularly diverse flora and fauna, the picturesque state of Kerala is such a sought-after paradise for holidaymakers. It is one of the gorgeous tourist destinations you have ever gazed upon. As Kerala forms a part of the majestic Western Ghats, it is rich in abundant biodiversity. The heritage sites of Kerala are evidence of its glorious past, and the colourful and vibrant art forms of the state are a wonderful treat. Kerala can be visited throughout the year because of its pleasant and equable climate, which forms its major attracting feature.
Munnar, a spellbinding hill station of Kerala, exudes a unique charm that hypnotises its visitors and is often regarded as identical to Kashmir and Switzerland. Munnar is so scenic, and so is the road trip to Munnar from Kochi. It is one of the most beautiful and delightful road trips in Kerala. Munnar is situated 140 Km away from Kochi, and it will take approximately 4 hours to reach there from Kochi via road. Muvattupuzha, Kothamangalam, Neriamangalam, and Adimali are the main stops between Kochi and Munnar. The view of breathtaking waterfalls while en route to Munnar is just enough to energise you during your long journey. You can also spend some time near the waterfalls, take a rest or bathe in its fresh natural cascades and feel chilled and refreshed. The two scenic waterfalls that await you on your way to Munnar are Cheeyapara Waterfalls and Valara Waterfalls.
Let’s take a quick look at these beautiful Waterfalls:
1) CHEEYAPARA WATERFALLS:
Cascading down in seven steps from over 1000 feet above the sea level amidst luscious green surroundings, the Cheeyapara Waterfalls is a fabulous roadside spectacle on the Cochin – Munnar highway. Though the road is smooth, it is quite narrow with full of twists and turns which passes through a natural forest offering a soothing ambience. This scenic waterfall is located between Adimali and Neriamangalam. About two acres of evergreen forest surround the Cheeyapara Waterfalls, which are inhabited by several rare species of plants and animals, and hence enjoy the status of an eco-tourism spot. It is also recognised as an ideal spot for adventure activities like mountaineering, trekking and nature walks. The splendour of the Cheeyapara Waterfalls can be witnessed even during the summer season.
2) VALARA WATERFALLS:
The Valara Waterfalls are yet another natural spectacle you can admire on your drive to Munnar from Kochi. Compared to Cheeyappara Waterfalls, the Valara Waterfall is small. But it is as gorgeous and breathtaking as the Cheeyappara Waterfalls. One can catch sight of these beautiful waterfalls right from the roadside. The place surrounding the Valara Waterfalls is bountiful with dense forest cover, lush green trees and a wide variety of animals and birds. The entire place offers a plethora of visual treats with the foamy white downpour of the Valara Waterfalls and its picturesque surroundings.
Getting There:
By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to Munnar, which is situated at a distance of 107 Km. On arrival at the airport, one can hire a cab or board the state transport bus to reach Munnar.
By Rail: Ernakulam and Aluva Railway Stations are the nearest railway stations to Munnar, which are well-linked to major cities of the country like Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Mangalore, Bangalore, Thiruvananthapuram, etc. On arrival at the railway station, one can hire a cab or board the state transport bus to reach Munnar.
By Road: Many state transport buses and private buses run to and from various towns and cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu to Munnar.
Don’t forget to visit Lakkam Waterfalls, Attukal Waterfalls, Nyayamakad Waterfalls, Chinnakanal Waterfalls, Thoovanam Waterfalls, and Kuthumkal Waterfalls when you reach Munnar.
Wipe out all worries from your mind regarding where to stay in Munnar. When it comes to accommodation, Munnar has numerous hotels, cottages, homestays and treehouses that offer cosy and secure sojourn. For your comfortable stay, you can choose from budget, economy, standard, deluxe, or luxury types of accommodation.
