Malakkappara is a marvelous tea town situated in the Thrissur district of Kerala. This hill station also borders the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the emerging tourist destinations in Kerala which you can visit while you enroute to Athirapally from Sholayar forest.

The forest route is so exciting and thrilling that if you are lucky enough, you will get a chance of sighting wild animals. Evergreen forest of the Western Ghats and vast tea estates surrounds this hill station. It is also encircled by Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, Anamalai Tiger Reserve and Nelliampathy hills. This hill station is also a scenic combination of rolling hills and tiny waterfalls.

The popular Sholayar Dam is situated just 5 Km away from Malakkappara. This hill station with picture postcard valleys of tea and soothing climate provides the opportunity for trekking and bird watching. The Jungle safari through the rainforest where you can spot a lot of wild animals like elephants, buffalos, etc. The elephant lake, TATA tea estate, Peringalkuth Hydel Tourism - Dam and Boating at Chimmini Wild Sanctuary are the major attractions of this place.

Other than tea plantations, you can also find a  variety of spice plantations like cardamom, vanilla, palm, cashew, rubber, Arecanut, nutmeg, coffee, cocoa, and pepper plantations at this hill station.

Highlights

• Malakkappara is a not much-explored tourist destination in Kerala.
• The forest area of Malakkappara houses endangered and endemic species of flora and fauna.
• Malakkappara is a small tea town in Kerala which also borders the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu.
• This hill station got its name from the Malayalam word Malakha-Para which means "Rock of the Angel".
• This hill station is encircled by Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, Anamalai Tiger Reserve and Nelliampathy hills.
• The famous Sholayar River drains at Malakkappara.
• This hill station offers a soothing climate and picture postcard valleys of tea.
• Malakkappara hill station is surrounded by the evergreen forest of western Ghats, making it perfect for a wilderness retreat with trekking and bird watching opportunities.
• It is the only place in the Western Ghats where you can find four endangered Hornbill species.

Best Time To Visit

September to December is the best time to visit Malakkappara which is immediately after the monsoon season.

Way To Reach

 By Air - Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to Malakkappara which is 89 Km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or bus to reach Malakkappara.

 By Rail - Chalakudy Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Malakkappara which is 83 Km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or bus to reach Malakkappara.

 By Road - Regular buses are available from Valparai, Chalakudy and Thrissur to Malakkappara.

Monday through Sunday, all day

FAQs:

How did Malakkappara get its name?

The name Malakkappara comes from the Malayalam words "Malakha" (meaning angel) and "Para" (meaning rock), translating to "Rock of the Angel."

Why is Malakkappara famous?

Malakkappara is famous for its lush tea plantations, scenic beauty, trekking routes, and wildlife sightings. The town is also encircled by important wildlife reserves like the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, Anamalai Tiger Reserve, and Nelliyampathy Hills.

What makes Malakkappara special for bird watchers?

Malakkappara is the only place in the Western Ghats where you can find four endangered species of Hornbills, making it a unique destination for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.

Is Malakkappara crowded with tourists?

Malakkappara is a relatively less-explored destination, offering visitors a peaceful and secluded experience away from the typical tourist crowds. It’s perfect for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Kerala.

What activities can tourists enjoy in Malakkappara?

Tourists can enjoy a variety of activities such as:

• Trekking through scenic trails
• Jungle safaris to spot wild animals
• Bird watching, including spotting the endangered Hornbill species
• Exploring tea and spice plantations
• Boating at Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary
• Visiting the Sholayar Dam and taking in the beautiful scenery.

What wildlife can be spotted in Malakkappara?

Malakkappara offers opportunities for wildlife spotting during jungle safaris. Visitors may see wild animals such as elephants, buffaloes, and occasionally other animals like deer and wild boars. The area is also home to four species of Hornbills, which makes it a special destination for bird watchers.

Is Malakkappara a good destination for trekking?

Yes, Malakkappara is an excellent destination for trekking enthusiasts. The scenic hills and forest trails offer perfect trekking opportunities, allowing visitors to explore the Western Ghats and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

What plantations can be found in Malakkappara?

Besides the expansive tea plantations, Malakkappara is home to several spice plantations including cardamom, vanilla, palm, cashew, rubber, arecanut, nutmeg, coffee, cocoa, and pepper plantations.