Kochi to Munnar Full Day Tour with Eravikulam, lockhart and Lunch

Exploring the Kochi to Munnar Full Day Tour with Eravikulam, Lockhart, and Lunch

Planning a trip from Kochi to Munnar can feel overwhelming with so many options—this particular tour, offered by GV Trip Buggy, promises an engaging and comprehensive day filled with nature, culture, and some well-earned relaxation. With a rated 5 out of 5 based on four reviews, it’s clear that travelers find this experience worth the investment.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the carefully curated itinerary, the opportunity to see iconic sights like Cheeyappara Waterfalls and Eravikulam National Park, and the chance to sample authentic Kerala cuisine. The knowledgeable driver-guide, Mr. Jithindas, earns special praise for his flexibility and regional expertise.

A potential consideration is the long travel time—roughly six hours round-trip, not including stops—so comfort and patience are key. This tour suits those who want a full, immersive day without the hassle of planning transportation or timings, especially if you’re keen on a guided experience that covers multiple highlights in one go.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience that covers natural, cultural, and scenic sites in Munnar.
• Comfortable transportation with an air-conditioned vehicle and experienced guide.
• Inclusion of meals and entrance fees simplifies planning and adds value.
• Flexible and knowledgeable guide enhances the experience and helps navigate the day.
• Ideal for travelers looking for a hassle-free, comprehensive day trip from Kochi.
• Good for those who appreciate scenic drives, photo stops, and local insights.

The Journey Begins in Kochi

Starting from Ernakulam, the tour kicks off with a comfortable pickup from your hotel, airport, or railway station. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the 3-hour drive to Munnar a breeze, allowing you to relax and take in the passing scenery. The route itself is scenic, with lush greenery and glimpses of rural India, setting the tone for what’s to come.

This initial stretch is a great opportunity to get excited about the day ahead, and most travelers appreciate the door-to-door service, especially when managing luggage or limited time. The driver, Mr. Jithindas, is noted for his friendliness and regional knowledge, often sharing tips and local insights along the way.

Cheeyappara Waterfalls: A Refreshing Photo Stop

The first official stop is at Cheeyappara Waterfalls, a stunning cascade that offers a quick but memorable photo opportunity. With a brief 20-minute window, travelers can stretch their legs, snap some pics, and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Reviewers mention how perfect this stop is for a quick break before heading into the heart of the hills. It’s a highlight that makes for a great Instagram shot, and you might find yourself lingering longer than planned due to the serene atmosphere.

Exploring Eravikulam National Park

The main attraction of the day is Eravikulam National Park, famed for its rolling green hills, expansive grasslands, and the rare Nilgiri Tahr. Visiting the park is a highlight for many, and the included entrance tickets mean you can skip the lines and focus on enjoying your time.

Most reviews emphasize the park’s spectacular scenery—mountain views, lush meadows, and the chance to see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr in their natural habitat. The guide often helps spot wildlife and points out interesting facts, making it a more enriching experience.

Expect around two hours here, giving you enough time to walk through the well-maintained paths, enjoy the panoramic views, and learn from your guide about the area’s unique ecology. Many visitors note that the landscapes resemble scenes from a postcard, with rolling hills blending into the horizon.

Traditional Kerala Lunch

Refueling comes with a delicious, authentic Kerala meal at a local restaurant. The included lunch is not just about satisfying hunger but also about tasting regional flavors—think rice, spicy curries, fresh chutneys, and possibly some traditional sweets.

Travelers often comment on how much they appreciate the opportunity to experience local cuisine during their trip, adding a cultural layer to the day. The timing—about 30 minutes—allows for a relaxed meal before continuing on.

Lockhart Tea Museum and Garden Walks

Next up is the Lockhart Tea Museum, where you get a behind-the-scenes look at tea production, from plucking fresh leaves to brewing the perfect cup. The included tea-tasting session is a favorite, giving you a chance to savor some of Munnar’s finest teas.

Following the museum visit, you’re invited to stroll through tea gardens, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, and learning about tea cultivation from the lush surroundings. Reviewers love the serenity of the tea plantations and the chance to take photos amid endless rows of green bushes.

Scenic Photo Stops and Gap Road Drive

The tour continues with stops at Photo Point—a must-visit for capturing sweeping views of the hills and tea plantations—and along the Gap Road in Munnar, known for its misty vistas and winding curves. Both spots are perfect for snapping memorable pictures and soaking in the scenery.

The 10-minute drive along Gap Road is particularly praised for its breathtaking views. Many reviewers mention how the landscapes resemble a painter’s canvas—mist-shrouded hills, patchworks of tea, and distant valleys.

Return to Kochi

After a full day of sightseeing, the group is comfortably driven back to Ernakulam. The 3-hour return journey allows for reflection on the day’s highlights, and most travelers appreciate the comfortable, air-conditioned ride.

What’s Included and What Not

This tour’s price of $100.22 per person offers good value, considering everything included: transportation, all entrance fees, lunch, tea tasting, and a knowledgeable driver-guide. The group size is private, which means a more personalized experience with fewer crowds.

However, note that personal expenses and breakfast are not included—so plan accordingly if you want an early start or additional snacks. Since it’s a full-day experience, packing light snacks or water might be helpful, despite bottled water being provided.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Reviewers highlight the expertise and friendliness of Mr. Jithindas, who is praised for his flexibility and familiarity with the region. One reviewer mentioned how he “knows everything about the region” and took the group to the “perfect viewpoints,” which truly enhances the experience.

Many appreciate the stunning scenery and the opportunity to see rare wildlife, with one noting that the viewpoints and factory visits are “a must-do” for anyone wanting a well-rounded trip. Despite some adverse weather affecting the waterfalls during a rain, travelers still consider the overall experience memorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day trip is ideal for first-time visitors who want an overview of Munnar’s highlights without the stress of planning. Nature lovers will enjoy the scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and lush green landscapes, while culture enthusiasts gain insight into tea production and regional cuisine.

It’s perfect for those who prefer guided tours that include transportation, entrance fees, and meals—saving you time and hassle. If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and scenic adventure, this tour ticks most boxes.

The Sum Up

This Kochi to Munnar full-day tour offers an excellent combination of nature, culture, and comfort. With expert guides, seamless logistics, and inclusive pricing, it’s a hassle-free way to explore some of Kerala’s most beautiful sights in one day.

Travelers seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, authentic food, and scenic views will find this tour highly satisfying. It’s especially suited for first-timers or those with limited time who want a curated experience without sacrificing quality.

While the journey is long, the stops and sights make it worthwhile, and the knowledgeable guide makes all the difference in turning a long day into an enriching adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for pickup and drop-off from your hotel, airport, or railway station in Ernakulam.

How long is the total drive from Kochi to Munnar and back? The total travel time is approximately 6 hours, including stops, with 3 hours each way.

Are meals included? Yes, a traditional Kerala lunch is part of the tour, along with bottled water.

What are the main sightseeing stops? The key stops include Cheeyappara Waterfalls, Eravikulam National Park, Lockhart Tea Museum, tea gardens, Photo Point, and Gap Road.

Can I customize this tour? As a private tour, it’s designed for your group, so guides may be flexible with timings or certain stops if requested in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers? The itinerary involves some walking and a full day of sightseeing, so it’s best for those who are comfortable with long days and light outdoor activity.

This full-day journey from Kochi to Munnar offers an authentic taste of Kerala’s scenic beauty and local culture, all while providing the comfort and guidance needed for a memorable trip. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photo enthusiast, or simply looking to explore Kerala’s hill stations without the fuss, this tour is worth considering.