Agali Hills Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, things to do, and more in Agali Hills with our ultimate travel guide. Plan your trip to this hidden gem in Southern India with ease.


Ultimate Guide to Agali Hills: Explore Southern India’s Hidden Gem

Welcome to Agali Hills, a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure junkies, and culture enthusiasts. Tucked away in Palakkad District, in Malabar, in Kerala, in Southern India, Agali Hills is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, and local treasures. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, you’ll find something to love in Agali Hills. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, food to try, things to do, and everything in between to help you plan your trip with ease.

List of Places to Visit in Agali Hills

Agali Hills is a treasure trove of cultural and natural wonders. Here are the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • (1) Malampuzha Dam and Gardens: a scenic picnic spot known for its lush gardens, boating facilities, and cable car ride.
  • (2) Tipu Sultan’s Fort: a historic fort built by the legendary ruler, Tipu Sultan, that boasts rich architecture and fascinating stories.
  • (3) Kollengode Palace: a sprawling palace that showcases the traditional Kerala architecture and houses a museum with rare artifacts.
  • (4) Kalpathy Heritage Village: a charming locality with ancient temples, traditional architecture, and annual cultural festivals.

Natural Attractions of Agali Hills: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • (1) Silent Valley National Park: a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts a unique ecosystem with rare flora and fauna, and offers trekking and camping opportunities.
  • (2) Nelliyampathy Hills: a scenic hill station that offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and is known for trekking, tea plantations, and waterfalls.
  • (3) Dhoni Hills: a misty mountain range that offers breathtaking views of the valley and is favored by trekkers and nature lovers.
  • (4) Siruvani Waterfalls: a stunning cascade that offers a refreshing break from the heat and is surrounded by a lush forest.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Agali Hills

Agali Hills is a paradise for adventure seekers. Here are the best hiking and biking routes:

  • (1) Silent Valley Trek: a challenging trek that takes you through dense forests, grasslands, and steep terrain, and rewards you with panoramic views of the valley.
  • (2) Nelliyampathy Hill Trek: a moderate trek that offers stunning views of the tea plantations, waterfalls, and the Western Ghats.
  • (3) Dhoni Hills Trek: a thrilling trek that takes you through narrow ridges, rocky terrain, and dense forests, and offers breathtaking views of the valley.
  • (4) Agali Hills Bike Ride: a scenic bike ride that takes you through winding roads, lush plantations, and small villages, and offers a glimpse of the local life.

Best Things to Do in Agali Hills: Activities and Tours

Agali Hills is not just about natural wonders and cultural landmarks. Here are some fun activities and tours:

  • (1) Angling: Fishing in the serene lakes and rivers of Agali Hills is a popular activity.
  • (2) Bird Watching: Agali Hills is home to a diverse range of birds, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
  • (3) Jeep Safari: Explore the off-beaten paths of Agali Hills with a thrilling jeep safari.
  • (4) Local Cooking Classes: Learn the art of cooking traditional Kerala dishes with local chefs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Agali Hills

Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your week in Agali Hills:

Day Activity
1 Visit Malampuzha Dam and Gardens
2 Trek in Silent Valley National Park
3 Visit Tipu Sultan’s Fort and Kollengode Palace
4 Explore Nelliyampathy Hills
5 Bike ride in Agali Hills
6 Visit Kalpathy Heritage Village and Dhoni Hills
7 Cooking class and souvenir shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Agali Hills

Agali Hills is famous for its delicious food and refreshing local drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • (1) Puttu and Kadala Curry: a traditional breakfast made with steamed rice cakes and chickpea curry.
  • (2) Meen Pollichathu: a mouth-watering fish preparation wrapped in banana leaves and baked with aromatic spices.
  • (3) Appam and Stew: a popular dish made with fluffy rice pancakes and vegetable stew.
  • (4) Kappa and Karimeen: a Kerala-style dish made with spicy tapioca and steamed pearl spot fish.

Local Beverages

  • (1) Tea: Nelliyampathy Hills is known for producing some of the best tea in Kerala.
  • (2) Toddy: a sweet and sour drink made from fermented coconut sap.
  • (3) Sharbat: a refreshing drink made with local fruits and herbs.
  • (4) Sambharam: a spicy buttermilk drink that cools you down on a hot day.

Where to Stay in Agali Hills: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Agali Hills offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style. Here are some popular choices:

  • (1) Rainforest Resort: a luxurious resort nestled in the heart of the forest that offers stunning views and world-class facilities.
  • (2) Silent Valley Resort: a budget-friendly resort that offers comfortable rooms and easy access to Silent Valley National Park.
  • (3) Misty Lodge: a charming guesthouse that offers cozy stay and warm hospitality.
  • (4) Royal Tourist Home: a centrally located hostel that offers affordable dorms and private rooms.

What to Buy in Agali Hills: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Agali Hills is a great place to buy unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some items to add to your shopping list:

  • (1) Handmade Crafts: Agali Hills is known for its unique handicrafts, such as carved wooden items and woven baskets.
  • (2) Spices and Tea: Stock up on local spices and tea from the nearby plantations.
  • (3) Coconut Shell Products: Buy souvenirs made from coconut shells, such as bowls, cups, and lamps.
  • (4) Ayurvedic Products: Kerala is famous for its Ayurvedic treatments and products, so don’t miss out on buying some authentic herbal medicines, oils, and cosmetics.

Local Culture and Customs of Agali Hills

Agali Hills is a melting pot of diverse cultures and beliefs. Here are some customs and etiquettes to keep in mind:

  • (1) Dress modestly and respect local traditions, especially when visiting temples and mosques.
  • (2) Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a sacred place.
  • (3) Avoid public displays of affection.
  • (4) Do not litter, and keep the environment clean.

Best Time to Visit Agali Hills

The best time to visit Agali Hills is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. However, if you’re a monsoon lover, you can visit between June and September when the hills are lush green and the waterfalls are in full flow.

Do’s and Don’ts of Agali Hills

Do:

  • (1) Plan ahead and carry essentials for outdoor activities.
  • (2) Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • (3) Try the local food and drinks.
  • (4) Explore the local markets and buy unique souvenirs.

Don’t:

  • (1) Travel alone in isolated areas, especially at night.
  • (2) Wear revealing or offensive clothing.
  • (3) Touch or disturb the wildlife or natural habitats.
  • (4) Ignore the safety guidelines and warnings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Agali Hills

Agali Hills is a safe destination for tourists, but it’s always advisable to take precautions to avoid any mishaps. Here are some safety tips:

  • (1) Carry a map, GPS, and a charged phone.
  • (2) Follow the safety guidelines for outdoor adventures.
  • (3) Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables.
  • (4) Be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas.

Health in Agali Hills

Agali Hills is a relatively clean and healthy destination, but it’s always better to take precautions to avoid any health issues. Here are some tips:

  • (1) Drink only bottled water or boiled water.
  • (2) Carry mosquito repellents and wear protective clothing.
  • (3) Carry basic medicines and a first-aid kit.
  • (4) Avoid street food and drink.

Getting to Agali Hills: Transportation Options and Logistics

Agali Hills is well connected to major cities and towns in Kerala. Here are the transportation options:

Airports Near Agali Hills

  • (1) Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), Tamil Nadu, India (85km from Agali Hills)
  • (2) Kochi International Airport (COK), Kerala, India (137km from Agali Hills)

Bus Stations Near Agali Hills

  • (1) Palakkad Bus Station, Kerala, India (50km from Agali Hills)
  • (2) Coimbatore Bus Station, Tamil Nadu, India (85km from Agali Hills)

Other Options

You can also hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Agali Hills from nearby cities and towns.

How to Get Around in Agali Hills

The best way to explore Agali Hills is on foot, bike, or jeep safari. You can also hire a taxi or a car for local sightseeing.

Where to Go Next from Agali Hills: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Agali Hills is surrounded by many beautiful destinations that are worth a visit. Here are some suggestions:

  • (1) Munnar: a scenic hill station known for its tea plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife.
  • (2) Vagamon: a quaint hill station that offers stunning views, adventure activities, and tranquil lakes.
  • (3) Wayanad: a scenic destination that boasts of beautiful landscapes, tea plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries.
  • (4) Coimbatore: a bustling city that offers a mix of modernity and tradition, and is known for its temples, museums, and shopping.

Conclusion

Agali Hills is a hidden gem that offers a blend of natural wonders, culture, adventure, and local treasures. With this comprehensive guide, we hope you’ll be able to plan your trip to Agali Hills with ease and make the most of your time here. Happy traveling!

Tailed Jay at Agali Tailed Jay at Agali Mango from Attapadi Mango from Attapadi Lemon juice vendor Lemon juice vendor