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Kannur, a coastal city steeped in history and culture in Kerala, also serves as a gateway to some of South India’s most picturesque hill stations. Nestled amidst the lush Western Ghats, the hill stations near Kannur beckon with their serene landscapes and cool climates, offering a refreshing escape from the coastal bustle. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, families, and adventure seekers alike, these destinations near Kannur invite you to unwind, explore, and rejuvenate amidst South India’s breathtaking hillscapes.
10 Hill Stations Near Kannur
Explore these enchanting hill stations near Kannur that blend natural beauty with cultural richness:
1. Kurisumala
Photo: Shijan Kaakkara / Wikimedia Commons
Kurisumala, located near Vagamon in Kerala, is renowned for its serene ambience and spiritual significance. Translating to “Mountain of the Cross,” it attracts pilgrims and nature lovers alike. The hill is dotted with 14 stations of the cross, leading to a small church at its summit. Pilgrims visit particularly during Easter, drawn by the peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trek to Kurisumala offers a spiritual journey and a chance to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of Kerala’s Western Ghats.
Distance From Kannur: 173 km
Suggested Read: Beaches In Kannur
2. Nandi Hills
Photo: Sakshiawasthi09 / Wikimedia Commons
Nandi Hills, in Karnataka, is a well-known hill station offering respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. Known for its mist-covered hills and pleasant climate, it is a favourite weekend getaway for locals and tourists alike. The hill station is named after the ancient Nandi temple atop the hill and is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s bull. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, explore ancient fortifications like Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace and Fort, and indulge in outdoor activities such as trekking, paragliding, and cycling.
Distance From Kannur: 383 km
3. Nelliyampathy Hills
Photo: Dr. Chinchu. C / Wikimedia Commons
Nelliyampathy Hills, nestled in the Palakkad district of Kerala, is known for its breathtaking landscapes and sprawling coffee plantations. The journey to Nelliyampathy is as scenic as the destination itself, with winding roads offering stunning views of the Western Ghats. Visitors can explore the lush greenery, hike through dense forests, and visit viewpoints like Seethakundu and Kesavan Para for panoramic vistas. The hill station also boasts orange orchards, making it a delightful retreat for those seeking tranquillity amidst nature’s bounty.
Distance From Kannur: 264 km
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Kannur
4. Barren Hills
Photo: Harneet.kaur dehiya / Wikimedia Commons
Barren Hills, located near Sultan Bathery in Wayanad district, Kerala, offer a stark yet mesmerising landscape characterised by rocky outcrops and sparse vegetation. Contrary to its name, the hills captivate visitors with their rugged beauty and unique geological formations. The barren terrain provides an ideal setting for hiking and photography, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in nature’s raw magnificence. The panoramic views from the hilltops, especially during sunrise and sunset, offer a surreal experience amidst the tranquillity of the Western Ghats. Barren Hills is a hidden gem for adventurers seeking offbeat destinations and unparalleled natural beauty.
Distance From Kannur: 360 km
5. Parunthumpara
Photo: Praveenp / Wikimedia Commons
Parunthumpara, near Peerumedu in Idukki district, Kerala, translates to “Eagle Rock.” This picturesque hill station is renowned for its eagle-shaped rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. It is a popular destination for trekking, picnicking, and photography enthusiasts, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the landscape is bathed in ethereal hues. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the meandering pathways, soak in the serenity of the natural surroundings, and witness the local flora and fauna. Parunthumpara offers a serene escape into nature’s lap, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration.
Distance From Kannur: 387 km
Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Kannur
6. Ramakkalmedu
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Ramakkalmedu, nestled in the Western Ghats of Idukki district, Kerala, is famous for its wind farms and panoramic views of the plains of Tamil Nadu. The hill station derives its name from the Tamil words Ram and Kal, meaning “Rama’s Stone.” According to legend, Lord Rama and his monkey army placed their feet on the rock, leaving imprints that can still be seen today. Ramakkalmedu is a trekker’s paradise, offering trails that lead to the Ramakkalmedu viewpoint, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas and explore the Kuravan and Kurathi statues depicting a local tribal couple.
Distance From Kannur: 372 km
7. Munnar
Photo: Bimal K C / Wikimedia Commons
Munnar, in Kerala’s Idukki district, is known for its expansive tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and agreeable weather. Munnar, located at the confluence of three mountain streams – Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala – provides a tranquil escape into nature. The town is filled with beautiful tea farms, where tourists may walk through scented plantations and learn about tea processing. Eravikulam National Park, which is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and Anamudi Peak, South India’s highest peak, are popular tourist destinations. Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Top Station are excellent sites for panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
Distance From Kannur: 371 km
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Kannur
8. Wayanad
Photo: Ravi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons
Wayanad, nestled in Kerala’s northeastern region, is celebrated for its mist-clad hills, dense forests, and rich tribal heritage. The district offers a blend of adventure and cultural experiences, making it a favoured destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Visitors can explore ancient caves like Edakkal Caves, adorned with prehistoric petroglyphs, or trek to Chembra Peak, where a heart-shaped lake awaits atop the hills. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants and tigers, while Banasura Sagar Dam and Pookode Lake offer scenic boat rides amidst tranquil surroundings.
Distance From Kannur: 107 km
9. Kumily
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Kumily, located near Thekkady in Kerala, is renowned for its spice plantations and proximity to Periyar National Park. The town offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats and indulge in spice plantation tours. Visitors can embark on boat cruises along Periyar Lake, where sightings of elephants, gaur, and sambar deer are common. Kumily’s cool climate and scenic beauty make it an ideal base for exploring Thekkady’s natural wonders, including Periyar Tiger Reserve, where guided safaris offer insights into wildlife conservation efforts.
Distance From Kannur: 392 km
Suggested Read: Kannur Water Parks
10. Ooty
Photo: Hemant Meena / Wikimedia Commons
Ooty, formally known as Udhagamandalam, is a picturesque hill station located in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri Hills. The town is known for its tea gardens, colonial architecture, and beautiful weather all year. Visitors may take a picturesque excursion on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that runs through tunnels and bridges with stunning views of the valley below. Ooty’s old-world charm, natural beauty, and moderate temperature make it a popular destination for honeymooners, families, and nature lovers looking for a refuge in South India’s stunning surroundings.
Distance From Kannur: 217 km
Explore the serene hills In Kerala, where nature’s beauty meets cultural heritage in harmony. Be it Munnar’s misty heights or Wayanad’s lush greenery, each destination offers a unique blend of landscapes, wildlife, and adventure. From the tea gardens of Nelliyampathy Hills to the panoramic views of Ramakkalmedu, these hill stations promise unforgettable experiences. Plan your next getaway with TripXL and immerse yourself in the charm of these hill stations near Kannur.
Cover Photo: Kidu / Wikimedia Commons
