Malappuram is a city in the state of Kerala. Spread over an area of 58.20 km sq. With a significant share of the state’s population, Malappuram is the fourth largest urban agglomeration in Kerala. According to a survey by the Economic Intelligence Unit, it is the fastest growing city in the world. Located 54 km from Calicut and 90 km from Palakkad, Malappuram is a major contributor to the economy of Kerala. It is one of the most important cities in the state. Just like the rest of Kerala, Malappuram is gifted with dense green cover and several waterfalls. The city also holds a significant position in the history of Kerala.
The word Malappuram means a terrace at a hilltop. The city was once a military headquarters and the rock-cut caves are an indication of the same. With so many temples, ancient relics, caves, and modern facilities, Malappuram is a blend of ancient attractions and an urban setup. There’s a lot more to Kerala than the backwaters, and Malappuram is one such place where you can witness other flavours of the southernmost state of India.
Top Places To Explore in Malappuram
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary:
For all the nature lovers and wildlife photographers, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary could be an ideal place to start your Malappuram exploration. Situated close to Kadalundi Railway Station, the bird sanctuary is right at the spot where the river of the same name flows into the Arabian Sea. The sanctuary houses more than 100 native species of birds. Besides this, there are more than 60 migratory species of birds in the sanctuary. The place is open to visitors every day from 8 am to 8 pm. The entry fee is Rs. 25 per person. You can take one of the direct buses to Kadalundi to visit the sanctuary.
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Keralamkundu Waterfalls:
Whether you are a mountain person or a beach person, Malappuram has a place for everyone. The cascading waterfall is among the most attractive places to visit in the city. A great spot for nature lovers. The waterfall forms a small pond at the place where it falls on the ground. One can enjoy a dip in the pond after reaching the waterfall. The surroundings of the waterfall make it even more special. With the mighty Western Ghats surrounding the location, the entire setup looks surreal.
Padinharekara Beach:
A lot of travellers prefer Kerala over Goa because the beaches here are very less crowded in comparison to those in Goa. Padinharekara Beach in Malappuram is no different. If you’re lucky, you might have the entire beach to yourself for a few hours.It is one of the places where you can spend a few hours in solitude amid the serene environment while listening to the melody of the waves. The view of rivers Bharathapuzha and Tirurpuzha falling into the Arabian Sea is something you won’t forget easily. The beach is located 17 km from Tirur Town, at the end of the Tipu Sultan Road.
Arimbra Hills:
For all the nature lovers and adventure junkies, Arimbra Hills must be on your list while exploring Malappuram. Also known as Mini Ooty, it is one of the most scenic places to explore in the city. The appearance of the place is very much similar to Ooty and it is a nature lover’s paradise. The endless greenery and the panoramic view of the ghat will leave you mesmerised. Situated at an altitude of over 1,050 feet, Arimbra Hills is one of the few places where you can witness the undisturbed beauty of mother nature. You can reach the spot after covering 4 km from Aravankara.
Kodikuthimala:
Another very mesmerising place to explore in Malappuram is Kodikuthimala. It is an absolute pleasure to watch the beauty of this place with naked eyes. It is a small hill station perched atop a hill at a height of over 500 metres from the sea level. It is one of the newest additions to Malappuram’s tourist map and ardent adventure seekers must not miss the opportunity to visit this place. The hill station is located in Perinthalmanna taluk of Malappuram. There’s a watch tower atop the hill that provides panoramic views of the entire region. Entry to the hill station is absolutely free.
