Visitors to the hill stations near Kochi will find that they offer something for every type of traveler. If you are looking for beautiful places to take photos, romantic getaway, adventure travel, or a relaxing holiday with your family, then the Kerala hill stations have something to offer.
Most mornings in a hill station will begin with the scent of freshly picked tea leaves; the sound of birds singing in the woods; and the visual beauty of rolling hills with a haze of mist covering them. The evenings often provide golden sunsets fading away over the hilltops. When night falls, there is a unique feeling of magic as stars fill the sky, while the air is crisp and cool, soothing you to sleep.
Munnar and Vagamon are well-known mountain destinations in Kerala, while Vattavada and Malakkappara are two lesser-known hill preserves located off the beaten path and are packed full of beauty. Every destination offers its own unique climes, atmosphere, and experience; so bring your jacket, your camera, and be prepared to explore the peacefulness found at the base of the mountains just a short ride from Kochi's shoreline. In addition to the scenic views along the highway, it will provide an opportunity to breathe in the beauty of nature around every turn.
Munnar — The Crown of Kerala’s Hills
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Munnar, one of the most picturesque location in Kerala and just a short drive from Kochi, offers something that all travelers should experience. With its seemingly never-ending tea plantations, misty mornings, expansive mountain views, and breathtaking scenery, Munnar holds a magic all its own.
The journey to Munnar is just as beautiful as the destination, as the 125-kilometer (almost 78 miles) drive takes you on winding roads, passing vistas of waterfalls and lowering clouds.
Munnar is also unique in its landscape, as it offers a series of different natural environments to experience. For example, while you might be enjoying a sunrise at a cliff-top viewpoint in Top Station, it might be mere minutes before you’re standing in the middle of a tea plantation in Kolukkumalai, the world’s highest tea-producing estate! If you love wildlife, you can also visit Eravikulam National Park, where you can see the rare Nilgiri Tahr in beautiful rolling grasslands
Munnar is an escape for couples. Quaint cafes, cool nights, and beautiful resorts with balconies overlooking rolling hills are a few reasons to never leave. There are many outdoor activities for people who love adventure like trekking, off-roading, camping under the stars. For families, it offers boating at the Mattupetty Dam, beautiful gardens, and lots of places to have a picnic to keep your days fun filled.
So if you’re planning your first trip or your tenth time to visit Munnar, Munnar is always something new to discover.
Vagamon — Where Clouds Touch the Ground
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A 3-hour drive from Kochi, Vagamon is a great getaway for people seeking peace and fun within a day or weekend. Vagamon's unique charm lies in its tranquillity as it is not overly developed, therefore maintaining a raw sense of nature. Upon entry into Vagamon, one immediately feels the cool breeze and therefore a refreshing atmosphere.
Vagamon consists of three hills (thangal para, murugan mala, and kurisumala), each of which has a significant religious and cultural association. However, the meadows are what draws people to Vagamon; these meadows are made up of large, lush, rolling hills that are incredibly relaxing for walking barefoot on grass, taking pictures and having picnics.
Paragliding, trekking, and taking off-roading jeep tours through misty valleys are also attractions for adventure seekers. Once the fog rolls into Vagamon and covers everything with a beautiful white sheet, it is an indescribable feeling walking amidst the clouds.
The evenings are very calm and starry and provide a perfect atmosphere for backyard campfires as well as night talks. Nature provides an environment to slow down, breathe and enjoy life.
Idukki Hills — The Land of Forests & Reservoir Views
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Idukki Hills is the region of forest and images of reservoirs. For those seeking a fresh mountain escape with an unspoiled wilderness-like feel, look no further than Idukki Hills, which is located just a few hours from Kochi. Surrounded by vast forests, towering peaks, and massive lakes, Idukki is an area that people go to who appreciate nature in its primal form.
People who are photographers and/or adventure enthusiasts will most likely love the Idukki Arch Dam. The dam itself is one of the largest arch dams in the world and is located between two huge hills. It has some of the best views in all of Kerala, with picturesque countryside vistas of serene reservoirs lying behind lush hills for miles around, with a spectacular view of the sun setting behind the dam.
Adventure and photography enthusiasts will enjoy the powerful winds, enormous rock formations, and some of the most spectacular sunsets found anywhere in the state of Kerala that Ramakkalmedu has to offer. Additionally, you can experience the aroma of a variety of spices, including cardamom, coffee, and, of course, pepper by visiting one of the local spice plantations.
Ultimately, Idukki is an area filled with scenic beauty, serenity, and a wild, untouched quality. You will awaken each morning to the sound of birds chirping, drink tea that was freshly brewed and served from a plantation, and know that there are no such things as stressful experiences while in Idukki.
Thekkady's majestic hills and Breathtaking Wildlife & Adventure
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If you have a desire for an exciting trip to the hills while experiencing amazing views of wildlife and greenery then Thekkady is your destination. Different from other hill stations, Thekkady is home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary which provides visitors with an experience closer to Nature than they have ever had before. Located 4 hours away from Kochi, Thekkady's cool temperatures, lovely Spice Gardens and wonderful fresh air are welcoming.
Periyar Lake Boat Safari — is one of Thekkady's top attractions and offers a unique experience that allows you to see elephants, deer and occasionally tigers while cruising on a calm body of water. Thekkady is also a great location for bamboo rafting, trekking through the forest and taking guided night walks for those interested in adventure.
Thekkady's local Spice Plantations are another enticing adventure for your senses. Cardamom, Cloves, Cinnamon, and Pepper, just a small sampling of the spices that are growing all around you, will stimulate your sense of smell while on a Spice Tour. You can purchase pure spices and sample the delicious dishes Kerala has to offer.
Evenings in Thekkady are full of life. Visitors can watch Kathakali performances, Kalaripayattu demonstrations (a type of martial arts), or sip hot tea on an evening filled with mist as the hills begin to fade away into the darkness. In the End, Thekkady's forests are alive with stories, and you can be part of these stories!
Wayanad — Hills Full of Legends and Green Magic
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Wayanad is a beautiful area that has been forgotten in Kerala. A place with a wonderful coastline, lots of history, and a heavy mixing of culture. This area has great natural beauty: waterfalls, caves, wildlife and ever-growing green landscapes that invite you to take your adventures.
The many hills in Wayanad, but most of Wayanad's mountains are Chembra Peak (with the "Heart-Shaped Lake") and one of Wayanad's most famous symbols of everlasting love. If you love to find out about things that are new and would like to find some old things that are hidden, then you must visit the Edakkal Caves, with all the ancient carvings made by our ancestors, going back thousands of years.
After you have taken in all of the amazing views of Wayanad, do not forget to see Soochipara Falls and Meenmutty Falls, to see how beautifully water falls down over the boulders and where nature's amazing power flows.
Wayanad is a great place to visit if you enjoy coffee, spices, tea and all of the beautiful fragrances that the various farm operations are generating. Wayanad is also the home of many of the many animals that we see in our country, including elephants, deer, and different kinds of large bison; and you can see them on a Tholpetty or Muthanga forest safari.
Wayanad is a wonderful place, full of hills, and is an inviting place to drive through and explore. You can experience Culture, Beauty, Food, and Adventure.
Ponmudi - the Golden Crown of Trivandrum Hills
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As its name suggests, Ponmudi (golden crown) is a "golden" location due to its brilliant light during sunrise and sunset, it is also a pristine, untouched hill station, situated in the southernmost part of Kerala. Many of the visitors who come to Kerala will take a day trip to visit Kochi, Ponmudi, and Trivandrum, as this is a very scenic drive.
The road trip to Ponmudi is a great adventure; with 22 turns as you ascend into the hills and as you travel, the fog gently moves through the valleys as you make your way up to Ponmudi. The view from the top of Ponmudi is breathtaking; mountain range after mountain range, all various shades of green, and the clouds hovering just above your head.
What to do at Ponmudi:
Trekking, especially to Agasthyarkoodam
Visit waterfalls and dip in the river
Experience summer temperatures and enjoy cool weather at night
Stay at one of the many resorts near Ponmudi, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Ponmudi is also home to a variety of butterflies, rare bird species, and shola forests that make it a paradise for nature photographers. If you want an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy the sound of birds and breezes, then Ponmudi is a good choice for you!
Nelliyampathy — Kerala’s Hidden Green Paradise
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The exceptional beauty of Nelliyampathy, which hasn't yet become touristy, is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a less commercial hill destination. It is often dubbed as the "Queen of Palakkad Hills" because of its charm, scenic beauty, and peaceful environment that offers thick forests, beautiful orange plantations and deep valleys that provide hours of enjoyable exploration! As you travel along the highway, you will find that you are constantly surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding plains. You will also see the stunningly beautiful Pothundi Reservoir - a true gem amongst the hills!
In addition to the coffee and tea plantations that provide a refreshing scent to the air, you will be treated to breathtaking views from several cliffside viewpoints such as Seetharkundu. For adventurers seeking a little more adventure in their travels into the mountains of Kerala, there are also hidden natural trails, small waterfalls and wildlife to see as you explore deeper into the forests of Nelliyampathy.
What is even better than being surrounded by this incredible beauty is being able to experience all of it in complete solitude, without a single tourist in sight. There are no crowds, no rushing tourists - just total tranquillity. When the day comes to an end, the only thing that separates you from the beauty of the hills is a lovely cup of freshly made plantation tea, of Western Ghats, away from city chaos and touristy hype — Nelliyampathy is pure gold as you watch the mist from the mountains slowly disappear into the background as they quietly fall asleep.
Peermade (Peerumedu) — Charming Hills with a Tea Aroma
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Peermade (or Peerumedu), located en route to Thekkady, is a soft and soothing hill station that boasts tea plantations; cardamom estates; soft hillsides; and cool breezes from the surrounding mountains. The name Peermade comes from a Sufi Saint named Peer Mohammed, which adds to the cultural richness of Peermade.
When you are in Peermade it feels like the environment is giving you a hug! You have access to tea gardens, spice farms, small waterfalls, and many hillside resorts, each surrounded by lush green vegetation. Due to the cool air in Peermade, it has been considered a natural wellness retreat for centuries.
Nearby attractions include Pattumala, the Parunthumpara viewpoint and Vagamon meadows, creating a beautiful place to explore without rushing.
Lovebirds visit the area to enjoy the resorts that cater to such couples. Families visit for the peaceful environment. Photographers visit for the 'Kodak' moments at every single bend on the hills.
If you are looking for simplicity, greenery, and fresh air, Peermade is your perfect place!
Athirappilly - Vazhachal Hills: Kerala's "Mountain + Waterfall" Combo
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Most people recognize Athirappilly for its amazing waterfalls, which are commonly referred to as "The Niagara Falls of India." Many people do not realize that the surrounding area is mountainous, with many large green forests - part of the famous Western Ghats.
When you drive from Kochi to Athirappilly, the scenery begins to change dramatically. There are streams beside the road, monkeys on the trees, and the mist rising up as you get further up into the hills. A few kilometers from the site of the famous waterfalls, Vazhachal Waterfall is another excellent place to see the beauty of the hills and the powerful force of nature surrounding it.
If you're lucky, you might see some rare wildlife. The area is home to some of the last remaining habitats for the Great Indian Hornbill, one of the largest species of hornbills in the world.
For nature lovers, this area is full of exciting opportunities, from hiking routes to river view points and scenic trails that take you deep into the forests.
Did you know that this area was also featured in some of the most iconic movie scenes from movies like "Baahubali"?
So if you're looking for all of these things, combined with breathtaking scenery, cool temperatures, and powerful waterfalls, Athirappilly Hills is where you need to go!
Malakkappara — Scenic Hills Wrapped in Tea & Forest Trails
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Malakkappara - A location with lush trees, trails, and a history of producing tea. Located on the border between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, this quaint area offers an experience away from your everyday environment.
The area is home to numerous stunning tea gardens and dense rainforests that belong to the Sholayar mountain range. The trip to Malakkappara feels rejuvenating after traveling through it. You will find tall trees forming a natural arch in the tree canopies and sunlight shining through the foliage like gold threads.
You will have a good chance to see wild animals, including elephants, deer, monkeys, and if you are fortunate enough, you might even see a leopard! The weather is cool and the environment is serene, making it a wonderful destination for a relaxing vacation complete with short hiking trips, stunning photo opportunities, and plenty of tea stops at charming local tea plantations.
Because is less commercialized than other hill stations in Kerala, you can expect to experience the beauty of nature without having hordes of people infringing on that experience. This is the best location for anyone who loves natural beauty and the calmness of a wooded area. If you are a person who is inclined to enjoy nature, you will instantly fall in love with Malakkappara.
Thommankuthu Hills — Waterfall Wonderland for Nature Lovers
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Thommankuthu, 27 km from Kochi, is an experience you should not miss if waterfalls excite you! Notable for having a large seven-staged waterfall, the Thommankuthu area is filled with hills and rocks as well as tranquil flowing water at every level. You will encounter the beauty of nature through guided or unassisted walks; this is the best way to see nature up close!
The trek on the waterfall trail is the highlight of your trip. There will be pools at each of the seven stages of the waterfall, which makes it ideal for taking nature photos or simply observing them. While you are there, look for butterflies flitting around and birds singing among the trees. The sound of running water is very soothing too, making this a great place to de-stress.
The ambience of Thommankuthu is very fresh, neat and peaceful because it is not a popular destination for tourists yet. Thommankuthu is a perfect family getaway, a great place for everyone who is into nature and eco-adventures and for those who are looking for a relaxing time in the hills. You don’t need fog to have an incredible experience at a hill station! Some people come to Thommankuthu to enjoy waterfalls, while others come to relax and feel the serenity of nature create a positive energy in their lives.
Meesapulimala — The Mountain of Clouds & Adventure
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Meesapulimala is located in the Western Ghats mountain range of Southern India. This mountain is the second tallest mountain in Southern India, and offers some of the best views of nature that anyone can find. The mists of the hilltops drift along rolling hills and create an incredible sense of adventure while hiking through this area. With all that Meesapulimala offers, you are guaranteed to create memories for life.
You will have the opportunity to explore:
- Forests of Shola (wet tree) with many flowers
- Grassy plains with beautiful wildflower fields
- Valleys between the mountains
- Viewing stations above the clouds
As you begin your journey up Meesapulimala, you will feel as though you have entered a new kind of heaven. When you finally reach the summit of Meesapulimala, the view is breathtaking as you will see layer upon layer of towering mountain ranges with rays of sunshine peeking through the clouds and the intensity of the warm sun. You will also feel the strength of the wind that is stirring your spirit.
When you get to experience camping at Meesapulimala, sitting under the stars (you must have the proper permits), it will be one of the most magical experiences you will have in Kerala.
Suryanelli — Sunrise Views That Touch the Heart
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Suryanelli Hill Station, which is located close to Munnar, is a serene Destination that has Magnificent sunrise spots and an expansive area covered with tea plantation fields. The word "Suryanelli" translates as "Land of the Sun," and it's easy to see why once you experience a sunrise there; when the sun rises above the mountain ranges, it transforms the landscape into a golden hue.
Suryanelli is your starting point to many exhilarating opportunities for adventure:
- Kolukkumalai - the highest tea plantation in the world
- Off-roading jeep safari adventures through a foggy mountain
- Hiking to mountain view locations surrounded by clouds
If you prefer peace over the hustle and bustle of the More touristy center of Munnar, Suryanelli offers the same scenic beauty with the added benefit of tranquility. The cool breeze blowing through winding roads surrounded by peaceful villages filled with welcoming locals, plus the pervasive scent of fresh tea, all create a utopia for rest and relaxation.
Suryanelli is a sensuous experience, and whether you take pictures, enjoy nature, or simply relax from the balcony of a scenic resort, Suryanelli is a place that will steal your heart slowly and beautifully.
Vattavada: A Slice of Heaven and Kerala's Vegetable Village in the Skies
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Nestled in the clouds, Vattavada is a hidden treasure near the town of Munnar. Vattavada has a cool, cloudy climate that results in fresh, delectable produce such as strawberries, carrots, etc. You can get them directly from their respective farms.
Vattavada offers an expanse of gorgeous rolling hills to the horizon, with a stunningly clear blue sky, chill winds, and nights filled with bright stars. Vattavada is the ideal location for those that enjoy country charm and being in the hills.
Vattavada is a great place for trekkers. There are a number of fantastic trekking routes that lead from Vattavada into beautiful forests, stunning lookouts, and secret waterfalls. While walking among all the trees, it is so quiet and peaceful, and the air feels clean, and when you look up in the night sky, you will see thousands of twinkling stars that are brighter than any other place.
Top Station — Where Kerala Meets the Clouds
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Top Station is one of the most popular and must-visit locations in the state of Kerala. The beauty of Top Station will leave visitors speechless — as you drive up the hill from Kochi, you will be greeted with a breathtaking view of mountains for as far as the eye can see, deep valleys shrouded in a veil of mist with clouds drifting all around like fluffy cotton balls.
In addition to being an incredibly popular destination for sunrise, where the colors of the sky change from blue, to orange, to gold in just a matter of minutes, photographers flock to the area, couples have their romantic moments there and adventure enthusiasts can trek along one of the many trails that are close by, providing even more dramatic views of the ridges.
Top Station is also famous for the Neelakurinji flower, which only blooms every 12 years and when it does, the whole hillside turns into a purple spectacle! Even during normal times, the wind, silence and the majestic views give visitors the feeling of being at the top of the world.
How to Reach These Hill Stations from Kochi — Distances & Best Routes
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The distance between Kochi and these Hill Stations, how to get there, and what are the best routes? Kochi is well positioned to serve as the starting point for visiting these hill destinations. The roads to these hill destinations are smooth, scenic, and very enjoyable to drive.
Most of the visitors will travel to these hill stations by road. You can hire a private vehicle, take a taxi or take a state-owned/private bus service to get to these hill stations. You can also rent a self-driven car.
Visit these hill stations from Kochi; here are some approximate travel times to each of them:
- Munnar - 3-4 hours
- Vagamon - 3 hours
- Idukki Hills - 3-3.5 hours
- Thekkady - 4 hours
- Wayanad - 6-7 hours (this route will take longer, but it is worth it)
- Ponmudi - 5-6 hours (this route goes south).
You will be travelling through dense forests, tea plantations and small towns, so make sure you take the time to stop for chai. When you are travelling to more distant locations, such as Wayanad, plan on starting your journey early in the morning.
If you prefer public transport:
Traveling via public transportation is an excellent option as it allows people to enjoy a bus service connecting hills to Kochi with KSRTC Buses. However, there are occasional examples of direct bus connections with slight variations in their schedule, and usually, there is a changeover to another bus in Kottayam or Muvattupuzha.
Day driving on the hilly route is much safer than driving through foggy conditions during the night. The experience of driving through the hills really gives you a road trip experience similar to vacation enjoyment!
Food & Local Culture — Taste the Hills, Taste Kerala
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Kerala's hill stations provide a plethora of authentic and fresh-tasting food. Kerala's tea industry offers inhabitants and visitors an unparalleled tea experience, providing fresh plantation tea that inspires and refreshes one's spirit.
In addition to the beverage, other delectable and flavourful snacks include: crispy pazham pori or banana fritters, vellayappam or a fluffy rice pancake that pairs perfectly with curry; and kadala curry, a spicy Kerala dish using black chickpeas. Spices cultivated locally such as black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon are incorporated into these meals and contribute to their delightful aromas.
When travelling to Marthandam and Idukki, you're treated to delicious, authentic dishes from the spice route that are made with regional ingredients. The Munnar area is known for its artisan chocolates and other baked goods, both of which make wonderful gifts to take back home.
In addition to their culinary offerings, the region's hill stations possess the characteristics of calm and friendly; when visiting small villages and tribal cultures, as well as working agricultural communities, visitors feel the warmth of these communities.
Many handmade products and traditional shawls and fabrics serve as reminders of your time in Kerala. Eating locally supports local communities and provides guests with a unique, flavour-filled experience they'll never forget.
When to Go to the Hill Stations Close to Kochi
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Hill stations close to Kochi can be visited any time of year; however, each season brings a significantly different experience and the best time to visit depends on your individual preference. Most visitors find that the best time to hike, sightsee, and take photographs is from October through February when the weather is cooler than the summer months with fewer rainy days. Therefore couples and families preparing for a nice relaxing vacation would benefit from planning their visit during this time frame as it will be the least crowded time.
From March to May the temperatures do rise somewhat; however, the temperatures are still considerably moderate compared to Kochi, making it a good option for those needing to escape from the city and the heat of summer. Some of the top hill stations to visit in the summer months would be Vagamon, Munnar, and Meesapulimala.
The Monsoon period runs from June through September, and this period transforms the hills into a lush green paradise. The amount of rain during this period produces a greater number of waterfalls and provides the opportunity for you to experience the beauty of mist covering the hills; however, many roads can become slippery due to the rains and fog covering the hills, and therefore you need to exercise caution while driving and avoid high-risk trekking areas.
If you're looking for a less stressful environment and would prefer not to have as many other tourists around you, visiting the hill stations on weekdays during the shoulder months (February or September) would provide some of the best weather and very little congestion. Therefore, if your city lifestyle becomes too noisy or if you would like to experience the beauty of the hills of Kerala in relative calm you should visit with us.
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