Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Malappuram is perfectly placed for exploring a wide variety of day trips—from tranquil hilltops and ancient temples to lush forests, waterfalls, and cultural heritage sites. Whether you’re a nature lover, spiritual seeker, or cultural explorer, these nearby gems offer the perfect escape within 1–2 hours from the city.

 1. Kodikuthimala – The “Mini Ooty” of Malappuram

 35 km | ~1 hour

✅ A picturesque hill station with misty views, gentle treks, and cool climate
✅ Ideal for morning hikes, picnics, and panoramic photography
✅ The name means “the hill where the British hoisted their flag”

 Tip: Go early morning for sunrise or visit during golden hour for best views

 2. Nilambur Teak Forest & Teak Museum

 40 km | 1.5 hours

✅ Visit Conolly’s Plot, the oldest teak plantation in the world
✅ Explore the Teak Museum with botanical exhibits, forest history & tribal life
✅ Walk across the suspension bridge over the Chaliyar River

 Tip: Ideal for nature lovers, students, families, and eco-tourists

 3. Thirunavaya – Ancient Temple Town by the River

 25 km | ~45 minutes

✅ Home to the Navamukunda Temple, on the banks of Bharathapuzha River
✅ Once the venue of the historic Mamankam festival
✅ Peaceful and sacred, great for spiritual and heritage walks

 Tip: Visit during morning rituals or sunset hours for a tranquil experience.

 4. Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary

 45 km | 1.5 hours

✅ A beautiful estuary and wetland rich in migratory birds and mangroves
✅ Spot over 100+ bird species, including terns, sandpipers, and herons
✅ Take a canoe ride or stroll the walking trails

 Tip: Best time to visit: November to February

 5. Ponnani – Historic Coastal Town

 55 km | ~1.5 hours

✅ Known for its Islamic learning centers, heritage mosques, and coastal charm
✅ Visit the 600-year-old Juma Masjid and stroll along the Arabian Sea coastline
✅ Enjoy local seafood and sunset at Biyyam Kayal Lake

Tip: Combine with a visit to Kadalundi or Parappanangadi Beach nearby.

 6. Kottakkal – Ayurveda & Culture Hub

 12 km | ~30 mins

✅ Visit Arya Vaidya Sala, one of India’s most renowned Ayurveda institutions
✅ Explore the Ayurveda museum, shop for herbal wellness products, or book a therapy session
✅ Visit Kottakkal Vishwambara Temple or catch a classical performance at Vaidyaratnam Auditorium

Tip: Great for half-day wellness visits or cultural immersion.

7. Parappanangadi Beach

 40 km | ~1 hour

✅ A quiet beach with soft sands, casuarina groves, and fewer crowds
✅ Ideal for a relaxing stroll, sunset view, or peaceful picnic
✅ Local seafood stalls nearby

 Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to catch the golden light

 8. Angadipuram Temple (Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy)

 18 km | ~30 minutes

✅ A powerful Durga temple on a small hill, known for its Pooram festival and Kalamezhuthu rituals
✅ Offers scenic views and spiritual ambiance

 Tip: Combine with shopping and lunch in Perinthalmanna town nearby.

 9. Arimbra Hills (Mini Kodaikanal)

 30 km | ~1 hour

✅ Lesser-known hilltop with lush views, breezy climate, and peaceful surroundings
✅ Great for a short ride, picnic, and photography

 Tip: There are no big eateries here — carry water and snacks.

 10. Biyyam Kayal Backwaters

Near Ponnani | ~1.5 hours

✅ A serene lake with coconut groves, great for boating, birdwatching, and peaceful escapes
✅ Ideal for those looking to experience a Malabar backwater scene without crowds

 Tip: Evening is the best time for boating & photos.

 Bonus: Spiritual & Cultural Sites

• Kondotty Pazhayangadi Mosque – Famous for Kondotty Nercha festival
• Cheriyamundam Shiva Temple – 2,000-year-old temple, less touristy and very peaceful
• Mamburam Makham – Revered Muslim pilgrim site

Day Trip Summary Table

 Tips for Day Trips from Malappuram

✔️ Start early (7–8 AM) to make the most of your day
✔️ Hire a cab or self-drive for flexibility
✔️ Carry water, snacks, sunscreen, and local cash
✔️ Check opening hours for temples and museums
✔️ Monsoon months (June–Sept) enhance waterfalls and greenery

Malappuram is more than a district—it’s a gateway to unspoiled Kerala. With scenic drives, cultural stories, and hidden treasures, it offers memorable day trips for every kind of traveler.