Vellari Mala - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 13 km from Muthappanpuzha, 63 km from Kozhikode Railway Station and 33 km from Thiruvambady, Vellarimala is a mountain range in Kerala, spread across Thiruvambady Panchayat in Kozhikode district and Meppadi Panchayat in Wayanad district. It lies at an altitude of 2200 m and is a popular hill resort around Kozhikode.

Vellari Mala is part of the popular Camel's Hump Mountains of the Western Ghats. The tallest peak in this range is called Vavul Mala and is situated an altitude of 2339 m. The meandering flow of the River Chaliyar through the rocky terrain of the hill range adds to the mystic beauty of the place by creating many waterfalls and cascades. Vellari Mala is a trekker's paradise but it is also a great picnic spot for a relaxing experience with family and friends.

Trekking to Vellari Mala starts from Muthappanpuzha, 3 km from Anakkampoyil, which is about 50 km from Kozhikode. KSRTC Bus Services are available from Thiruvambady to Anakkampoyil and Muthappanpuzha. There are jeeps available to Vellari Mala base from Muthappanpuzha. From the base visitors need to trek 9 km through thick forest and rocky terrains. It will take one full day to climb this peak and one could return only on the next day.

Vellarimala trek is one of the toughest treks in the South. Except for the initial 4 km stretch, the entire trek is through dense forest, frequented by wild elephants and leeches. A significant part of the trek includes steep climbs, some of which are at 35 degrees or more incline. At a distance of about 6 km from Muthappanpuzha on the way to Vellari Mala, there is a beautiful waterfall called Olichuchattam. A trek to the top of the Vellarimala Mountain can be a challenging one and only the experienced trekkers usually make it easily to the top. It is better to hire a guide to trek this hill. Visitors need to take permission from forest officials before going to do the trek. The peak can also be approached from Chooralmala village, Kalpetta on the Wayanad side and is supposed to be a moderate climb.

The best time to visit Vellarimala is from December - April.