RANIPURAM

RanipuramLocated on the highest peak in Kasargod, at a distance of 85 kms (46 & 54 kms from Kanhangad and Bekal) and sharing the border with Karnataka, Ranipuram is a beautiful mountain terrain covered with evergreen shola woods, monsoon forests and grasslands. Perched at an altitude of 750m above sea level, the natural beauty of this trekker's paradise is comparable to Ooty. This area was formerly known as madathumala and as the name suggests, its sprawling thick wooded forest merge with the forests of Karnataka; i.e Talacauvery wildlife sanctuary. Ranipuram forms an elephant corridor between the two states and wild elephants can be seen roaming on the mountain tops. It is an unexplored territory of nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. Variety of birds and different species of butterflies can be seen in the canopies. From its highest point of ranipuram called 'mani', one can get a panoramic view of the landscape and acres of green valleys which will be a real treat for the eyes.
The proposed 50 sq.km Ranipuram wildlife sanctuary will be a boon to tourism development in Kasaragod district. October to March is the best time to visit. To cater the accommodation facilities, tourist cottages are provided by DTPC, KTDC and several private players.

POSSADIGUMPE HILL

Possadigumpe Hill, Possadigumpe is a tourist destination located in the village of Dharmathadka, about 18kms east of Mangalpady town which is at a distance of 25kms north of Kasargod. Nested in a picturesque hillock , 1060 feet (320 meters) above sea level, it is an ideal place for an enchanting one day trip. The scenic vision of Arabian sea and the vast areca gardens of Kasargod extending up to Mangalore city and Kudremukh, from the top of the hill is awfully breath taking

PAITHALMALA

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Paithalmala is an enchanting hill station in North Kerala in the Western Ghats near Kerala-Karnataka border. Standing as tall as about 4,500 feet above sea level, the summit is located about 65 kms north-east of Kannur city and 35 kms east of Thaliparamba. North of Paithalmala is the Kudaku forest. These huge mountains lay spread over 500 acres of land enriched with dense forest. The easiest access to the summit is from a place called Kappimala. One can go by bus up to Kappimala and then a bumpy jeep ride of two kilometers through the "muttatham-vayal" mountain till the forest border at "Manja-pullu". A 2 km trekking through the forest will then take you to the summit. The peak offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains beneath it. It is also a haven for a wide variety of rare flora and fauna. There are many seasonal waterfalls and brooks in the nearby areas. Paithalmala is an ideal spot for adventure tourism as well.

• Nearest bus Station : Pottenplave (Buses are available from Taliparamba KSRTC is running several buses to Pottenplave from Kannur depot).

• Nearest Railway Station : Kannur railway station.

• Nearest Airport : Kannur International Airport 
• two different directions; pottenplave (near Kudiyanmala) and Kappimala (Near Alakkodu). However, trekking from pottenplave is preferred because of the all-weather motorable road from pottenplave till the beginning of the forest, where the trek starts. There are upcoming resorts on this route too. The drive from Kudiyanmala till Paithalmala valley is refreshing as the winding and narrow road takes you to the higher elevations. Cars can be taken here without a second thought too. Parking at the valley is not guarded but generally safe.
  

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• the beginning of the forest, where the trek starts. There are upcoming resorts on this route too. The drive from Kudiyanmala till Paithalmala valley is refreshing as the winding and narrow road takes you to the higher elevations. Cars can be taken here without a second thought too. Parking at the valley is not guarded but generally safe.

MADAYIPARA

Madayipara is a significant spot owing to its bio-diversity as well as history. In the past, Madayipara was the administrative center of the Ezhimala kings. In and around Madayipara, one can find remnants from the past. At the southern side of the hill, stand the remains of a fort called Pazhi Kotta (kotta means fort in Malayalam). Here one can also find watchtowers at the four corners of the fort. Between AD 14 and AD 18, Madayipara used to be the site for the coronation ceremony of the rulers of the princely state of the erstwhile Kolathunadu.

The hillock of Madayipara, which carries several signs of historic relevance, is also a place important from a religious point of view. Here, a pond in the shape of a hand held mirror, connected to ancient jewish setllers is another historic attraction. Similarly, a temple at this site, called Vadukunda Siva Temple and the adjoining lake, about an acre in extension form yet another attraction at Madayipara. The lake near the temple will not go dry even in hot summer months and remains a source of nourishment to life forms at Madayipara. The pooram festival of Madayi Kavu (kavu - family temples and those in the midst of thick vegetation) held at Madayipara has been responsible for much of its fame.

With regard to the bio-diversity of Madayipara, it has been found that the region contains about 300 flowering plants, about 30 varieties of grass, and several insect-eating plant species. Madayipara is also home to several rare medicinal herbs, which are sought by people from near and far off places. Coming to avian life, Madayipara sustains about 100 species of butterflies and about 150 species of birds. Among the biggest butterflies in the world, the Atlas butterfly is a visitor to Madayipara.

The upcoming cultural village project of the state government is aimed to sustain and keep intact the physical as well as historic importance of Madayipara, and at the same time encourage visitors to savour the unparalleled attractions of this beautiful terrain.

Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Pazhayangadi, about 2 kms away.
Nearest airport: Karipur Airport, about 118 kms away

LAKKIDI

One of the highest locations in Wayanad, Lakkidi also commands a picturesque scenery. It is about 58 kms. north east of Kozhikode and five kms. south of Vythiri. Lakkidi, the gate way of Wayanad, lies atop Thamarassery, a ghat pass at an elevation of 700 m. above mean sea level.The lofty mountain peaks, the gurging stream, luxuriant vegetation and the bird's eye view of the deep valley on the south, with its winding roads, are breath taking. The 12 kms.long journey from Adivaram to Lakkidi through ghat road with nine hairpin bends amidst thick forests, is a fascinating experience.

CHEMBRA PEAK

At 2100 metres, the spectacular Chembra Peak located towards the southern part of Wayanad is the tallest summit in the region. Climbing this peak is a challenging mountaineering endeavour and would take a full day. The surrounding areas offer exceptional photo opportunities. Camping on the peak is a unforgettable experience

PHANTOM ROCK

Phantom Rock
Located close to Ambalavayal town, Phantom Rock; named so because of it’s skull head shape, is locally called Cheengeri Mala. The immediate surroundings offer excellent photo opportunities.