Banasura Hill is a prominent peak located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. Known for its lush greenery and panoramic views, it attracts trekkers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers from across the country. This hill is part of the Western Ghats and offers a serene escape from city life.

This guide covers the best ways to reach Banasura Hill, including road travel, trekking routes, and local transport options. Whether you are coming from nearby towns like Kalpetta or farther cities like Kozhikode, you will find detailed advice to plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Nearby Cities to Banasura Hill – Main Options

By Road

Road travel is the most common and convenient way to reach Banasura Hill, especially from Wayanad’s main towns and nearby cities. The roads are generally well-maintained but can be narrow and winding in some stretches.

• Starting points and routes:

  The nearest town is Kalpetta, about 20 km away. From Kalpetta, take the NH766 towards Meppadi and then local roads leading to the Banasura Sagar Dam area, which serves as the base for the hill trek.

• Distance and travel time:

  From Kalpetta, the drive takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour covering approximately 20 km. From Kozhikode, the distance is about 85 km and takes roughly 3 hours via NH766.

• Transport options:

  Private taxis, rental cars, and local buses operate on these routes. Hiring a taxi from Kalpetta or Kozhikode is recommended for comfort and flexibility, costing around ₹800-₹1200 for a round trip from Kalpetta.

• Road conditions and tips:

  Roads are mostly paved but can be slippery during monsoon (June to September). Avoid night travel due to limited street lighting and wildlife crossing risks. Fuel stations and small eateries are available en route.

• Seasonal considerations:

  The best time to travel by road is during the dry season (October to May) when roads are safer and views clearer. Monsoon months may cause occasional landslides or delays.

By Trekking

Trekking to Banasura Hill is a popular choice for adventure enthusiasts. The trek starts near the Banasura Sagar Dam and offers a moderately challenging climb through dense forests.

• Trek starting point:

  The base is near Banasura Sagar Dam, accessible by road. From here, the trailhead is well-marked and managed by local guides.

• Distance and duration:

  The trek covers about 4 km one way and takes approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on fitness levels and pace.

• Difficulty and preparation:

  The trail involves steep inclines and rocky patches. Proper trekking shoes, water, and light snacks are essential. Hiring a local guide is advisable for safety and navigation.

• Permits and timings:

  Entry permits are required and can be obtained at the dam area. Trekking is allowed from 8 AM to 4 PM to ensure safety.

• Scenic highlights:

  The trek offers stunning views of the Banasura Sagar Dam reservoir, wildlife sightings, and lush greenery. Early morning treks offer cooler temperatures and better chances to spot birds.

By Bus

Public buses connect major towns in Wayanad to the vicinity of Banasura Hill, though direct services to the hilltop are not available. Buses are an economical option but may require additional local transport.

• Nearest bus stops:

  Kalpetta and Meppadi are the closest towns with frequent bus services from Kozhikode, Mysore, and other cities.

• Bus frequency and operators:

  Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) runs regular buses between Kozhikode and Kalpetta. Local private buses operate between Kalpetta and Meppadi.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Meppadi or Banasura Sagar Dam area, hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the trek base. Auto fares range from ₹100 to ₹200 depending on distance.

• Travel time and cost:

  Bus travel from Kozhikode to Kalpetta takes about 3 hours and costs ₹100-₹150. Local buses between Kalpetta and Meppadi are frequent and economical, around ₹30-₹50.

• Tips for bus travelers:

  Buses can get crowded during weekends and holidays; plan to travel early morning. Carry water and light snacks as stops are limited.

By Flight

The nearest airport to Banasura Hill is Calicut International Airport (CCJ), located about 85 km away. Flying is suitable for travelers coming from distant cities or other states.

• Airport to Banasura Hill:

  From Calicut Airport, hire a taxi or take a KSRTC bus to Kalpetta, then proceed by road to Banasura Hill. Taxi fares from the airport to Kalpetta range from ₹1500 to ₹2000.

• Flight connectivity:

  Calicut Airport connects major Indian cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi, as well as some international destinations.

• Travel time and convenience:

  The drive from the airport to Banasura Hill takes around 3 to 3.5 hours. Pre-booking taxis is recommended for a hassle-free journey.

• Alternative airports:

  Kannur International Airport (about 90 km away) is another option, with similar onward travel arrangements.

• Seasonal tips:

  Flights are frequent year-round, but monsoon weather can cause delays. Check flight status ahead during June to September.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers aiming to reach Banasura Hill smoothly and enjoy the trek.

• Book your transport tickets early:

  Whether by bus, taxi, or flight, secure your bookings in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like December to February.

• Reach Kalpetta or Meppadi early:

  Arrive by morning to avoid afternoon rains and to have ample daylight for the trek and return.

• Hire a local taxi or auto-rickshaw:

  From Kalpetta or Meppadi, arrange transport to Banasura Sagar Dam. Confirm fares beforehand to avoid overcharging.

• Obtain trekking permits at the dam:

  Visit the permit counter before starting the trek. Carry ID proof and follow local guidelines for safety.

• Carry essentials for the trek:

  Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and wear sturdy shoes. Avoid plastic and carry back your waste to preserve the environment.

• Plan your return before dusk:

  The trek and road journey back take time; ensure you leave the hilltop by 3 PM to avoid trekking in the dark.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Avoid trekking alone; always hire a local guide familiar with the terrain and weather patterns.

• Food and water:

  Carry sufficient drinking water as there are no shops on the trek. Eat at local eateries in Kalpetta or Meppadi before heading out.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC or Kerala State Transport websites for bus bookings. For taxis, use trusted local operators or apps like Ola and Uber where available.

• Local commute:

  Auto-rickshaws are common but negotiate fares upfront. Shared jeeps sometimes operate between towns and dam areas.

• Luggage handling:

  Travel light; leave heavy bags at your hotel or guesthouse in Kalpetta or Meppadi.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid trekking during heavy monsoon rains due to slippery paths and risk of landslides. Early mornings are best for clear weather and wildlife sightings.

Best Time & Conditions

The ideal time to visit Banasura Hill is during the dry months from October to May. The weather is pleasant and trekking conditions are safer.

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, making roads slippery and trails challenging. Winter mornings can be chilly but offer clear skies and excellent views.

• Avoid traveling during peak monsoon (June to September) due to landslide risks and poor visibility.

• Plan your travel to avoid weekends and festival holidays when local traffic and crowds increase.

• Early morning departures are recommended to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid afternoon showers.

• Check weather forecasts before starting your trek to ensure safe conditions.

Arrival at Banasura Hill & What to Expect

Upon arrival at the base near Banasura Sagar Dam, travelers will find basic facilities including parking, restrooms, and a permit counter. The area is scenic with views of the dam reservoir and surrounding hills.

Local transport options are limited beyond this point, so most visitors proceed on foot for the trek. Nearby attractions include the dam itself, Pookode Lake, and Meenmutty Falls, which can be explored with additional planning. Accommodation is available in Kalpetta and Meppadi, with options ranging from homestays to resorts.

For local commute, prepaid taxis and auto-rickshaws are available near the dam area. If arriving late, booking a taxi via local apps or hotel help is advisable for safe onward travel.

Conclusion

Traveling by road to Banasura Hill combined with the trekking experience offers the most rewarding way to explore this beautiful destination. The route from Kalpetta via Banasura Sagar Dam is well-established and provides access to stunning natural scenery.

With proper planning, early starts, and attention to seasonal conditions, visitors can enjoy a safe and memorable journey. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a nature lover, Banasura Hill is accessible and welcoming, making it a perfect getaway in Kerala’s Western Ghats.