Explore a smooth 4-day trip from Chennai to Munnar, Mannarkkad, and the Coimbatore Isha Yoga Center. This journey in a 12-seater tempo traveller made for a great group travel experience. If you are planning a weekend getaway or a peaceful retreat, this complete itinerary can help. It offers ideas and clear guidance for your next group trip.
Trip Itinerary Overview
Date | Route | Notes |
12 April | Chennai to Munnar | Long drive, scenic hill roads |
13 April | Explore Munnar | Tea gardens, Echo Point, Mattupetty Dam |
14 April | Munnar to Mannarkkad | Quiet forest drive, village views |
15 April | Mannarkkad to Isha Yoga Center, Coimbatore | Meditation, Adiyogi Statue, return journey |
Day 1: Chennai to Munnar
On the morning of April 12th, our guest Mr. Kumar and his group left Chennai. They boarded a 12-seater tempo traveller. The vehicle had air conditioning, spacious seats, and plenty of room for luggage. The vehicle offered a balance of comfort and practicality for a long-distance journey.
Scenic Drive Through Tamil Nadu & Kerala
We covered approximately 590 km, passing through Salem, Dindigul, and Udumalpet. The landscape transitioned from urban zones to lush greenery as we ascended into the Western Ghats. The refreshing climate and winding mountain roads signaled our arrival into the highlands of Munnar.
Recommended Food Stops
- Saravana Bhavan (Salem) – Authentic Tamil breakfast
- Thalappakatti (Dindigul) – Famous for spicy biryani
- Tea Break at Udumalpet – Start seeing misty plantations
By evening, we reached Munnar and checked into a pre-booked hilltop resort. Surrounded by plantations and cool air, it was the perfect rest stop before our local adventures.
Day 2: Exploring the Highlights of Munnar
April 13th began with a fresh cup of locally brewed tea and panoramic views of Munnar’s rolling hills. The day was reserved for sightseeing.
Top Places to Visit in Munnar
1. Tea Museum and Plantations
Walk through the succulent tea estate, watch the tea making performances, and sip the fresh booze.
2. Mattupetty Dam
Ideal for boating and photography. The peaceful water reflects the hills nearby.
3. Echo Point
A fun location for families and groups. Shout your name and bounce it back.
4. Top Station
The highest point in Munnar offers a glimpse of the jaw -leaving valley and a glimpse of Tamil Nadu on the other side.
5. Blossom Park
For nature lovers, walking through this well -laid park gives flowers, butterflies and beautiful beauty.
Evening Shopping in Munnar Market
We strolled through the Munnar town market and bought:
- Organic green tea
- Handmade chocolates
- Eucalyptus oils and spices
Day 3: Munnar to Mannarkkad
On April 14th, we left Munnar after breakfast. We traveled to Mannarkkad, a small town in Palakkad district. The drive was serene, with fewer tourists and more nature.
Route Summary
- Distance: ~160 km
- Duration: ~5 hours
- Major Stops: Attappady Forest Reserve, Silent Valley Foothills
Silent Valley National Park (Optional Detour)
While we didn’t enter the reserve, we passed near its edges—catching glimpses of untouched tropical rainforest.
Rest and Recharge in Mannarkkad
Mannarkkad offered a peaceful village vibe. We stayed in a homestay, enjoyed a simple Kerala vegetarian thali, and prepared for our spiritual day ahead.
Day 4: Mannarkkad to Isha Yoga
The last part of our journey started early on April 15th. We drove to the famous Isha Yoga Center near Coimbatore. This center is home to the grand Adiyogi Shiva Statue.
Travel Details
- Distance: ~120 km
- Duration: ~3.5 hours
- Vehicle: 12-seater empo traveller
- Stopover: Perur – for breakfast and refreshments
Isha Yoga Center – Spiritual Bliss and Inner Peace
Key Attractions at Isha
1. Adiyogi Shiva Statue (112 feet)
This huge statue of Lord Shiva is tall with the Veliangiri mountain in the background. It is an internationally recognized icon of yoga and spirituality.
2. Dhyanalinga
A powerful, energy-based meditation place where no prayer or ritual is required. Ideal for silent meditation.
3. Surya Kund & Chandra Kund
Holy Water Body (Therathhakunds) for cleaning and energy activation.
4. Linga Bhairavi Temple
Dedicated to the divine woman, this temple offers a place for devotion, prayer and rituals.
5. Sattvic Dining Experience
We had a cool, community -style meal with traditional dishes made of organic ingredients served within the Isha campus.
Final Journey Back
After having a great time at the center, we started our trip back to Coimbatore city. Then, we headed back to Chennai, ending a memorable journey.
Why a 12-Seater Tempo Traveller Was Ideas
- Casual push-back seating for long travel hours
- Air conditioning that kept us cool in states
- Enough storage space for Bags, food and personal items
- Driver familiarity with routes ensured timely travel
- The underlying entertainment system kept the group busy
This vehicle was just the perfect fit for a medium-sized group travel- taping the space and strength.
Essential Travel Tips for This Route
Tip | Details |
Book hotels early | Munnar can be crowded during peak season |
Carry light jackets | Even in April, Munnar can be cool at night |
Stay hydrated | Especially during long travel days |
Local SIM/data | Network may drop in forested or hilly areas |
Fuel up in towns | Petrol stations are sparse in forest routes |
Final Thoughts – A Trip to Remember
This 4-day road trip had it all—beautiful nature, spiritual growth, cultural experiences, and strong group bonding. Travelling from Chennai to Munnar was exciting. Then, we went to the calm town of Mannarkkad.
Finally, we reached the Isha Yoga Center, which is full of spiritual energy. This trip gave us a nice mix of adventure and peace.
If you plan a group trip that offers nature, culture, comfort, and spirituality, I highly recommend this route. Mr. Kumar and his group’s journey is a shining example of how well-planned road trips can refresh the body and soul.
Book your tempo traveller, plan, and let the road take you to serenity.