How I Discovered the Ooty of Kerala: A Trek to Ranipuram Hills

If you are looking for a serene and scenic getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, then Ranipuram Hills in Kasaragod district of Kerala is the perfect destination for you. Ranipuram, also known as the Ooty of Kerala, is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats, lush green meadows, dense shola forests, and a variety of flora and fauna. I had the opportunity to visit this beautiful hill station last month and I was amazed by its natural beauty and tranquility.

How to Reach Ranipuram

Ranipuram is about 85 km from Kasaragod town and about 43 km from Kanhangad, the nearest railway station. I took a train from Mangalore to Kanhangad and then boarded a bus to Panathady, a small village at the base of Ranipuram hills. From there, I hired a jeep to reach the DTPC (District Tourism Promotion Council) guest house, where the trekking trail starts. The jeep ride was a bit bumpy but the views along the way were stunning. I could see the hills rising majestically in the horizon, beckoning me to explore them.

The Trek to the Top

The trek to the top of Ranipuram hills is about 3 to 4 km long and takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and fitness level. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, but it is advisable to hire a local guide who can help you navigate the terrain and spot the wildlife. The trek starts from the DTPC guest house, where you have to pay a nominal entry fee of Rs. 30 for adults and Rs. 15 for children

The first part of the trek is through a dense forest, where you can hear the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves. The forest is home to many animals, such as wild elephants, deer, monkeys, and leopards, but they are rarely seen during the day. The forest also has a rich variety of plants, such as orchids, ferns, and lemongrass, which give a pleasant aroma to the air. The forest trail is mostly flat and easy, but there are some steep and slippery sections, so be careful and wear proper shoes.

The second part of the trek is through a grassland, where you can see the vast expanse of green meadows and rolling hills. The grassland is dotted with huge boulders, which add to the charm of the landscape. The grassland also offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, which are a treat for the eyes. The grassland trail is mostly uphill and challenging, but the reward is worth the effort. The trail ends at the highest point of Ranipuram hills, which is at an altitude of 750 m above sea level[^2^][2].

The View from the Top

The view from the top of Ranipuram hills is simply breathtaking. You can see the entire range of the Western Ghats, stretching from Coorg in Karnataka to Wayanad in Kerala. You can also see the Arabian Sea in the distance, glittering in the sun. The view is especially mesmerizing during sunrise and sunset, when the sky is painted with different shades of orange, pink, and purple. The top of Ranipuram hills is also a great place to relax and enjoy the cool breeze, which has a soothing effect on the mind and body. The top of Ranipuram hills is also a great place to take pictures and capture the memories of your trek.

Things to Remember

– Ranipuram is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, who want to experience the beauty and thrill of trekking in the Western Ghats.
– The best time to visit Ranipuram is between November and February, when the weather is pleasant and cool. Avoid visiting Ranipuram during summer (March to June), as it gets very hot and humid, and during monsoon (July to October), as it gets very wet and slippery.
– Carry enough water and snacks for the trek, as there are no shops or restaurants on the way. Also, carry a jacket or a sweater, as it gets cold at the top.
– Be respectful of the nature and the wildlife, and do not litter or harm the environment. Also, be careful of the leeches, which are common in the forest.
– Have fun and enjoy the trek, but also be safe and responsible.

Conclusion

Ranipuram is a hidden treasure that deserves more attention and appreciation. It is a place where you can escape from the noise and stress of the city and reconnect with yourself and nature. It is a place where you can discover the Ooty of Kerala and have an unforgettable trekking experience. I highly recommend Ranipuram to anyone who loves nature and adventure, and I hope you will visit it soon. Happy trekking!