Mysore, located in Karnataka, is a historic city known for its palaces and rich culture. Munnar, in Kerala, is a popular hill station famous for its tea gardens and cool climate. Many travelers journey from Mysore to Munnar to enjoy nature and escape city heat.

This guide explains the main ways to travel from Mysore to Munnar. You will learn about trains, buses, driving routes, and flights, along with practical tips to plan your trip smoothly and comfortably.

Getting from Mysore to Munnar – Main Options

Train

Train travel is limited between Mysore and Munnar since Munnar has no railway station. However, trains can be used for part of the journey combined with road transport.

• The nearest major railway station to Munnar is Aluva or Ernakulam in Kerala, about 110–130 km away, accessible from Mysore by train via Bangalore or Coimbatore, taking 8–12 hours.

• From Mysore Junction, trains to Bangalore City are frequent, with travel time around 2.5 to 3 hours and fares between ₹150 and ₹400 in sleeper or second class.

• From Bangalore, you can take trains to Ernakulam or Aluva, which take 6 to 8 hours depending on the train, with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹900 for sleeper and AC classes.

• After reaching Ernakulam or Aluva, you need to hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar, which takes about 4 to 5 hours on winding hill roads, with taxi fares around ₹2,500 to ₹3,500.

• Train travel is comfortable and economical but requires multiple transfers and additional road travel, so it suits travelers who prefer rail journeys and have flexible time.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel from Mysore to Munnar, though the journey is long and involves at least one transfer.

• Direct buses from Mysore to Munnar are rare; most travelers take a bus to Bangalore or Coimbatore first, then change to a Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) or private bus to Munnar.

• The Mysore to Bangalore bus journey takes about 3 to 4 hours, with frequent services from Mysore City Bus Stand, costing ₹100 to ₹200 depending on bus type.

• From Bangalore, you can find KSRTC or private buses to Munnar via Ernakulam or directly, with travel times of 10 to 12 hours and fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹900.

• Alternatively, Mysore to Coimbatore buses take around 6 hours, and from Coimbatore, you can catch direct buses to Munnar taking 4 to 5 hours, costing ₹150 to ₹300.

• Buses can be crowded during weekends and holidays, so booking tickets in advance via KSRTC or private operators’ websites is advisable.

• The road journey includes scenic but winding mountain roads after entering Kerala, so prepare for slower speeds and occasional stops at roadside eateries and toll plazas.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mysore to Munnar is a flexible and scenic option, ideal if you want to explore at your own pace and stop along the way.

• The distance by road is approximately 280 to 320 km depending on the route, with travel time around 7 to 9 hours via NH275, NH948, and NH85 through Coimbatore and Udumalpet.

• The route passes through towns like Gundlupet, Sultan Bathery, and Munnar, offering chances to visit wildlife sanctuaries and tea estates en route.

• Road conditions are generally good on national highways, but expect narrow and winding roads near Munnar with hairpin bends; drive carefully especially during monsoon months.

• Toll plazas are present on NH routes, so keep cash or FASTag ready; toll charges can total around ₹200 to ₹400 depending on the route.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Mysore with daily rates starting from ₹1,500 for small cars; ensure the vehicle is suitable for hill driving and check fuel availability on the route.

• Driving allows you to carry luggage easily and stop for meals at popular highway restaurants or local dhabas, but avoid night driving due to wildlife crossings and poor lighting.

Flight

Flying is not a direct option between Mysore and Munnar as Munnar has no airport. However, you can combine flights with road travel for faster access.

• The nearest airport to Munnar is Cochin International Airport (COK), about 110 km away, with good connectivity to major Indian cities.

• Mysore Airport has limited flights, mostly to Bangalore and Chennai; you can fly from Mysore to Bangalore (around 1 hour), then take a connecting flight to Cochin.

• From Cochin Airport, taxis and buses are available to Munnar, taking about 3 to 4 hours on hilly roads, with taxi fares around ₹2,000 to ₹3,000.

• Flight fares vary widely; booking early can secure cheaper tickets, but total travel time including transfers may be 6 to 8 hours or more.

• This option suits travelers prioritizing comfort and time savings over cost, especially during peak tourist seasons when road traffic is heavy.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Mysore to Munnar for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common issues.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance through IRCTC or KSRTC websites to secure seats and avoid last-minute rush, especially during weekends and holidays.

• If traveling by train, plan your transfers carefully, allowing enough time between trains and arranging local transport from the railway station to bus stands or taxi points.

• For self-drive, check your vehicle’s condition, carry a physical map or GPS device, and start early in the morning to avoid night driving on mountain roads.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit, as roadside facilities can be limited on some stretches.

• Upon arrival in Munnar, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for local travel to your hotel, as haggling with local drivers can be confusing for new visitors.

• Keep local emergency numbers and hotel contacts handy, and inform someone about your travel plan for safety during the long journey.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during the journey to prevent stomach issues, especially when traveling by bus or car through rural areas.

• Use official ticket booking platforms like IRCTC for trains and KSRTC for buses to avoid scams and ensure confirmed seats.

• During monsoon season (June to September), expect delays and slippery roads near Munnar; check weather updates and avoid night travel.

• For local transport in Munnar, prefer prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to avoid overcharging; walking is also feasible in town areas.

• Pack light luggage with easy-to-carry bags, as some buses and taxis have limited space and you may need to carry bags on foot for short distances.

• Keep your valuables close and avoid displaying expensive items during bus or train travel to prevent theft in crowded stations.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Mysore to Munnar depends on weather and traffic conditions. Munnar is pleasant year-round but can be challenging during monsoon.

Planning your trip outside heavy festival seasons and avoiding night travel will make your journey safer and more comfortable.

• Avoid travel during major festivals like Onam (August-September) and Christmas-New Year, when roads and accommodation in Munnar are crowded and expensive.

• Monsoon months bring heavy rain and slippery roads in the Western Ghats; travel delays and landslides can occur, so plan accordingly.

• Winter months (December to February) offer cool weather and clear roads, ideal for sightseeing and comfortable travel.

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid city traffic in Mysore and Bangalore and to reach Munnar before dark, especially if driving.

Arrival at Munnar & What to Expect

When you arrive in Munnar, you will find a small town with narrow roads and a relaxed atmosphere. The main bus stand and taxi points are close to the town center.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs like Ola. Many hotels offer pickup services if informed in advance. Popular areas to stay are near the town center or close to tea plantations for a peaceful experience.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Munnar from Mysore depends on your priorities. If you want comfort and speed, combining flights with road travel via Cochin is best. For budget travelers, buses and trains with transfers offer affordable options. Self-drive gives flexibility and scenic views but requires careful planning.

Booking tickets early, starting your journey early in the day, and preparing for hill road conditions will help you have a smooth trip. With this guide, you can confidently plan your travel from Mysore to Munnar and enjoy the beautiful hill station without stress.