About Arimbra Hills
Opening Hours: 06:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, mornings, and evenings
Suggested Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Tickets: Available Offline
Nearest Railway Station: Tirur Railway Station, about 32 km away
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport, about 14.7 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Kondotty Bus Stand, about 13.5 km away
Arimbra Hills, also known as Mini Ooty, is a peaceful hilltop destination located in the Malappuram district of Kerala. This hill is at an altitude of around 1,050 feet. This hidden gem offers panoramic views of the lush countryside, farmlands, and hills, making it a popular weekend spot among locals and travellers alike. Arimba Hills is beautiful and offers surreal views, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Malappuram. Unlike commercial hill stations, Arimbra has raw and unfiltered charm.
The Arimba Hill is ideal for those looking to relax from the usual hustle and bustle of their city life. The area has viewpoints, local food stalls, and photo-worthy rocks and trails. It’s still an offbeat place, even after its serene atmosphere and accessibility from nearby towns like Kondotty and Malappuram.
Whether you're on a family outing or a short ride from Malappuram, Arimbra Hills offers scenic simplicity and natural beauty. It’s a peaceful route worth adding to your exploration list.
Arimbra Hills Highlights
• Watch panoramic sunsets at Arimbra Hills that offer beautiful views of hills, lush paddy fields, and distant mountains.
• Explore offbeat hilltop viewpoints with laterite rock surfaces, ideal for photography and quiet exploration.
• Ride or drive through scenic routes lined with palm groves, village paths, and hill curves that feel serene.
• Experience the charm of Mini Ooty’s uncrowded environment, offering a more serene and raw nature experience than most famous hill stations.
How To Reach Arimbra Hills
By road:
- By Car/Taxi: By Car/Taxi: Arimbra Hills is around 25 km from Malappuram city center. It takes roughly 1 hour by taxi or car via SH73 and Pookkottur-Kondotty Road to reach the Arimba Hills.
- By Bus: Local KSRTC buses run from Malappuram and Kondotty to nearby towns like Aravankara. From there, you can take an auto-rickshaw or hike the last stretch to the viewpoint.
Best Time To Visit Arimbra Hills
Peak Season (October to February)
- Weather Insights: Pleasant climate with cool breezes and mild temperatures is ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
- Things to Do: Capture scenic photographs, enjoy sunrise and sunset views, and explore peaceful hilltop trails.
Moderate Season (June to September)
- Weather Insights: Monsoon transforms the hills into a lush green haven, but brings occasional slippery paths.
- Things to Do: Relax in misty landscapes, experience rain-washed views, and enjoy solitude with fewer tourists around.
Low Season (March to May)
- Weather Insights: Hot and humid afternoons, especially in April, with haze affecting visibility during the day.
- Things to Do: Early morning visits for snapping pictures or short picnics before the heat intensifies.
Arimbra Hills Other Essential Information
Know Before You Go
- Visit during early morning or sunset hours for the best views and a perfect environment.
- Make sure you carry your own food and snacks, as there are a few food options available.
- Wear comfortable footwear so that you do not feel tired while trekking to any of the hilltops.
- Check local weather updates during monsoon to avoid foggy conditions and slippery areas.
Capture the sunset from the top viewpoint
Head up just before 5:30 PM and watch the sky glow with surreal hues of oranges and reds. The open scenery and clear skies offer a perfect scene for sunset photography. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying way to end the day at Mini Ooty.
Take a scenic bike ride from Kondotty or Malappuram
You can take a bike ride to Arimbra Hills, as it is as enjoyable as the destination itself. You’ll pass through narrow village roads, open fields, and hill curves, which are ideal for a morning ride. Stop along the way for chai and take in views rarely seen by other tourists.
Hike to the lesser-known rocky ways
The main view is accessible by car, but you can take a short walk further that leads to quiet, hidden spots perfect for a picnic or capturing. These trails aren't marked, so ask locals for directions. You might get a hilltop entirely to yourself.
Try fresh local snacks at the stalls
You can try food available near the top, with shops serving Kerala-style pazham pori (banana fritters), uzhunnu vada, and hot chai. Nothing beats hot snacks with a cool breeze and views of green hills far into the distance.
Tourism Board Alliances
Arimbra Hills FAQs
Why is Arimbra Hills called “Mini Ooty”?
Arimbra Hills is called “Mini Ooty” because of its dense green surroundings, misty mornings, and similarity to the scenery of Ooty. The cool climate and panoramic views from the hilltop make it a beloved escape for nature lovers and locals both.
What are some of the popular activities at Arimbra Hills?
You can enjoy photography, short hikes, drives, and peaceful picnics. Arimba Hills is a great place to visit, especially during early mornings or evenings, and activities like birdwatching and nature walks are common among visitors who look for experiences in nature.
Are there any food stalls or amenities available on the hilltop?
The food stalls are limited at the top, there are just a few local vendors selling snacks or tea on busy days. It’s recommended to carry your refreshments and water so that you enjoy your getaway without worrying about food and refreshments.
Is Arimba Hills suitable for visiting with families and kids?
Yes, Arimbra Hills is family-friendly, and the hilltop has areas for sitting and enjoying the views. But safety is necessary near edges or rocky paths. Take care of children at all times and avoid visiting Arimba Hills during heavy rains due to slippery terrain.
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