Name: Kannur
Rating: 4.1

Ezhimala, Kannur Overview

Ezhimala is a 286-meter high hill, located surrounding a pristine beach. Situated at a distance of 38 km from Kannur in Payyanur, Ezhimala has a few carved stone structures, and the herbs found in this location are famous for their unusual medicinal properties.

The term Ezhimala is an amalgam of the words 'ezhu' and 'mala', which mean seven and peaks respectively. A popular hill station in the region of Kerala in southern India, this site also has a rich history associated with itself. The seven peaks are believed to have been dropped here by Lord Hanuman while he carried the Sanjeevani herb to Lord Lakshman.

The Naval Academy Ezhimala (NAVAC), which is the largest in Asia, was inaugurated here by the Prime Minister in the year 2009 on the 8th of January and is an essential feature of this tourist attraction. This destination also holds religious values for the Buddhist community, as it is believed that Lord Buddha had graced Ezhimala with his holy presence. With the scenic beauty and circuitous pathways, Ezhimala will steal your heart with its enchanting beauty.

Attractions at Ezhimala

Walking up to the hill, tourists can find the ruins of a mosque, which is believed to be home to the remnants of a Muslim reformist by the name of Shaikh Abdul Latheef. The path that leads up to the hilltop is not only breathtakingly beautiful but is also home to various herbs that are of immense importance.

Once you reach the peak of the hillock, you can also see the Mount Dilli lighthouse, the temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman as well as the ruins of an old fort near it. The Indian Naval Academy, one of the most prestigious Indian institutions, can also be seen while at Ezhimala.

In line with the local legend, a magnificent statue of Lord Hanuman is located at this destination. Believed to have been the place where the deity dropped the seven hills of Ezhimala, this destination houses the largest statue of Hanuman in all of South India. Also known as 'Anjaneya', this figure is made of concrete and has a height of 41 meters. A small temple is also located near the statue and attracts tourists from all across the nation. An ancient mosque nearby is another site worth seeing.

What makes Ezhimala a unique tourist spot is a fact that it is a hill station surrounded by a beach. This place is also famous for its variety of birds and its golden sunsets.

Tips For Visiting Ezhimala

1. The road up to this destination is quite sinusoidal, and hence care must be taken while commuting the same.
2. Keep in mind that prior permission is required if you wish to visit the Indian Naval Academy.
3. Photography and videography are prohibited at specific areas in Ezhimala due to the presence of the Indian Naval Academy in the region.

How To Reach Ezhimala

Ezhimala can be reached via Ramanthali which is the nearest town to it. This town is just 2 kilometres away from Ezhimala. Regular buses ply on this route, and hence reaching the place easily is not an issue.

Best Time To Visit Ezhimala

Avoid visiting the destination in the monsoon period in June and September, as the road becomes undrivable. Since the way is full of a lot of twists and sharp bends, it is not a good idea to drive there in the wet monsoon season.

History of Ezhimala

Ezhimala is one of the most significant places that find mention in the recorded history of northern Malabar. Even before the period of known history, local Hindu legends and chapters of the Ramayana have mentioned the association between Ezhimala hills and the famous episode of Lord Hanuman. It is believed that the seven peaks that can be found here were dropped by Lord Hanuman while he was carrying the Sanjeevani herb to Lord Lakshman.

The recorded history of Ezhimala goes back to the Sangha period, when it used to be the headquarters of the Ezhimala kings, and later on, of the Mooshika kings. Ezhimala used to be a flourishing seaport as well as a centre of the trade when the Common Era began, and later on also witnessed the series of the Chola-Chera Wars in the 11th century. Some also believe that Lord Buddha visited Ezhimala, and this adds to the charm of the place. At the foothills of Ezhimala, one can find relics such as burial chambers, carved stone pillars, caves and granite platforms.