Paithalmala is a beautiful hill station located in the Kannur district of Kerala. It is famous for its scenic trekking trails and panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Kannur city, a major urban center in northern Kerala, serves as the main gateway for travelers heading to Paithalmala.

This route is popular among nature lovers and adventure seekers who want to explore the hills and forests of Kerala. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Kannur to Paithalmala using different transport modes, along with practical tips for a smooth journey.

Getting from Kannur to Paithalmala – Main Options

Bus

Taking a bus is a common and economical way to reach Paithalmala from Kannur. Buses connect Kannur city to nearby towns close to Paithalmala, but direct buses to the hill station are limited.

• State-run Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses operate frequently from Kannur bus stand to Taliparamba and Alakode, which are the nearest towns to Paithalmala, with fares ranging from ₹30 to ₹60 and travel time around 1.5 to 2 hours.

• From Taliparamba or Alakode, you can hire local taxis or auto-rickshaws to reach Paithalmala, which is about 15 to 20 km uphill, with fares typically between ₹300 and ₹500 depending on negotiation and time of day.

• Buses can get crowded during weekends and festival seasons like Onam, so booking tickets early or traveling on weekdays is advisable for comfort and availability.

• During the monsoon season (June to September), bus services may face delays due to slippery roads and occasional landslides on the ghat sections leading to Paithalmala.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kannur to Paithalmala offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore the area at your own pace. The route is scenic but involves hilly terrain.

• The distance from Kannur city to Paithalmala is approximately 45 km via NH66 and local roads through Taliparamba, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The route includes narrow and winding roads near Paithalmala, so driving carefully is important, especially during the rainy season to avoid slips and delays.

• Fuel stations are available in Kannur and Taliparamba, but fewer options exist near Paithalmala, so refuel before starting the uphill drive.

• Toll plazas are not common on this route, but some small checkposts may require nominal fees or permits for entering forest areas near Paithalmala.

• Parking is available near the trekking base points in Paithalmala, but it can get crowded on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab from Kannur to Paithalmala is a convenient option for travelers who prefer a hassle-free journey without driving themselves.

• Ola and Uber services operate in Kannur city but may not provide direct rides to Paithalmala due to its remote location; pre-booking a local taxi or tourist cab is advisable.

• Taxi fares from Kannur to Paithalmala typically range between ₹1500 and ₹2500 one way, depending on vehicle type and negotiation.

• Local taxi drivers are familiar with the best routes and can also assist with trekking information and nearby attractions.

• Booking taxis through local travel agents or hotel reception in Kannur can ensure reliable service and fixed rates, avoiding last-minute price hikes.

• During peak tourist seasons, taxi availability may be limited, so advance booking is recommended to secure your ride.

Train

Train travel is not a direct option to Paithalmala but can be part of your journey if you are arriving in Kannur from other cities.

• Kannur Railway Station is well connected to major cities like Kochi, Mangalore, and Bangalore, making it a good starting point for your trip to Paithalmala.

• From Kannur station, you need to use road transport such as buses, taxis, or self-drive cars to reach Paithalmala, as there is no railway line to the hill station.

• Train travel to Kannur is comfortable and affordable, with options ranging from express trains to passenger trains, fares depending on class and distance.

• Booking train tickets through IRCTC online is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles, especially during holiday seasons.

• Kannur station has prepaid taxi counters and auto-rickshaw stands for easy onward travel to bus stands or car rental points.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers from Kannur to Paithalmala, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey with practical steps and local tips.

• Start by booking your train or bus ticket to Kannur if you are coming from outside Kerala; IRCTC and KSRTC websites offer easy online booking options with seat selection.

• Upon arrival at Kannur Railway Station or bus stand, head to the main KSRTC bus terminal or taxi stands to arrange transport to Taliparamba or Alakode, as direct buses to Paithalmala are rare.

• Choose a comfortable bus or hire a taxi for the onward journey; check bus timings in advance to avoid long waits, especially during early mornings or late evenings.

• From Taliparamba or Alakode, arrange a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to take you up the hill to Paithalmala; confirm the fare before starting the trip to avoid misunderstandings.

• Carry some snacks and water for the uphill journey, as food options near Paithalmala are limited and trekking can be tiring.

• Once at Paithalmala, plan your return trip by confirming bus or taxi availability in advance, especially if traveling late in the day to avoid being stranded.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a valid ID and keep your belongings secure, as remote areas near Paithalmala may have limited police presence and mobile network coverage can be patchy.

• Drink bottled water and avoid tap water during your journey to prevent stomach issues; carry reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste.

• Book bus and train tickets online through official portals like KSRTC and IRCTC to get confirmed seats and avoid scams from unauthorized agents.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs where available to ensure fair pricing and avoid overcharging, especially when traveling from Kannur to nearby towns.

• Pack light but include rain gear and sturdy shoes, as the weather can change quickly in the hills and trekking paths can be slippery during monsoon.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling; avoid traveling during heavy rains or foggy mornings which can make roads dangerous and reduce visibility.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Paithalmala from Kannur is during the dry months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and trekking conditions are ideal. The monsoon season brings heavy rains that can disrupt travel and make roads slippery.

Winter mornings can be foggy, causing delays on the hilly roads. Planning your trip during clear weather ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience.

• Avoid traveling during Onam and Christmas holidays as buses and taxis get crowded and accommodation prices rise sharply.

• Monsoon months (June to September) often cause landslides and roadblocks on the ghat sections, so travel is not recommended during this time.

• Early morning departures from Kannur help you avoid city traffic and reach Paithalmala before afternoon clouds gather, improving visibility and safety.

• Late evening travel is discouraged due to limited lighting and fewer transport options in the hilly region.

Arrival at Paithalmala & What to Expect

When you arrive at Paithalmala, you will find a small but well-known hill station with basic facilities. The main arrival points are near the trekking base camps and local guesthouses.

Local transport options are limited, so most visitors explore the area on foot. You can find small shops selling snacks and tea near the trekking start points. Accommodation ranges from homestays to simple lodges in nearby villages.

Prepaid taxis are not common here, so it is best to arrange your return transport in advance. App-based cabs rarely operate in this remote area, so relying on local drivers or hotel arrangements is safer.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Paithalmala from Kannur is by combining bus or taxi travel to nearby towns like Taliparamba or Alakode, followed by a local taxi or auto-rickshaw for the final uphill journey. Self-driving offers flexibility but requires caution on winding roads.

Planning your trip with advance bookings, checking weather conditions, and carrying essential supplies will help you enjoy the scenic beauty and trekking opportunities at Paithalmala without stress. With this guide, you can confidently organize your travel and experience one of Kerala’s hidden hill gems.