Nelliyampathy hill station is culturally rich and blessed with exotic wildlife and lush green forests due to which it makes a popular tourist destination. It is an ideal holiday spot for a relaxing and refreshing vacation. The green magic of nature and bracing climate of the Nelliyampathy hills enhance the thrilling experience.

History

A large portion of the forest land of these hills was leased out by a small principality, Kollengode Raja to the British. Some tracts were leased out to two Britons i.e. WRM McKenzie and Arthur Hall in 1889. Since 1989, about 95% of these hills are owned by the Poabs India Company and the rest by the Kerala Forest Department.

How to Reach Nelliyampathy

By Air

Coimbatore is the nearest airport that is at a distance of 55 km from Palakkad.

By Road

Nelliyampathy can be reached by road through state owned as well as tourist buses from cities like Cochin, Trichur, Kozhikode, Kottayam, Guruvayoor and Trivandrum.

By Train

Palakkad is the closest station that is located at a distance of about 52 km from this hill station.

Getting Around

The drive to these beautiful hills is a great experience as one begins the journey through steep and narrow roads. The wild waterfalls, tea garden and beautiful paddy fields along with cardamom, coffee and orange plantations make an exciting journey.

Weather

Nelliyampathy has a pleasing climate throughout the year. Summers last from March to May when the maximum temperature is around 30 degree Celsius. The winters last from December to February when the minimum temperature is 15 degree Celsius. Monsoons begin from the month of June till September and offer heavy rainfall.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit this beautiful hill station is between September to May. For those looking for more adventure, the monsoon season from July to September can be the best time to visit this place.

Attractions

One of the interesting attractions on the way to Nelliyampathy Hills is the beautiful Pothundi Dam which is a perfect picnic spot. The top of this reservoir offers a stunning view of the Nelliyampathy valley. There is a garden here, which is also equally attractive. One can take a look at the magnificent valley and paddy fields from the top of Pothundi Dam. On the way up to these hills, one can find a number of viewpoints that offer splendid views of Seethaguru, Kesavan para, Manpara and Poab’s Tea Estate.

Shopping In Nelliyampathy

When at Nelliyampathy, shop for jams and squashes prepared from the fresh fruits of the area such as orange, guava, pineapple or passion fruit. They are easily available at the Government vegetable and orange farm.

Activities to do in Nelliyampathy

Nelliyampathy Hills make an exciting experience for both adventure lovers and nature lovers. One can catch a glimpse of a lot of rare bird species like the Great Black Woodpecker, Nilgiri pipit, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Jerdon’s baza and Great pied hornbill. The thick forests of these hills house a wide range of animals and plants. The Nelliyampathy hills are also suited for jeep safari and trekking.

Eating Out

There are various restaurants in Nelliyampathy that offer authentic Kerala style food. One can savor a variety of rich curries like rasam, vattal kozhambu, morukootan and sambar along with rice.

Festivals and Events in Nelliyampathy

Festivals are observed with religious sentiments and great zeal in Nelliyampathy. Some of the festivals celebrated here are:

Easter

This renowned festival is celebrated during the months of March or April with great dedication by the Christians.

Saraswathy Pooja

This festival is celebrated during the Navaratri on the last 3 days.

Ekadashi Festival

This festival is observed on the 11th day of Lunar fortnight.

Annual Festival or Utsavam

This festival is observed during the months of February and March on the day of Pushya.

Hotels in Nelliyampathy

There are a few restaurants and hotels in the Nelliyampathy Hills. So, it is a wise option to stay at Palakkad and then visit Nelliyampathy hills for a one day trip.

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