Munnar is a beautiful hill station located in the Idukki district of Kerala, known for its tea gardens and cool climate. Calicut, also called Kozhikode, is a major city on Kerala's Malabar Coast. Traveling from Calicut to Munnar is popular among tourists seeking a peaceful getaway in the Western Ghats.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Calicut to Munnar. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, costs, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Calicut to Munnar – Main Options

Train

There is no direct train from Calicut to Munnar due to the hilly terrain. However, you can use trains for part of the journey combined with road transport. This option suits travelers who prefer rail travel and do not mind transfers.

• The nearest major railway station to Munnar is Aluva, about 110 km away, accessible from Calicut Railway Station via direct trains taking around 3 to 4 hours, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹400 depending on class.

• From Aluva, you need to hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar, which takes approximately 3 to 4 hours through scenic but winding mountain roads, with taxi fares around ₹1500 to ₹2000.

• Train frequency from Calicut to Aluva is good, with several daily trains including express and passenger services, but booking in advance on IRCTC is recommended during peak tourist seasons.

• Monsoon season (June to September) may cause delays on rail routes due to landslides or track maintenance, so plan accordingly and check train status before departure.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel from Calicut to Munnar. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private operators run services connecting these places, suitable for budget travelers.

• Direct KSRTC buses from Calicut to Munnar take about 7 to 8 hours covering roughly 130 km via NH966 and SH17, with fares ranging from ₹200 to ₹400 depending on the bus type.

• Bus frequency is moderate, with more services in the morning and evening; booking tickets online or at the Calicut bus stand is advisable to secure a seat.

• Private Volvo and deluxe buses offer more comfort and fewer stops but cost slightly more, around ₹400 to ₹600, and are preferred by tourists.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to landslides, causing delays; buses may run slower, so allow extra travel time.

• Rest stops along the route include towns like Perinthalmanna and Kothamangalam, where you can find food stalls and clean restrooms.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Calicut to Munnar is a flexible and scenic option. The route passes through highways and mountain roads, ideal for travelers comfortable with Indian road conditions and hill driving.

• The distance is about 130 km via NH966 and SH17, with an average driving time of 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• You can rent a self-drive car from Calicut city; daily rental rates for small cars start around ₹1500 to ₹2500, with additional fuel and toll charges.

• The route includes toll plazas near Perinthalmanna and Kothamangalam; toll fees are minimal but keep cash handy as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.

• Roads are well-maintained on the plains but become narrow and winding in the hills; drive carefully, especially during monsoon when landslides and fog reduce visibility.

• There are several scenic viewpoints and tea shops along the way, making stops enjoyable; plan rest breaks to avoid fatigue on the hilly stretches.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab is a convenient and comfortable way to reach Munnar from Calicut, especially for groups or families. This option offers door-to-door service without the hassle of transfers.

• Prepaid taxis can be booked at Calicut Airport or railway station, with fares typically between ₹3500 and ₹4500 for a one-way trip to Munnar, depending on vehicle type.

• App-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Calicut but may not offer direct rides to Munnar due to distance; booking a local taxi service is recommended for hill station trips.

• Taxi drivers usually know the best routes and can suggest stops for refreshments and sightseeing en route, enhancing your travel experience.

• It is advisable to confirm the fare and vehicle condition before starting, and to carry some cash for tolls and small expenses along the way.

• During peak tourist seasons and weekends, taxi availability may be limited, so booking in advance is essential to avoid last-minute hassles.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Calicut to Munnar to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Follow these steps to prepare and travel confidently.

• Book your tickets or vehicle at least a week in advance, especially during holidays or festivals, to avoid last-minute unavailability and higher prices.

• Pack light but include warm clothes as Munnar is cooler than Calicut, particularly in the evenings and early mornings.

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid traffic and reach Munnar before dark, as hill roads can be challenging to navigate at night.

• If traveling by train, check the IRCTC website or app for train timings and seat availability; for buses, use KSRTC online booking or visit the bus stand in advance.

• Carry some snacks and bottled water for the trip, as food options may be limited or closed during odd hours on the route.

• Keep your phone charged and have offline maps ready, as network coverage may be weak in some hilly areas near Munnar.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxis or trusted cab services upon arrival in Calicut to avoid overcharging and ensure safety during your onward journey.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during the trip and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach to prevent travel sickness.

• Book train and bus tickets online through official portals like IRCTC and KSRTC to get confirmed seats and avoid queues at stations.

• Use local auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for short travel within Calicut before starting your trip to Munnar.

• Carry minimal luggage to manage hill road travel easily, and secure your bags well to avoid damage or loss during transfers.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and road conditions before traveling, as landslides and heavy rains can cause delays or route closures.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Calicut to Munnar is during the dry months from October to May when roads are clear and weather is pleasant. Avoid the monsoon season for safer and more comfortable travel.

Peak tourist seasons like Christmas, New Year, and summer holidays see heavy traffic on the route, so plan your travel dates accordingly to avoid crowding and higher fares.

• Avoid traveling during major Kerala festivals like Onam and Vishu when buses and trains are crowded and prices surge.

• Monsoon months (June to September) bring heavy rains and fog, causing slippery roads and frequent delays, especially on the hill sections.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid city traffic in Calicut and reach Munnar before evening, reducing risks on narrow mountain roads.

• Winter months (December and January) can be chilly in Munnar, so carry warm clothing and plan for possible fog-related slowdowns on the route.

Arrival at Munnar & What to Expect

When you arrive in Munnar, you will likely reach the main town area near the Munnar bus stand or taxi stand. The town is small and walkable, with several accommodation options nearby.

Local transport includes auto-rickshaws and taxis that can take you to hotels, tea plantations, and tourist spots. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are less common, so agree on fares beforehand or use hotel-arranged transport.

Popular areas to stay include near the Munnar town center, Mattupetty, and around the Tea Museum. These locations offer easy access to sightseeing and local markets.

Keep some cash handy as many small shops and transport providers may not accept digital payments. Also, be prepared for cooler temperatures and carry a light jacket.

Conclusion

Traveling from Calicut to Munnar offers several options, with buses and cars being the most practical for most travelers. Buses provide an economical choice, while self-drive or taxis offer flexibility and comfort, especially for groups.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, choosing the right travel time, and preparing for hill road conditions. With proper planning and awareness of local travel nuances, you can enjoy a safe and scenic journey from Calicut to Munnar, making your visit to this beautiful hill station truly memorable.