By Mallu Metro Travel Desk | June 2026
For NRIs visiting Kerala, the Alleppey-to-Munnar route is arguably the most spectacular road journey the state offers. Covering roughly 170 km through backwaters, midlands, spice plantations, and tea estates, this drive packs Kerala’s entire landscape diversity into a single day.
Alleppey (Day 1-2): Start with a houseboat cruise through Vembanad Lake and the Kuttanad backwater network. Book a KTDC-certified houseboat for the best experience. The Alleppey beach promenade and Mullakkal temple are worth visiting before heading inland.
The Drive (Day 3): Take the route through Kottayam and Thodupuzha to Munnar. The road climbs through rubber plantations into cardamom country, then emerges into the rolling tea estates of Munnar. Stop at the Valara and Cheeyappara waterfalls en route. Total drive time: approximately 4-5 hours with stops.
Munnar (Day 3-5): The Eravikulam National Park for Nilgiri tahr spotting, Top Station for the Tamil Nadu valley views, and the tea museum are the highlights. The town has seen significant improvement in road quality and tourist infrastructure since 2024.
For detailed destination guides including accommodation, dining, and seasonal advice, see TripAdept’s Munnar guide. For transport booking, check TexiExp.