Iritty Travel Guide

Uncover the hidden gem of Kerala with our comprehensive travel guide to Iritty. Discover outdoor activities, cultural attractions, food scene and more.


Introduction to Iritty

Located in the Kannur district of Kerala, Iritty is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This quaint town, nestled in the Malabar region, promises a perfect blend of cultural, natural and outdoor adventures, that have remained largely unexplored by tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Iritty

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pazhassi Raja Museum: Dedicated to the memory of Veera Pazhassi Raja, this museum houses an impressive array of exhibits, showcasing various artefacts and objects from the glorious past of the region.
  • Paithal Mala: This pre-historic site, located in the heart of the Western Ghats, is home to ancient rock paintings that date back to the Neolithic age.

Natural Attractions of Iritty: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary: Spread over 55 sq.km, the Aralam Sanctuary, located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, deer, and monkeys.
  • Paithalmala: Known as the ‘Elysium of Malabar’, Paithalmala is a breathtakingly beautiful hill station located at an altitude of 1372 metres above sea level.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Iritty

  • Thusharagiri Waterfalls Trek: This popular trek in Iritty is a 5km long trail across a scenic forest cover, leading to the gorgeous Thusharagiri waterfalls.
  • Iritty to Kannur Cycling Trail: Covering a distance of 60km, this scenic cycling trail takes you through the lush green countryside of Iritty, and culminates in the coastal city of Kannur.

Best Things to Do in Iritty: Activities and Tours

  • Explore the lush green countryside of Iritty on an ATV ride.
  • Get your adrenaline pumping with a spot of white-water rafting at the Periyar River.
  • Witness the beauty of nature through a night camping experience in the Aralam Sanctuary.

Week-Long Itinerary for Iritty

Day 1 Arrival in Iritty and local sightseeing
Day 2 Explore the Aralam Sanctuary and Paithalmala
Day 3 Trek to Thusharagiri waterfalls
Day 4 ATV ride through the countryside and visit Pazhassi Raja museum
Day 5 Cycle to Kannur and explore the city
Day 6 Spot some wildlife at Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
Day 7 Departure from Iritty

Food and Drink Scene of Iritty

Must-Try Dishes

  • Malabar Prawn Curry: A local delicacy made with freshly caught prawns, cooked in a spicy gravy of coconut, tamarind, and turmeric.
  • Puttu and Kadala Curry: A popular breakfast dish consisting of steamed rice cakes served with spicy chickpea curry.

Local Beverages

  • Sulaimani Tea: A fragrant black tea infused with warming spices like ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon.
  • Toddy: A local alcoholic beverage made from the sap of the coconut palm, known for its sweet and sour flavour.

Where to Stay in Iritty: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Aralam Farm Cottage: A quaint farm stay located amidst the lush green forests of Aralam Sanctuary.
  • Aswati Plantation Stay: Located in the heart of an tea estate, this picturesque plantation stay offers stunning views of the Western Ghats.

What to Buy in Iritty: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handloom Sarees: These intricately woven sarees are a specialty of the region, and make for wonderful souvenirs.
  • Spices: Known as the ‘Land of Spices’, Kerala is home to a wide variety of spices, including black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon, all of which can be bought at a local market in Iritty.

Local Culture and Customs of Iritty

Known for its rich cultural heritage, Iritty celebrates several festivals and cultural events throughout the year, including the Vishu festival, Onam, and the Valliyoor Kavu festival. The locals are known for their warm hospitality and love for their traditional art forms, including Theyyam and Kathakali.

Best Time to Visit Iritty

The best time to visit Iritty is between October and March, when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.

Do’s and Don’ts of Iritty

Do:

  • Respect the local traditions and customs.
  • Learn a few words of the local language to connect better with the locals.
  • Carry enough cash for emergencies, as there may not be many ATMs in the region.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing to religious sites.
  • Litter or leave behind any trash in the natural parks and sanctuaries.
  • Engage in any activities that could harm the fragile ecosystem or wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Iritty

Iritty is a safe and secure destination for tourists. However, it is essential to be cautious while engaging in any outdoor activities like hiking or biking, as accidents can occur due to unforeseen circumstances.

Health in Iritty

While in Iritty, it is vital to stay hydrated and carry a mosquito repellent, especially if you are exploring the natural parks, as there may be instances of malaria or dengue.

Getting to Iritty: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Iritty

The nearest airport to Iritty is the Calicut International airport, which is located at a distance of approximately 85 km from the town.

Bus Stations Near Iritty

Iritty has a well-connected bus network, with KSRTC buses running from Kannur and other major cities in Kerala.

Other Options

Taxis and rental cars can be hired from the Calicut airport and Kannur city to travel to Iritty.

How to Get Around in Iritty

The best way to explore the natural beauty of Iritty is by hiring a motorcycle or a bicycle, which is readily available for rent in the town.

Where to Go Next from Iritty: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kannur: A coastal city known for its pristine beaches, enchanting temples, and historic forts.
  • Wayanad: Nestled in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is a mesmerising land of lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and expansive tea plantations.

Conclusion

Iritty, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures, is an ideal destination for travellers who seek to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. From hiking to camping, Iritty has it all, waiting to be discovered by adventurous souls. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore the hidden gem of Kerala!

Rain festival at Kottiyoor temple Rain festival at Kottiyoor temple Pazhashi Dam Pazhashi Dam Iritty during British rule, 1933. Iritty during British rule, 1933.