Kottathalachi Mala
Kottathalachi Mala (often referred to in English as Kottathalachi Mount or Kottathalachi Hill Station) is a prominent mountain peak, tourist spot, and revered pilgrimage center located in the Kannur district of Kerala, near the border of Kasaragod.
Here are the key details about the destination:
1. The "Malayattoor of Malabar"
Kottathalachi is highly significant as a Christian pilgrim center and is fondly nicknamed the "Malayattoor of Malabar".
- History: On Good Friday in 1958, a holy cross was installed at the mountaintop by Fr. Mathew Mannuramparambil.
- The Shrine: There is a small chapel at the summit dedicated to St. Thomas, locally revered as Kurisumala Muthappan.
- Pilgrimage: Thousands of devotees undertake a walking pilgrimage up the mountain, especially during the Lenten season, on Good Friday (for the Way of the Cross), and on the first Sunday after Easter.
2. Geography & Natural Beauty
- Elevation: The hill stands at an elevation of approximately 2,500 to 2,800 feet above sea level.
- The View: Once you reach the summit, it offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the Western Ghats, nearby valleys, and distant towns across both the Kannur and Kasaragod districts. It is highly popular for watching spectacular sunrises and sunsets.
- Climate: It features a very refreshing, mist-covered, and breezy climate, making it an escape for nature lovers. It is also rich in biodiversity, home to various medicinal herbs, rare birds, and butterflies.
- Local Culture: At the foothills/base region, you will also find the Sri Karinchamundi Devasthanam, another important local place of worship, highlighting the communal and cultural harmony of the region.
3. Tourism & Adventure
Apart from its spiritual importance, Kottathalachi has rapidly grown as a hot spot for:
- Trekking & Hiking: The climb to the top offers a thrilling and moderately challenging experience for adventure enthusiasts.
- Off-Roading: The rugged, steep terrain leading up the hill makes it a popular route for off-road drivers.
- Camping: The Kottathalachi Development Society (KDS) assists travelers with tent rentals and guides if they wish to camp overnight to catch the early morning fog and sunrise.
4. Location & How to Reach
- Base Town: The mountain is located near Pulingome and Thabore villages in the Cherupuzha Panchayat area.
- By Road: You can drive or take a taxi from Cherupuzha to Pulingome (approx. 7 km), and then head along the Vazhakundam – Choorappadavu Road.
- The Trek: There is a drivable jeep road up to a point called Anakuzhi (halfway up the hill). From where the vehicle track ends, visitors must trek the remaining distance to reach the shrine and the viewpoint at the very top.
