Kalpetta: Explore Kerala’s Beautiful Hill Town

Kalpetta is a great hill town in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It offers green tea and coffee estates, hills, and all peaceful natural beauty. People who love nature and adventures will find Kalpetta a great place to explore. It is also a gateway to visit nearby attractions, waterfalls, and historical sites. This guide will provide all the information you need for how to get to Kalpetta, the best time to visit, important places to see, fun activities, and where to stay.

How to Reach Kalpetta

By Road: Kalpetta is accessible by roads to major cities like Bangalore, Mysore, Kozhikode, and Kochi. You can reach Kalpetta by road from Kerala State Road Transport (KSRTC) and other private companies. You may also drive your own car to Kalpetta on great routes with green landscapes, hills, and curved roads. NH 766 highway gives you a nice drive and amazing views en route.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Kalpetta is Kozhikode Railway Station, which is around 72 km. Trains originating from major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Kochi travel up to Kozhikode. You can avail a taxi or local bus from Kozhikode to Kalpetta. The journey would provide wonderful sights of the Western Ghats, dense forests, and the hilly ranges.

By Air: The nearest airport to Kalpetta is Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode Airport), which is about 85 km away. There are direct flights from cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi to this airport. After you land, you can get a taxi or take a bus to Kalpetta. Cochin International Airport is another choice, but it is about 230 km away, so the trip will take longer.

The best time to visit Kalpetta.

Cool Season (October to February): It is the best time to visit Kalpetta as it is cool and nice with a temperature between 15°C and 25°C. The view, trekking, and other entertaining activities are boosted by the presence of green plants, a clear sky, and foggy mornings. There is also a chance to experience some local festivals during this time.

Warm Season (March to May): Summer season temperatures in Kalpetta range between 25°C and 32°C. Mornings and evenings are nice; afternoons are a bit warm, though it is much more pleasant compared to the flat places. Visit coffee and tea farms and waterfalls, and do hiking around this time of the year.

Rainy Season (June to September): Kalpetta receives a lot of rain during the rainy season, and, as a result, the forests look fresh and lively with leaves and waterfalls around and foggy weather makes perfect clean views. So one cannot hike because of wet and slippery paths. Instead, it is the perfect season to witness the beautiful waterfalls and fresh air. Lively Onam festival takes place during the rainy season, as well.

Places to See at Kalpetta

Edakkal Caves: These caves, located about 25 km away from Kalpetta and containing old carvings and rock drawings, stand as proof that these people belonged to the Stone Age. To reach such caves, one has to trek his or her way up the hill, but with the lovely views of the hills and valleys surrounding him or her, it is worthwhile that he or she does so.

Chembra Peak: Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. The trek to the top is challenging but worth it, as it offers panoramic views of lush forests, coffee plantations, and misty valleys. On the way, you’ll spot the famous heart-shaped lake, which is a major attraction and a popular photography spot.

Meenmutty Waterfalls: This waterfall is at three levels and 29 km from Kalpetta. One of the most fantastic waterfalls in Kerala, Meenmutty Waterfalls is surrounded by thick forests and can be accessed after a short walk. The view of water falling from a height of 300 metres is really beautiful. People who love adventure enjoy the trek, while nature lovers come to relax in the quietness of the area.

Pookode Lake is 15 km from Kalpetta: This is a beautiful freshwater lake fringed with green forests, and families and couples will love to take a stroll on the serene lake going for boating. Additionally, there is a park for children, an aquarium, and shops selling local crafts.

Things to do in Kalpetta

Trek to Chembra Peak: If you’re a fan of adventure, trekking to Chembra Peak is a must. The trail offers breathtaking views of tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and the iconic heart-shaped lake. A guide is required to trek the peak, and visitors must obtain a trekking permit from the forest department.

Pay a visit to coffee and tea plantations: There are such scintillating tea and coffee plants which dot Kalpetta. Coffee and tea enthusiasts, from cultivation processes, can be taken around such gardens. Freshly brewed coffee and tea can even be tasted while strolling the aroma-filled fields.

Visit Wildlife Sanctuaries: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary has elephants, tigers, deer, and many types of birds. Wildlife safaris let visitors see wild animals where they naturally live. Muthanga and Tholpetty are two popular places to start safari tours.

Rejoy with Pookode Lake Boating: The placid waters welcome all for an enjoyable paddle ride in it. While on a pedal boat as well as in rowed boats, people can pass the time watching beauty around by getting refreshed. For birds and the likes – butter flyers – near Pookocode this Lake offers good chances.

Handicrafts and Spices: Shopping at the local markets is full of traditional handicrafts and natural spices with souvenirs. They can bring back home some coffee, tea, honey, spices, and the local bamboo products done by the people with their own hands.

Where to stay in Kalpetta

Kalpetta has so many places to stay for every kind of traveller. There are budget homestays and luxury resorts, so everyone can find something they like. Many resorts are located in tea and coffee farms, which give nice views from private balconies.

Homestays offer a warm and real local experience, while luxury resorts have great features like swimming pools, Ayurvedic spas, and fun activities. It is best to book ahead, especially during the busy tourist season. Kalpetta is not just a hill town; it’s a beautiful mix of nature, adventure, and culture. One can have an experience to remember forever – from misty peak trekking to ancient caves. It provides all this – adventure, relaxation, and an opportunity to be in touch with nature. Plan your trip to this beautiful hill town and experience the magic of Wayanad like never before.