Top places to visit

Top Places to Visit

Malappuram is a beautiful blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and cultural harmony. From peaceful hill parks and ancient temples to teak forests and spiritual landmarks, here are the top places to visit in Malappuram that showcase the best of its heritage, nature, and local charm.

 1. Kottakkunnu – The Hill Garden of Malappuram

 Malappuram Town

✅ A scenic hilltop park with panoramic views of the city
✅ Features open-air theatre, children’s park, laser fountain, sculptures, and walking paths
✅ Popular for evening strolls, family outings, and food stalls

 Tip: Visit around sunset for the best views and local snacks.

 2. Nilambur Teak Museum & Teak Forest

 Nilambur (~40 km from Malappuram)

✅ The world’s first teak museum, showcasing teak’s history, uses, and conservation
✅ Walk through Conolly’s Plot – the world’s oldest teak plantation
✅ Explore the suspended bridge and riverside walkways

 Tip: Great for nature lovers, botany students, and families with kids.

 3. Thirunavaya – Land of Ancient Rituals

 8 km from Tirur

✅ A sacred riverbank town on the Bharathapuzha River, known for Hindu rituals, Vedic traditions, and Mamankam festival history
✅ Visit Navamukunda Temple, believed to be over 2,000 years old
✅ Peaceful, spiritual, and scenic

 Tip: Ideal for pilgrims, history buffs, and peaceful river walks.

 4. Kodikuthimala – The Mini Ooty of Malappuram

 Near Perinthalmanna (~35 km from town)

✅ A serene hill station offering 360° views of green valleys, clouds, and distant Western Ghats
✅ Activities: Trekking, camping, photography
✅ Name means "the hill where the British hoisted their flag"

 Tip: Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon for mist and cool breeze.

 5. Ponnani – Coastal Town of Culture & Faith

 55 km from Malappuram

✅ Known as the “Little Mecca of Kerala”
✅ Explore the historic Juma Masjid (over 600 years old)
✅ Visit the Biyyam Kayal (lake) for boating and birdwatching

 Tip: Ideal for cultural explorers and photography enthusiasts.

 6. Pazhayangadi Mosque (Valiya Juma Masjid), Kondotty

 Near Malappuram Airport

✅ One of the oldest and most revered mosques in Kerala
✅ Famous for its Moidin Kutty Andavar Maqam and Kondotty Nercha festival
✅ A symbol of peace and communal harmony

 Tip: Visit during the Kondotty Nercha festival for vibrant local culture.

 7. Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary

 Border of Malappuram & Kozhikode (~45 km)

✅ Rich estuary and mangrove forest area where the Kadalundi River meets the Arabian Sea
✅ Spot over 100 species of native and migratory birds
✅ Perfect for eco-tourism, birdwatching, and silent boat rides

 Tip: Best time to visit: November to February (migratory bird season)

 8. Angadipuram Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple

 Near Perinthalmanna

✅ Historic hilltop temple dedicated to Bhagavathy (Durga)
✅ Famous for its Pooram festival and Kalamezhuthu Pattu (ritualistic art performance)
✅ Offers great views of surrounding towns and hills

 Tip: Visit during March–April to witness temple festivities.

 9. Arimbra Hills (Mini Kodaikanal)

 30 km from Malappuram

✅ Lesser-known hilltop with cool climate, coffee plants, and panoramic views
✅ Peaceful alternative to busy tourist hills
✅ Great for short treks, couples, and nature walks

 Tip: Take a packed picnic – few shops available on top.

 10. Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala & Ayurveda Museum

 Kottakkal (~12 km from Malappuram town)

✅ One of India’s most respected Ayurveda centers, founded in 1902
✅ Offers treatments, wellness consultations, and a museum on Ayurveda history
✅ Shop for authentic Ayurvedic medicines and oils

 Tip: Book consultations in advance for treatment or wellness sessions.

 Quick Map Summary

•  Attend a Duff Muttu or Kolkali performance (folk Islamic art)
•  Try local delicacies like Malabar Biryani, Pathiri, Kozhi Ada, and Muttamala
•  Visit traditional village markets for handicrafts, spices, and snacks

Malappuram is off the beaten track, yet rich in soulful experiences. It offers a perfect mix of hill retreats, religious harmony, traditional arts, and natural beauty. Whether you're a pilgrim, explorer, foodie, or nature lover — Malappuram welcomes you with warmth.