The district holds a special place in Kerala’s cultural landscape as the birthplace of Thunchath Ezhuthachan.

The district holds a special place in Kerala’s cultural landscape as the birthplace of Thunchath Ezhuthachan.

The district holds a special place in Kerala’s cultural landscape as the birthplace of Thunchath Ezhuthachan.

Malappuram is a favourite destination among travel enthusiasts, as it offers a rich blend of culture, history and breathtaking natural beauty. It’s a place that captivates both literature lovers and tourists alike. The district holds a special place in Kerala’s cultural landscape as the birthplace of Thunchath Ezhuthachan, a devotional poet and one among the ancient literary trinity, hailed as the father of modern Malayalam. His ancestral home, Thunchan Parambu, remains a treasured site, preserving a vast collection of his works and manuscripts.

Malappuram has also produced a long list of luminaries, including artist Namboothiri, political leader EMS Namboothiripad, reformist VT Bhattathiripad, and literary figures like Poonthanam, Edasseri Govindan Nair, Vallathol Narayana Menon, Moyinkutty Vaidyar, as well as Padmashri PS Warrier. The celebrated writer Kamala Suraiyyaa was born in Punnayurkulam, which was part of Ponnani Taluk in Malappuram before it was incorporated into Thrissur district.

History and literature enthusiasts frequently visit the memorials of these iconic figures, who have left an indelible mark on Kerala’s cultural and literary heritage. But Malappuram’s charm does not end with its past. It is also a land of mesmerising scenery, a place where nature speaks through lush green hills and tranquil shores. This district engages all the senses, offering both visual and soulful delights. Let’s explore the many sights that Malappuram has to offer.

Thunchan Parambu
Located just 1.7 km from Tirur town, Thunchan Parambu is the birthplace of Thunchath Ezhuthachan. Every year, this cultural sanctuary draws thousands of literature enthusiasts eager to learn about the poet’s life and legacy.

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The site features traditional Kerala architecture, a picturesque natural setting and a black-stone (krishna shila) hall. The destination includes a well-curated library with rare manuscripts and the Malayalam Literature Museum. The place is open to visitors from 9 am to 5.30 pm.

It was Thunchathu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan who is believed to have introduced the Malayalam script with 51 letters by replacing the Vattezhuthu script with 30 letters. He devised a literary narrative style called Kilipattu. Harinama Keerthanam is his first known work aimed at popularising the Malayalam language.
KM Vasudevan Namboothiri, alias Artist Namboothiri, was known for enriching literary works with his illustrations like in music.
Elamkulam Manakkal Shankaran Namboothirippad, or EMS, was an Indian Marxist-Communist leader and the chief ideologue of communism in Kerala. He was the first Chief Minister of Kerala and headed Asia’s first democratically elected communist government. He is remembered as a historian, Marxist ideologue and social reformer, besides being one of the key architects of modern Kerala.
Vallathol Narayana Menon (October 16, 1878 – March 13, 1953): Vallathol Narayana Menon was one of the great poets in Malayalam and also a renowned translator. Founder of Kerala Kalamandalam, he worked to promote Kathakali, the traditional dance drama of Kerala. He was also known by the title Kerala Valmiki.
V.T. Bhattathiripad: Kanneerum Kinavum is the autobiography of V.T. Bhattathiripad, a writer and social reformer. An eventful life story, it narrates how VT was instrumental in bringing Namboothiri women from the darkness inside their homes to the mainstream. Born in Mezhathur in Ponnani Taluk to Thuppan Namboothiripad and Sreedevi Antharjanam, he served as a temple priest at a young age and began learning letters from a young girl.
A visionary who laid the foundation for a united Kerala, he established the P.S. Warrier Arya Vaidya Sala in 1902 to strengthen the Ayurvedic tradition. His confidence came from the knowledge imparted by Kottanchery Mooss.
Kamala Suraiya: The queen of women’s writing who had nothing to hide. Love was her religion. She was born in Punnayurkkulam, which was formerly part of the Ponnani Taluk in Malappuram.
Moyinkutty Vaidyar: He gained fame as a pioneer of the Mappilapattu song tradition. He lived between 1852 and 1892.
Edasseri Govindan Nair: A poet and dramatist who helped Malayalam poetry break away from romanticism.

Kottakunnu Hill
Located in the heart of Malappuram city, Kottakunnu Hill is one of the most popular destinations in the district. Perched atop a scenic hill, this expansive park offers panoramic views of the surrounding natural beauty. Kottakunnu is a hub of leisure and entertainment, featuring attractions such as the Miracle Garden, Adventure Ark with thrilling rides, Game Zone, Balloon Park, Fun Park, and a cycling track. The park is open daily from 10 am to 9 pm and is located just 2 kilometres from Malappuram town.

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Teak Museum, Nilambur
No visit to Nilambur is complete without exploring its deep-rooted connection with teak. The Teak Museum provides fascinating insights into teak wood, renowned for its exceptional durability and natural resistance to termite infestations. The museum showcases the historical, ecological, and commercial significance of teak through engaging exhibits and information.

Located just 7 kilometres from the museum is the Conolly’s Plot, the world’s first man-made teak plantation. To reach this historic site, visitors must cross the iconic hanging bridge, which has become one of the most recognisable postcard images of Malappuram.

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Mini Ooty -- Arimbra Hills
Situated near Kondotty, Arimbra Hills, popularly known as Mini Ooty, is a picturesque hill station famed for its rolling green meadows, misty valleys, and serene atmosphere. Spread across a vast area, it offers stunning panoramic views. The destination also features a natural park with adventure rides, a petting zoo and various recreational activities. The destination is open from 6 am to 8 30 pm. The distance from Kondotty town is 13 kilometres.

Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple
Located about 10 kilometres from Kottakkal, the Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple is one of the 108 Durga temples of ancient Kerala. Nestled in a serene setting, the temple draws devotees from far and wide. Temple timings is between 4.30 am to 12.30 pm and 4.30 pm till 7.30 pm.

Thooval Theeram Beach
Located just 3 kilometres from Tanur town, Thooval Theeram Beach is a scenic coastal destination ideal for family outings. The beach features a well-maintained children’s park, a floating bridge and boating facilities, making it a perfect place to unwind in the evening. The destination remains open from 6 am to 10 pm.

Noor Lake
Noor Lake in Tirur is a peaceful retreat in harmony with nature. Surrounded by lush trees, bamboo groves, mangroves and a water body, the area offers boating, nature trails and a quiet escape for families. Entry is permitted for families only and the timing is from 9.30 AM to 6 PM. The distance from Tirur town is 3 kilometres.

Padinjarekkara Beach
Located between Tirur and Ponnani, Padinjarekkara Beach is a unique spot where the Bharathapuzha, Tirur River and the Arabian Sea converge. This beach is popular not just for its scenic views but also for birdwatching opportunities. The beach also features an array of other facilities including a breakwater, parking facilities, children’s park, cafeteria and street food stalls, Jhankar (ferry) services, lighthouse views etc. The visiting hours is from 6 am to 8.30 pm and the distance from Tirur is 17 kilometres.

Biyyam Lake Park
Located 6 kilometres from Ponnani town, Biyyam Lake Park is a tranquil spot for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy lake views, birdwatching, a children’s play area and a scenic walking bridge. Opening hours is from 6 am to 8 pm.

Karma Road Viewpoint
Stretching along the banks of the Nila River for several kilometres, Karma Road is an ideal spot to spend a peaceful evening. Visitors can enjoy scenic boat rides, taking in the tranquil beauty of the Nila as it meets the Arabian Sea. The area is also known for its authentic Ponnani-style snacks, offering a blend of taste and nature. Visiting hours is from 6 am to 9.30 pm. The destination is located 7 kilometres from Ponnani Town.

Ponnani Juma Masjid
The Ponnani Juma Masjid is a mosque with over 500 years of history and holds a special place in the spiritual and cultural fabric of Kerala’s Muslim community. Often referred to as the ‘Little Mecca of Malabar’, it stands as a landmark in the region's religious history. Distance from Ponnani Town is 1.5 kilometres.

Flora Fantasia Amusement Park, Valanchery
One of the top entertainment destinations in the district, the Flora Fantasia Amusement Park in Valanchery offers a full day of fun. With thrilling rides, water games and a beautifully landscaped park, it’s perfect for families and adventure seekers. The park is operational from 11 am to 6 pm. Entry fee applicable. Distance from Valanchery Town is 9 kilometres.

Malayil Farm House
Situated between Kulathoor and Pangu, Malayil Farm House is a sprawling property featuring picturesque surroundings, a children’s park and adventure activities. The farm also provides accommodation facilities, making it a great getaway for families looking to relax and reconnect with nature. Timing is from 10 am to 8.30 pm. Entry fee applicable. Distance from Kulathoor Town is 4.5 kilometres.

Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple
Located at Angadippuram, near Perinthalmanna, the Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple is one of the most revered temples in Malappuram district. The presiding deity, Thirumandhamkunnilamma, is a form of Goddess Bhadrakali and the temple houses the largest idol of Bhadrakali in Kerala.

Set atop a small hill, the temple's majestic architecture and spiritual ambience attract devotees and visitors alike. A flight of steps leads to the southern entrance of the temple, while the eastern side is where devotees traditionally offer their first prayers at the Sreemoola Sthanam (sacred spot).

The temple is just 4 kilometers from Perinthalmanna town and lies 3 kilometers off the Perinthalmanna–Kozhikode Highway. Its elevated location makes it visible from the highway.

Kodikuthimala Hills
Kodikuthimala is one of the most popular hill stations in Malappuram district. Nestled between the villages of Vettathur and Thazhekkodu, this scenic destination sits at an altitude of 522 meters above sea level, offering a pleasantly cool climate even during the peak of summer.

Located near the border of Palakkad district, Kodikuthimala is part of the Amminikkadan mountain range in the Western Ghats and is the highest point in the range. The landscape here is stunning, with rivulets, lush forests and rolling meadows creating a picture-perfect setting. Watching the sunset from the summit is a breathtaking experience that draws nature lovers and trekkers alike.

While vehicles can take you up to the base of the hill, reaching the peak requires a trek of about one hour. The entry time is from 8 am to 4 pm. Distance from Perinthalmanna town is 10 kilometres.

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