About Nedumkayam
Opening hours: 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, early morning, and evening
Suggested Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Nilambur Railway Station, about 12 km away
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport, about 59 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Nilambur Bus Stand, about 14 km away
Nedumkayam Rainforest is located in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve near Nilambur in Malappuram district. This rainforest is a part of the Silent Valley Buffer Zone, which was created in 2007 to protect biodiversity and the rainforests of that region. It is considered the richest biodiversity zone in Kerala with several plant, animal, and bird species, including the rare ones, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kerala. This forest is protected by the Kerala Forest Department and is only accessible after prior permission from the department.
Tourists can take safaris to the forest and witness the earth’s natural form in its untouched and undisturbed state. The Nedumkayam forest is a mesmerising sight, welcoming visitors with trails surrounded by trees and plants. The sounds of the river Chaliyar, birds, animals, and tribal settlements make it a relaxing retreat for your mind. The forest is also home to elephants, deer, wild boars, tigers, and leopards, making your experience thrilling.
There are guided tours available at the forest for the visitors, and it is a must-visit for people searching for peace and purity in this world of chaos. This off-beat location is a must add in to your Kerala Itinerary, featuring raw and scenic exploration.
Nedumkayam Highlights
• Explore Nedumkayam Rainforest, the oldest and most scenic forest retreat in Kerala.
• Walk through the trails, soaking in soothing sounds of nature while passing by lush greenery.
• Spot rich wildlife like elephants, deer, and rare birds, as this forest is a part of a rich biodiversity zone.
• Witness Marvel at the beauty of the serene Chaliyar river while you are walking through the forest.
How To Reach Nedumkayam
By car/taxi: The Nedumkayam Rainforest, Kerala is 51.8 km from Malappuram city centre, you can reach there in around 1 hour and 32 minutes via Manjeri - Wandoor Rd. Visitors can also take taxis from the city centre to the Nedumkayam Rainforest.
Best Time To Visit Nedumkayam
Peak Season (October to February)
- Weather Insights: Pleasant climate with cool mornings and manageable humidity.
- Things to Do: Trekking, wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and photography.
Moderate Season (March to May)
- Weather Insights: Slightly warmer temperatures but still bearable during early mornings.
- Things to Do: Jungle safaris, forest stays, quiet getaways away from crowds.
Low Season (June to September)
- Weather Insights: Monsoon rains bring lush greenery but make trails slippery.
- Things to Do: Great for nature lovers who enjoy the rain, misty views, and solitude—but trekking may be limited.
Nedumkayam Other Essential Information
Know Before You Go
- Be careful, as the forest is a biodiversity hotspot and has active wildlife; make sure you do not disturb animals in their natural habitat and stay silent.
- Wear full clothes to protect yourself from insect bites, keep mosquito repellent, food, water bottles, and essentials to keep yourself refreshed and hydrated.
- Make sure you wear gum boots to protect your feet and keep a first aid kit in case needed.
- Keep a check on weather conditions as the area is prone to rain, which might lead to slippery pathways.
Hike through the Rainforest Trails
Visitors can indulge in the dense beauty of the forest and hike through the treks and trails, soaking in a serene environment. The path will take you through trees, terrain, and lush greenery. You will get a chance to witness dense plantations and rare species of flora and fauna while moving through the forest. This exploration will take you on a journey into Kerala’s most beautiful biodiversity hotspot as well as its rich ecosystem.
Spot Wildlife
Get a chance to spot rare species of birds and plants, along with spotting elephants, deer, wild boars, tigers, and leopards, making your experience thrilling. The best time to sight animals is early morning or late afternoon. This is the time when the wildlife is active.
Relax by the River Streams
After trekking, you can just sit and relax by the River Chaliyar. This also features a waterfall that is just 3 km from the forest, and you will hear the sounds of a flowing river as you explore the forest. While sitting beside the river, visitors can take a moment to reflect on themselves and have them recharge.
Explore the Spice Plantations Nearby
There is a spice plantation just nearby Nedumkayam where visitors can see how cardamom, pepper, and vanilla are grown. There are local guides who will take you on a tour of the plantation and will educate you about how these plants are grown and taken care of. While you explore, you will be soothed by the fragrance of every crop in its purest form.
Tourism Board Alliances
Nedumkayam FAQs
Is Nedumkayam open to visitors throughout the year?
Yes, Nedumkayam is open all year, but the best time to visit is from October to March. The weather is cooler during these months, and there is rain in this region, making trekking and exploring more thrilling. The months of June and July are not recommended for visiting as the region becomes slippery and is not comfortable to visit.
Are there guided tours available in Nedumkayam?
Yes, the guided tours are available at Nedumkayam for trekking and exploring wildlife. Local guides are very knowledgeable and to guide and educate you on the ways. These guides have information about flora and fauna in the rainforest, and explain everything to visitors patiently.
Can I spot wildlife during my visit?
Yes, you can spot wildlife during your visit to Nadumkayam Rainforest. This area is home to different species of animals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and several bird species. It is not guaranteed that every visitor will be lucky enough to see animals, but you might get a chance to see some of them. The best time to sight animals or active wildlife is morning and late afternoon. Make sure on your visit, you do not disturb any of the animals and their natural habitat.
Are there accommodations near Nedumkayam?
Yes, there are a number of accommodations available near the Nedumkayam Rainforest, varying as per your personal needs. These accommodations also provide different activities and packages for forest visits, and you can opt to or not to choose from them.
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