Aralam at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Kerala |
| Famous For | Wildlife Sanctuary, Kannur, Trekking |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Malayalam, English |
| Nearest Airport | Kannur International Airport (CNN), 55km from Aralam |
| Nearest Railway | Kannur Railway Station (CAN) |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹30+ (varies) |
| Best For | nature and adventure seekers |
Aralam: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Kannur district of Kerala, is a pristine protected area renowned for its rich biodiversity and lush forests. This offbeat destination offers a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist trails, providing an immersive experience in nature.
Reaching Aralam requires some travel from Kannur. Allocate at least 2-3 days to fully explore the sanctuary. Hiring a jeep for internal transport is recommended.
Aralam: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meenmutty Falls | 09:00-16:00 daily | ₹20 (Indians), ₹400 (foreigners) | Post-monsoon season - the fall | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Thirunelli Temple | 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily | Free | Morning - peaceful atmosphere | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
How to Reach Aralam: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Aralam: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Kannur Railway Station (CAN) — Major railway station with trains from across India, located in Kannur city.
- From Delhi: 30-35 hours (₹1500-3000)
- From Mumbai: 20-25 hours (₹1200-2500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Aralam: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (CNN), 55km from Aralam
- Delhi: 3 hours (₹4000-8000)
- Mumbai: 1.5 hours (₹3000-6000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹1500-2000
- Uber/Ola: ₹1300-1800
directions_bus Bus to Aralam: Services & Timings
- From Bangalore: 8-10 hours (₹800-1500)
Trains more comfortable for long distances.
Best Time to Visit Aralam: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: October to May
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: October to May | 22-32 degrees C | The weather is perfect for exploring the sanctuary's trails and spotting diverse | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: June & September | 25-30 degrees C | The sanctuary is less crowded during these months, offering a more secluded expe | Check weather forecasts and trail c |
| Avoid: July & August | 24-28 degrees C | Avoid visiting during these months due to the intense rainfall and potential for | Some accommodations and services ma |
Peak season note: Book accommodations and jeep safaris in advance, especially during peak season (December-January).
2-Day Aralam Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Top Highlights
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
⛰️ Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary Core Zone
The core zone is the heart of the sanctuary, offering the best chance to witness its diverse wildlife. Expect to see elephants, de…
💡 Tip: Carry binoculars and a field guide to enhance your wildlife spotting experience.
Day 2 — Nature & Local Culture
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🏖️ Meenmutty Falls
Meenmutty Falls is a cascading waterfall within the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary. It's a popular spot for enjoying the natural beauty…
💡 Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the falls.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🏖️ Cheenkanny River
The Cheenkanny River flows through the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, offering a scenic spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural s…
💡 Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the river.
📍 Aralam Farm
Aralam Farm is a large agricultural farm showcasing various crops and farming techniques. It offers a glimpse into the region's ag…
💡 Try the fresh fruits and vegetables available for purchase.
Top Places to Visit in Aralam: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ⛰️ Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary Core Zone | ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) | 4-6 hours | 08:00-17:00 daily |
| 2 | 🏖️ Meenmutty Falls | ₹20 (Indians), ₹400 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 09:00-16:00 daily |
| 3 | 🏖️ Cheenkanny River | Free | 1-2 hours | Anytime |
| 4 | 📍 Aralam Farm | ₹10 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 09:00-17:00 daily |
| 5 | ⛰️ Brahmanagiri Peak Trek | ₹50 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | 6-8 hours | 07:00-17:00 daily |
| 6 | 🙏 Thirunelli Temple | Free | 1-2 hours | 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily |
⛰️ 1. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary Core Zone
The core zone is the heart of the sanctuary, offering the best chance to witness its diverse wildlife. Expect to see elephants, deer, various monkey species, and a plethora of birdlife.
📍 Getting there: Jeep from Iritty town, approximately 20km
🏖️ 2. Meenmutty Falls
Meenmutty Falls is a cascading waterfall within the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary. It's a popular spot for enjoying the natural beauty and taking refreshing dips in the pools.
Honest take: Worth visiting if you enjoy waterfalls and are prepared for a moderate trek.
📍 Getting there: Trek from the sanctuary entrance, approximately 5km
🏖️ 3. Cheenkanny River
The Cheenkanny River flows through the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, offering a scenic spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings. Its clear waters and lush banks provide a serene atmosphere.
Honest take: A nice spot for a quick break and scenic views.
📍 Getting there: Easily accessible by jeep from the sanctuary entrance
Food & Restaurants in Aralam: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Malabar Biryani, Pazham Pori, Kappa and Meen Curry, Thalassery Biryani
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Malabar Biryani | ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two) | Kannur |
| Kerala Thali | ₹₹ (₹250-450 for two) | Iritty |
| Shawarma | ₹₹ (₹350-550 for two) | Iritty |
🛺 Street Food: Kannur Market — Pazham Pori, Samosas, Masala Dosa (₹50-150 per person)
Aralam Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-1500/night | ₹2000-3500/night | ₹5000+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Day Trips from Aralam: Best Nearby Destinations
| Place | Distance | Drive Time | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wayanad | 80 km | ~1.5–2 hrs | Hill Station, Coffee Estates, Trekking |
| Bekal Fort | 120 km | ~2.5–3 hrs | — |
Hotels in Aralam: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Hotel Sky Park
₹800-1500/night
Iritty town
Green Park Residency
₹900-1600/night
Iritty town
🏨 Mid-Range
Aralam Farm Guesthouse
₹2000-3500/night
Near Aralam Farm
Cozy Nook Homestay
₹1800-3000/night
Near Iritty
⭐ Luxury
The Malabar River Escapes
₹5000+/night
Near Valapattanam River
Kannur Beach House
₹4500+/night
Near Kannur
Aralam Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers: Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
- ✓ Fake guides: Hire guides only from authorized sources.
- ✓ Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for trekking. Carry a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- ✓ Available in Iritty and Kannur
- ✓ Available from Airtel, Vodafone, and Jio. Cost: ₹200-500 with data packs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Aralam
How many days are enough for Aralam?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Aralam. Day 1 covers Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary Core Zone, while Day 2 explores Meenmutty Falls and Cheenkanny River.
What is Aralam famous for?
Aralam is famous for Wildlife Sanctuary, Kannur, Trekking.
What is the best time to visit Aralam?
The best time to visit Aralam is October to May. Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for trekking and wildlife spotting. The humidity is relatively low during these months.
Is Aralam worth visiting?
Yes, Aralam is worth visiting for Wildlife Sanctuary, Kannur, Trekking. It is especially recommended for nature and adventure seekers and can be combined with a visit to Wayanad.
What is the budget for a trip to Aralam?
A 2-day trip to Aralam costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹800-1500/night per night.
What are the timings of Meenmutty Falls?
Meenmutty Falls is open 09:00-16:00 daily. Best time to visit: Post-monsoon season - the falls are at their fullest.
What is the entry fee for Meenmutty Falls?
Entry fee at Meenmutty Falls: ₹20 (Indians), ₹400 (foreigners).
What is the dress code for Meenmutty Falls?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Meenmutty Falls.
What are the timings of Thirunelli Temple?
Thirunelli Temple is open 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning - peaceful atmosphere.
What is the entry fee for Thirunelli Temple?
Entry fee at Thirunelli Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Thirunelli Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Thirunelli Temple.
Is photography allowed at Thirunelli Temple?
Photography is not allowed inside at Thirunelli Temple.