If you’re dreaming of misty mornings, emerald tea gardens, and quiet corners to sip steaming chai, you’re already halfway to paradise. The real magic lies in the hill stations near Munnar — peaceful, scenic escapes that make perfect one-day trips from Kerala’s favourite hill retreat.
This blog dives deep into Devikulam, Top Station, Chinnakanal & Anayirankal, Marayoor, and Chithirapuram, with insider tips, best times to visit, and hidden trails worth exploring.
The best hill stations near Munnar for a one-day trip are Devikulam, Top Station, Chinnakanal-Anayirankal, Marayoor, and Chithirapuram-Pallivasal, offering misty lakes, tea gardens, waterfalls, and scenic drives — all within 45 km of Munnar.
In this Blog
How to Reach Munnar
Munnar is easily accessible by road from Kochi (130 km, approx. 4 hours), making it a favourite for weekend road trips and quick getaways.
By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, around 110 km away.
By Train: Aluva (110 km) and Ernakulam (130 km) are the closest railway stations.
By Road: Most travellers prefer a Kochi to Munnar road trip, passing through Cheeyappara waterfalls, tea estates, and winding ghats — a journey as beautiful as the destination.
Pro Tip: Start early from Kochi to reach Munnar by late morning and cover one or two nearby hill stations the same day.
A short 30-minute drive from Munnar, Devikulam feels like a secret sanctuary wrapped in mist and myth. At 5,900 ft, it’s among the most serene hill stations near Munnar, dotted with tea plantations, pine groves, and the sacred Sita Devi Lake — believed to be where Goddess Sita bathed.
Picture Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Top Attractions
Sita Devi Lake: A mineral-rich lake surrounded by forests. Locals believe its waters have healing properties.
Pallivasal Falls: A stunning waterfall nearby, ideal for photography.
Tea & Spice Plantations: Stroll through cardamom and pepper gardens for authentic Kerala aromas.
Thoovanam Falls: Reachable via short treks through Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings between 6 AM and 11 AM when the valley is still cloaked in mist.
Ideal For: Couples, offbeat explorers, and photographers.
Local Tip: Visit at sunrise — the mist dances across the lake and hills for magical photos.
“Devikulam still feels untouched. If you love quiet trails and tea-scented air, you’ll lose track of time here.” — Local guide in Munnar
2. Top Station – Munnar’s Sky-High Viewpoint (40 km)
At nearly 1,700 meters, Top Station is where Munnar touches the clouds. Located on the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border, it offers a 360° panorama of the Western Ghats and Theni Valley — making it one of the most dramatic Munnar tourist places.
Picture Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Things To Do
Sunrise Viewing: The golden hour (5:30–7:00 AM) paints the sky and valleys in surreal hues.
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate: The world’s highest organic tea plantation is just a short jeep ride away.
Trekking: Join short sunrise hikes with local guides for unbeatable views.
Photography: Capture the “sea of clouds” — a sight that defines Munnar in November and December.
Best Time: Early morning; start from Munnar around 4:30 AM. Entry Fee: Rs. 20 for the watchtower viewpoint. Ideal For: Photographers, road trippers, couples, and nature lovers.
Travel Hack: Carry a thermos with chai — sipping it while watching the sunrise at 1,700 meters? Pure Kerala magic.
If your idea of bliss includes the sound of waterfalls and mirror-like lakes, this pair of hidden places in Munnar is perfect.
Chinnakanal
Famous for the Power House Waterfalls, which tumble down a rocky cliff from a height of 800m — this scenic stop is one of the most underrated attractions in Munnar.
Anayirankal Dam
About 8 km further lies Anayirankal Dam and Reservoir, surrounded by lush Tata Tea estates. Its name translates to “where elephants come down to drink water” — and if you’re lucky, you might spot one!
Picture Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Top Things To Do
Take a boat ride across the serene Anayirankal reservoir.
Enjoy a picnic by the lake surrounded by tea gardens.
Stop at Chinnakanal waterfalls for photos and tea breaks.
Spot wildlife (elephants, exotic birds).
Best Time to Visit: November–February — waterfalls are active, skies are clear, and tea estates are lush. Distance: 18–26 km from Munnar (via Thekkady Road).
Local Tip: Combine both stops into one scenic half-day circuit. Pack light snacks or try roadside fritters and tea.
Nearby Attractions Around Munnar
For travellers extending their Munnar sightseeing trip, here are the must-stops en route:
Cheeyappara Waterfalls: Located between Kochi and Munnar, this seven-tiered cascade is a stunning photo point and picnic stop.
Valara Waterfalls: Just a few minutes from Cheeyappara, equally scenic post-monsoon.
Attukad Waterfalls: A short drive from Munnar town — excellent for couples.
Pothamedu Viewpoint: For panoramic views of tea valleys, especially during Munnar in December, when the skies are clearest.
Travel Hack: Leave Munnar by 7 AM to enjoy clear roads and golden light at the viewpoints — perfect for photography and drone shots.
4. Marayoor – Sandalwood Forests & Ancient Dolmens (40 km)
Tucked 40 km from Munnar, Marayoor feels like a journey through time. It’s the only region in India with a natural sandalwood forest, giving it a sweet aroma that lingers in the air. Add prehistoric dolmens (stone chambers), bamboo forests, and riverside trails — and you’ve got one of the most fascinating hill stations near Munnar.
Picture Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Why Visit
Sandalwood Forests: Take a guided walk through Kerala’s last natural sandalwood reserve.
Dolmens & Rock Paintings: Traces of Stone-Age life; a must for history lovers.
Jaggery Units: Watch locals craft traditional Marayoor jaggery — a GI-tagged delicacy.
Thoovanam Falls: A nearby trekker’s delight.
Best Time to Visit: November–February for mild weather (15–22°C) and active forests. Ideal For: Culture buffs, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.
Local Tip: Buy authentic Marayoor jaggery and handmade sandalwood souvenirs directly from local cooperatives.
5. Chithirapuram & Pallivasal – Offbeat Tea Villages (8–13 km)
Quiet, quaint, and utterly peaceful, Chithirapuram and Pallivasal are small tea hamlets that showcase Munnar’s colonial charm. Perfect for travellers seeking a calm one-day trip near Munnar without tourist crowds.
What to Expect
Tea Estates & Heritage Bungalows: Walk through lush estates or stay in restored colonial cottages.
Pallivasal Power House: Kerala’s first hydroelectric project — still operational.
Pallivasal Waterfalls: Gushing streams framed by tea gardens — beautiful in Munnar in November and December.
Cardamom Gardens: Spice walks that smell divine.
Best Time: Early mornings and late evenings — soft light, cool breeze. Ideal For: Writers, couples, slow travellers, wellness seekers.
Travel Hack: Try a tea-tasting session at one of the boutique estates; locals often share stories of early planters.
November–February: Cool, misty mornings and clear afternoons. Ideal for treks, waterfalls, and photography. March–May: Warm but pleasant; great for tea-estate tours. June–September: Monsoon magic; expect lush greenery and frequent showers.
Fun Fact: Munnar in December often greets visitors with faint morning frost — rare but enchanting!
Local Food to Try
Puttu & Kadala Curry
Kerala Sadya (served on banana leaves)
Meen Curry & Kappa (fish curry & tapioca)
Local jaggery desserts from Marayoor
Chai straight from the tea gardens near Munnar
FAQs About Hill Stations Near Munnar
What are the best hill stations near Munnar for a one-day trip?
Devikulam, Top Station, Chinnakanal-Anayirankal, Marayoor, and Chithirapuram-Pallivasal are ideal — all under 45 km.
What is the best time to visit Munnar hill stations?
November–February offers clear skies, green estates, and refreshing weather.
How to reach Munnar from Kochi?
Take the NH85 route via Cheeyappara waterfalls, a scenic 4-hour drive.
Which hill station near Munnar is best for couples?
Devikulam for its lake and solitude, and Chithirapuram for romantic estate stays.
Can I see elephants at Anayirankal Dam?
Yes, often at dawn or dusk near the reservoir edges.
Are these hill stations safe for solo travellers?
Absolutely — just follow basic travel precautions and daylight exploration.
From Devikulam’s sacred lake to Top Station’s sunrise, these hill stations near Munnar promise calm, charm, and postcard views. Whether you’re planning a romantic drive, a family outing, or a quick solo escape, Munnar in November and December offers the best of everything — lush tea gardens, crisp air, and tranquility.
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