North Kerala is undeniably scenic and peaceful. Nestled away in nature’s lap amongst lush green valleys, magnificent mountains, flourishing tropical vegetation, idyllic white beaches, meandering rivers, tranquil backwaters and abundant wildlife, North Kerala is truly God’s Own Country. The hidden treasures of North Kerala tourist places promise to show you an unspoilt version of Kerala’s natural beauty. It is an ideal holiday escape to reconnect with the enchanting wonders of nature.
If you wish to explore North Kerala’s unspoilt side, we have brought to you the 10 best tourist places in North Kerala that deserve to be on your itinerary.
Most Popular Places to Visit in North Kerala
Paithalmala
Paithalmala is a beautiful hill station and a popular trekking site in Kannur. The 6 km trekking trail greets you with rare beautiful green meadows and picturesque valleys, indigenous species of semi-evergreen shola forests, cascading waterfalls, 100 varieties of butterflies, and a panoramic view of neighbouring Karnataka. Set at an altitude of 1372 meters, it is one of the highest peaks in Kannur. On the way, trekkers enjoy a dip in the refreshing waters of Ezharakundu Waterfalls.
Recommendation: There are two trekking routes – The route that starts from Kappimala, near Alakkodu is comparatively difficult, ideal for experienced trekkers and the route that starts from Pottenplave, near Kudianmala is simple, ideal for beginners.
- Location: 55km from Kannur and 40 km from Taliparamba, near Pottenplave village
- Nearest railway stations: Kannur (39 km away)
- Nearest airport: Kannur International Airport (59 km), Calicut International Airport (160 km), Mangalore International Airport (180 km)
- Best time to visit: Monsoon and summer
Bekal Fort
The historic Bekal Fort was built in the 17th century and is praised as one of the best-preserved forts in India. Spread across 40 acres of land, it is the largest fort in Kerala. Situated on steep hills, the fort offers spectacular views of the Arabian Sea from its tall observation towers. Owing to its scenic surroundings, it is a favourite shooting locale for film-makers. The primary attractions of the fort are its observation tower fitted with beautiful peepholes, Theyyam sculptures and the Anjaneya Temple with its famous masonry.
- Location: Bekal, Pallikera village in Hosdurg Taluk in Kasaragod district
- Nearest railway stations: Kasargod Railway Station and Kanhangad Railway Station (both are around 12 km away)
- Nearest airport: Mangalore International Airport (50 km away)
- Best time to visit: The visiting hours are 8 am to 6 pm but breezy mornings and calm evenings are the ideal time.
Bekal Beach
Situated on the broad expanse of the Malabar coastline, Bekal Beach is known for its unparalleled charm. It offers striking views of the sun, sand, sea, and swaying palm trees lined on the sides of the beach. You can enjoy a stroll on the fascinating walkway and enjoy scenic views of the coastal line and Bekal Fort.
- Location: Bekal, Pallikera village in Hosdurg Taluk in Kasaragod district
- Nearest railway stations: Kasargod Railway Station and Kanhangad Railway Station (both are around 12 km away)
- Nearest airport: Mangalore International Airport (50 km away)
- Best time to visit: September to March is the best time to visit Bekal Beach when the climate stays cool and comfortable.
Muzhappilangad Beach
With a 4 km long stretch of sand, Muzhappilangad Beach is Asia’s longest drive-in beach and the only drive-in beach in Kerala. You can enjoy a drive along the beach while soaking in the view of the stunning Malabar Coast. It is a clean and well-maintained beach and is often considered a swimmers paradise owing to the presence of black rocks that restrict deep currents. You can savour authentic Malabar cuisine on one of the beach shacks, relax on the beach, and indulge in adrenaline-pumping adventures like paragliding, parasailing, catamaran rides, power boating, etc.
- Location: 7 km from Thalassery in Kannur
- Nearest railway stations: Kannur (16 km away), Thalassery (12 km away)
- Nearest airport: Kannur International Airport (25 km away), Calicut International Airport (102 km)
- Best time to visit: October to March is the ideal time to visit. An annual beach festival is held in April that attracts many tourists.
Nileshwar Backwaters
If you are looking for an amazing houseboat experience in North Kerala, Nileshwar Backwaters is the place to be. Surrounded by a beautiful shoreline with coconut and palm trees, Nileshwar Backwaters is an ideal getaway destination for nature lovers and tranquillity seekers. Being less commercialised, you can enjoy a calm and peaceful environment with fewer crowds. Travellers especially honeymooners visit these unexplored backwaters to try the houseboat cruise and the canoe ride.
- Location: Nileshwar, Kasaragod
- Nearest railway stations: Nileshwar railway station (5 km away), Kanhangad Railway Station (8 km away)
- Nearest airport: Kannur International Airport (85 km away), Mangalore Airport (98 km away)
- Best time to visit: September and February
Nileshwar Beach
Among the most famous tourist places in North Kerala is Nileshwar Beach. It is commonly referred to as the beach town of Kerala. The beach is located around 18 km southeast of Bekal and is bordered by palm-fringed trees lined across the huge expanse of blonde sand. You can stroll along this gorgeous beach and enjoy the pristine beauty of Mother Nature.
- Location: Nileshwar, Kasaragod
- Nearest railway stations: Nileshwar railway station (5 km away), Kanhangad Railway Station (8 km away)
- Nearest airport: Kannur International Airport (85 km away), Mangalore Airport (98 km away)
- Best time to visit: September and February
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary ranks among the most popular places to visit in North Kerala and the 2nd largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. It is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The sanctuary is bestowed with lush green forests and rich wildlife comprising some of the rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. Access to the 345 sq. km sanctuary is exclusively available through a 2-hour jeep safari where you can spot sambar, chital deer, langurs, peacocks, wild elephants, tigers and leopards.
Note: Jeeps are available from two of the sanctuary’s entrances – Tholpetty and Muthanga
- Location: Wayanad
- Nearest railway stations: Kozhikode (Calicut) Railway station (100 km away)
- Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport (125 km away)
- Best time to visit: The sanctuary timings are 7 am to 10 am and 3 pm to 5 pm. Winter season from October to February is the best time to visit.
Kavvayi Islands
Spanning over 37 square km area over the districts of Kannur and Kasaragod, the Kavvayi Islands are the largest group of backwater islands in North Kerala. Kavvayi Islands are encircled by the scenic Kavvayi Backwaters, comprising a captivating network of lagoons, rivers, and canals. The islands are surrounded by mangrove forests, lush green vegetation, and coconut groves and are home to a wide variety of rare migratory birds. The highlighting feature of Kavvayi Islands is its mangrove kayaking which offers a breathtaking view of the entire backwaters. You can also indulge in boating or water zorbing here.
- Location: Near Payyanur, Kannur district
- Nearest railway stations: Payyanur railway station (3 km)
- Nearest airport: Kannur International Airport (62 km away)
- Best time to visit: October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant and humidity is low.
Chembra Peak
If you are a nature admirer and love adventure trips then Chembra Peak is the ideal place for you. Situated 2100 meters above sea level, Chembra is the highest peak in Wayanad. This picturesque location offers awe-inspiring views of the rare flora and fauna. It is a popular spot for trekking. The 3 km long trekking route offers unparalleled views of the tea plantations, lush greenery, colourful meadows, waterfalls and a heart-shaped lake.
Note: You need to seek prior permission from the forest department before venturing on the trek.
- Location: 8 km south of Kalpetta, near Meppadi town
- Nearest railway stations: Kozhikode (79 km away)
- Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport (92 km away), Kannur International Airport (120 km away)
- Best time to visit: August to May
Theyyam Ritual Art Form
While it is not a place to visit, it should be a part of every North Kerala itinerary and that is why we have included it in this list. Theyyam is a spectacular and popular ritual art form that finds its roots in North Kerala. It brings to life the great stories of Kerala using art forms like dance, mime and music. The eight centuries-old folk ritual is based on the belief that immortal spirits inhabit mortal bodies to enact a ritual dance revealing divinity. The spectacular show displays stories of several gods and celestial spirits in Kerala mythology through the use of elaborate facial make-up, flamboyant costumes, unique ornaments and captivating headgear.
- Location: Theyyams are staged in various temples of the North Malabar region including Kasargod, Kannur, Mananthavady, Vadakara and Koyilandy.
- Best time to visit: October to May
Planning to visit North Kerala?
If you are planning to visit Kerala, do not miss out on these best tourist places in North Kerala. Travelbug India can help you plan a perfect North Kerala itinerary that helps you explore the scenic nature and unparalleled charms of North Kerala. Check out our affordable and unique North Kerala travel packages for a memorable holiday experience.
