Top 10 Nearest Railway Stations to Munnar

 

Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, is renowned for its lush green landscapes, sprawling tea plantations, and serene waterfalls. However, Munnar does not have a railway station of its own. To reach this hill station, travelers must rely on nearby railway stations and road transportation. This comprehensive guide lists the 10 nearest railway stations to Munnar, providing detailed insights to help you plan your journey smoothly.

1. Aluva Railway Station (AWY)

• Distance from Munnar: Approximately 110 km
• Why Aluva is Ideal: Aluva, a major railway hub in Kerala, is the closest station to Munnar. It connects travelers from metro cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi.
• Facilities at Aluva: The station offers modern amenities, including clean waiting lounges, parking facilities, and food outlets. It is well-equipped with prepaid taxi counters and buses that directly connect to Munnar.
• Travel Tip: If you're traveling with family or in a group, hiring a private taxi from Aluva ensures a convenient and comfortable journey to Munnar.

Aluva Railway Station is the closest major railway station to Munnar, making it the most preferred choice for travelers. Situated just 110 km away, Aluva acts as a key hub connecting several major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi. With its strategic location, this station caters to a large number of trains, ensuring easy access to the hill station.

Aluva’s facilities are top-notch, offering clean waiting lounges, food courts, and a prepaid taxi counter. It also has well-organized parking and baggage storage services, making it convenient for long-distance travelers. For your onward journey to Munnar, private taxis and Kerala State Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses are readily available. The road from Aluva to Munnar is a scenic one, filled with lush greenery, winding hills, and occasional waterfalls, making the 3-hour journey enjoyable.

Pro Tip: Pre-booking your taxi ensures a hassle-free transition from the station to Munnar, especially during peak tourist seasons. Families or groups traveling together often find this option more comfortable.

In addition to its proximity to Munnar, Aluva is also close to Cochin International Airport, making it an excellent choice for travelers combining rail and air travel. With its accessibility and infrastructure, Aluva is undoubtedly the best gateway to Munnar.

2. Ernakulam Junction (ERS)

• Distance from Munnar: Approximately 130 km
• Why Choose Ernakulam: As Kerala's busiest railway station, Ernakulam Junction connects multiple long-distance trains from different parts of India. It’s a prime choice for those traveling from northern or western India.
• Transportation Options: Kerala State Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and private taxis are readily available outside the station. The drive to Munnar takes around 3-4 hours, offering scenic views of hill roads and plantations.
• Nearby Attractions: Ernakulam city offers a chance to explore the iconic Marine Drive, Lulu Mall, and Fort Kochi before heading to Munnar.

Ernakulam Junction, also known as Ernakulam South, is the busiest railway station in Kerala and a vital transit point for travelers headed to Munnar. Positioned approximately 130 km from Munnar, this station connects a wide array of long-distance trains from across India, including Rajdhani and Shatabdi services. It serves as an ideal station for travelers arriving from northern, western, or eastern parts of the country.

The station is equipped with modern amenities such as air-conditioned waiting rooms, luggage storage, food outlets, and bookstalls. Its proximity to Cochin city makes it a great starting point for exploring Kerala before heading to Munnar. Transportation options from Ernakulam Junction to Munnar include KSRTC buses, private taxis, and rental cars. The 4-hour drive offers breathtaking views of tea gardens, misty valleys, and charming small towns along NH-85.

If time permits, spend a day in Ernakulam exploring the famous Marine Drive, Mattancherry Palace, and Fort Kochi. These attractions provide a unique cultural glimpse of Kerala. For those who prefer shopping, Lulu Mall, India’s largest mall, is just a short distance away.

Ernakulam Junction’s extensive train network and superior facilities make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. Whether you’re arriving from far-off cities or nearby states, this station ensures a seamless journey to the enchanting hills of Munnar.

3. Thrissur Railway Station (TCR)

• Distance from Munnar: Around 145 km
• Highlights: Known as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur provides an excellent gateway for travelers heading to Munnar.
• Travel Experience: The road journey from Thrissur to Munnar takes you through picturesque landscapes, winding roads, and waterfalls.
• Facilities: Thrissur station is well-maintained and offers waiting rooms, food stalls, and luggage storage options. For a seamless journey, you can hire cabs or board KSRTC buses.

Thrissur Railway Station is another major transit hub for those traveling to Munnar. Located about 145 km away, it is the perfect station for visitors who wish to combine their Munnar trip with the cultural richness of Thrissur, often called the “Cultural Capital of Kerala.” This station is well-connected to cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad, making it a convenient choice for travelers from southern India.

Thrissur’s station facilities include clean waiting areas, food courts, and prepaid taxi services. Upon arrival, you can choose between private taxis or buses for your journey to Munnar. The road from Thrissur to Munnar is an experience in itself, winding through lush greenery, rivers, and small villages. The trip takes about 4-5 hours, offering ample opportunities for short scenic stops.

Thrissur also boasts a rich cultural scene. Before heading to Munnar, consider visiting iconic landmarks like Vadakkunnathan Temple, Athirappilly Waterfalls, and the Guruvayur Temple. For food enthusiasts, Thrissur offers authentic Kerala cuisine, which you can enjoy in local eateries.

Thrissur’s excellent rail connectivity, combined with its proximity to popular attractions and Munnar, makes it a versatile choice for travelers. It is especially ideal for those who want a mix of cultural exploration and natural beauty.

4. Madurai Junction (MDU)

• Distance from Munnar: Approximately 160 km
• Special Note: Madurai Junction is an excellent option for travelers coming from Tamil Nadu or the eastern parts of India. It connects to several major cities, making it an important hub.
• Journey to Munnar: The drive from Madurai to Munnar takes about 4-5 hours. The scenic route passes through dense forests and rolling hills, offering a memorable road trip.
• Nearby Places to Explore: Don’t miss visiting the historic Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai before continuing your journey.

Madurai Junction, located in Tamil Nadu, is a significant station for travelers approaching Munnar from the eastern parts of India. Positioned about 160 km away, Madurai offers excellent connectivity to several major cities, including Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Its strategic location and frequent train services make it a preferred choice for visitors from Tamil Nadu and beyond.

The station is equipped with modern amenities such as waiting lounges, food outlets, and prepaid taxi services. Madurai to Munnar is a scenic 4-5 hour drive through lush green forests, sprawling plantations, and winding mountain roads. Both buses and private taxis are available to cover this distance.

Before starting your journey to Munnar, explore Madurai’s rich history and vibrant culture. The Meenakshi Amman Temple, a marvel of Dravidian architecture, is a must-visit landmark. You can also enjoy the local Tamil cuisine, with specialties like Jigarthanda, idli, and parotta.

Madurai Junction’s proximity to Munnar and its status as a major railway hub make it an excellent option for travelers. Whether you’re drawn to Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage or Munnar’s pristine beauty, Madurai offers the best of both worlds.

5. Coimbatore Junction (CBE)

• Distance from Munnar: About 165 km
• Why Choose Coimbatore: Coimbatore is a major station in Tamil Nadu, offering great connectivity to southern and northern India.
• Travel Insights: After reaching Coimbatore, you can drive or take a bus to Munnar. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and passes through stunning landscapes dotted with tea estates.
• Pro Tip: Coimbatore is also an excellent base to explore Ooty and Coonoor before heading to Munnar.

Coimbatore Junction is one of the busiest railway stations in Tamil Nadu and serves as a vital access point for travelers heading to Munnar. Situated about 165 km from Munnar, Coimbatore is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata, making it an ideal choice for long-distance travelers.

The station offers excellent amenities, including waiting lounges, food courts, bookstores, and prepaid taxi services. Upon arriving at Coimbatore Junction, you can choose between buses, rental cars, or private taxis for the onward journey to Munnar. The drive takes approximately 5-6 hours and is dotted with mesmerizing views of the Western Ghats, tea plantations, and waterfalls.

Coimbatore also offers a range of attractions for those who wish to explore the city before heading to Munnar. Key highlights include the Marudhamalai Temple, Gass Forest Museum, and Kovai Kutralam Waterfalls. For shopping enthusiasts, Coimbatore is known for its high-quality cotton textiles and traditional South Indian silk.

Travel Tip: Coimbatore is a great starting point for travelers looking to combine their Munnar trip with visits to nearby hill stations like Ooty and Coonoor. With its robust transportation network and proximity to natural beauty, Coimbatore Junction is an excellent choice for a seamless travel experience to Munnar.

6. Dindigul Junction (DG)

• Distance from Munnar: Approximately 150 km
• Why It’s Worth Considering: Though less prominent than Madurai, Dindigul Junction offers a quieter travel experience and decent connectivity to Tamil Nadu and nearby states.
• Journey Details: From Dindigul, a road trip to Munnar is comfortable and scenic. Prepaid taxis and state-run buses are easily accessible.
• Local Highlights: While in Dindigul, sample its famous biryani before embarking on your journey.

Dindigul Junction, a prominent station in Tamil Nadu, is a convenient option for travelers coming from southern parts of India. Located about 150 km from Munnar, Dindigul offers easy access and a quieter alternative to the more crowded Madurai Junction. Its relatively smaller size means less hassle, and it serves as a significant stop for several trains connecting Tamil Nadu with other states.

Facilities at the station include clean waiting areas, food stalls, and taxi stands. From Dindigul, you can take a private taxi or bus to reach Munnar. The journey typically takes around 4-5 hours and passes through picturesque landscapes, including verdant forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages.

For those with time to spare, Dindigul has a lot to offer. Explore the famous Dindigul Fort, a historic hilltop structure with panoramic views, or indulge in the city’s renowned biryani, a culinary delight loved by locals and travelers alike.

Dindigul’s strategic location, combined with its calm environment and easy accessibility, makes it a great option for travelers seeking a smooth and scenic journey to Munnar. It’s especially appealing for those looking to avoid the rush of larger stations like Madurai.

7. Angamaly Railway Station (AFK)

• Distance from Munnar: Around 120 km
• Hidden Gem: Angamaly, though smaller than Aluva, offers a peaceful transit point for travelers headed to Munnar.
• Transportation Options: Taxis and buses from Angamaly provide a direct route to Munnar, with fewer crowds and traffic.
• Nearby Attractions: The nearby Athirapally Waterfalls, known as the "Niagara of India," make Angamaly an exciting choice for nature enthusiasts.

Angamaly Railway Station, located close to Aluva, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a quieter route to Munnar. Positioned about 120 km from Munnar, this station offers a less crowded yet efficient alternative for those traveling to Kerala’s famous hill station.

Although smaller than Aluva or Ernakulam Junction, Angamaly provides basic amenities such as waiting areas, food stalls, and easy access to taxis and buses. Once you arrive at Angamaly, you can choose between state-run buses and private taxis for the onward journey. The drive to Munnar is around 3-4 hours, featuring stunning views of Kerala’s lush greenery, winding mountain roads, and tea plantations.

Angamaly is also conveniently located near Cochin International Airport, making it an excellent choice for travelers combining rail and air transportation. Additionally, it is close to Athirapally Waterfalls, one of Kerala’s most famous natural attractions, often referred to as the “Niagara of India.”

For those seeking a calm and scenic route to Munnar, Angamaly is a top choice. Its proximity to nature and strategic location make it an appealing option for travelers exploring central Kerala.

8. Kottayam Railway Station (KTYM)

• Distance from Munnar: Approximately 155 km
• Why Visit Kottayam First: Kottayam is ideal for travelers who want to combine a trip to Kerala's famous backwaters with a visit to Munnar.
• Transportation Details: Direct buses and taxis to Munnar are readily available. The drive is about 4-5 hours, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
• Bonus Tip: Plan a detour to Kumarakom or Alleppey to enjoy a houseboat ride before heading to Munnar.

Kottayam Railway Station is a fantastic option for travelers who wish to combine their trip to Munnar with Kerala’s famous backwaters. Located about 155 km from Munnar, Kottayam is well-connected to cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, making it an excellent access point for travelers from across the country.

The station offers standard facilities, including waiting lounges, food stalls, and taxi services. Upon arrival, you can opt for a private taxi or board a KSRTC bus to reach Munnar. The 4-5 hour journey takes you through breathtaking mountain roads, offering views of lush green landscapes, plantations, and serene villages.

Before heading to Munnar, consider exploring Kottayam’s nearby attractions, such as Kumarakom and Alleppey, where you can experience Kerala’s backwaters on a houseboat. This region is also known for its rubber plantations and serene countryside, providing a peaceful retreat for travelers.

Travel Tip: Kottayam is ideal for those looking to explore Kerala’s diverse beauty, combining the tranquil backwaters with the majestic hills of Munnar. Its accessibility and scenic routes make it an excellent gateway to the Western Ghats.

9. Pollachi Junction (POY)

• Distance from Munnar: About 110 km
• Unique Advantage: Pollachi, a quaint town in Tamil Nadu, offers a serene starting point for your journey to Munnar.
• Travel Tips: While train options to Pollachi are limited, the road trip to Munnar from here is stunning, featuring lush greenery and winding roads.
• Highlights: Explore Pollachi’s quiet charm and visit nearby attractions like Aliyar Dam before proceeding to Munnar.

Pollachi Junction, situated in Tamil Nadu, is one of the lesser-known yet significant stations for travelers heading to Munnar. At approximately 110 km from Munnar, this station offers a peaceful alternative to the busier hubs like Coimbatore and Madurai. Pollachi is well-connected to Tamil Nadu’s major cities like Coimbatore, Dindigul, and Madurai, making it a convenient option for travelers from southern India.

The station, though smaller, provides essential facilities like waiting areas, food stalls, and basic transport options. From Pollachi, the road journey to Munnar takes about 3-4 hours and is a treat for nature lovers. The route passes through lush forests, sprawling plantations, and charming rural landscapes, making the journey as rewarding as the destination itself.

Pollachi’s charm extends beyond its connectivity. The town is known for its serene environment and natural beauty, including attractions like Aliyar Dam and Valparai, which can be explored before heading to Munnar. Valparai, another hill station nearby, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and offers a glimpse of the region’s unique flora and fauna.

For travelers seeking a less crowded, scenic route to Munnar, Pollachi Junction is a fantastic choice. Its proximity to natural attractions and tranquil setting provides a refreshing start to your Munnar adventure.

10. Palakkad Junction (PGT)

• Distance from Munnar: Approximately 170 km
• Key Features: Palakkad Junction is a major station connecting Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
• Journey Details: The road trip from Palakkad to Munnar is approximately 5 hours long, with mesmerizing views of hills and valleys.
• Local Delights: While in Palakkad, try the region’s signature dish, Palakkad sambar.

Palakkad Junction, also known as Olavakkode, is another important railway station for those traveling to Munnar. Located about 170 km away, Palakkad serves as a key transit point for travelers from Tamil Nadu and other parts of Kerala. The station’s strategic position on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu ensures good connectivity with trains from Chennai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, and other major cities.

The station is well-maintained and offers amenities such as waiting rooms, refreshment stalls, and taxi services. From Palakkad, the journey to Munnar takes around 5-6 hours by road. The route is picturesque, winding through verdant hills, dense forests, and quaint villages that showcase the natural splendor of the Western Ghats.

While in Palakkad, you can explore local attractions like the Palakkad Fort and Malampuzha Gardens, which are steeped in history and offer a serene environment. The region is also famous for its traditional Kerala sambar and other local delicacies, making it a delightful stopover for food enthusiasts.

Palakkad Junction’s location and connectivity make it a practical option for travelers combining visits to multiple destinations in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Its accessibility and the scenic road journey to Munnar make it a compelling choice for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

How to Choose the Best Railway Station for Your Journey

• Proximity: Aluva and Angamaly are the nearest options.
• Connectivity: Ernakulam Junction and Coimbatore Junction are better for long-distance travelers.
• Additional Attractions: Stations like Thrissur, Kottayam, and Madurai allow you to explore other destinations before heading to Munnar.

Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Journey

• Plan Ahead: Book your train tickets early, especially during holiday seasons.
• Choose Your Transport Wisely: Pre-book taxis for convenience or opt for KSRTC buses for an economical option.
• Pack Essentials: The journey to Munnar involves hill roads, so pack light and carry necessary medications if you are prone to motion sickness.
• Stay Updated: Check for any road closures or weather-related disruptions before traveling.

Embarking on a trip to Munnar through any of these railway stations promises a journey filled with adventure and breathtaking scenery. Plan well and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of Kerala's crown jewel.