Munnar, a popular place in Kerala, wrapped with a divine tea garden cover across mountains showering a refreshing hue in the minds of the travelers. A simple hill station yet with enchanting views of tea gardens and mountains enrapturing the human hearts, an aura that’s charming and alluring. But most travelers forget to explore the breathtaking beaches near Munnar, which are bound to be a traveler’s delight if combined on a holiday with the tea gardens in Munnar. If you are a beach lover, be ready to float into a virtual world in the company of the beaches near Munnar.
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Without further ado, let us trigger our virtual journey into the popular beaches near Munnar and plan for a vacation in Kerala.
1. Cherai Beach
Distance from Munnar to Cherai Beach – 132 Kms ( 3 hrs 50 Minutes)
Cherai tops the list among the list of beaches near Munnar.
Indeed one of the most popular beaches near Munnar, bustling with visitors engaged in a multitude of activities. The beach is about 30 km away from Kochi and about 129.9 km from Munnar. Situated at a spectacular location near Vypin Island in Kochi, the beach enchants the visitors where one can witness the amalgamation of the sea waters and the backwaters. Besides the lush greenery that encompasses the beach enhances the charm, a perfect spot to spend a weekend or a vacation. The lining of the Chinese fishing nets near the beach brings in the local touch, along with watching the fishermen carrying on their daily activities.
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The entire beach spreads across 15 km, ideal for relaxing and spending the day and night observing nature’s exclusive beauty in front. Also known as the Princess of the Arabian Sea, the grandeur of the beach magnifies during the night with the high mask lamps illuminating and creating a magical effect much to the delight of the visitors. It is soothing to walk along the sands of the beach while feeling the breeze brushing past the face and hair. There is a park beside the beach for the kids to enjoy and play. And for the adventurous minds, there are opportunities to move on with the speedboats and water scooters, available on hire.
2. Fort Kochi Beach
Distance from Munnar to Fort Kochi Beach – 130 Kms ( 4 hrs 05 Minutes)
Fort Kochi comes just behind Cherai among the list of beaches near Munnar.
After a charming visit to Munnar, you will definitely desire to carry on with that scintillating effect and hence it is recommendable to visit Fort Kochi beach to continue with that lingering experience. The beauty and unique part of the beach is the rows of Chinese fishing nets at the banks, majestically ruling the environment. It’s awesome to sit and relax and watch the fishermen using the nets for their daily catch. And then witnessing the picturesque view of the sun setting beyond the horizon is a treat for the eyes.
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If you visit just before New Year, you will love to watch the Cochin Carnival held near the beach. The beach blooms with tourists from all over the world, engaged in various kinds of entertainment, and the beach restaurants bustling with the aroma of food and drinks. Just near the beach, there is Vasco Da Gama square which is a must-visit. You must not miss the seafood restaurants to hop on for lunch or dinner. The beach is about 130 km from the main area of Munnar.
3. Alappuzha Beach
Distance from Munnar to Alleppey Beach – 162 Kms ( 4 hrs 30 Minutes)
Alappuzha or Alleppey is a well-known name among tourists, especially because of the backwaters and its exotic flora and fauna. The beach is equally fascinating and is rated as one of the top beaches near Munnar. Situated at a comfortable distance of 162 km from Munnar, it portrays a vintage look with an old lighthouse and white sands. It is truly relaxing and calm to walk on the beach and immerse in the soothing freshness in the air. Another unique attraction at the beach is the pier which is 150 years old and extends into the sea where you can walk down and be amid the waters. The palm groves along the beach create a soothing atmosphere with its balmy breeze.
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Several amusement facilities are also available at its beach park named Vijaya. You can engage in many adventurous water sports like swimming, parasailing, and so on. Never forget to play the beach football and volleyball. Among its many attractions, is the sand art festival and the Nehru Trophy boat race in August, attracting thousands of tourists from different parts of India and abroad too.
4. Thumpoly Beach
Distance from Munnar to Thumpoly Beach – 159 Kms ( 4 hrs 30 Minutes)
If you are looking for an offbeat place to spend your weekend or vacation after visiting Munnar, then the best option is to add Thumpoly Beach to your itinerary. The intrinsic beauty of the beach is alluring, especially since it is so clean and well-maintained. Being hidden from the busy city life, the serenity dwelling in the beach is truly attractive. As the waves crash at the shores creating white fumes, the beach looks captivating, transporting the mind to a divine land.
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The beach has earned its name from the town of Thumpoly, located about 6km away from Alleppey. The sparking water of the canals, the lush greenery around, and the golden sands enhance the charm of the beach. You need to travel a distance of about 167km from Munnar to reach the beach. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea, the lake, and fishing villages, the beach blooms with flora and fauna. You can treat your ears with the melodious chirping of birds from various species. The lines of palm trees adorn the beach and create an air of freshness that soothes the mind and the body. The majestic hills in the background magnify the beauty of the beach to a greater extent. In other words, it is a heaven on earth.
5. Andhakaranazhi Beach
Distance from Munnar to Andhakaranazhi Beach – 144 Kms ( 4 hrs 20 Minutes)
Situated about 30 km from Kochi and 143.8 km from Munnar, Andhakaranazhi Beach is a must-visit while visiting Kerala. The village Andhakaranazhi is just present adjacent to the beach. This is one of the most prominent offbeat beaches near Munnar. If you want to spend your vacation in solitude with no crowds, hustle, and bustle, then the beach is a perfect choice. The beach is still not explored and converted into a business place. The tranquility and serenity at the beach are heavenly and tough to wade away from the place. It is essentially Azhy or a shoal formed as a ridge under the water. The ridge has come up to the surface to form the beach naturally.
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You can find the tourists find the fishermen with their nets near the shores, carrying on their daily activities of catching fish. Furthermore, the tourists will truly appreciate the charm and simplistic nature of the place.
6. Snehatheeram Beach
Distance from Munnar to Snehatheeram Beach – 159.7Kms ( 4 hrs 37 Minutes)
Snehatheeram Beach, the name itself has some special effect and you will feel the truth once you visit the place. The scenic beauty of the beach can be defined to be elegant and amazing. As the sea waters, sand and sun bind and twine with each other, they create a musical harmony that enthralls the mind and the heart. Strolling along the coastline, you will feel the essence of the place. Spending hours at the beach is like an addiction from which it is tough to free oneself, such is its aura and grandeur. Watching the sunset at the beach is another electrifying experience, with the golden rays of the sun creating a cascading effect of beauty in the sky. As you relax or walk along the beach, you will love to hear the waves crashing on the shores, a musical treat to the ears. As for the kids, they will love to run around and build sandcastles and some sand art too.
There are several spots on the beach where one can click some good photos to carry back as memories. The beauty is intoxicating at the beach and you will realize it once you are at the place. The distance of the beach from Munnar is about 159.7 km.
7. Varkala Beach
Distance from Munnar to Varkala Beach – 248 Kms ( 6 hrs 37 Minutes)
Located in the city of Varkala, about 248.1 km from Munnar, the beach is indeed one of the mind-blowing beaches near Munnar. Though you need some time to travel, yet you will not regret visiting the beach. The tranquility prevailing throughout the area is an experience one craves while being drastically wrapped by daily mundane activities. The name
“Varkala” essentially means “destroyer of sins”, and it truly portrays the meaning by its breathtaking views of the sea waters, lush greenery, and scenic views of the landscape. The northern part of the beach is the best part to be in, especially due to its location at the foot of the cliff. There is a natural spring frequented by the majority of the visitors for sprinkling oneself with the water.
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It is believed that the water near Varkala beach has medicinal properties and can cure many illnesses. Many people dip in the waters to purify themselves, a religious belief among the locals. Besides there are provisions for spa treatments, swimming, and sunbathing, which one can avail at any time of the day. You can go for a leisurely walk along the beach, soaking the heart and mind with a pleasant aura. If you are lucky then you may spot some dolphins in the sea waters, said to be the friends of human beings. For adventure lovers, there are plenty of activities to be involved in, like paragliding, snorkeling, parasailing, and windsurfing.
8. Kovalam Beach
Distance from Munnar to Kovalam Beach – 292 Kms ( 7 hrs 37 Minutes)
If you can travel a bit farther from Munnar, say about 292 km, then you will be able to visit a vintage classic beach called Lighthouse Beach in the southern part of Kerala. The beach is especially grand and famous because of the Vizhinjam Lighthouse. The lighthouse placed on a hillock creates a dreamy view of those of the storybooks. Built of stones, the lighthouse is beautiful in itself, being painted with stripes of red and white. There is a spiral staircase that helps to reach the top and then be mesmerized by the enthralling views of nature. The palm orchards and trees magnify the beauty of the beach to a great degree.
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Several opportunities for adventure sports are available at the beach premises for perfect entertainment like swimming, surfing, paragliding, and parasailing. Besides, several restaurants are serving delectable foods and drinks. If you want to stay near the beach and sleep hearing the gushing sound of the waves, then you won’t be left disappointed as there are many options for accommodation. The beauty of the beach is such magical that you will love to spend hours and click on some awesome pictures.
9. Payyambalam Beach
Distance from Munnar to Payyambalam Beach – 357 Kms ( 10 hrs 37 Minutes)
Situated about 357 km from Munnar in the Kannur district of Kerala is Payyambalam Beach. Nestled along the Malabar Coast, Payyambalam Beach stands as a serene haven amidst the bustling waves and bustling crowds. With its golden sands stretching far and wide, this beach offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking solace in the lap of nature. The gentle waves caress the shore, inviting visitors to dip their toes into the cool waters and embrace the soothing rhythm of the sea. As the sun begins its descent, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, painting a mesmerizing sunset that leaves onlookers spellbound. Along the coastline, a picturesque lighthouse stands tall, adding to the charm of this coastal paradise. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll along the shore, enjoying a picnic with loved ones, or simply basking in the warmth of the sun, Payyambalam Beach promises moments of bliss and serenity that linger in the heart long after the visit.
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10. Chowara Beach
Distance from Munnar to Chowara Beach – 297 Kms ( 7 hrs 43 Minutes)
Situated about 297 km from Munnar in the Southern Part of Kerala, is Chowara Beach. The beach is one of the most prominent beaches near Munnar and in Kovalam. The drive takes about 7 hours and is truly worth a ride. The greenery around along with the scenic beauty is something which you will not want to miss. The beach is secluded and away from the humdrum of the crowded and busy city life. It is perfect for a picnic and spending a cozy weekend or vacation with your loved ones. If you are a religious person, then do not miss to visit the Chowara Ayyappa Temple nestled atop a hill near the beach. The view of the beach from the top of the hill is mesmerizing.
Hope you enjoyed reading about the beaches near Munnar. Each has its unique charm and beauty. So next time when you are at Munnar or you are planning to visit Munnar, do try visiting few of them as per your convenience and choice.
