The picturesque road stretching from Munnar to Thekkady in Kerala has been awarded the India Today magazine Editors’ Choice award in the Most Scenic Road category. This recognition underscores the mesmerising experience travellers encounter while traversing this stunning natural landscape. Kerala Tourism Director Sikha Surendran accepted the award from Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat at a ceremony held in New Delhi on March 28th.
The announcement was made during India Today Group’s annual event, which celebrates the efforts of various state tourism bodies through its Tourism Survey. The survey acknowledges that states have made remarkable contributions to the growth of tourism in India.
Tourism Minister P. A. Mohamed Riyas, who also oversees the Public Works Department responsible for road development, emphasised the significance of this honour. He noted that such recognition would further boost tourism in Munnar and Thekkady, both of which are internationally renowned destinations. “These locations cater to a diverse spectrum of travellers, whether they are hitchhikers, backpackers, adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, or families on vacation,” he added.
Expressing her delight, Sikha Surendran stated, “This award from the esteemed India Today Group reaffirms Kerala’s natural splendour, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. We have introduced several eco-tourism initiatives in Thekkady, while Munnar continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations in South India.”
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar and Thekkady boast lush green hills, sprawling tea estates, and diverse landscapes. A road trip through this route—one of the longest in South India—unfolds breathtaking views of Munnar’s tea gardens, the dense forests of the Western Ghats, cascading waterfalls, and the towering 2,695-meter Anamudi Peak. The region is also home to wildlife sanctuaries teeming with biodiversity.
Previously, in 2023, Kerala’s Keravan Kerala project—an initiative promoting caravan tourism—was also honored with India Today’s Editors’ Choice Award. Additionally, Kerala was recognized as the Best Performing Big State in India Today’s State of the States 2022 rankings, thanks to its well-planned strategies and initiatives that have solidified its position as India’s premier tourism destination.
Over the years, Kerala Tourism has received numerous accolades from esteemed global publications, including TIME magazine, The New York Times, and Travel+Leisure, further cementing its status as a must-visit destination.
Absolutely. Travelled. Tea estates, orange trees and blue sky .all look so endless. Definitely one of the most scenic routes
I just travelled this month on this way. Its the most beautiful road with gigantic tress, colourful plants, amazing forest I have ever seen in my life. Totally worth it.
I travelled in Feb end. There is no doubt this road reminds of real beauty of nature.