Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, is located in eastern India and is known for its rich history and temples. Munnar, a beautiful hill station in Kerala, is famous for its tea gardens, cool climate, and scenic landscapes. Traveling from Bhubaneswar to Munnar is a popular route for tourists seeking a refreshing getaway from the plains to the hills.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options available, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will also find a detailed step-by-step travel plan, practical tips, and advice on the best time to travel and what to expect upon arrival in Munnar.

Getting from Bhubaneswar to Munnar – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a common choice for those who want an economical and comfortable journey for part of the trip. However, there is no direct train to Munnar, so you will need to combine train travel with road transport.

• You can board a train from Bhubaneswar Railway Station to Ernakulam Junction, which is the nearest major railway station to Munnar. The journey covers about 1900 km and takes approximately 36 to 40 hours depending on the train service.

• Popular trains on this route include the Bhubaneswar–Ernakulam Express and the Howrah–Ernakulam Mail, which run regularly and offer different classes like sleeper, AC 3-tier, and AC 2-tier.

• From Ernakulam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar, which is about 130 km away and takes around 4 to 5 hours via NH85 and SH17, passing through scenic hill roads.

• Train fares range from ₹700 to ₹2500 depending on class, and booking tickets through IRCTC well in advance is recommended, especially during holiday seasons to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Monsoon season can cause delays on this route due to landslides and waterlogging, so plan accordingly if traveling between June and September.

Bus

Bus travel is suitable for budget travelers who prefer a direct or semi-direct route by road. However, there are no direct buses from Bhubaneswar to Munnar, so you will need to break the journey.

• You can take an Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) or private bus from Bhubaneswar to Bangalore or Kochi, which are major hubs with frequent bus services.

• From Bangalore or Kochi, Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private operators run regular buses to Munnar. The road distance from Kochi to Munnar is about 130 km and takes 4 to 5 hours.

• Bus fares from Bhubaneswar to Bangalore or Kochi range from ₹800 to ₹1500 depending on the type of bus (AC sleeper or non-AC), while Kochi to Munnar fares are around ₹150 to ₹300.

• Night buses are available on some routes, which can help save daytime hours, but be prepared for crowded conditions during festivals and holidays.

• Road conditions on the highway from Kochi to Munnar are generally good, but the hilly section has sharp curves and narrow roads, so choose reputed bus operators for safety.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bhubaneswar to Munnar is an adventurous option for those who enjoy road trips and want flexibility in travel stops. The journey covers around 2100 km and takes approximately 38 to 42 hours by car.

• The recommended route is via NH16 to Chennai, then NH48 to Coimbatore, and finally NH85 to Munnar. This route passes through major cities like Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Chennai, and Coimbatore.

• Expect toll plazas on NH16 and NH48, with toll charges varying but generally totaling around ₹800 to ₹1200 for the entire trip.

• Plan for multiple rest stops at highway dhabas and restaurants, especially near major cities, to enjoy local cuisine and refresh during the long drive.

• Driving through the Western Ghats near Munnar requires caution due to winding roads and occasional fog, especially early mornings and late evenings.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Bhubaneswar, but ensure you have a valid driving license, insurance, and check the vehicle condition before starting the journey.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to cover the long distance between Bhubaneswar and Munnar. However, Munnar does not have its own airport, so you will fly to the nearest airport and continue by road.

• Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport offers direct flights to Kochi International Airport, which is the closest airport to Munnar, with a flight duration of about 3 to 4 hours.

• Flight fares vary widely, typically ranging from ₹3500 to ₹7000 for one-way tickets, depending on the airline and how early you book.

• From Kochi Airport, you can hire a prepaid taxi or use app-based cabs like Ola and Uber to reach Munnar, which takes around 4 hours by road.

• Several airlines operate on this route, including IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet, with multiple flights daily, making it convenient to choose your preferred timing.

• During peak tourist seasons and festivals, flight prices may increase, so booking tickets at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance is advisable.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Bhubaneswar to Munnar, helping you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or flight tickets early through IRCTC or airline websites to secure seats and get better prices. Early booking is crucial during holidays and weekends.

• If traveling by train, plan your arrival at Ernakulam station and pre-arrange a taxi or check bus schedules to Munnar to avoid last-minute hassles.

• For bus travelers, confirm bus timings and routes a day before departure, as schedules may change due to weather or road conditions.

• If driving, map your route using GPS and plan overnight stops in cities like Chennai or Coimbatore to rest and avoid fatigue on the long journey.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit, especially if you plan to travel by road through remote areas.

• On arrival in Munnar, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs to reach your accommodation safely and avoid overcharging.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items openly, especially in crowded stations and bus stands to prevent theft.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your journey and avoid street food unless it is freshly prepared and from a clean vendor to prevent stomach issues.

• Use official websites like IRCTC for train bookings and verified bus operators’ portals or apps to avoid scams and fake tickets.

• In Munnar, local transport options include taxis, auto-rickshaws, and rental bikes; negotiate fares beforehand or use app-based services where available.

• Carry a small backpack for day trips around Munnar and keep your main luggage locked securely in your hotel or vehicle.

• During monsoon months, check weather updates regularly as landslides and roadblocks can affect travel plans, especially on the hill roads to Munnar.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Bhubaneswar to Munnar depends on weather and local festivals. Munnar is pleasant from September to March, while Bhubaneswar experiences hot summers and a heavy monsoon season.

Planning your trip outside the monsoon months will help avoid travel delays and road hazards. Also, avoid traveling during major festivals like Onam in Kerala or Durga Puja in Odisha when transport can be crowded.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rains causing landslides and slippery roads in the Western Ghats near Munnar.

• Peak tourist season in Munnar is from December to February, so book accommodations and transport early to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Early morning departures from Bhubaneswar help avoid city traffic and allow you to reach connecting points comfortably during daylight.

• During winter months, fog can reduce visibility on hill roads near Munnar, so plan to drive or travel during mid-morning to afternoon hours for safety.

Arrival at Munnar & What to Expect

When you arrive in Munnar, you will find a small town with a relaxed atmosphere surrounded by tea plantations and hills. The main bus stand and taxi stands are close to the town center, making it easy to find onward transport.

Local transport includes taxis, auto-rickshaws, and rental scooters. Many hotels offer pickup services if informed in advance. Popular areas to stay include Chinnakanal, Mattupetty, and near the Munnar town center, which have good connectivity and amenities.

Conclusion

Traveling from Bhubaneswar to Munnar involves a combination of transport modes due to the distance and terrain. Flying to Kochi and then taking a taxi or bus to Munnar is the fastest and most comfortable option. Train travel offers a budget-friendly alternative but requires additional road travel. Self-driving is suitable for experienced drivers who enjoy long road trips with scenic views.

Plan your journey well in advance, especially during peak seasons and monsoon months. Booking tickets early, checking weather updates, and choosing reliable transport services will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. With proper preparation, you can confidently explore the beautiful hill station of Munnar from Bhubaneswar.