Kottathara at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Kerala |
| Famous For | Wayanad, tribal village, forest |
| Best Time to Visit | September to May |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Malayalam, English |
| Nearest Airport | Calicut International Airport (CCJ), 120km from Kottathara |
| Nearest Railway | Kozhikode (CLT) |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹30+ (varies) |
| Best For | nature and adventure seekers |
Kottathara: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Kottathara is a remote village nestled in the Wayanad district of Kerala, close to the Karnataka border. It offers a glimpse into tribal life amidst lush forests and agricultural landscapes. The village provides a unique experience away from crowded tourist spots.
Visit Kottathara for its serene atmosphere, authentic cultural experiences, and opportunities for nature walks. However, be aware that infrastructure is limited, and accessibility can be challenging. The village is ideal for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations and cultural immersion.
Kottathara: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jain Temple, Jainimedu | 06:00-18:00 daily | Free | Morning or evening for a peace | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
How to Reach Kottathara: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Kottathara: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Kozhikode (CLT) — Major railway station with trains from all over India, located 110km from Kottathara.
- From Delhi: 32 hours (₹1500-3000)
- From Mumbai: 20 hours (₹1200-2500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Kottathara: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (CCJ), 120km from Kottathara
- Delhi: 3 hours (₹4000-8000)
- Mumbai: 1.5 hours (₹3000-6000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹2500-3500
- Uber/Ola: ₹2000-3000
directions_bus Bus to Kottathara: Services & Timings
- From Bangalore: 7 hours (₹800-1200)
- From Mysore: 3 hours (₹400-600)
Trains are generally more comfortable for long journeys.
Best Time to Visit Kottathara: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: September to May
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: September to May | 20-30 degrees C | This is the best time to explore the surrounding forests, visit tribal settlemen | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: June | 25-32 degrees C | The landscape is still green, and you can experience the pre-monsoon atmosphere. | Fewer crowds compared to the peak s |
| Avoid: July to August | 22-28 degrees C | Avoid visiting during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and potential tra | Some accommodations and businesses |
Peak season note: Expect moderate tourist activity, especially during weekends and holidays. Booking accommodations in advance is recommended.
2-Day Kottathara Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Top Highlights
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🪨 Edakkal Cave
Edakkal Cave is known for its prehistoric petroglyphs, offering insights into ancient civilizations. The carvings are believed to …
💡 Tip: Hire a local guide at the entrance for a better understanding of the petroglyphs.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
⛰️ Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is home to diverse flora and fauna. Elephants, tigers, de…
💡 Tip: Opt for the early morning safari as animals are more active during this time.
Day 2 — Nature & Local Culture
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🏖️ Soochipara Falls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls)
Soochipara Falls is a scenic waterfall cascading down rocky cliffs. The surrounding area is lush with greenery, making it a popula…
💡 Visit during the weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🏖️ Kanthanpara Waterfalls
Kanthanpara Waterfalls is a smaller and less crowded waterfall compared to Soochipara. It offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere.…
💡 Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the falls.
🙏 Jain Temple, Jainimedu
The Jain Temple at Jainimedu is a historical site reflecting the Jain influence in Wayanad. The temple is simple in design and sho…
💡 Spend some time in quiet contemplation within the temple premises.
🌆 Evening (5 PM – 7 PM)
🏛️ Wayanad Heritage Museum
The Wayanad Heritage Museum showcases artifacts and relics from the region's rich history and tribal culture. The museum provides …
💡 Read the informative displays carefully to gain a deeper understanding of the artifacts.
Top Places to Visit in Kottathara: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 🪨 Edakkal Cave | ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 09:30-16:30 daily |
| 2 | ⛰️ Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary | ₹115 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) | 3-4 hours | 07:00-10:00 and 15:00-17:00 daily |
| 3 | 🏖️ Soochipara Falls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls) | ₹50 per person | 2-3 hours | 09:00-17:00 daily |
| 4 | 🏖️ Kanthanpara Waterfalls | ₹20 per person | 1-2 hours | 09:00-17:00 daily |
| 5 | 🙏 Jain Temple, Jainimedu | Free | 1 hour | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 6 | 🏛️ Wayanad Heritage Museum | ₹20 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners) | 1-2 hours | 09:00-17:30 daily |
🪨 1. Edakkal Cave
Edakkal Cave is known for its prehistoric petroglyphs, offering insights into ancient civilizations. The carvings are believed to be thousands of years old and depict various human figures and symbols.
📍 Getting there: Located 25 km from Kottathara. Hire a jeep or take a bus to Sultan Bathery and then an auto-rickshaw.
⛰️ 2. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is home to diverse flora and fauna. Elephants, tigers, deer, and various species of birds inhabit the sanctuary.
Honest take: Worth it for wildlife enthusiasts; sightings are not guaranteed, but the overall experience is rewarding.
📍 Getting there: Located 15 km from Kottathara. Hire a jeep or take a bus towards Sultan Bathery.
🏖️ 3. Soochipara Falls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls)
Soochipara Falls is a scenic waterfall cascading down rocky cliffs. The surrounding area is lush with greenery, making it a popular spot for nature lovers.
Honest take: A good option for a refreshing break and scenic views.
📍 Getting there: Located 30 km from Kottathara. Hire a jeep as road conditions can be challenging.
Food & Restaurants in Kottathara: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Kerala Sadhya, Puttu and Kadala Curry, Appam with Stew, Fish Molee, Beef Fry
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Fish Curry | ₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two) | Vythiri |
| Chicken Biryani | ₹₹ (₹500-800 for two) | Sultan Bathery |
🛺 Street Food: Sultan Bathery Market — Pazhampori (banana fritters), vada, tea (₹50-100 per person)
Kottathara Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-1500/night | ₹2500-4000/night | ₹6000+/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 |
Hotels in Kottathara: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Green Gates Hotel
₹800-1500/night
Sultan Bathery, 20 km from Kottathara
Upavan Resort
₹1000-1800/night
Near Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, 15 km from Kottathara
🏨 Mid-Range
Rainforest Resort
₹2500-4000/night
Lakkidi, 35 km from Kottathara
Wayanad Silverwoods Resort
₹3000-5000/night
Vythiri, 40 km from Kottathara
⭐ Luxury
Windflower Resorts & Spa Vythiri
₹6000+/night
Vythiri, 40 km from Kottathara
Vythiri Village
₹7000+/night
Vythiri, 40 km from Kottathara
Kottathara Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers: Negotiate the fare beforehand.
- ✓ Fake guides at tourist spots: Verify their credentials before hiring.
- ✓ Wear light and comfortable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
- ✓ ATMs are available in Sultan Bathery and Vythiri.
- ✓ Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. A local SIM card costs around ₹300-500.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Kottathara
How many days are enough for Kottathara?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Kottathara. Day 1 covers Edakkal Cave and Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, while Day 2 explores Soochipara Falls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls) and Kanthanpara Waterfalls.
What is Kottathara famous for?
Kottathara is famous for Wayanad, tribal village, forest.
What is the best time to visit Kottathara?
The best time to visit Kottathara is September to May. Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for exploring the outdoors. The monsoon season has ended, and the temperatures are comfortable for trekking and sightseeing.
Is Kottathara worth visiting?
Yes, Kottathara is worth visiting for Wayanad, tribal village, forest. It is especially recommended for nature and adventure seekers and can be combined with a visit to Mysore.
What is the budget for a trip to Kottathara?
A 2-day trip to Kottathara 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 Jain Temple, Jainimedu?
Jain Temple, Jainimedu is open 06:00-18:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning or evening for a peaceful visit..
What is the entry fee for Jain Temple, Jainimedu?
Entry fee at Jain Temple, Jainimedu: Free.
What is the dress code for Jain Temple, Jainimedu?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Jain Temple, Jainimedu.