Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Kasaragod’s strategic location at the northern tip of Kerala, bordering Karnataka, makes it a great base for short day trips and weekend getaways. From lush hills and forts to temples, beaches, and cultural towns — here are the best nearby destinations and day trips you can enjoy from Kasaragod.

1️ Ranipuram Hills (≈ 85 km | 2.5 hours)

Why Visit?
Nicknamed the "Ooty of Kerala", Ranipuram is a lush hill station perfect for nature walks, picnics, and trekking.

✅ Highlights:

• Trekking through evergreen forests and grassy meadows
• Spotting butterflies, birds, and wild orchids
• Breathtaking views of the Western Ghats

Best For: Nature lovers, hikers, photographers

2️ Mangalore, Karnataka (≈ 50 km | 1.5 hours)

Why Visit?
A vibrant coastal city known for its temples, beaches, shopping, and food culture.

✅ Highlights:

• Kadri Manjunath Temple & Gokarnanatheshwara Temple
• Panambur & Tannirbhavi Beaches
• Pilikula Nisargadhama (zoo + lake + science center)
• Street food and Mangalorean seafood

Best For: Urban explorers, foodies, family trips

3️ Madikeri / Coorg (≈ 115 km | 3.5–4 hours)

Why Visit?
A serene hill town in Karnataka, famous for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and cool climate.

✅ Highlights:

• Abbey Falls & Raja's Seat
• Coffee estates & spice farms
• Madikeri Fort & Omkareshwara Temple

Best For: Couples, weekend getaways, nature retreats

4️ Talacauvery & Bhagamandala (≈ 110 km | 3.5 hours)

Why Visit?
The origin of the River Cauvery, surrounded by sacred temples and misty hills in Kodagu.

✅ Highlights:

• Talacauvery Temple & Viewpoint
• Triveni Sangam at Bhagamandala (confluence of three rivers)
• Beautiful forest drive from Kasaragod

Best For: Spiritual travelers, nature lovers, road trip enthusiasts

5️ Nileshwaram (≈ 45 km | 1 hour)

Why Visit?
An underrated cultural town often called the "Cultural Capital of Kasaragod".

✅ Highlights:

• Theyam performances during temple festivals
• Nileshwar Palace & Temple Street Walks
• Quiet beaches and backwater spots

Best For: Culture buffs, offbeat explorers, peaceful retreats

6️ Chandragiri Fort & River Cruise (≈ 10 km | 30 mins)

Why Visit?
A historic 17th-century fort perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the Chandragiri River and Arabian Sea.

✅ Highlights:

• Fort exploration & photography
• Sunset views from the ramparts
• River cruise or boating experience

Best For: History lovers, families, scenic views

7️ Kanhangad Town (≈ 25 km | 45 mins)

Why Visit?
A bustling town known for shopping, food, and temples.

✅ Highlights:

• Hosdurg Fort and Nithyanandasram Caves
• Kanhangad market for handloom & spices
• Authentic local restaurants & bakeries

Best For: Quick trips, shopping, local experiences

8️ Anandashram and Swami Nityananda Ashram (≈ 30 km | 45 mins)

Why Visit?
Peaceful ashrams known for spiritual serenity and healing atmosphere.

✅ Highlights:

• Daily prayers, meditation sessions
• Vegetarian meals for visitors
• Located amidst lush greenery

Best For: Spiritual seekers, solo travelers, wellness trips

9️ Maipady Palace (≈ 10 km | 20 mins)

Why Visit?
A beautiful palace with Indo-Islamic architecture, once the seat of the Kumbla royal family.

✅ Highlights:

• Historic building with scenic surroundings
• Explore the cultural legacy of the Kumbla kings

Best For: History lovers, photographers