Alakode and Karuvanchal sit at the foot of some of Kannur's best hill country: misty viewpoints, a forest trek to the district's highest hill and waterfalls that roar in the monsoon. Here's what's worth your time near Thushara Homestay, with local tips from our host, Mr. Joseph.
Palakkayam Thattu: sunrise and sunset viewpoint
A tabletop viewpoint about 3,500 ft up, 8 km (about 30 minutes) from the homestay, with wide valley views and drifting mist. Go at sunrise or sunset and skip the hot afternoon. You can drive up in your own car (a 4x4 is easier), or we can arrange a jeep for the whole trip.
Paithalmala: Kannur's highest hill
At about 1,370 m, Paithalmala is the highest hill in Kannur district. Trails of roughly 5–6 km climb through shola forest and grassland from near Pottenplave to a watchtower at the summit. It's 15 km from the homestay, about a 45-minute drive: start early in the morning, before the afternoon heat.
Kuttippullu: a quiet grassland viewpoint
About 8 km from the homestay, Kuttippullu is a quieter, open grassland viewpoint, perfect for an easy evening outing after a day on the hills.
Ezharakund Waterfalls: seven tiers in the Paithalmala valley
Ezharakund is a seven-tiered waterfall in the Paithalmala valley; the name means "seven-and-a-half pits" in Malayalam, after its rocky pools. From the Chathamala Facility Centre it's about a 2 km walk on a shaded trail, with safety rails along the stream. Google Maps puts it at about 45 minutes' drive from the homestay.
It's at its best in the monsoon, but choose a day without heavy rain: rocks get slippery and leeches are common.
Kappimala Waterfalls
Kappimala, near Alakode, is a waterfall with a natural pool-like setting in thick greenery, and it's usually visited together with Paithalmala. It's especially popular for monsoon treks. Safety facilities are limited, so stay on the path and keep out of the water when the flow is strong. Google Maps puts it at about 30 minutes' drive from the homestay.
A two-day plan
- Day 1: Paithalmala trek at sunrise, Kappimala Waterfalls on the way back, sunset at Palakkayam Thattu
- Day 2: Ezharakund Waterfalls in the morning, an easy evening at Kuttippullu
- Ask us the day before: we can arrange a jeep and share the best route for the weather
Tips for the hills around Alakode
- Best light: sunrise and sunset; avoid hot afternoons on the hilltops
- September to February is the most comfortable season; light monsoon days are beautiful and green
- Viewpoints and trails can close on very heavy rain days, so check the weather before you set out
- In the monsoon, wear closed shoes: leeches are common on trails
- A 4x4 or a hired jeep makes the steep hill roads easier
- Carry water and some cash for any entry charges
Stay at Thushara Homestay, Karuvanchal
Independent 1BHK AC cottage in Karuvanchal, Alakode · 4.9★ from 32 Google reviews · from ₹2,000/night