Discover Malappuram: Mangroves, Temples and Coast

Malappuram district is bordered by the Nilgiri Mountains to the east and the Arabian Sea to the west. Its visitor destinations range from a mangrove-fringed estuary to temples, museums and coastal landscapes. When planning your trip, consider choosing natural and cultural attractions based on the themes that interest you most.

Backwaters, Waterfalls and Birdwatching

On the border between Kozhikode and Malappuram districts, the Kadalundi Backwaters form the more than 250-hectare estuary of the Kadalundipuzha. Wetlands and mangroves define the area. The Kadalundi Backwaters and Bird Sanctuary has been a protected area designated by the Forest Department since 1995; the landscape combines a distinctive estuary with a protected natural area.

The seasonal Adyanpara Falls in Kurumbalangodu, near Nilambur, offer a different experience of nature. The cascades carry considerably more water during the monsoon than in the hot summer months. Swimming is possible, but the rocks in the riverbed are slippery; check local conditions before swimming. The surrounding forests are home to numerous exotic and migratory birds, making them a good place for birdwatching. Adyanpara is accessible by road for travelers in the district and is considered a picnic spot.

Padinjarekkara Beach is also a place for observing nature: migratory birds are often seen there, although seasonal sightings vary. From the beach, you can look out over the Bharathapuzha, Tirur Puzha and the Arabian Sea. Water scooter and speedboat rides are also available. Ferries run between Ponnani Harbour and the opposite side of the beach; check the schedule before your trip.

Riverside Towns, Temples and Annual Festivals

Thirunavaya lies on the banks of the Bharathapuzha in Malappuram district and has religious, historical and cultural significance. The town is associated with Mamankam, a medieval cultural event: during the rule of the Chera dynasty, it lasted 28 days and took place every 12 years. This historical schedule differs from the annual festivals held at the site today.

At Thirunavaya Navamukunda Temple, carvings on the roof and walls depict scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The annual temple festival lasts ten days and takes place in April. Another annual cultural event is the Thunchan Festival, held in the first week of February. Its five-day program includes literary seminars, readings, cultural talks, and dance and music performances; the specific program may vary. The Literary Museum at the Thunchan Memorial focuses on the development of the Malayalam language. Visual excerpts, audio recordings, paintings and photographs illustrate its various stages of development.

In Ponnani, the Juma Masjid tells a story of religious history: Zainuddin Ibn Bin Ahmed, a descendant of an Arab theologian, had the mosque built in the 15th century. Its most important festival is the four-day Nercha celebration in March or April, which attracts many worshippers. The months in which the two annual temple and cultural festivals mentioned above take place offer different reasons to visit; check the specific dates when planning your trip.

More Destinations and Local Experiences

Near Nilambur, the Nilambur Teak Museum is four kilometers from the town. It is considered the world's first teak museum and is operated by the Kerala Forest Research Institute. The exhibits present historical, artistic and scientific information about the use of teak. The 800-meter-long nature trail includes 50 naturally growing tree species, 136 endangered or near-extinct species of the Western Ghats, and 58 resident and migratory bird species. These figures may change with future surveys.

At Kottakunnu, a children's traffic park and a cycling route add to the range of activities. Those interested in boating can visit Biyyam Kayal nearby, three kilometers from Ponnani: this tranquil, green-fringed body of water offers boating opportunities. An annual boat race is held there during the Onam celebrations; details may vary from year to year.

Local cuisine is also part of getting to know the area: eateries in Malappuram serve Pathiri, Malabar biryani and a variety of seafood specialties.

Discover more destinations: Pulamanthole, Kalikavu, Wandoor, Ponnani, Kundoor, Malappuram, Valanchery, Kakkadampoyil.

For the main travel overview: Kerala.