Hill Stations In Thrissur For A Peaceful Retreat

Thrissur, Kerala, is renowned for its vibrant culture, captivating festivals, and serene backwaters. Thrissur is well known as Kerala’s cultural capital and is famous for ancient places of worship. History buffs can marvel at the architecture of the colonial era. This area is also home to marvellous hill stations in Thrissur, where you can relax amidst nature and enjoy the serenity. The charm of these idyllic hill stations will captivate and mesmerise you. Explore the untouched beauty and tranquillity that awaits you in the heart of Kerala.

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Top 8 Hill Stations In Thrissur

Hill stations in Thrissur offer a refreshing escape from urban life. Here are some of the best spots for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts:

1. Athirappilly

Athirappilly Waterfalls is an attraction in Athirappilly, one of the hill stations in Thrissur

Photo: Dil Shad Roshan / Wikimedia Commons

One of the hill stations in Thrissur for one day trip is Athirappilly, beckons nature enthusiasts with its breathtaking beauty. The crown jewel is the cascading Athirappilly Falls, a majestic 80-metre plunge pool called the Niagara of India. Thrill seekers can enjoy a refreshing dip below the falls during permitted seasons. Nature trails through the lush rainforest canopy are great for spotting diverse flora and fauna, making it one of the best places to visit in Thrissur for couples as well. A panoramic perspective, head to the viewpoint overlooking the cascading waters. The ancient Jain temple here will satisfy history lovers.

Major Attractions: Vazhachal waterfalls, Thumboormuzhi dam and butterfly garden
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

Suggested Read: Athirapally Waterfalls

2. Vilangan Kunnu

Vilangan Kunnu has several medicinal plants and trekking spots that are ideal for travellers

Photo: Manojk / Wikimedia Commons

One of the popular places to visit in Thrissur, Vilangan Kunnu or Vilangan hills offers scenic beauty. Breathe in some medicinal air as you walk through Asokavanam with the herbal plants along the trails planted by the State Medicinal Plants Board, Asokavana Samiti, and Vilangan Trekkers’ Club. You can take in the mesmerising beauty from the four points and the Selfie corner at the end of the walking trails. This is lesser known among the hill stations in Thrissur. Head to the serene Vilangan Lake for boating or enjoy bird watching here.

Major Attractions: Vilangan Kunnu viewpoint, Botanical gardens
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: Half day to 1 day
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

3. Kalashamala

Narimada Hill is another name for Kalashamala, one of the hill stations in Thrissur

Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons

Kalashamala, surrounded by temples, is called Narimada hills or Kallaayi hills. The temples of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu invite pilgrims worldwide. The natural beauty of the hills is unmatched, and you will be rewarded with panoramic views. This hill also has a natural cave from the Stone Age, inviting adventurous travellers to explore. The Shola forest is home to several endangered tree species. If you are a nature enthusiast, you will get a chance to explore the forests here, which is famous for its Kulavetti trees.

Major Attractions: Kalashamala Hills, Ecological village, rubber plantations
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

Suggested Read: Kollam Temples

4. Cheppara

Cheppara is an offbeat hill station in Thrissur where you can enjoy the local culture

Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

If you prefer exploring some offbeat hill stations in Thrissur, you will not be disappointed with Cheppara Rock Garden. You must trek to this hill for fantastic sunset views from the one-kilometre-long rock. Tourists will be spoiled by the bird’s eye view of Thrissur from the hilltop here. It is believed that the sages have meditated in the dolmens of the hills. As ecotourism is popular in Cheppara, the hills have railings, electric lighting, and facilities supporting differently-abled tourists.

Major Attractions: Cheppara viewpoint, Trekking trails, and rock formations
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

5. Malakkappara

Malakkappara is laden with emerald green slopes of tea plantations and landscapes

Photo: Athulvis / Wikimedia Commons

Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts will revel in and enjoy Malakkapara, known for the emerald slopes of tea estates. Breathe the mountain air and soak in beautiful scenery from viewpoints like Malakkappara. Get your adrenaline going with jeep safaris through the forest to explore the diverse wildlife. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is a treasure trove of biodiversity in Thrissur. You can also enjoy yourself at waterfalls like Chinna Kallar to rejuvenate your soul.

Major Attractions: Tea plantations, Valparai, Sholayar dam, Parambikulam wildlife sanctuary
Best Time To Visit: September to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 to 2 days
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

6. Poomala Hills

Image of a rolling hills covered with lush greenery - one of the best hill stations in Thrissur

Photo: nutnicha vongsivavilas / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

One of the best hill stations in Thrissur Poomala Hills is a calm and green destination located close to Thrissur city. Surrounded by natural beauty, this place is ideal for a relaxing day out with family or friends. The nearby Poomala Dam adds to the charm, offering a peaceful atmosphere and scenic views. It’s a great spot for walking, light trekking, or simply enjoying nature. The cool breeze and quiet surroundings make it a nice getaway for those who want a break from the city without travelling too far.

Major Attractions: Poomala Dam, walking trails, scenic viewpoints, boating, nature photography

7. Vazhani Hills

Landscape view of hills with big trees on the top, hills covered with greenery - places to visit in Thrissur

Photo: Utpal Sethiya / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Vazhani Hills, located near the Vazhani Dam, is a lovely spot for a calm and quiet experience in nature. It’s not a typical hill station, but the greenery, open spaces, and gentle hills make it feel refreshing. Visitors can walk around, enjoy the dam views, or simply relax in the fresh air. The place is peaceful and less crowded, which makes it good for short getaways or picnics. It’s especially enjoyable during the rainy or cooler months when the landscape turns lush and green.

Major Attractions: Vazhani Dam, botanical gardens, forested surroundings, walking paths, peaceful picnic spots

8. Killannur Hills

Image of lush green mountains - scenic hill stations to explore in Thrissur

Photo: Ankit Patel / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Killannur Hills is one of the hill stations in Thrissur district, near the well-known Vilangan Kunnu, is a serene area known for its gentle slopes and green surroundings. It offers nice views of the countryside and is perfect for early morning or evening walks. The place is quiet and not very commercial, so it’s good for those looking to spend some peaceful time outdoors. Though not a major tourist spot, the fresh air and simple beauty of the hills make it a pleasant escape for families, couples, or nature lovers living in or around Thrissur.

Major Attractions: Vilangan Kunnu viewpoint, nature walks, open green areas, sunrise and sunset views

5 Hill Stations Near Thrissur

1. Nelliyampathy

The misty landscapes of the Nelliyampathy hills in Thrissur are a tourist hotspot

Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons

Nelliyampathy hills form the popular Sahyadri ranges. The tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations offer a spectacular view and tantalise your senses. This lesser-known Thrissur hill station is accessible via a scenic drive with many hairpin bends. Cascading waterfalls serenade your senses, while viewpoints like Seetharkundu offer panoramic views that leave you spellbound. Embark on a thrilling jeep safari through off-road trails to explore the natural beauty, or hike through the dense forests.

Major Attractions: Nelliyampathy mountain range, Plantations, Pothundy dam, Parambikulam wildlife sanctuary
Best Time To Visit: September to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

2. Devikulam

A panoramic view of the green carpet of Devikulam, one of the hill stations in Thrissur

Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons

Devikulam is located in the Idukki district but is easily accessible from Thrissur. The lush tea plantations blanket the rolling hills, filling the air with their fragrance. Adventure seekers will find treks to hidden waterfalls like Thoovanam and Pallivasal more interesting. For a leisurely pursuit, explore the serene Sita Devi lake. If you prefer to have a relaxing time, bask in the tranquillity of Kundala Lake while boating. The MangalaDevi temple, perched atop a hillock, is also a sight to behold.

Major Attractions: Sita Devi Lake, Tea plantations, Pallivasal Falls, Hill View Park
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 to 2 days
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

3. Ranni

A view of the old collapsed Ranni bridge with the backdrop of the green forests

Photo: Ramjchandran / Wikimedia Commons

Ranni is one of the hill stations near Thrissur with a distance of 16 km and has the famous Sabarimala temple in Kerala. Surrounded by rubber trees, rivers, and huge mountains, Ranni invites adventure seekers and nature lovers. Immerse yourself in the cascading bliss of Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls, which is a 100-metre plunge. Explore the beauty of Aruvikuzhi waterfall, a seasonal wonder during the monsoon. To enjoy the best views, take a challenging trek to Charalkunnu hills. Cycle through the quaint villages on a scenic bike tour and enjoy the local culture.

Major Attractions: Sabarimala temple, Perunthenaruvi waterfalls
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

4. Idukki

The Idukki Reservoir is a scenic attraction near Thrissur and is worth exploring

Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons

Idukki is arguably one of the most beautiful hill stations near Thrissur, with the highest mountain peaks. The spice plantations fill up your senses as you trek through the hills. Explore the rich biodiversity of Periyar National Park on a thrilling boat ride, where sightings of elephants and tigers are common. Also, tourists can witness the engineering marvel of the Idukki Arch Dam, a colossal structure among the hills. Visit the Hill View Park to enjoy nature’s embrace.

Major Attractions: Idukki wildlife sanctuary, Kulamavu dam, Anchuruli tunnel
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

Suggested Read: Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

5. Ooty

Enjoy the mountain air and serene landscapes of Ooty, a hill station in Thrissur

Photo: Hemant meena / Wikimedia Commons

Ooty is the crown jewel of the Nilgiri hills, with excellent views from the Doddabetta peak and is one of the best hill stations near Thrissur. Hike or ride the charming Nilgiri mountain railway through the blanketed hills that are laden with tea plantations. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and unwind by the serene Ooty lake. You can even enjoy paddleboarding on the lake or simply go boating to enjoy a serene time. The museum gives you a glimpse of the past, and the sprawling botanical garden is captivating places to visit in Ooty.

Major Attractions: Rose garden
Best Time To Visit: October to June
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport

The hill stations in Thrissur beckon nature lovers with a serene atmosphere. After a challenging yet rewarding trek to these hills, you can soak in the panoramic views. Jeep safaris offer a thrilling ride inside the dense forests, taking you closer to wildlife in their natural habitat. Book your holiday to Thrissur through TripXL to enjoy these hidden gems.

Cover Photo: Pranchiyettan / Wikimedia Commons

8 Hill Stations In Thrissur For A Panoramic View Of The Landscapes