Nelliyampathy Hills – The Ooty of Kerala
Nelliyampathy – The Ooty of Kerala
Overview
Tucked away in the Palakkad district, Nelliyampathy is a serene hill station known as “The Ooty of Kerala.” Resting at an altitude of 1,200 meters above sea level, this enchanting hill retreat is adorned with orange orchards, coffee and tea plantations, misty mountains, and dense evergreen forests.
Ideal for travelers seeking peace and scenic beauty, Nelliyampathy offers a mix of natural charm, adventure, and plantation life — making it one of Kerala’s hidden treasures.
Top Attractions in Nelliyampathy
Pothundi Dam: A scenic reservoir at the foothills, ideal for picnics and boating, surrounded by lush greenery.
Seetharkundu Viewpoint: Offers breathtaking views of the Palakkad plains and a majestic waterfall plunging 100 meters.
Kesavan Para Viewpoint: Perfect for sunrise and sunset photography with panoramic hill views.
Palagapandi Estate: A historic British-era tea estate where visitors can experience plantation life.
Mampara View Point: A spectacular vantage point known for mist-covered peaks and wildlife sightings.
Nemmara Village: A charming countryside spot showcasing Kerala’s traditional village culture.
Things to Do in Nelliyampathy
Drive through winding hill roads lined with tea and coffee estates.
Enjoy trekking to Kesavan Para and Seetharkundu.
Visit orange and cardamom plantations and experience the aroma of Kerala’s spices.
Go birdwatching and spot endemic Western Ghats species.
Capture breathtaking mountain photography amid misty backdrops.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Nelliyampathy is from September to May, when the weather is cool and pleasant.Avoid heavy monsoon months (June–August), though they bring out the hill’s lush greenery and waterfalls.
How to Reach
By Air: Nearest airport – Coimbatore International Airport (≈ 120 km).
By Rail: Nearest railway station – Palakkad Junction (≈ 60 km).
By Road: Well-connected to Palakkad by a scenic ghat road with 10 hairpin bends offering stunning views.
Travel Tips
Carry light woolens; mornings and evenings can be cool.
Drive cautiously on the winding ghat roads.
Avoid littering — Nelliyampathy is an eco-sensitive zone.
Limited mobile network coverage — plan ahead for navigation.