14 tourist places to visit in Nelliyampathy

Nelliyampathy is one of Kerala’s most popular hill stations. It is situated 52 kilometres away from Palakkad, the closest major city. An exotic setting such as Nelliyampathy is characterised by its abundance of evergreen woods, oranges, tea, coffee, and spice plantations. Additionally, the type is dominated by its stunning valleys and foggy mountains.

Nelliyampathy, popularly known as the ‘Poor man’s Ooty,’ is noted for its hiking routes, as well as its great climate and the charm that nature brings to the area, all of which augment the whole experience. Nelliyampathy is home to several tourist destinations that are well worth experiencing during your time there. The following are several routes that might get you to this gorgeous location.

 

Nelliyampathy: Quick facts

Located in	Kerala
Distance from nearest city	60 kilometre from Palakkad
Nearest airport	Kochi airport (118 km), Coimbatore airport (131 km)
Nearest railway station	Palakkad Railway Station (59 km)
Top sightseeing places	Nelliyampathy Hills, Nenmara Vallanghy Vela, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, Nenmara, Malampuzha Garden, shopping, boating
Things to buy in Nelliyampathy	Tea, coffee, organic items, cardamom, oranges
Best month to visit	September to May

 

How to reach Nelliyampathy?

By air: It takes around two and a half hours to travel from Nelliyampathy to Coimbatore airport, the airport closest to Nelliyampathy. The Coimbatore airport has excellent connections both inside India and to other countries. The Kochi airport is another airport closest to Nelliyampathy.

By train: Palakkad Railway Station is the closest terminal to Nelliyampathy, and it’s 54 kilometres away. Palakkad Railway Station is well associated with major destinations like Kochi, Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai.

By road: Nelliyampathy is well-served by various bus routes that link it to other South Indian cities. Nenmara is the closest place to the town, accessible by intercity transport from the state of Karnataka. There are both public and private buses that frequently run over the state.

 

14 Nelliyampathy tourist places

If you are travelling to the Nelliampathy region or are currently here, the following Nelliyampathy tourist places are the most breathtaking and intriguing spots to visit. 

Nelliyampathy Hills

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The Nelliyampathy hills in Kerala’s Palakkad district, are an entrancing place to visit because of the wispy clouds that envelop them. Because of the breathtaking natural scenery, this location is among the most touristy spots. The topography of these hills, which range in elevation from 467-1572 metres, allows for a continual change in the topography and the temperature.

On the journey up, you will also come across several stunning resorts and residences, which, when set against the landscape of the rolling hills. The view from the peak, however, is sure to be the most memorable part of your time spent here. From that vantage point, you can view the mountain roads lined with teas and coffees. If you feel at home in the great outdoors, this place is an absolute must-see.

You will need to follow the route that begins at Nemmara and heads in the direction of the Pothundy Dam to get to Nelliyampathy.

See also: Top 12 Tirunelveli tourist places and things to do

 

Nenmara Vallanghy Vela

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The Vallangi Vela Celebration in Nemmara is a stunning mixture of colours, fireworks, and cultural acts and is celebrated on the 2nd or the 3rd of April every year. During the festival, elaborately dressed elephants participate in a parade across the temple grounds. Additionally, the pandal is magnificently lighted, and its glow may be seen for kilometres around. On the coast of Kerala, it is among the most vibrant celebrations filled with a lot of zeal and energy.

It is possible to reach Nenmara by cab or bus from the Palakkad or Trichur railway stations in the district.

See also: Kanyakumari sightseeing and things to do: 16 best tourist places to explore

 

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

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The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary in the Palakkad region of Kerala, is most known for its ongoing work to protect the declining number of tigers. The location is ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing owing to the nearby hills and river and the abundant plant and animal life.

The highest level of environmental protection afforded by the Western Ghats is given to the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve. This location is characterised by a low level of human activity and is characterised by the presence of peninsular flora and fauna. The lion-tailed macaque, the Bengal tiger, the Indian leopard, the wild boar, the sloth, the king cobra, and the Travancore kukri snake, are among the most treasured wildlife found in this region, amongst others. Teak, sandalwood, neem, and rosewood trees are also part of the local flora. The Kadar, Malasar, Muduvar, and Mala Malasar are the four separate indigenous tribes that call this refuge their home.

The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is in close proximity to a charming town that goes by the name of Pollachi, which is 74.4 km from Nelliyampathy. To go to the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve from this town, travellers may take one of the regular buses or rent one of the cabs available. You must pay an entry fee of  INR 50 for light vehicles and INR 150 for heavy vehicles. 

 

Mayiladumpara

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Mayiladumpura is home to a large number of peacocks, which contributes to the near-perfection of its name, which, when translated from the indigenous Malayalam language, means “the rock in which peacock danced.” Beautiful and magnificent peacocks, who are in danger of being extinct, have their natural home at this location. The peacocks that are native to South India have the quills that are brightest and most colourful. About 30 kilometres from Palakkad lies the Choolanur Peacock Sanctuary in Mayiladumpara, where you’ll have a better chance of seeing the Peacock dance if you arrive early in the morning.

The Mayiladumpara Peacock Sanctuary is fairly accessible and may be reached by a variety of vehicles, including buses, taxis, and jeeps.

 

Pothundi Dam

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The Pothundi Dam was built using a unique combination of jaggery and quick lime as the core material. Meenchadyppuzha and Padippuzha are the names of the two rivers that the Pothundi dam was constructed over to create the Ayalar Rivers system. The Palakkad area relies heavily on irrigation and agricultural labour, owing, in large part, to the construction of this dam, which is only the second dam in all of Asia to be built without utilising concrete mixture. 

While walking the pathway, you will witness a spectacular vista of Nelliyampathy Valley on one side and lush, green paddy fields on the other. Visitors to Nelliyampathy will not be disappointed if they choose this location for their sightseeing needs.

Pothundi dam is about eight kilometres from the Nenmara neighbourhood and 48 kilometres from Palakkad town, making it accessible by road. Palakkad railway station is 40 kilometres distant, while Cochin international airport is 98 kilometres away.  You can visit the dam from 5 am to 6 pm, with an entry fee of Rs. 10 for kids and Rs. 20 for adults. 

 

Seethargundu View Point

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About eight kilometres distant from Nelliyampathy lies a scenic lookout point named Seethargund. One of the many cultural and historical Nelliyampathy tourist attractions, Seethargund is regarded by many as Lord Rama’s, Laxman’s, and Seetha’s resting site during their exile. The vantage point provides a breathtaking vista that takes in Kollengode as well as the surrounding hills, and gorges. From the Seethargundu viewpoint, you’ll be able to see a beautiful waterfall in all its glory.

Nelliyampathy can only be reached by car. Nelliyampathy is accessible by bus from Palakkad. The distance between Palakkad and Nenmara is 59 kilometres and 33 kilometres, respectively, for the Seethargundu scenic overlook. Palakkad is the nearest railway station, and Coimbatore International airport is the nearest airport.

November through February is the ideal time of year to visit Nelliyampathy. However, the overlook is a stunning location that may be visited all year round.

 

Kesavanpara

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Only 11 kilometres away from Nelliyampathy lies this breathtakingly lovely spot known as Kesavan Para. Here, you may relax and recharge among the spectacular natural scenery. From that vantage point, you will get a wonderful view of the high hills and valleys. Even in the heat of summer, the water in the waterhole that is found at Kesavanpara remains constant. The drinking hole serves as an essential resource for wild creatures that live in the surrounding region.

To get to Kesavan Para, you must go through the jungle for around 500 metres. If you want to get the best view, you should try to time your visit for either the morning or the evening. One may scale the rock all the way to the top and then climb back down to reach the lookout point.

 

Meenvallam Fall

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It’s possible to take a plunge in the Meenvallam falls, which flow from an elevation of 5 to 45 metres, for a natural waterfall experience. This location offers a stunning view of nature. 

The period immediately after the end of the rainy season, when Meenvallam’s waterfalls are at their fullest and visitors are not permitted within the park after 4:00 p.m., is by far the greatest time to go there.

Meenvallam Falls is the place to go if you want to see real waterfalls in their natural setting.  Even though only two of the region’s waterfalls are accessible to the general public, the area is home to more than ten waterfalls. 

At a distance of 37 kilometres from Palakkad, the Meenvallom waterfall is situated beside the Mannarkkad road. From Kalladikode, follow the waterfall road 8 kilometres till you reach Koomankundu. Mannarkkad-bound travellers would be better served by taking a left at Karimba rather than continuing on to Kalladikode.

 

Silent Valley

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It is possible to think of Silent Valley as a treasure trove since it is home to many rare species of flora and animals and is one of the places on the earth that has the greatest biological diversity. This national park is named after the river Kunti, which can be found winding its way across its terrain. The tropical rain forest in Nelliyampathy is a great destination to go sightseeing since it is recognised for having sightings of the virtually extinct Lion-Tailed macaque. The authorities have done a good job of preserving Silent Valley, and it has kept its reputation as one of nature’s most wonderful gifts.

It is ideal to visit the Silent Valley between 6:45 AM – 2:45 PM. There is an entry fee of Rs. 50 per person, Rs 1600 per jeep, Rs 150 Guide Charges, Rs 200 for video cameras, and Rs 25 for still cameras. 

 

Malampuzha Garden

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The Malampuzha Garden may be found in the Malampuzha Township, which is situated close to Palakkad in Kerala, also known as God’s Own Country. It is close to the Malampuzha Dam reservoir constructed on River Malampuzha, a branch of River Bharathapuzha and Kerala’s biggest river. 

In addition to the verdant garden, there is also an exhibit, a rock garden, captivating waterfalls, and a fun park. The whole location is embellished with mesmerising sculptures and constructions in various forms. In addition, it is the home of the well-known Yakshi Statue, which was carved by the well-known artist Kanai Kanhiraman. Those who like both art and nature will find this to be the ideal picnic spot.

In addition, tourists can go boating in the placid backwaters or pay a visit to the aquarium, which is home to several different kinds of fish. Pedal boat trips are quite popular around here. Families engage in meaningful interactions with one another and make precious memories that will last a lifetime.

The best time to visit the MalamPuzha Garden is from 9 am to 6 pm. There is an entry fee of Rs 25 for adults, Rs 10 for children below 3-12 years, Rs 100 for a still camera, Rs 1,000 for a video camera.

 

Nenmara

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Nemmara is a lovely hamlet located in the area of Nelliyampathy. Around 25 kilometres away. There are frequent bus connections between Nemmara and Nelliyampathy. Nemmara is divided into two portions, which are referred to respectively as Nemmara and Vallangi. The Vela Festival, known as the Nemmara-Vallangi Vela festival, is the most popular event in the hamlet. After the rice has been harvested, another well-known festival called Thrissur Pooram is held in this region.

 

Padagiri

Located around three km from city centre, Padagiri is a popular picnic spot in Nelliyampathy that draws locals and tourists alike. Also referred to as Nellikota, Padagiri is the tallest peak of Nelliyampathy Hills and stands at an altitude of 1500 metre above sea level. The teak plantation is a unique feature of this place.

 

Boating in Nelliyampathy

Nelliyampathy is a famous place for boating with several reservoirs and lakes. The Pothundy Dam has facilities for boating and is also a picnic spot. The Malampuzha Garden also provides boating facilities.

 

Shopping in Nelliyampathy

Nelliyampathy is famous for shops where you can buy different varieties of tea and coffee as the region is surrounded by tea and coffee plantations. Moreover, the area is also known for organic items. The weavers’ community and the local handloom are also key attractions for tourists.

 

FAQs

When should one visit Nelliyampathy?

Located on a hilltop, Nelliyampathy is a little magical village that enjoys tropical weather. The city has scorching summers and mild winters, making the latter the ideal time to discover everything the area offers. Nelliyampathy is thus best visited between September and February.

What is the native cuisine of Nelliyampathy?

In Nelliyampathy, which is a hill station, you can have trouble finding places to eat that are not associated with your hotel, particularly if you are at a higher altitude. On the other hand, the hotel or resort provides wonderful cuisine and will accommodate specific dietary needs upon request.

What is the most efficient route to Nelliyampathy?

Nelliyampathy is accessible by way of a network of roads that are both well-connected and well-maintained.

What is the best time to visit Nelliyampathy?

The months from September to May are the ideal time to visit when the temperature ranges from 20 to 33 degrees Celsius.

How high is Nelliyampathy peak?

The Nelliyampathy Hill Station is located at a height of around 1,572 m above sea level.

How many hairpin bends are there in Nelliyampathy?

There are around 20 hairpin bends between Pothundi and Nelliyampathy.

What to buy from Nelliyampathy?

Tourists can explore shops selling different varieties of tea and coffee and various organic items.

 

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