Mamalakandam

Kochi → Kerala (Mamalakandam)

Mamalakandam is a pristine forest hamlet nestled deep in the Western Ghats, within Kothamangalam Taluk of Ernakulam district. Surrounded by misty hills, dense tropical forests, clear streams, and rich biodiversity, this remote destination offers a rare glimpse into untouched nature and the traditional lifestyle of indigenous tribal communities who still call this forest home. The journey itself is an adventure—combining scenic drives, off-road jeep safaris, plantation trails, and authentic cultural interactions.

Schedule

The early morning tour begins from Santamonica’s Ravipuram Office.
Meet our Tour manager and start your journey. Departure from Kochi by comfortable vehicle.
As the city fades away, the route gradually opens into rolling hills, rubber plantations, spice gardens, and forest landscapes, setting the tone for a refreshing escape into nature.
En route, a locally sourced breakfast is arranged in the Thattekadu region.
Enjoy a wholesome local breakfast, prepared using regional ingredients, offering an authentic taste of rural Kerala.

Arrive at Urulanthanni, a scenic forest-fringed village that serves as the gateway to Mamalakandam.
The air feels cooler and fresher, and the surroundings are lush with greenery.

Proceed through the forest check post and switch to off-road jeeps, especially suited for the rugged terrain ahead.
This stretch takes you deep into forest land, passing streams, rocky trails, and dense vegetation.

Arrive at Mamalakandam, a secluded forest settlement surrounded by hills and flowing rivers.
The area is home to tribal communities who live in harmony with nature, following age-old traditions, forest-based livelihoods, and sustainable practices.

Enjoy a scenic jeep drive through plantations and forest trails to Munipara, a beautiful viewpoint area known for its expansive rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and forests.
Explore the traditional muniyara, and the myth and belief behind it, at the top of the Munipara by climbing the hill top through an adventurous, thrilling jeep off road and hiking.

Reach the tribal hut area where guests are welcomed into a traditional setting.
Activities include:

Interaction with local tribals
Demonstration of bamboo cooking techniques named ‘Kumbamkachal’
Mat weaving and insights into tribal craftsmanship and learing the technique
Understanding their simple, sustainable lifestyle, deeply rooted in forest ecology

This experience offers a rare opportunity to learn about a community that has preserved its customs, food habits, and traditions over generations.

Enjoy a freshly prepared local tribal-style lunch, prepared using forest produce and traditional cooking methods.
The flavours are simple, earthy, and deeply connected to the land.

Relax and unwind amidst nature:

River bath in crystal-clear forest streams
Hammocks under shaded trees
Forest games and free exploration
Enjoy the silence, birdsong, and gentle flow of water

This is the perfect time to soak in the serenity and untouched beauty of Mamalakandam.

Evening tea with local snacks served in the forest setting, offering a peaceful pause before departure.

Moving to take a stop at the now-viral Mamalakandam UP School feels like a gentle pause where nature and nostalgia meet.
The simplicity of the school, surrounded by raw natural beauty, is deeply moving.
It reminds us of a time when learning was closely tied to nature—where classrooms extended beyond walls, and every hill, tree, and cloud became a teacher.

A visit to the Injathotty Hanging Bridge, stretching gracefully across the calm waters of the Periyar River, the suspension bridge gently sways beneath your feet, instantly awakening your senses and drawing you into the rhythm of the landscape around you.
From the middle of the bridge, the view is simply breathtaking. (If Time Permits, we will take a stop here)