PAITHALMALA

About Paithalmala

Opening hours- 9:00 am to 4:00 pm  

Prime days and hours- Weekends, Early morning 

Suggested Duration- 3-4 hours

Tickets- Online & Offline

Nearest Bus Stand- Pottenplave Bus Stand, about 4 km

Nearest Railway Station- Kannur Railway Station, about 54 km 

Nearest Airport- Kannur International Airport, about 41 km 

One of the highest peaks in Kannur, at about 4500 ft, is the Paithalmala Hill Station. Lying in the lap of the Western Ghats from the Pythal Valley, this trek undoubtedly makes it one of the most exciting places to visit in Kannur. As you move forward, the trek takes you through dense forests and opens up to beautiful views of the Paithalmala peak. The hillock also has the remains of the Palace of Vaithalkon King, which adds to its historical significance.

From the peak, one side offers breathtaking views of Coorg’s valleys, while the other reveals the vast plains of Kannur city, with distant houses visible far away. There are two routes from which trekkers may choose here, while both are 6 km each and offer picturesque views, the first one starts at Kappimala (Alakkodu), and the second starts at Pottenplave near Kudianmala. Being a secluded spot, it is ideal for those who seek to escape the chaotic life and to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Kerala.

Paithalmala Highlights

• Visit the beautiful Paithalmala hill station, with the stunning views of Coorg’s lush valleys on one side and the sprawling plains of Kannur on the other.
• Trek to this hill located 4500 ft above sea level, one of the highest peaks in Kerala, with a hiking trail leading to a watch tower.
• Enjoy the scenic views of the valleys of Coorg on one side and the plains of Kannur on the other.
• Witness a rich flora and fauna with over 100 varieties of butterflies and numerous rare trees and plants.
• Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of Ezharakundu Waterfalls on your way.
• Explore the dense semi-evergreen forests, where spotting elephants is a common sight.
• Visit the remains of the Vaithalkon King’s Palace, hidden among the dense jungles of Kodagu.

How To Reach Paithalmala

By Car/Cab- Paithalmala is about a 53 km drive from Kannur city, and you can easily reach there in approx. 2 hours to reach via Taliparamba - Manakadavu - Coorg Rd.

Best Time To Visit Paithalmala

Peak Season (January to May)

• Weather Insights- Temperature ranging from 33°C to 20°C, bright sunny days, clear views, no humidity, rare rainfalls.
• Things to do- Trekking, enjoy the waterfalls, explore the flora and fauna, and tour around the nearby attractions.

Moderate Season (October to December)

• Weather Insights- Temperature ranging from 20°C to 31°C, post-monsoon with less humidity.
• Things to do- Sightseeing, enjoy the wildlife, and waterfalls.

Low Season (June-September)

• Weather Insights- Temperature ranging from 22°C to 29°C, heavy monsoon, constant showers. 
• Things to do- Enjoy the never-ending greenery, mist-covered mountains, and tall green grasses. 

Paithalmala Other Essential Information

Know Before You Go-

• It’s best to start the trek early in the morning after breakfast from the valley and complete it by evening.
• Consider reaching the site before 3 pm, as visitors are allowed in till 3 pm only. 
• Carry snacks and water as the hike is of a decent length without any shops or eateries in between.
• Avoid littering as the region is a designated plastic-free zone. 
• Be mindful and cautious near steep valley edges locally known as “suicide points”.
• Wear leech protective clothing as the forest is a heaven for leeches, especially in the Monsoon months from June to October. 
• Consider checking the timings and status before making your visit, as there is a chance that both hiking trails are closed due to extreme weather.