The picturesque hill station of Munnar has long been a favorite for travelers. Now, with the introduction of a seaplane service from Kochi, exploring this gem has never been easier. The service, launched under the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagarik) scheme, promises to transform travel to this serene destination.
Travel Time Made Shorter
Currently, reaching Munnar from Kochi takes around three hours by road, with travelers navigating forested sections that make nighttime travel challenging. The new seaplane service drastically cuts travel time to under 25 minutes. For those short on time, this alternative ensures more hours spent enjoying Munnar’s stunning tea plantations and misty landscapes.
Key Routes and Accessibility
Most road routes to Munnar pass through Neriaymangalam and Adimali, with approximately 14 kilometers crossing forested terrain. Safety concerns have made early departures the norm for travelers, limiting late-night accessibility. The seaplane service addresses these challenges, offering flights during daylight hours, ensuring a safer and faster journey.
This service is also expected to provide better access for nearby hamlets such as Kanthalloor and Marayoor, which stand to benefit from improved connectivity.
Ticket Pricing and Luggage Details
Although the ticket prices for the Kochi-Munnar seaplane service have not been finalized, similar services under the UDAN initiative have priced tickets between ₹1,500 and ₹5,000 for one-way journeys. Passengers can expect to book tickets through SpiceShuttle or similar platforms. Luggage allowances will likely follow seaplane norms, permitting up to 25 kg (20 kg check-in and 5 kg cabin baggage).
Additional Benefits
The service’s impact extends beyond tourism:
- Enhanced Tourism: Faster travel times may attract more international and domestic visitors, particularly during the off-season.
- Emergency Medical Transport: Quick air travel will provide a vital link for emergency cases from Munnar, where medical facilities are limited, to Kochi.
Aircraft Specifications
The seaplane, a 17-seater model by de Havilland, has successfully completed test flights in collaboration with SpiceJet. Designed for regional travel, the aircraft supports the central government’s initiative to enhance connectivity to remote areas while making air travel accessible to the general public.
Service Rollout
The seaplane service is in the trial phase. While the exact date for regular operations hasn’t been confirmed, the successful trials indicate a near-future launch. This service is poised to make Munnar a more accessible and appealing destination for all types of travelers.
A Revolutionary Step for Munnar Tourism
The new seaplane service isn’t just a convenience—it’s a gateway to elevating Munnar’s tourism potential. With reduced travel time and improved accessibility, this initiative opens the doors for more meaningful and stress-free journeys to Kerala’s beloved hill station. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure, this service will make every journey memorable.
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