Top 10 Best Road Trips From Kochi
Kochi, often called the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is not just a gateway to beautiful destinations but a vibrant city that blends tradition with modernity. Road trips from Kochi are a perfect way to discover serene beaches, lush green hills, exotic wildlife, and architectural marvels, making every journey unforgettable.
List of Places Near Kochi for a Road Trip
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Best Road Trips From Kochi: Within 100 km
Explore the top 10 road trip destinations from Kochi that promise unforgettable experiences and scenic drives:
1. Kumarakom | 50 km
Embark on a captivating road journey from Kochi to the idyllic backwaters of Kumarakom. Traverse lush greenery and quaint villages, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Kerala. Experience the charm of the backwaters and the tranquillity of Kumarakom.
- Best Time to Visit: September to March.
- Popularity: Boathouse and water activities.
- Activities to Do: Enjoy in boat house, sunbathing and swimming.
- Ideal Route: Kochi - Cherthala - Kumarakom.
2. Alleppey | 53 km
A road trip to Alleppey unveils the enchanting world of backwaters and houseboats. Known as the 'Venice of the East', it's a place where water becomes a way of life, offering serene boat cruises and lush paddy fields.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Activities to do: Houseboat cruises, bird watching, and spa treatments.
- Popularity: Renowned for backwater cruises, Nehru Trophy Boat Race, and Alleppey Beach.
- Ideal Route: Kochi - Aroor - Alleppey.
3. Ezhattumugham Nature Village | 58 km
The road trip to Ezhattumugham Nature Village from Kochi is a journey to a serene haven nestled amidst lush greenery and peaceful surroundings. This eco-tourism destination offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
- Best Time to Visit: September to February.
- Popularity: Hanging bridge, dam and oil palm plantation.
- Activities to Do: Picnicking, nature walks, and photography.
- Ideal Route: Kochi - Angamaly - Ezhattumugham.
4. Athirapally | 87 km
The road trip to Athirapally from Kochi leads to the majestic Athirapally Waterfalls, often referred to as the 'Niagara of India'. Surrounded by lush forests and scenic landscapes, Athirapally is a breathtaking sight to behold.
- Best Time to Visit: September to January.
- Popularity: Famous for its waterfalls and natural landscapes.
- Activities to Do: Waterfall visits, trekking, and bird watching.
- Ideal Route: Kochi - Aluva - Athirapally.
5. Thrissur | 89 km
Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala, is a short road trip from Kochi and is celebrated for its religious sites, cultural institutions, and the famous Thrissur Pooram festival. Its rich heritage and vibrant festivals make it a fascinating destination.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Popularity: Famous for Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur Pooram, and cultural festivals.
- Activities to do: Visit Vadakkunnathan Temple, attend the Thrissur Pooram festival, and shop for traditional artifacts.
- Ideal Route: Kochi - Aluva - Thrissur.
Best Road Trips From Kochi: Within 200 km
6. Vagamon | 102 km
Vagamon's road trip is an escape into the lap of nature, with meandering paths leading to this hill station known for its meadows, valleys, and pine forests. It's a spot for adventure enthusiasts and those seeking peace.
- Best Time to Visit: December to May.
- Popularity: Tea gardens, beautiful meadows and green valleys.
- Activities to Do: Paragliding, trekking, and nature walks.
- Ideal Route: Kochi - Thodupuzha - Vagamon.
7. Munnar | 128 km
The drive to Munnar is a visual treat, with routes winding through lush green tea plantations and mist-covered hills. Munnar, a haven for nature lovers, offers serene landscapes and a cool climate, making it a perfect retreat.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
Popularity: Tea estates, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.
Activities to do: Explore tea gardens, trek to Anamudi Peak, and visit Mattupetty Dam.
Ideal Route: Kochi - Adimali - Munnar.
Best Road Trips From Kochi: Within 300 km
8. Trivandrum | 204 km
A road trip to Trivandrum from Kochi is a journey through Kerala's cultural and architectural marvels. The city is a mix of urban dynamics and traditional ethos, with attractions ranging from ancient temples to space centres.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Popularity: Known for the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum and Kovalam beach.
- Activities to Do: Temple visits, museum tours, and beach outings.
- Ideal Route: Kochi - Kollam - Trivandrum.
Best Road Trips From Kochi: Beyond 300 km
9. Kanyakumari | 303 km
The road trip to Kanyakumari from Kochi is a journey to the southernmost tip of India, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean converge. The breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset over the horizon are mesmerising.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Popularity: Famous for its stunning vistas, Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue.
- Activities to Do: Sunrise and sunset views, temple visits, and memorial exploration.
- Ideal Route: Kochi - Alappuzha - Trivandrum - Kanyakumari.
10. Mysore | 399 km
The road trip to Mysore traverses through scenic landscapes, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Mysore, known for its majestic palaces, ancient temples, and vibrant festivals, provides a glimpse into the royal heritage of India.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Popularity: Heritage city, Artifacts of sandalwood and rosewood.
- Activities to Do: City Palaces visits, zoo exploration, and shopping.
- Ideal Route: Kochi - Thrissur - Coimbatore - Mysore
Whether you're winding through the hills of Munnar, exploring the cultural depth of Thrissur, or cruising the backwaters of Alleppey, each journey promises unique experiences. These road trip destinations near Kochi showcase the diverse beauty of Kerala and its neighbouring states, making every trip a memorable one.
FAQs about Road Trips from Kochi
How to reach Munnar from Kochi?
There are only two road routes from Munnar to Kochi: NH85 and NH544. The distance from Kochi to Munnar via NH85 is 127 km, and via NH544, it is 135 km.
Is Vagamon better or Munnar?
It depends on your choice as Vagamon is known for its peaceful natural vibes while Munnar is more of a scenic attraction place.
How many days are required to visit Vagamon?
On average, one day can be enough to visit Vagamon, but two days must be considered to explore the place and activities like paragliding.
What is the distance between Kochi and Vagamon?
The distance between Kochi and Vagamon is 102 km which takes 2 hr 57 min to reach.
Are there any guided tours available for day trips from Kochi?
Yes, there are guided tours available for day trips from Kochi. These include heritage walking, backwater excursions, and Tuk Tuk tours.
How long does it take to reach Wayanad from Kochi by road?
The distance between Wayanad and Kochi is 260 km, and it takes a minimum of 8 hours to reach Wayanad from Kochi.
How many days are enough for a road trip from Kochi to Mysore?
For a 5-hour road trip from Kochi to Mysore, allowing 3 to 4 days would be ideal to fully experience the journey and explore the attractions along the way.
Is it safe to drive to Munnar at night?
No, driving to Munnar at night can be risky due to narrow roads, limited visibility, and potential wildlife encounters. It's advisable to undertake the journey during daylight hours for a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Can I rent a car for a road trip from Kochi?
Yes, car rental services are readily available in Kochi, allowing you to rent a vehicle for your road trip adventure easily.
Is Ezhattumugham Nature Village farther from Vagamon than from Kumarakom?
No, Ezhattumugham Nature Village is further from Kumarakom than from Vagamon.
Is Athirapally closer to Ezhattumugham Nature Village than to Kumarakom?
No, Athirapally is closer to Kumarakom than to Ezhattumugham Nature Village.
Can one enjoy a tranquil stay amidst nature at Vagamon during the road trip?
Yes. Vagamon offers serene landscapes and cosy accommodations for a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
Are there opportunities for bird watching at Ezhattumugham Nature Village?
Yes. Ezhattumugham Nature Village provides excellent birdwatching opportunities amidst its lush greenery and diverse ecosystems.
Is there an option for adventure activities like trekking in the vicinity of Munnar?
Yes. Munnar's surrounding hills offer excellent trekking opportunities for adventure enthusiasts.
Can travellers explore the unique biodiversity of the Western Ghats near Athirapally?
Yes. Athirapally and its surroundings are part of the Western Ghats, boasting unique biodiversity for travellers to explore.
Can travellers experience a houseboat stay in the backwaters of Alleppey?
Yes. Alleppey offers houseboat stays amidst its tranquil backwaters, allowing travellers to enjoy a unique accommodation experience.
What are best, budget-friendly hotels in Kanyakumari within a family?
Yes. Budget-friendly rental accommodations are available in Munnar and Kanyakumari, catering to various preferences and budgets.
Do local transportation services operate between Alleppey and Kumarakom for convenient travel?
Yes. Local transportation services are available between Alleppey and Kumarakom, ensuring convenient travel options for visitors.
Are there options for water sports activities in Trivandrum or Vagamon for adventure seekers?
Yes. Trivandrum and Vagamon offer water sports activities, providing thrilling experiences for adventure seekers amidst picturesque landscapes.
Are there options for camping sites in Munnar or Athirapally for outdoor enthusiasts?
Yes. Camping sites are available in Munnar and Athirapally, providing outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities to connect with nature under the starlit sky.
Do homestay options exist in Vagamon or Kanyakumari for travellers seeking authentic cultural experiences?
Yes. Vagamon and Kanyakumari offer homestay options, providing travellers with authentic cultural experiences and warm hospitality from local hosts.