How Much Does a Trip to Munnar Cost

With rolling tea plantations, cool mountain air, and scenic views at every turn, Munnar draws travellers from across India. But reaching this hilly destination and exploring it well can involve unexpected expenses. From travel and stays to local experiences, knowing the full cost of a Munnar trip helps you set a budget that suits your needs. Whether you’re booking everything yourself or exploring Munnar travel packages, a clear breakdown of every major cost involved will ease decision making for you.

The total Munnar tour cost can vary widely based on your travel style, mode of transport, and seasonal rates. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses you should account for:

Flights / Train / Road Travel

If you're flying in, the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, around 110 km away. A return flight to Kochi from metros can cost ₹5,000–₹10,000.

Train travellers can reach Ernakulam or Aluva and then take a taxi or bus. Sleeper class tickets start at ₹400, while AC options may cost up to ₹1,500.

For road travel, a round trip from nearby cities like Kochi, Coimbatore, or Madurai may cost ₹3,000–₹5,000 by car or ₹1,500–₹2,000 by bus.

Local Transport (Taxi / Bike Rentals / Shared Cabs)

In Munnar, local travel is essential to access view points, tea gardens, and waterfalls. Auto-rickshaws, shared jeeps, and day-tour cabs are available. A full-day cab rental typically costs ₹1,800–₹2,500.Bike rentals start from ₹400 per day, and guided local tours in shared vehicles may cost ₹500–₹800 per person.

Accommodation (Budget to Luxury)

Munnar offers a wide range of options from dorms to high-end resorts. Budget hotels charge ₹700–₹1,500 per night, mid-range hotels ₹2,000–₹4,000, and luxury stays can go upwards of ₹6,000–₹12,000 per night.

Camps or Homestays

Tented camps near waterfalls or tea plantations cost ₹1,000–₹2,000 per night, often including meals. Homestays are popular too, especially for long stays, starting at ₹800 per night and going up to ₹3,000 depending on amenities.

Meals and Food Options

Local restaurants are budget-friendly. Daily food costs for one person can range from ₹400 for basic meals to ₹1,200 if dining at popular tourist restaurants or resorts. Try Kerala thalis, appams, and seafood for authentic regional flavours.

Permits and Entry Fees

Most sightseeing points are free, but some places like Eravikulam National Park charge entry fees. Permits and tickets range from ₹50 to ₹300 per attraction, with additional camera charges at some spots.

Adventure or Local Activities

Popular activities include trekking, boating, tea factory tours, and jeep safaris. Expect to spend ₹300–₹2,000 depending on what you choose — e.g., a short hike costs less, while paragliding or long treks cost more.

Shopping / Souvenirs

Tea, spices, homemade chocolates, and handicrafts are common takeaways. You can spend anywhere from ₹300 to ₹1,500 on souvenirs depending on where and what you buy.

Travel Insurance and Medical

Not mandatory but recommended, especially if travelling with family or in monsoon. Travel insurance plans start around ₹300–₹500 for a short trip. Carrying basic medication is also advisable.

Miscellaneous Expenses

These include mobile recharges, snacks, laundry, or tips. Keeping ₹1,000–₹1,500 as a buffer for unforeseen expenses is a wise choice.

A six-day trip to Munnar allows time to explore scenic spots, enjoy local experiences, and relax without rushing. Below is a sample budget for one person opting for a balanced travel plan, not too luxurious, yet not basic either. 

This estimate covers a mix of pre-booked services and pay-as-you-go options:

Disclaimer: This estimate is based on average mid-range choices and assumes some cost-sharing, especially for transport. Prices may vary depending on your travel dates, preferences, and bookings. Always confirm updated rates to plan your travel cost more accurately.

Planning a holiday is exciting, but budgeting for it can be challenging, especially if your savings are tied up. Whether it’s the Munnar trip package price or unexpected last-minute expenses, financial tools like credit cards, personal loans, or EMI cards can help you travel stress-free.

Use Credit Cards for Smart Travel Spending

Credit cards can make travel more convenient while offering useful benefits along the way:

• Lounge access

Many cards offer complimentary airport lounge access, ideal for travellers flying via Kochi

• Flight, dining, and fuel cashback

Earn cashback or rewards on common travel expenses, including meals, fuel, and online bookings

• Travel insurance benefits

Select cards include free travel protection covering delays, cancellations, or lost baggage

• Forex savings

Cards with low or no foreign transaction fees help if you book through global travel sites or apps

Apply for a Travel Loan to Manage Your Trip Budget

If your card limit is low or you prefer structured EMIs, a personal loan is a smart choice to manage the cost of a trip to Munnar.

• Loan amount options

Borrow amounts ranging up to ₹55 Lakhs depending on your needs and eligibility

• Flexible EMIs

Choose repayment tenures up to 96 months based on your monthly budget

• Online application

Apply from anywhere with a simple digital process

• Quick approval and minimal documentation

Submit basic ID and income proof for fast approvals

Munnar offers scenic viewpoints, tea-covered hills, and unique biodiversity spots. Here are some must-visit locations that add value to your Munnar travel cost:

• Eravikulam National Park

Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the blooming Neelakurinji flower, this park is a biodiversity hotspot and ideal for nature lovers

• Tea Museum

Learn about the region’s tea legacy and processing methods at this Tata-operated museum with exhibits, tastings, and a factory tour

• Mattupetty Dam

A popular picnic spot offering boating options and panoramic views of hills and waterside landscapes

• Top Station

Located on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, this viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and mist-covered valleys

• Anamudi Peak

The highest peak in South India, Anamudi is a trekking favourite within the Eravikulam Park area

• Attukal Waterfall

A beautiful waterfall near Pallivasal, great for short hikes and photography

• Kundala Lake

A serene artificial lake known for pedal boating and scenic backdrops of eucalyptus forests

Exploring Munnar isn’t just about sightseeing — it’s also about experiences that make your trip memorable. These local activities justify the cost to visit Munnar:

• Tea plantation walks

Stroll through green estates with guided tours that explain harvesting and tea processing

• Trekking and hiking

Trails around Anamudi, Meesapulimala, and Echo Point attract trekkers of all levels

• Boating at Kundala or Mattupetty

Paddle or row boats offer relaxing breaks with postcard-perfect views

• Jeep safaris

Off-road trips to Kolukkumalai or Meesapulimala provide rugged adventure and photo-worthy sunrise views

• Wildlife spotting

Eravikulam and Chinnar sanctuaries are great for spotting elephants, langurs, and unique bird species

• Cultural experiences

Attend local Kathakali shows or visit spice gardens to experience Kerala’s heritage up close

Food in Munnar reflects the flavours of Kerala with a twist of the hills. While budgeting your Munnar tour cost, set aside some amount for these local delights:

• Appam with Stew

A fluffy rice pancake served with vegetable or chicken stew, a Munnar breakfast staple

• Puttu and Kadala Curry

Steamed rice flour cylinders paired with black chickpea curry, often served at homestays and small cafés

• Kerala Sadya

A traditional vegetarian meal served on banana leaves, usually available in select restaurants during festivals or weekends

• Malabar Parotta and Beef Fry

Layered flatbreads served with spicy beef curry, a flavour-packed street food dish

• Freshwater Fish Curry

Locally caught fish cooked in coconut-based gravy, often served with rice

• Homemade Chocolates and Tea

Munnar is known for artisanal chocolates and fresh-flavoured teas that make great snacks and souvenirs

Weather and travel experience can influence your cost to travel to Munnar. Here’s a quick look at how each season affects your itinerary and budget:

Note: Monsoon travel can offer lower prices, but landslides and rain may limit access to certain spots.

Planning smart can help lower your Munnar trip cost without compromising on comfort. Here are practical ways to cut down expenses:

• Travel during shoulder season

Visit in March or late September to enjoy lower hotel tariffs and thinner crowds without heavy rain or extreme cold

• Book combo Munnar travel packages

Bundled packages often offer better rates for transport, stays, and sightseeing

• Use public transport or shared cabs

Instead of hiring private taxis, choose local buses or shared jeeps for shorter distances

• Choose homestays or budget lodges

Many homestays offer complimentary meals and local guidance, helping you save on both food and activities

• Eat local, skip fancy cafés

Small eateries serve delicious Kerala meals at half the price of touristy restaurants

• Carry refillable water bottles

Reduces spending on bottled water and minimises plastic use

While Munnar is generally safe, some tourist traps can inflate your Munnar cost to travel. Stay alert with these quick tips:

• Overpriced cab fares

Agree on rates before starting the trip, especially for sightseeing. Check standard rates online or ask your hotel.

• Fake spice or tea shops

Some roadside vendors sell substandard products at premium prices. Buy from reputed outlets or co-operatives.

• Unlicensed guides

Avoid hiring random guides near attractions. Book only through your hotel or registered tour operators.

• Fake activity bookings

Some agents may offer jeep safaris or trekking tours at inflated prices. Cross-check with official counters or online platforms.

• Hidden charges at hotels

Clarify inclusions like meals, taxes, and service charges while booking, especially with budget stays.

A well-planned trip to Munnar doesn’t have to be expensive. By understanding the full cost of a trip to Munnar, from transport and stays to activities and food — you can enjoy a memorable holiday without financial stress. Whether you choose to travel light or indulge in comfort, smart planning and awareness of seasonal rates, local tips, and payment options will help you make the most of your journey.