Best Hill Stations Near Kannur For Every Kind of Traveller

How about a canvas showing a quaint town, stunning beaches, heritage forts, museums, gardens, and traditional folk art displays? No points for guessing that it sounds like a picturesque place in Kerala. Kannur is a scenic coastal gem in Kerala, this place is home to some beautiful cultural traditions of the state, like Theyaam. Not only the beaches, but also the spectacular hill Stations near Kannur make for a perfect vacation retreat and make the Kerala holiday worthwhile in every sense.

There are quite a few popular and offbeat hill stations around Kannur that are easily accessible and loved as fascinating weekend retreats. From waterfalls and stunning views to tea gardens and state-of-the-art stay options, these hill stations have it all. Be it for romance, solo travel, or a leisurely family holiday, check out these places for a memorable trip.

Why Visit Hill Stations Near Kannur?

• The list of best hill stations near Kannur has both popular and offbeat names. These places are scenic, have pleasant climates, and are easily accessible from Kannur. 
• Travelling to the hill stations surrounding Kannur gives a break from the sweltering heat and humidity of the coast. 
• Those who love exciting drives through the bends and turns of the Western Ghats, these quick getaways from Kannur are the best choices.
• You can enjoy a plethora of experiences. From trekking and camping to a tea and coffee garden guided tour and birdwatching, there is a choice for every traveller. 
• Plan for the hill destinations near Kannur for leisure family holidays, solo trekking trips, or a honeymoon with your better half. 

Top 7 Hill Stations Near Kannur

The hill stations around Kannur look scenic and misty. They are the perfect escapes for a rejuvenating holiday. Here are the details about the most popular ones. 

1. Wayanad, Kerala

Tucked at 2100 feet, Wayanad is one of the best hill stations near Kannur for a relaxing weekend break. Rich wildlife, forests, caves, lush green hills, and gorgeous waterfalls make for a spectacular holiday setting. 

• Distance from Kannur: 115 km 
• Travel Duration: 3 hours 
• Best time to Visit: September to May
• Highlights: Soochipara Waterfalls, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Pookode Lake. Enjoy forest safaris, bamboo rafting in Kuruva Island, trekking, camping, ziplining, and enjoying stunning views from Neelimala View Point.
• Insider Tip: Visit during the monsoon for lush green scenery and misty mornings. But be alert to slippery trails and road closures. 

2. Coorg (Kodagu), Karnataka

Soak in the fresh aroma of coffee beans and spices while you travel to Coorg—one of the most romantic hill stations near Kannur. Pretty waterfalls, jaw-dropping viewpoints, forts, temples, and wildlife sanctuaries justify the title “Scotland of India” for Coorg. It is one of the most popular weekend retreats from Kannur, especially for honeymoon couples and adventure lovers. 

• Distance from Kannur: 112 km 
• Travel Duration: 3 hours 40 mins 
• Best time to Visit: October to March
• Highlights: Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant camp, Madekeri Fort, Iruppu Falls, Omakereshwara Temple, and Raja’s Seat. Enjoy trekking, camping, and picnicking by the waterfalls. Do not miss doing the Coracle ride in the Cauvery River.
• Insider Tip:  Plan your travel during the day. Late afternoon hours might have misty weather. Thus, visibility might drop, making it unsafe to drive on hilly roads and through forests. Also, book a plantation homestay for a genuine Kodava experience.

3. Paithalmala, Kerala

If you are wondering if Kannur is a hill station, the answer is no. However, do not miss that this place has some excellent trekking and holiday spots around. One such place is Paithamala—a scenic hill station near Kannur. Popular for its trekking trails, this place is located near the Kodagu Forest, on the Kerala-Karnataka border. The place is home to butterflies, birds, and rare trees. 

• Distance from Kannur: 54 km 
• Travel Duration: 1 hour 40 mins 
• Best time to Visit: December to March
• Highlights: Paithmala View Point and Watch Tower. 
• Insider Tip:  Start your trek early in the morning from Kappimala village.

4. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary & Meenmutty Hills, Kerala

This one is the hot favourite for nature lovers, hikers, and adventure enthusiasts. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary & Meenmutty Hills are popular hill stations near Kannur that offer scenic beauty, fun, and thrills. One can trek through the forest to reach Meenmutty Hills to enjoy a jaw-dropping view of the hills and waterfalls. 

• Distance from Kannur: 58 km 
• Travel Duration: 1 hour 40 mins 
• Best time to Visit: November to May
• Highlights: Visit Aralam Watch Tower to spot hornbills and minivets.
• Insider Tip:  Hire a jeep and a local guide to reach Meenmutty Hills for trekking. It is a 15 km drive through the forest. Vehicles are available at the entrance and cost INR 115 per adult. 

5. Chikmagalur, Karnataka

If you are shortlisting hill stations near Kannur for a weekend getaway, Chikmagalur is the best choice. This place is known for aromatic coffee estates, nature trails, mountain peaks offering stunning views, waterfalls, and ancient temples. 

• Distance from Kannur: 264 km 
• Travel Duration: 6 hours 30 mins 
• Best time to Visit: October to March
• Highlights: Hebbe Falls, Baba Budangiri, Hirekolale Lake, Jhari and Kalhatti Falls, and Z Point. Visit the coffee museum, trek to Mullayanagiri Peak, and worship Goddess Saraswati at Sharadamba Temple. 
• Insider Tip: If you are comfortable driving on hilly terrain, rent a bike in Chikmagalur for quick, seamless travel. 

 6. Kudremukh, Karnataka

A heaven for backpackers and trekkers, Kudremukh is dotted with peaks, waterfalls, grasslands, shola forests, and rolling hills. This hill station in Kannur is a weekend getaway for relaxation and adventure. The place is a bird-lover’s paradise. One can spot the Great Pied Hornbill, imperial pigeon, Malabar Trogon, and lion-tailed macaque while trekking through the forests. 

• Distance from Kannur: 260 km 
• Travel Duration: 6 hours 40 mins 
• Best time to Visit: October to March for the most pleasant weather
• Highlights: Kudremukh National Park, Kadambi Falls, Hanuman Gundi Falls, Lakya Dam, and Kalasa.
• Insider Tip: Trekking requires permits. So it is advisable to book in advance.

7. Brahmagiri Hills

Located in the Western Ghats, the Brahmagiri Hills are among the most serene hill stations near Kannur. With Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, gorgeous waterfalls, and forest trails, this place is loved by nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. 

• Distance from Kannur: 116 km 
• Travel Duration: 3 hours 14 mins 
• Best time to Visit: October to March 
• Highlights: Brahmagiri Peak, Iruppu Falls, Kakkabe, Talakaveri, Bylakuppe, and Madekeri. Enjoy trekking, forest trails, bird watching, and photography. 
• Insider Tip: Expect a few steep ascents during the trek. Start early to complete the trek before sunset. Hiring a local guide is also recommended. 

How to Plan Your Trip to Hill Stations Near Kannur?

Best Time to Visit:

• October to February: The best time to visit the hill stations near Kannur is winter. The weather remains cool, dry, and pleasant. It is ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, forest walks, and jeep safaris. 
• March to May: This is the best season for short breaks. This season is mildly warm and comfortable. 
• June to September: These are the monsoon months, when the surroundings look misty and refreshing. Just be careful of slippery trails, strong currents in the waterfall, and road closures. 

How to Reach:

• By Road: Kannur, with mountains such as Wayanad, Coorg, Chikmagalur, Brahmagiri Hills, and Paithalmala, is well connected via the Kannur-Mattanur-Coorg Road, NH 66, and the  Thalassery-Baveli Road. 
• By Rail: Kannur Railway Station is the nearest major station for all the hill stations nearby. 
• By Air: Most hill stations near Kannur, such as Wayanad, Coorg, and Kudremukh, are easily accessible from Kannur International Airport (CNN). 

Where to Stay:

• Eco-Resorts: Vythiri Village Resort in Wayanad, Coorg Hill Resort and Elakki Valley Eco Resort in Chikmagalur.
• Boutique homestays:  Plantation Stay in Chikmagalur, Kalamatti Eco Homestay, and Coorg Happy Estate.
• Forest Cottages: The Serai Chikmagalur and Jungle Retreat Wayanad 
• Adventure Camps: Jollyboys Campsite, Coorg and Bhagawathi Nature Camp, Kudremukh 
• Average Cost: INR 2000-15,000, depending on the nature of the property, the package offered, and the season of travel. 

Things to do Around Hill Stations Near Kannur

• Trekking, camping, and jeep safaris
• Exploring tea and coffee estates and spice plantations
• Relish local recipes like Coorgi pork and Wayanadan bamboo rice
• Picnicking by the waterfalls and photography walks
• Enjoying cultural tours and village walks

Popular Hill Station Tour Packages Near Kannur

These are popular hill-station travel packages around Kannur for family vacations, honeymoons, and adventure trips. 

1. Wayanad Nature Retreat – 3 Days / 2 Nights

Route: Kannur – Wayanad – Banasura Sagar – Edakkal Caves
Highlights: Trekking, boating, and wildlife safari.
Inclusions: Stay, transfers, breakfast, guided tours.
Exclusions: Lunch, dinner, entry fee, tips, and airfare

Average Cost: INR 17,888 per person 

Ideal For: Families & nature lovers.

2. Coorg Coffee Trail – 4 Days / 3 Nights

Route: Kannur – Coorg – Dubare – Madikeri
Highlights: Coffee plantation visit, Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat.
Inclusions: Resort stay, local sightseeing, breakfast, and transfers.
Exclusions: Flight and train fare, additional sightseeing, and personal costs such as laundry, lunch, and dinner. 

Average Cost: INR 15,417 per person

Ideal For: Couples & culture enthusiasts.

3. Paithalmala Trek Escape – 2 Days / 1 Night

Route: Kannur – Paithalmala – Kottiyoor
Highlights: Trekking, hilltop camping, and sunset viewpoints.
Inclusions: Stay, meals, trek permits, and transfers.
Exclusions: Trekking gear rentals, airfare and train fare

Average Cost: INR 4500 per person

Ideal For: Adventure seekers & weekend travellers.

4. Chikmagalur & Kudremukh Adventure – 5 Days / 4 Nights

Route: Kannur – Chikmagalur – Kudremukh – Hebbe Falls
Highlights: Mountain treks, waterfalls, and a coffee estate stay.
Inclusions: Transfers, stays, activities, meals.
Exclusions: Trekking gear rentals, tips to local guides, and airfare. 

Ideal For: Backpackers & road trippers.
Average Cost: ₹18,000 – ₹25,000 per person.

Tips For Travellers

• Carry light woollens year-round. Evenings might get colder in the hills. 
• Book accommodation and trekking tours in advance to avoid the rush.
• Hire local guides and vehicles for treks and wildlife tours.
• If travelling in the monsoon months, check the weather forecast and road conditions. 

Why Book With Travel Triangle?

• Pocket-friendly travel packages.
• Personalised travel itineraries depending on the time and budget. 
• Booking accommodation in verified and reliable places.
• Hiring transport for hassle-free and safe travel. 
• 24/7 travel assistance.
• Authentic traveller reviews.
• Flexible payment options

Conclusion

The hill stations near Kannur are scenic, full of adventure, and perfect for a short vacation. Be it rolling hills, dense forests, waterfalls, or exciting trekking routes, these places offer memorable holiday experiences for families, friends, honeymoon couples, and adventure lovers. If you are planning a trip to Kannur, do include some of these nearby hill stations for a rejuvenating escape from the daily hustle and bustle.. Connect with TravelTriangle for a personalized and affordable Kannur package that will delight every kind of traveller.

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Ritika Agarwal

Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.