Short way to munnar – just before neryamangalam town to munnar
Here is a comprehensive itinerary and FAQ guide for traveling from just before Neriamangalam Town to Munnar along National Highway 85 (NH 85).
Overview of the Route
- Starting Point: Before Neriamangalam Town (Ranikallu / Periyar River Bank)
- Ending Point: Munnar Town
- Distance: Approx. 60 km
- Driving Time: ~2 to 2.5 hours (excluding sight-seeing stops)
- Highlights: Arch bridge over Periyar, cascading roadside waterfalls, spice gardens, viewpoints, and sprawling tea plantations.
Suggested Tour Itinerary (1-Day En-Route Tour)
Morning: The Gateway & Waterfalls (8:30 AM – 11:30 AM)
- Ranikallu (Royal Stone – Just before Neriamangalam Bridge)
- Stop Time: 15 mins
- Highlights: A historical stone marker built during the Travancore Royal era indicating the start of the high-range road to Munnar.
- Neriamangalam Arch Bridge
- Stop Time: 15 mins
- Highlights: Built across the Periyar River in 1935, this iconic bridge is known as the “Gateway to the High Ranges of Idukki.” Perfect spot for photographs with scenic river views.
- Cheeyappara Waterfalls
- Location: ~11 km past Neriamangalam Bridge
- Stop Time: 30–45 mins
- Highlights: A stunning seven-tier waterfall cascading right beside the national highway. Great for photography and refreshing tender coconut or local snacks.
- Valara Waterfalls
- Location: ~1 km after Cheeyappara
- Stop Time: 20 mins
- Highlights: A thick jungle-surrounded waterfall plunging down a high cliff. Best viewed from the roadside viewpoint.
Midday: Spices & Lunch in Adimali (11:30 AM – 2:00 PM)
- Spice Plantation Visit (En-route to Adimali)
- Stop Time: 45 mins
- Highlights: Guided walk through local gardens growing cardamom, pepper, vanilla, and cinnamon.
- Lunch at Adimali Town
- Stop Time: 45 mins – 1 hour
- Highlights: Enjoy authentic Kerala lunch/Thali at one of the popular local restaurants in Adimali.
Afternoon: Scenic Drives & Tea Gardens (2:00 PM – 4:30 PM)
- Kallar Falls / Pipeline Viewpoint
- Stop Time: 20 mins
- Highlights: Beautiful viewpoints overlooking lush green valleys and hydroelectric pipelines winding through the hills.
- Attukad Waterfalls (Optional Detour near Pallivasal)
- Stop Time: 45 mins
- Highlights: Nestled inside rolling green hills and tea estates. Accessible via a narrow, adventurous road.
- Tea Garden Photo Stop (Pallivasal / Chithirapuram)
- Stop Time: 30 mins
- Highlights: Your first close encounter with Munnar’s famous tea carpeted hills before reaching the main town.
Late Afternoon: Arrival in Munnar (4:30 PM Onwards)
- Arrive at Munnar Town or check into your resort. Spend the evening visiting KDHP Tea Museum or exploring the local town market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the best time of day to start the drive from Neriamangalam?
- Answer: Morning between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM is ideal. You avoid heavy traffic, enjoy pleasant morning mist, and get clear daylight for photographing the waterfalls.
Q2: Are Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls visible throughout the year?
- Answer: Yes, but they are most full and majestic during and immediately after the monsoon season (June to November). During late summer (April to May), the water flow decreases, but they remain pleasant pit stops.
Q3: Is the road condition good, and is it safe for self-driving?
- Answer: The NH 85 stretch from Neriamangalam to Munnar is generally well-paved and smooth. However, it is a mountain road with sharp curves and hairpins. Drive cautiously, stay in your lane, and avoid speeding, especially in misty conditions.
Q4: Can we park near Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls?
- Answer: Roadside parking is available near both waterfalls. However, during peak holiday seasons, parking can get congested, so follow local traffic signs and park safely off the main carriageway.
Q5: Are there food and washroom facilities on this route?
- Answer: Yes. There are several cafes, tea stalls, and restaurants near Neriamangalam, Cheeyappara Waterfalls, and Adimali town with neat rest stop facilities.
Q6: Do we need entry tickets for Cheeyappara or Valara Waterfalls?
- Answer: No entry ticket is required as both waterfalls are visible directly from the public highway.