Distance Between Ooty Kodaikanal and Munnar

[Munjal]

I am planning a road trip which would start from Ooty then I will go towards Kodaikanal and end at Munnar. These hill station destinations have been decided because they are famous tourist places, and it will give us a chance to see parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

To spend an equal time at each destination, I would like to know the distance between Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Munnar so I know how many days we would require for the road trip.

Any other tips and advice would be great.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Bonzer]

If you plan to go by road, the distance between Ooty and Kodaikanal is 255 Km. You'll encounter several treacherous hairpin bends and high-risk driveways. It's best to engage a professional driver. However, you get to see panoramic sceneries and locations all along. Both places are picturesque themselves.

From Kodaikanal to Munnar is another 165 Km. Congratulations for selecting a wonderful trip. Have a nice time. Good Luck!

 

[briannagodess]

Hello and welcome to the forum, @Munjal!

The distance between Ooty and Kodaikanal is about 250 kms by Palani-Kodaikanal road. That can take anywhere between six to seven hours to travel, depending on the traffic and stopovers you take. From Kodaikanal to Munnar, the distance is about 162.6 kms via National Highway 85. That can take anywhere between four to five hours to travel, again depending on traffic and stopovers. The total distance you have to cover is 412.6 kms which is about 10 to 12 hours of travel time in total.

If you have your own car, then it's better to bring it. As far as I know, there are no direct buses from Ooty to Kodaikanal and you'd have to take a taxi to reach the latter. This can be quite costly as compared to riding a bus. You can board indirect buses but that can take longer. Your best option would be to hire a cab or bring your own. Bringing your own car is better as you can control the stopovers and you can enjoy the scenic journey more.

This the route you have to take from Ooty to Kodaikanal: Ooty > Mettupalayam > Annur > Palladam > Dharapuram > Palani > Kodaikanal.

And this is the route you have to take from Kodaikanal to Munnar: Kodaikanal > Theni > Bhodinayanur > Munnar.

Consider spending at least two days each for each destination as well to fully enjoy your trip.

I hope this helps! Have fun!

 

[Admin]

Distance Between Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Munnar – Updated Travel Guide (2025)​

Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Munnar are three of the most scenic hill stations in South India, located in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Many travelers often plan a trip covering all three destinations, so here’s a detailed guide on distances, travel time, and best routes.

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Distance Chart – Ooty to Kodaikanal to Munnar​

Route	Distance	Travel Time (Approx.)	Best Mode of Travel
Ooty → Kodaikanal	250 km	6 - 7 hours	Car/Bus via NH181 & NH44
Kodaikanal → Munnar	160 km	5 - 6 hours	Car/Bus via Udumalpet
Ooty → Munnar (Direct)	240 km	6 - 7 hours	Car/Bus via Coimbatore

Best Route: Ooty → Kodaikanal → Munnar offers a smooth journey covering all three destinations.
Scenic Route: Ooty → Coimbatore → Pollachi → Udumalpet → Munnar is the most picturesque.
Public Transport: TNSTC & KSRTC buses operate between these hill stations, but direct options are limited.

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How to Travel Between These Hill Stations?​

Ooty to Kodaikanal

• By Road: Direct buses are limited; private taxis and self-drive cars are recommended.
• Via Train: Nearest railway station is Coimbatore, from where you can take a train to Dindigul and a bus/taxi to Kodaikanal.

Kodaikanal to Munnar

• By Road: The best way is by car or bus via Udumalpet, passing through Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
• By Bus: No direct bus; take a bus to Theni, then another to Munnar.

Ooty to Munnar (Direct)

• By Car: A scenic 6-7 hour drive via Coimbatore.
• By Bus: TNSTC and KSRTC operate buses with a change at Coimbatore or Pollachi.

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FAQs About Ooty - Kodaikanal - Munnar Route​

1. Which route is best for a road trip covering Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Munnar?
A circular route: Ooty → Kodaikanal → Munnar → Ooty (via Coimbatore) is ideal for sightseeing.
2. Are there direct buses from Ooty to Kodaikanal or Munnar?
Direct buses are limited, and most options require a transfer at Coimbatore or Udumalpet.
3. What is the best time to visit these hill stations?

• Ooty: March - June, September - January
• Kodaikanal: Year-round, best between October - June
• Munnar: September - March for lush greenery

4. How are the road conditions?

• Ooty to Kodaikanal: Well-maintained highways, but some hilly terrain near Kodaikanal.
• Kodaikanal to Munnar: Scenic but includes narrow, winding ghat roads.

5. How long does it take to explore each place?

• Ooty: 2-3 days (Botanical Garden, Doddabetta, Coonoor trip)
• Kodaikanal: 2-3 days (Lake, Pillar Rocks, Coaker’s Walk)
• Munnar: 2-3 days (Tea Gardens, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam)