Noolpuzha at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Kerala |
| Famous For | Wayanad, Coffee Plantation, Tribal Culture |
| Best Time to Visit | September to May |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Malayalam |
| Nearest Airport | Calicut International Airport (CCJ), 120km from Noolpuzha |
| Nearest Railway | Kozhikode (CLT) |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹20+ (varies) |
| Best For | all travellers |
Noolpuzha: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Noolpuzha is a small village nestled in the Wayanad district of Kerala, known for its lush coffee plantations and vibrant tribal culture. This remote village offers a glimpse into rural life in South India, away from the bustling tourist crowds. Agriculture is the primary occupation, with coffee, spices, and rice being the main crops.
Reaching Noolpuzha requires a bus or taxi from nearby towns like Sultan Bathery. Allocate at least two to three days to fully explore the village and its surroundings. Accommodation options are limited to homestays and budget hotels in nearby towns.
Noolpuzha: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thirunelli Temple | 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily | Free | Morning for a peaceful experie | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
How to Reach Noolpuzha: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Noolpuzha: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Kozhikode (CLT) — Nearest major railway station, connected to major cities. Located about 100km from Noolpuzha.
- From Delhi: 30-35 hours (₹1500-3000)
- From Mumbai: 18-22 hours (₹1200-2500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Noolpuzha: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (CCJ), 120km from Noolpuzha
- Delhi: 3 hours (₹4000-8000)
- Mumbai: 1.5 hours (₹3000-6000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹3000-4000
- Uber/Ola: Not readily available
- Bus: to Kalpetta or Sulthan Bathery then local bus to Noolpuzha
directions_bus Bus to Noolpuzha: Services & Timings
- From Bangalore: 7-8 hours (₹800-1500)
Trains are generally more comfortable for long distances.
Best Time to Visit Noolpuzha: 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 for trekking, visiting coffee plantations, and experiencin | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: June | 25-32 degrees C | The landscapes are still green, and there are fewer tourists compared to the pea | Be prepared for occasional rain and |
| Avoid: July to August | 22-28 degrees C | Avoid visiting during the monsoon due to heavy rainfall, landslides, and difficu | Some accommodations and restaurants |
Peak season note: This is the peak season, so expect slightly higher prices for accommodation and transport. Booking accommodations and tours in advance is recommended.
2-Day Noolpuzha Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Temples & Heritage
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Mulliyoottu Mala
Mulliyoottu Mala is a scenic hilltop offering panoramic views of the surrounding coffee plantations and forests. It's a popular sp…
💡 Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🙏 Thirunelli Temple
Thirunelli Temple is an ancient Vishnu temple located amidst dense forests, about 30 km from Noolpuzha. It is known for its serene…
💡 Tip: Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the temple.
📍 Pazhassi Raja Tomb
Pazhassi Raja Tomb is a memorial dedicated to Pazhassi Raja, a local king who fought against the British East India Company. It is…
💡 Tip: Visit the nearby museum to get a better understanding of Pazhassi Raja's life.
Day 2 — Nature & Local Culture
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🪨 Edakkal Cave
Edakkal Cave is a prehistoric rock shelter containing ancient petroglyphs, located about 25 km from Noolpuzha. The cave is accessi…
💡 Wear comfortable shoes and carry water for the trek.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🏖️ Soochipara Falls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls)
Soochipara Falls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is a scenic waterfall located about 30 km from Noolpuzha. It's a popular…
💡 Carry swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim in the pool.
🏖️ Kanthanpara Waterfalls
Kanthanpara Waterfalls is a smaller, less crowded waterfall near Noolpuzha. It's a peaceful spot to enjoy the natural beauty of Wa…
💡 Visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds.
Top Places to Visit in Noolpuzha: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 📍 Mulliyoottu Mala | Free | 3-4 hours | Open daily, sunrise to sunset |
| 2 | 🙏 Thirunelli Temple | Free | 2 hours | 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily |
| 3 | 📍 Pazhassi Raja Tomb | ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) | 1 hour | 09:00-17:00 daily |
| 4 | 🪨 Edakkal Cave | ₹30 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 09:30-16:30 daily |
| 5 | 🏖️ Soochipara Falls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls) | ₹50 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 09:00-17:00 daily |
| 6 | 🏖️ Kanthanpara Waterfalls | Free | 1-2 hours | Open daily, sunrise to sunset |
📍 1. Mulliyoottu Mala
Mulliyoottu Mala is a scenic hilltop offering panoramic views of the surrounding coffee plantations and forests. It's a popular spot for trekking and enjoying the natural beauty of Wayanad. The hilltop is also home to a small temple.
Honest take: Worth it for the views, but the trek can be challenging for some.
📍 Getting there: Jeep or auto-rickshaw from Noolpuzha town
🙏 2. Thirunelli Temple
Thirunelli Temple is an ancient Vishnu temple located amidst dense forests, about 30 km from Noolpuzha. It is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture. The temple is believed to have been built over 3000 years ago.
Honest take: A must-visit for its historical and religious significance.
📍 Getting there: Bus from Noolpuzha to Thirunelli, then auto-rickshaw
📍 3. Pazhassi Raja Tomb
Pazhassi Raja Tomb is a memorial dedicated to Pazhassi Raja, a local king who fought against the British East India Company. It is located in Mananthavady, about 20 km from Noolpuzha. The tomb is a simple yet elegant structure.
Honest take: A good place to learn about the local history and culture.
📍 Getting there: Bus from Noolpuzha to Mananthavady, then auto-rickshaw
Food & Restaurants in Noolpuzha: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Kerala Sadhya, Appam with Stew, Puttu and Kadala Curry, Fish Molly
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Fish Fry and Prawn Masala | ₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two) | Kalpetta |
| Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot Fish) | ₹₹ (₹400-700 for two) | Sulthan Bathery |
🛺 Street Food: Sulthan Bathery Market — Masala Dosa, Pazham Pori (Banana Fritters), Tea (₹50-150 per person)
Noolpuzha 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 |
Day Trips from Noolpuzha: Best Nearby Destinations
| Place | Distance | Drive Time | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sulthan Bathery | 20 km | ~30–40 min | Wayanad, Jain Temple, Tipu Sultan |
| Kalpetta | 45 km | ~1–1.5 hrs | — |
| Vythiri | 45 km | ~1–1.5 hrs | — |
Hotels in Noolpuzha: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Green Gates Hotel
₹800-1500/night
Sulthan Bathery, 20km from Noolpuzha
Wayanad Silverwoods
₹1000-2000/night
Sultan Bathery, 20km from Noolpuzha
🏨 Mid-Range
Rainforest Resort
₹2500-4000/night
Lakkidi, 40km from Noolpuzha
Upavan Resort
₹3000-4500/night
Vythiri, 45km from Noolpuzha
⭐ Luxury
Windflower Resorts & Spa
₹6000+/night
Vythiri, 45km from Noolpuzha
Vythiri Village
₹7000+/night
Vythiri, 45km from Noolpuzha
Noolpuzha Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers: Negotiate the fare beforehand.
- ✓ Fake guides: Only hire guides from reputable tour operators.
- ✓ Wear light and comfortable clothing, suitable for warm weather. Carry a light jacket for cooler evenings. Modest clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites.
- ✓ Limited availability in Noolpuzha, carry enough cash.
- ✓ Available at the airport or in major towns. Airtel and Vodafone are good options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Noolpuzha
How many days are enough for Noolpuzha?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Noolpuzha. Day 1 covers Mulliyoottu Mala and Thirunelli Temple, while Day 2 explores Edakkal Cave and Soochipara Falls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls).
What is Noolpuzha famous for?
Noolpuzha is famous for Wayanad, Coffee Plantation, Tribal Culture.
What is the best time to visit Noolpuzha?
The best time to visit Noolpuzha is September to May. Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for exploring the plantations and forests. The monsoon season is over, and the humidity is relatively low.
Is Noolpuzha worth visiting?
Yes, Noolpuzha is worth visiting for Wayanad, Coffee Plantation, Tribal Culture. It is especially recommended for all travellers and can be combined with a visit to Sulthan Bathery.
What is the budget for a trip to Noolpuzha?
A 2-day trip to Noolpuzha 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 Thirunelli Temple?
Thirunelli Temple is open 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning for a peaceful experience.
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.