Nelliyampathy

Nelliyampathy is a hill station within the Nelliyampathy Forest Reserve, in the southwest Indian state of Kerala. The road to it, which goes through the dense forests of the Western Ghats, is known for its many hairpin turns. To the west is Kesavan Para, a vantage point with views of nearby tea plantations. Farther west is the 19th-century Pothundi Dam. Northeast is the Seetharkundu Viewpoint, with waterfalls nearby.

Images Nelliyampathy

 About Nelliyampathy

From the town of Nenmara in Palakkad district, the cloud-caressed peaks of the majestic Nelliyampathy hill ranges are a sight to behold. The height of the hills ranges from 467 m to 1572 m. To reach Nelliyampathy, one has to take the road starting from Nenmara that proceeds to the Pothundy Dam. There are about 10 hairpin bends that have to be negotiated on the way to Nelliyampathy.

The Pothundy Dam is a picturesque locale with facilities for boating and is a nice option as a picnic place. As the Ghat road winds its way up to Nelliyampathy, at certain places there are viewpoints from where the vast stretches of Palakkad district are visible with its extensive paddy fields forming a verdant carpet. It also offers a splendid view of the Palakkad Gap, which is a geographical phenomenon in the Western Ghats formation in this region, bringing into view, parts of the adjoining State of Tamilnadu.

On the way up, those interested in bio farming can take a close look at the privately managed farms and also vast expanses of tea estates managed by different plantation companies. The hills of Nelliyampathy are also well known for its orange cultivation.

Privately owned hotels and resorts are located at various points, as one goes up the hills of Nelliyampathy. The bio-farms located here are a major landmark as one proceeds up before reaching the topmost point at Palagapandi estate. The estate has a quaint bungalow, built during the period of the British rule in India, and has now been converted into a private owned resort. At Kaikatty, a community hall is available, which is usually used as a base by those interested in trekking.

Not far away from Palagapandy is Seetharkundu where one can have a fantastic valley view, and a 100 m high waterfall providing an added attraction. From Palagapandy, one can trek or go by jeep to reach Mampara; another breathtaking vantage point at Nelliyampathy. The area in and around Palagapandy estate has tea, cardamom and coffee plantations with adjoining hills allowing one to catch a glimpse of the wildlife in the form of Indian gaur, elephants, leopards, giant squirrel etc. and is also a paradise for birdwatchers.

Accommodation

Forest lodge

Nelliyampathy has some medium to budget accommodation options. Whistling Thrush Bungalow (Padagiri P.O.) is a popular deluxe hotel of the city. ITL Holidays and Resort (Palakkad), Ciscilia Heritage (Ranimedu Estate) and Green Land Farm House (Palagapandy) are medium to budget accommodations in the city.

Activities

The Kinloch birding trail
Camping, spices plantation visits
Trekking

Reservation

Government Forest Guest house Booking

http://nelliyampathy.kfdcecotourism.com/Reservation.aspx

How to Reach Nelliyampathy 

By Road

Coimbatore: 120Km
Palakkad: 65 Km
Thrissur - 90 Km 

By Rail

Coimbatore: 120Km
Palakkad: 65 Km

Best Season in Nelliyampathy

Nelliyampathy is one of the few destinations in India to be an ideal place to visit all year round. The temperature remains comfortable throughout the year and is ideal for nature-lovers and to indulge in mesmerizing sightseeing opportunities.

Summer Season in Nelliyampathy

Nelliyampathy experiences mild summer and the temperature ranges between 20°C to 33°C. The summer starts from March and last till May.

Monsoon Season in Nelliyampathy

Nelliyampathy receive heavy rains during the months from June to September. The place remains drenched all through these months.

Winter Season in Nelliyampathy

The month of December marks the start of Winter Season. The temperature is comfortable and generally lies in the range of 15°C to 28°C. The winter last season lasts till February. After being washed by the rains, Nelliyampathy is fresh and rejuvenating during this season.