A Day-Trip to Vavul Mala from Bandipur National Park
When visiting popular tourist destinations, we often focus on the well-known attractions, unknowingly overlooking the hidden gems that lie just beyond the usual routes. These lesser-explored places, tucked away in nature’s embrace, offer a unique charm and an extra layer of admiration to any journey. One such underrated marvel is Vavul Mala, the highest peak in the Western Ghats of northern Kerala. While Bandipur National Park is celebrated for its rich wildlife and scenic safaris, a day trip to Vavul Mala introduces you to an entirely different side of nature - one that blends adventure, tranquillity, and breathtaking landscapes. Located just a few hours away from Bandipur, just 90 km away, Vavul Mala is a trekker’s paradise, offering a rewarding journey through dense forests, misty trails, and panoramic views from its towering summit. Unlike the bustling safaris of Bandipur, this hidden gem provides an immersive experience in the untouched wilderness, making it a perfect add-on to your itinerary.
An Overview of Vavul Mala
Nestled in the Vellarimala range of Kerala’s Western Ghats, Vavul Mala stands as the highest peak in northern Kerala, reaching an impressive 2,339 meters. It is strategically located at the trijunction of Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad districts, making it a prominent natural landmark. This majestic peak is the tallest in the Western Ghats north of the Nilgiri Hills and offers a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience. The nearest town providing access to Vavul Mala is Adivaram, approximately 17 km away. The region attracts nature lovers year-round with its rugged terrains, cascading waterfalls, pristine rivers, massive rock formations, and breathtaking cliff views. Its rich biodiversity closely resembles that of the Nilgiri Hills, making it a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.
Vavul Mala is part of the Camel Hump Mountains, a dramatic landscape that stands distinct from the Nilgiri Hills, separated by the Deccan Plateau and the Chaliyar River Valley. Known for being one of South India's toughest treks, it challenges adventurers with steep ascents and dense forest trails. The Vellarimala trek is particularly unique as the thick forest canopy often obscures the sky, immersing trekkers in a world of untouched wilderness. Along the way, several small streams offer refreshing stops, including Anathenni, a stream named after an elephant that is said to have slipped there. Despite the strenuous climb, the thrill of the journey and the unparalleled panoramic views from the peak make Vavul Mala an unforgettable experience for trekking enthusiasts.
Distance & Route from Bandipur National Park
While the thrill of wildlife safari in Bandipur National Park needs no new introduction, a day’s visit to Vavul Mala is definitely worth tourists’ admiration and attention. The journey takes around 3 hours by road, passing through some of the most scenic routes in the Western Ghats. Tourists can start from Bandipur via NH 766, passing through several scenic viewpoints and numerous hairpin-bent roads throughout the Wayanad road. A drone view of these types of routes is absolutely stunning. You can stop for short pauses to enjoy spots like Wayanad Churam Viewpoint and Lakkidi Viewpoint. For those unfamiliar with the area, using Google Maps coordinates or hiring a local guide is highly recommended to navigate the final stretch leading to the trekking trail. Along the way, the drive itself is a mesmerizing experience, with winding roads, thick forest canopies, and glimpses of Kerala’s rural beauty.
The Trekking Experience in Short
Vavul Mala is considered one of the most challenging treks in South India, offering an intense yet rewarding adventure for trekking enthusiasts. The trail is not well-defined, requiring trekkers to navigate paths created by animals through dense forests. The journey begins at Muthappanpuzha in Thiruvambady Panchayat, accessible via KSRTC bus services from Thiruvambady town, or alternatively, by hiring a jeep. As you ascend, the forest canopy is so thick that glimpses of the sky are rare. The trek to Vellarimala takes approximately 9 hours, making it ideal for an overnight stay at a nearby hotel or resort.
