Hill Stations Near Kozhikode For Your Perfect Escape

Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is famous for its rich history and culinary delights and its proximity to some of Kerala’s most enchanting hill stations. Whether it’s trekking, wildlife spotting, or simply unwinding amidst nature, these hill stations near Kozhikode have something for everyone. Amidst the Western Ghats, they offer a refreshing escape from the coastal city’s heat and bustle. Wayanad, with lush forests and waterfalls, Vythiri’s serene resorts, and the scenic beauty of Lakkidi, provide perfect getaways for anyone loving nature and adventure.

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Top 15 Hill Stations Near Kozhikode

Have a look at the 15 best hill stations near Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala, offering serenity and adventure to the visitors.

1. Ooty

One of the most popular hill stations near Kozhikode, Ooty is known for its unmatchable beauty.

Photo: Netha Hussain / Wikimedia Commons

Ooty is among the most popular hill stations near Kozhikode with distance within 200 km. Amidst the Nilgiri Hills, it is renowned for its stunning landscapes, lush green tea gardens, and charming colonial architecture. Ooty Lake is a major attraction, offering boating facilities amid scenic surroundings. The Botanical Gardens, over 55 acres, houses a rich collection of plants and flowers. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a picturesque train journey from Mettupalayam to Ooty. Ooty’s pleasant climate and serene environment make it an ideal escape from monotonous life.

Distance from Kozhikode: 157 km
Major Attractions: Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Doddabetta Peak, Rose Garden, Thread Garden and Pykara Waterfalls

Suggested Read: Hill stations In Kannur

2. Coonoor

Coonoor is a less crowded hill station with the Dolphin’s Nose and the Sim’s Park.

Photo: Antony Grossy / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Coonoor is known for its tea estates, Coonoor offers a tranquil and less crowded experience than Ooty. Sim’s Park, a well-maintained botanical garden, is a highlight with its rare species of plants and trees. Dolphin’s Nose, a viewpoint located about 12 kilometres from Coonoor, provides a breathtaking view of the valleys and the Catherine Falls. With its picturesque tea plantations and peaceful ambience, Coonoor is one of the best destinations for people seeking peace and relaxation.

Distance From Kozhikode: 175 km
Major Attractions: Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint, Lamb’s Rock, Heritage Train Ride to Ooty

3. Coorg

Coorg, with scenic coffee plantations, is a great place among hill stations near Kozhikode.

Photo: Nativeplants garden / Wikimedia Commons

Coorg, or Kodagu in Karnataka known for its coffee plantations, abundant greenery, and scenic landscapes. Dubbed the “Scotland of India,” Coorg has several attractions, including Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, and the Namdroling Monastery. The Dubare Elephant Camp offers an interactive experience with elephants. The Cauvery Nisargadhama, a river island, provides an environment for picnics and nature walks. Trekking enthusiasts can explore the trails leading to Tadiandamol and Brahmagiri peaks. Coorg’s pleasant climate makes it a popular destination for a refreshing and tranquil retreat.

Distance From Kozhikode: 176 km
Major Attractions: Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Nagarhole National Park, Talacauvery, coffee plantations

Suggested Read: Hill Stations Near Kerala

4. Munnar

At the emergence of three rivers, Munnar houses the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India.

Photo: Arshad.ka5 / Wikimedia Commons

Munnar is a renowned hill station known for its sprawling tea gardens, misty hills, and diverse wildlife in the Western Ghats of Kerala. Situated at the confluence of three rivers, Munnar offers breathtaking landscapes and a cool climate. The Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India, are major attractions. The Tea Museum provides insights into the region’s rich tea heritage. Munnar’s serene environment and stunning vistas make it an ideal destination.

Distance From Kozhikode: 264 km
Major Attractions: ea plantations, Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak, Mattupetty Dam, Attukal Waterfalls

5. Kakkayam

Kakkayam Dam is the major attraction in Kakkayam, making it one of the best hill stations near Kozhikode.

Photo: Azeezrealview / Wikimedia Commons

Kakkayam offers a serene escape into nature with its lush greenery, pristine waterfalls, and tranquil environment. Known for the Kakkayam Dam, it provides breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests. The nearby Kariyathan Rock is a popular spot for rock climbing and trekking, offering a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts. It is among the top hill stations near Kozhikode within 50 kms and is home to diverse flora and fauna, a major attraction for wildlife lovers and bird watchers.

Distance From Kozhikode: 50 km
Major Attractions: Kakkayam Dam, scenic trekking trails, wildlife sightings, and the natural dam reservoir

Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Kerala

6. Peruvannamuzhi

Peruvannamuzhi is the perfect getaway destination for peaceful aura and scenic beauty.

Photo: Razimantv / Wikimedia Commons

Peruvannamuzhi is among the spectacular hill stations near Kozhikode within 100 kms offering scenic landscapes and serene environment. The Peruvannamuzhi Dam and reservoir are the main attractions, offering boating facilities and a beautiful picnic spot amidst nature. The surroundings are home to various bird species, making it a popular destination for bird watchers. The nearby Smaraka Thottam, a garden dedicated to freedom fighters, adds historical significance to the area. Visitors can also explore the Crocodile Farm and the Vanasree Aquarium.

Distance From Kozhikode: 44 km
Major Attractions: Peruvannamuzhi Dam, wildlife sanctuary, spice plantations, butterfly park

7. Thusharagiri

Thusharagiri, with amazing views while trekking, forms one of the best hill stations near Kozhikode.

Photo: Manojk / Wikimedia Commons

Thusharagiri, meaning “snow-capped peaks,” is an astonishing hill station in Kerala known for its waterfalls and lush greenery. Located about 50 kilometres from Kozhikode, it offers a serene and tranquil environment. The Thusharagiri Waterfalls, comprising three cascades, are a major attraction and a popular spot for trekking and rock climbing. The trekking trails lead through dense forests, providing opportunities to spot various species of birds and wildlife. Thusharagiri is one of the prominent places to visit near Kozhikode, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Distance From Kozhikode: 52 km
Major Attractions: Waterfalls and trekking, especially the three-tiered Thusharagiri Falls, dense forest trails

Suggested Read: Thusharagiri Trekking

8. Vythiri

Explore Vythiri, a scenic spot offering lush grass, misty mountains, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Photo: Sourav Paul / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Vythiri is located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, at an elevation of about 700 meters. It is known for its lush grass, misty mountains, and peaceful atmosphere. It has cosy cabins, log huts, and unique treehouses where you can stay with amazing views of the tropical rainforests nearby. There are many spice farms, tea and coffee estates, and beautiful waterfalls in the area, such as Soochipara and Kanthanpara Falls. Trekkers can go to Chembra Peak, which is the highest point in Wayanad, and there are also chances to see wildlife in the nearby Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Distance From Kozhikode: 43 km
Major Attractions:

9. Palakkayam Thattu

Palakkayam Thattu is one of the most underrated but spectacular hill stations near Kozhikode.

Photo: Nikhil Chandran / Shutterstock

Palakkayam Thattu, a notable Kozhikode hill station getaway, offers breathtaking views, natural beauty, and a tranquil ambience. Located in the Kannur district, it is gaining popularity for its scenic beauty and serene environment. The hilltop provides amazing views of the hills and valleys, making it a perfect spot for photographers. The area is known for its trekking trails, offering adventure enthusiasts a chance to explore the rich flora and fauna.

Distance From Kozhikode: 134 km
Major Attractions: Lush forests, beautiful waterfalls, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and unique treehouse resorts

10. Wayanad

Wayanad serves as a natural treasure to Kerala with its serene landscape and topography.

Photo: Nitin Pai / Wikimedia Commons

Wayanad, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is known for its greenery, mist-covered hills, and rich biodiversity. This picturesque district is home to stunning places such as the Edakkal Caves, ancient rock carvings, and the majestic Meenmutty and Soochipara Waterfalls. This offers a chance to spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. The region’s tea and coffee plantations add to its charm, making Wayanad a perfect destination for people seeking a tranquil escape from urban life. For those exploring the area, the things to do in Kozhikode nearby also include rich cultural experiences, nature walks, and adventure activities that complement the beauty of Wayanad.

Distance From Kozhikode: 86 km
Major Attractions: Trekking trails, scenic viewpoints, coffee plantations, adventure activities like zip-lining

11. Kotagiri

An image of Kotagiri, which is the third biggest hill station in the Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu.

Photo: Prabhu Jagannathan / Unsplash

Kotagiri is a serene hill town in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiris district. It is known as the third biggest hill station in the Nilgiris, after Ooty and Coonoor. Its lush, rolling hills are punctuated by endless tea plantations and forest patches. During the British rule, it was a popular place to spend the summer, and its weather is still thought to be one of the best in South India. It has hiking trails, waterfalls like Catherine Falls, and beautiful views like Kodanad. The town’s colonial cottages, tea plantations, and fresh mountain air make it one of the best hill stations near Kozhikode, Kerala.

Distance From Kozhikode: 120 km
Major Attractions: Trekking trails, Catherine Falls, Kodanad Viewpoint, and serene tea estates

12. Nelliyampathy Hills

Explore the mesmerising Nelliyampathy Hills, which is one of the hill stations near Kozhikode.

Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons

Nelliyampathy Hills are a hidden gem in South India’s hill towns. The trip to Nelliyampathy is unique in and of itself, with many hairpin turns that let you see the Pothundi Dam and large areas of forest below. Trekkers and nature enthusiasts love the beautiful views from the Sitharkundu Viewpoint, the Manpara Viewpoint, and the Kesavanpara. Nelliyampathy is a great place to get away from the noise and chaos of cities, making it one of the hill stations near Kozhikode for a day trip.

Distance From Kozhikode: 183 km
Major Attractions: Tea and coffee plantations, scenic hill views, Pothundy Dam, and wildlife spots

13. Vagamon

Plan a visit to the scenic Vagamon, which is one of the hill stations near Kozhikode.

Photo: Bibin C.Alex / Wikimedia Commons

Vagamon is one of the best hill stations near Kozhikode, known for its stunning natural settings. It is on the border of Kerala’s Kottayam and Idukki districts. Vagamon has a scenery that looks like a dream, with lush meadows, pine forests, and tea gardens, as well as rivulets and rocky outcrops. It is home to the Kurisumala Ashram, Thangal Hill, and Murugan Hill, all of which are important to Christians, Muslims, and Hindus. People who like to be adventurous can go hiking, paragliding, or rock climbing, and people who want to relax can spend their time in a peaceful environment.

Distance From Kozhikode: 236 km
Major Attractions: Rolling meadows, pine forests, Kurisumala pilgrimage site, and paragliding

14. Kodaikanal

An image of the beautiful Kodaikanal, also called the Princess of Hill Stations.

Photo: Silvershocky / Wikimedia Commons

People often call it the “Princess of Hill Stations”, and its name comes from the lush forests that surround it. Kodaikanal is famous for its misty, cool weather, rolling hills, and man-made lake in the shape of a star. A lot of tourists come here to boat on Kodai Lake, have meals in Bryant Park, see the unique Pillar Rocks, and take in the views from Coaker’s Walk. Because of its mild weather, Kodaikanal is a popular place all year long, with hikers, honeymooners, families, and people looking for excitement.

Distance From Kozhikode: 218 km
Major Attractions: Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, Pillar Rocks, Bear Shola Falls

15. Sakleshpur

A breathtaking view of Sakleshpur, which is known as the "Switzerland of Karnataka.

Photo: Shameersh / Wikimedia Commons

Sakleshpur is known as the “Switzerland of Karnataka” since it is about 950 meters above sea level and is in the Hassan district of Karnataka. This hill station is surrounded by lush green valleys, thick forests, and huge plantations of pepper, coffee, and cardamom, all of which give off a sweet smell. Nature lovers, hikers, and photographers come here all year to enjoy the beautiful scenery, which is full of waterfalls and rivers. The star-shaped Manjarabad Fort, the Bisle View Point, and many hiking routes, such as Jenukal Gudda, Ombattu Gudda, and the famous Green Route Trek through railway tunnels and misty hills, are some of the best things to see in Sakleshpur.

Distance From Kozhikode: 220 km
Major Attractions: Trekking in Western Ghats, Manjarabad Fort, Bisle Viewpoint, coffee plantations

The hill stations near Kozhikode offer vivid experiences, from the misty tea gardens of Munnar and the serene beauty of Wayanad to the adventurous treks in Thusharagiri and the tranquil landscapes of Palakkayam Thattu. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a deep connection with nature, these hill stations are perfect getaways. Experience the allure of these captivating hill stations near Kozhikode with TripXL’s tailored travel packages.

Cover Photo: Harshal More / Unsplash

15 Hill Stations Near Kozhikode For Your Next South India Vacation