Have you ever dreamed of visiting Ooty, the queen of hill stations in South India? If yes, then you might be surprised to know that there is a place in Kerala that resembles Ooty in its beauty and charm. It is called Mini Ooty, and it is located in Malappuram district, about 50 km from Kozhikode.
Mini Ooty is the nickname given to Arimbra Hills, a scenic spot that is situated at an elevation of 1050 ft above sea level. It is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors with its sweeping views of valleys and hills, natural park, glass bridge, hiking trails, and more. If you are looking for a refreshing getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, then Mini Ooty in Malappuram is the perfect place for you. Here are some of the reasons why you should visit this hidden gem of Kerala.
How to Reach Mini Ooty
Mini Ooty can be easily reached by various modes of transportation from different parts of Kerala and beyond. Here are some of the options:
By air: The nearest airport to Mini Ooty is Kozhikode International Airport, which is about 15 km away. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to reach Mini Ooty.
By rail: The nearest railway station to Mini Ooty is Kondotty Railway Station, which is about 10 km away. You can take a taxi or a bus from the station to reach Mini Ooty.
By road: Mini Ooty is well-connected by road to major cities and towns in Kerala and neighboring states. You can take a state-run or private bus to Malappuram or Kondotty, and then take another bus or taxi to Mini Ooty. Alternatively, you can drive your own vehicle or rent a car or bike to reach Mini Ooty.
What to See and Do in Mini Ooty
Mini Ooty offers a plethora of attractions and activities for all kinds of travelers. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, you will find something to suit your taste and mood in Mini Ooty. Here are some of the things you can see and do in Mini Ooty:
Natural park:
One of the main attractions of Mini Ooty is the natural park that is spread over 15 acres of land. The park has various facilities such as children’s play area, boating, zip line, rock climbing, etc. You can also enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the park.
Glass bridge:
Another highlight of Mini Ooty is the glass bridge that is built over a valley. The bridge is 150 m long and 70 m high, and it offers a thrilling experience for the visitors. You can walk on the transparent glass and feel the adrenaline rush as you see the valley below your feet.
Hiking spots:
If you are an adventure lover, then you will love the hiking spots in Mini Ooty. There are several hills and mountains that offer exciting trails for hiking and trekking. Some of the popular hiking spots are Thiruvonamala, Poolappees, Muchikundu, Cheruppadi Mala, Kunnumpuram, and Kakkadseemly. You can also enjoy the view of the Kozhikode International Airport runway from some of these spots.
Views of valleys and hills:
The main attraction of Mini Ootty is its stunning views of valleys and hills that will take your breath away. You can witness the beauty of nature from various vantage points in Mini Ootty. You can see the lush greenery, misty clouds, colorful flowers, and sparkling waterfalls that adorn the landscape. You can also catch the sunrise and sunset from Mini Ooty and marvel at the changing colors of the sky.