Get a clear estimate of your Munnar travel cost with this detailed guide, including tips to plan wisely and enjoy a comfortable holiday on any budget.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
Expense Category |
Details |
Approximate Cost (₹) |
---|---|---|
Flights |
Round-trip economy fare to Kochi from a metro city |
7,000 |
Stay |
5 nights in a mid-range hotel (₹2,500 per night approx.) |
12,500 |
Local Transport |
Bike rental and occasional cabs/jeeps |
2,000 |
Food |
Meals at moderate restaurants + occasional snacks |
3,000 |
Activities & Entry |
Park tickets, boating, tea museum entry, short treks |
2,000 |
Permits |
Entry permits for restricted areas, if any |
300 |
Insurance |
Basic travel insurance for 6 days |
400 |
Shopping & Souvenirs |
Tea, spices, chocolates, and small gifts |
1,000 |
Miscellaneous |
Tips, internet packs, emergency purchases |
800 |
Total Estimated Cost |
- |
₹29,000 |
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.
Credit cards can make travel more convenient while offering useful benefits along the way:
Many cards offer complimentary airport lounge access, ideal for travellers flying via Kochi
Earn cashback or rewards on common travel expenses, including meals, fuel, and online bookings
Select cards include free travel protection covering delays, cancellations, or lost baggage
Cards with low or no foreign transaction fees help if you book through global travel sites or apps
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.
Borrow amounts ranging up to ₹55 Lakhs depending on your needs and eligibility
Choose repayment tenures up to 96 months based on your monthly budget
Apply from anywhere with a simple digital process
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:
Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the blooming Neelakurinji flower, this park is a biodiversity hotspot and ideal for nature lovers
Learn about the region’s tea legacy and processing methods at this Tata-operated museum with exhibits, tastings, and a factory tour
A popular picnic spot offering boating options and panoramic views of hills and waterside landscapes
Located on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, this viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and mist-covered valleys
The highest peak in South India, Anamudi is a trekking favourite within the Eravikulam Park area
A beautiful waterfall near Pallivasal, great for short hikes and photography
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:
Stroll through green estates with guided tours that explain harvesting and tea processing
Trails around Anamudi, Meesapulimala, and Echo Point attract trekkers of all levels
Paddle or row boats offer relaxing breaks with postcard-perfect views
Off-road trips to Kolukkumalai or Meesapulimala provide rugged adventure and photo-worthy sunrise views
Eravikulam and Chinnar sanctuaries are great for spotting elephants, langurs, and unique bird species
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:
A fluffy rice pancake served with vegetable or chicken stew, a Munnar breakfast staple
Steamed rice flour cylinders paired with black chickpea curry, often served at homestays and small cafés
A traditional vegetarian meal served on banana leaves, usually available in select restaurants during festivals or weekends
Layered flatbreads served with spicy beef curry, a flavour-packed street food dish
Locally caught fish cooked in coconut-based gravy, often served with rice
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:
Travel Months |
Temperature |
Season |
Highlights |
---|---|---|---|
March to May |
23°C – 35°C |
Summer |
Pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities |
June to September |
20°C – 30°C |
Monsoon |
Lush scenery, fewer tourists, off-season rates |
October to February |
10°C – 25°C |
Winter |
Best season for sightseeing, trekking, and stays |
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:
Visit in March or late September to enjoy lower hotel tariffs and thinner crowds without heavy rain or extreme cold
Bundled packages often offer better rates for transport, stays, and sightseeing
Instead of hiring private taxis, choose local buses or shared jeeps for shorter distances
Many homestays offer complimentary meals and local guidance, helping you save on both food and activities
Small eateries serve delicious Kerala meals at half the price of touristy restaurants
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:
Agree on rates before starting the trip, especially for sightseeing. Check standard rates online or ask your hotel.
Some roadside vendors sell substandard products at premium prices. Buy from reputed outlets or co-operatives.
Avoid hiring random guides near attractions. Book only through your hotel or registered tour operators.
Some agents may offer jeep safaris or trekking tours at inflated prices. Cross-check with official counters or online platforms.
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.
A mid-range Munnar trip cost for one person over 5–6 days is around ₹25,000–₹30,000. Budget travel can be done under ₹15,000, while premium stays and tours may cost over ₹50,000.
Two days are enough to explore key attractions like Eravikulam Park, Tea Museum, and Mattupetty Dam. However, to enjoy local experiences and scenic drives, 3–4 days are ideal for a relaxed Munnar travel package.
The average cost of a Munnar trip for a family of four ranges from ₹50,000 to ₹70,000, depending on your mode of travel, type of stay, food, and activity choices.
October to February is the most popular season, with cool weather and ideal conditions for sightseeing. This period is also when Munnar tour costs tend to peak due to high demand.
Start by choosing dates based on the weather. Book travel and stay early, compare Munnar travel packages, and include buffer time for local travel and rest. Keep costs in check with a daily expense estimate.
January is typically the coldest, with temperatures dropping to 10°C or lower. Pack warm clothes if visiting during this season, as it affects both your comfort and the cost to travel Munnar.