Top 20 Travel Destinations in North Kerala

Kerala is a traveler’s paradise because of its green valleys, spectacular beaches, verdant mountains, beautiful rivers, rich wildlife and pleasant climate. This is a perfect holiday hideaway to encounter with the mesmerizing nature. Whether it is a beautiful family vacation or a memorable honeymoon trip, this South Indian State is a fantastic choice. There are many majestic travel destinations in the southern part of the state such as Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom and Kovalam. But many tourists do not have much idea about the awe-inspiring North Kerala tourist places.

Here are the 20 travel hotspots located in North Kerala to consider for some memorable holidays:

Bekal in Kasargod

If you are thinking as where to go for holidays in Kerala, then Bekal is a good choice. It is a quaint place in the Kasargod district of Kerala. A well-kept fort and a fabulous beach are the main attractions of this tourist destination. Bekal is located on the scenic shores of Arabian Sea almost 15 kilometers away from the Kasargod Town. Built in the 17th century, the Bekal Fort has the shape of a keyhole and it was constructed in order to protect the region from enemies. Since the bastions of the fort rise to a good height, you can watch marvelous views of the coconut groves, rows of fisherman boats and even the nearby villages from there. Do not leave the charming fort without enjoying mind-blowing sunset views. There are many luxury and budget hotels and resorts in Bekal to offer comfortable stay to travelers.

Nearest Domestic Airport: Mangalore (50 km away)
Nearest International Airport: Kozhikode (180 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Kasargod and Kanhangad (Both are around 12 kilometers away)

Chembra Peak in Wayanad

Chembra Peak is a must-visit tourist spot for people who plan a vacation in North Kerala. It is located in Wayanad, one of the most popular hill stations in the state. This hilly region fascinates travelers with its astounding rugged landscape of the Western Ghats. Chembra Peak is a favourite place for adventure lovers as it offers many chances for trekking, rock climbing and other exciting activities. It is the highest peak in Wayanad and is visible from all parts of the district. On the way to this peak, travelers can enjoy the beauty of a heart-shaped lake called ‘Hridayathadakam’. From the peak, they can watch the whole Wayanad and views of Malappuram, Kozhikode and Nilgiri districts.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (48 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (46 km away)

Edakkal Caves in Wayanad

Edakkal Caves is among the top places to visit in North Kerala because of its historical importance. Visitors can enjoy Stone Age carvings of archeological significance at this place. It is interesting for them to watch the carvings belonging to the Neolithic and Mesolithic age. In fact, it is the only known place in the country with such carvings and said to have some connection with Indus Valley Civilization. People can visit the caves from 9:30 am to 4:30 after paying a small entry fee. Reach the base of the Ambukutty Hills by car or bus and climb the hills from there to enjoy the carvings of Edakkal caves.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (62 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Nilambur (38 km away)

Silent Valley in Palakkad

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Even though there are many must-visit places to travel in North Kerala, Silent Valley holds a special place. It is the right destination to enjoy the bio-diversity of the Western Ghats. Located in the north-eastern part of the Palakkad district, the Silent Valley National Park has a collection of more than 1000 flowering plants. It is interesting to know that this park houses around 110 species of orchids. Besides, visitors can enjoy a wide range of animals, birds, butterflies and beetle species at this park. The tropical evergreen forest makes the region a complete nursery of exotic flora and fauna.

Nearest Airport: Coimbatore (120 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Palakkad (43 km away)

Guruvayoor Temple in Thrissur

Guruvayoor Temple is a popular temple in North Kerala in the Thrissur district dedicated to Lord Krishna. Popularly known as the Dwaraka of the South, this temple is set in the middle of swaying coconut palms. It is treated as one of the most sacred pilgrim centers in the state. Non-Hindus are not permitted to enter this temple. Besides, it is important to wear traditional dresses to enter inside. Well linked by road, travelers can easily reach this temple by bus. A 30-minute car drive from Thrissur is sufficient to reach this place. People who plan a budget trip to North Kerala shall add Guruvayoor Temple in their itinerary.

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (83 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Thrissur (43 km away)

Nelliyampathy Hills in Palakkad

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Nelliyampathy is a marvelous hill station in North Kerala blessed with matchless natural beauty. One of the great advantages of choosing this panoramic region in North Kerala for your trip is that this destination has so many tourist attractions. In fact, you need to spend 2-3 days to cover all the must-visit attractions in this region. Some of famous attractions in this destination are Nelliyampathy Hill, Seetharkundu Viewpoint and Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary. It is wise to check the Kerala travel guide of Tour My India to get an idea about the popular attractions in Nelliyampathy.

Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (55 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Palakkad (56 km away)

Banasura Sagar Dam in Wayanad

Wayanad is certainly one of the must-visit places in Kerala because of its scenic nature, unique wildlife and stunning tourist attractions. For people who plan a trip to Northern parts of this state shall consider visiting Wayanad. Banasura Sagar Dam is a beautiful attraction in this district. It is located almost 21 kilometers away from Kalpetta. Aside the picturesque nature, visitors will be enthralled by the panoramic backdrop of mountains over Dam. This area is a photographer’s delight especially during monsoon season because of the formation of small islands and the crystal clear water of the Banasura Lake.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (100 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (75km away)

Thusharagiri Falls in Kozhikode

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Thusharagiri is relatively an unexplored tourist place in Kerala. Located in the Kozhikode district, a stunning waterfall is the main attraction of this tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy a unique kinship of water and land at this travel spot in North Kerala. It is basically a plantation destination rich in rubber, areca nut and spices like pepper and ginger. Besides, this region is a trekker’s paradise. It is a wonderful feeling to trek through the dense evergreen forests of the region. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of exotic animals and birds also during their trekking.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (50 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (50 km away)

Malampuzha Garden and Dam in Palakkad

Malampuzha Garden and Dam is a must-visit travel destination in North Kerala. The beautifully landscaped garden in front of the dam is truly eye catching. Located on the foothills of the Western Ghats in Palakkad, this awe-inspiring picnic spot offers excellent boating facilities to travelers. It is one of the kids friendly destinations in Kerala because of its amusement parks and well maintained gardens. There are many things to attract travelers at this spot such as the ropeway, fish-shaped aquarium, a charming rock garden and the snake park. Made out of broken and unwanted pieces of tiles, bangles and other waste materials, the rock garden is definitely a great feature of Malampuzha.

Nearest Airport: Coimbatore (67 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Palakkad (9 km away)

Kuruvadweep in Wayanad

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Kuruvadweep is an eye catching tourist spot in Wayanad located almost 14 kilometers away from Mananthawady. Forming around 950 acres of majestic evergreen forests, it is a group of islets on the Kabani River. The islets of Kuruvadweep are a haven for both local and migratory birds. The visitors of this enchanting travel spot can enjoy some unique orchids, wild flowers and variety of vegetation. Kuruvadweep is an offbeat travel destination ideal for people with a craving for some tranquil and blissful moments. The region is also famous among trekkers.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (119 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (99 km away)

Athirappilly Waterfalls in Thrissur

Located almost 60 kilometers away from Thrissur, Athirappilly Waterfalls is a must-visit tourism spot in North Kerala. In fact, it is among the most beautiful waterfalls in the country situated on the edges of the Sholayar Forest Ranges offering matchless scenic beauty. Travelers can visit this waterfall during any time of the year as it never gets dried. Even though the waterfall achieves its full glory during monsoon, heavy rains make it inconvenient for the visitors to reach the spot. People who visit Athirappilly never forget to visit the nearby Vazhachal Waterfalls.

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (40 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Chalakudy (32km away)

Valiyaparamba Backwaters in Kasaragod

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Valiyaparamba is a hot backwater destination in North Kerala located in the Kasaragod district. Aside, it is a well known fishing centre. It takes only an hour’s drive from Bekal to reach this enchanting backwater tourist spot. Valiyaparamba Backwaters is among the most popular summer holiday places in the northern regions of the state. Enjoying boat cruises through the stunning backwaters of the region is a mind-blowing experience. People who plan a trip to the backwaters of Valiyaparamba shall never forget to visit the majestic Bekal Fort and the nearby attractions.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (175 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Payyannur (9 km away)

Lakkidi View Point in Wayanad

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Popularly known as the gateway of Wayanad, Lakkidi is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in North Kerala. There is a lot to explore in this monsoon destination which holds the credit of the highest rainfall region in the state. Visitors love its gorgeous streams and rich greenery of the hills. It is also a well known hill station in the state where you can easily find luxury hotels and resorts to enjoy comfortable accommodation. Watching the lovely evenings and enchanting sunrise from Lakkidi Viewpoint can be memorable experiences for each visitor.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (42 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (39 km away)

Kakkayam Dam in Kozhikode

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Kakkayam is famous for its mesmerizing dam site. The most important attraction of this region is that it offers plenty of opportunities for rock climbing and trekking. Located in the Kozhikode district, this tourist spot is also famous for its lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy unique flora and fauna during their trip to this area. Kakkayam Dam is among the popular travel destinations in North Kerala because of its scenic nature and excellent trekking options. The best time to visit this place is between November and April. The nearby ‘Kariyathan para’ is famous for outdoor shooting and is worth visiting.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (87 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (66 km away)

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Wayanad

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Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular wildlife destination in Kerala, famous for its scenic nature and exotic wildlife. It is an excellent holiday hideaway to enjoy wildlife and eco tourism. Muthanga and Tholpetty are two famous eco-tourism areas in this sanctuary. Visitors can spot some rare wildlife species during their visit to this tourist place such as leopards, herds of elephants, monkeys, deers, bears, guars, tigers and a wide range of fishes, butterflies, reptiles and bird species. A trip to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is an effective way to create awareness among children about conservation. Remember to visit this sanctuary only during visiting hours.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (125 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (100 km away)

Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary in Wayanad

If you are a nature lover or birdwatcher, then Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is a fine destination to visit in North Kerala. As the name suggests, Pakshipathalam is a haven of birds located near Thirunelly in the panoramic Brahmagiri Hills. This region is not only great to watch varieties of bird species but also ideal to enjoy nature sightseeing tour. It is a good area to enjoy trekking. The deep rock caves are another attraction of this region. The steep hills, lovely streams and virgin forests offer excellent chances for trekking and make your trip to Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary an unforgettable experience.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (54 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (46 km away)

Parassinikkadavu Snake Park in Kannur

There are a few popular tourist attractions in Parassinikadavu such as the Snake Park and Muthappan Temple. The Parassinikkadavu Snake Park is a must-visit place in North Kerala where one can see a variety of snakes like King Cobra, cobra, Krait and Russel’s Viper. This park also houses many non-poisonous snakes and small animals. It is located nearly 16 kilometers from Kannur in the Anthoor Municipality is dedicated for the conservation and preservation of snakes. People who visit the Snake Park also prefer to visit the famous Muthappan Temple in Parassinikadavu.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (110 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Pappinisserry / Kannur

Beaches in Kozhikode

If you are a beach lover, never forget to visit the lovely beaches of Kozhikode. Even though there are other major attractions in this district, people who visit North Kerala do not forget to enjoy the lovely beaches of this destination. Kappad and Beypore are the most popular beaches in Kozhikode. It is amazing to visit these beaches in the evening to enjoy spectacular sunsets. You will also love to take walks with your friends or loved one during your trip to these beaches. The greenery of lush coconut groves is another attraction of these travel spots.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary in Malappuram

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Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is a major tourist attraction in North Kerala located in Malappuram district. The beauty of the nature at this destination truly fascinates each and every visitor. Spread over a large area of clustered islands, this tourist spot is only 7 kilometers away from the Beypore Port. Kadalundi River is a lovely attraction of this region that joins the Arabian Sea. The favorable conditions of this place give shelter to a large number of migratory birds. Travelers will never forget the sight of flocking plenty of colorful birds on the banks of Kadalundi River. This destination is a good addition for people who plan a Kerala vacation.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (23 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (19 km away)

Bamboo Factory in Wayanad

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A day in the Bamboo Factory in Wayanad is an amazing way to spend in the midst of lush and serene greenery. This is an ideal retreat to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located at Uravu, a trip to the Bamboo Factory can be both inspiring and educative. One can understand the functional and decorative uses of bamboos during their trip to this picnic spot. This factory helps locals to earn their livelihood and raise their standard of living. Visitors are allowed to enter the factory between 10 am to 4 pm. Visiting Kerala is a beautiful experience and one can get a deep idea about the design methods and manufacturing of eye-catching bamboo products by visiting the Bamboo Factory.

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode

It is amazing for holidaymakers, honeymoon couples and nature lovers to travel in Kerala and explore its scenic nature and matchless tourist attractions. They can find some of the best travel destinations in this state. Even though there are many beautiful tourist spots in North Kerala, many travelers to this state do not know about them. Most of these destinations offer a lot of exciting activities. It is wise to check the travel guide of Kerala to get an idea about the best things to do before planning the trip to this state. Most of the travel spots in North Kerala offer fine hotels and resorts that offer comfortable stay to travelers. Contact Tour My India to plan your Kerala holidays and to check the attractive North Kerala travel packages for a memorable holiday experience.