Pakshipathalam in Wayanad district of Kerala, is located 7 km northeast of Thirunelli , which is about 32 km from Mananthavady, and about 66 km from Kalpetta. It is situated at an altitude of 1740m above sea level.
Wayanad, the northern hill district of Kerala, is covered with dense, moist deciduous forests. An elephant, tigers, leopards, jungle cats, civets, bison, peacocks; various other bird species can be seen here. In the sylvan solitude of this land, perched at a 1740 m above sea level is Pakshipathalam, a picturesque sleepy little place.
Pakshipathalam - the very name of the place refers to the richness of birdlife here. Here virgin forests, rivulets and steep hills together offer challenging avenues for trekking. A cave which rishis (saints) are believed to have used for meditation in ancient times, has become a major attraction for tourists.
Close by is Kuruvadweep, an island well known for its rare ecology. Located 17 km from Mananthavady, Kuruvadweep is a 950 acre stretch of evergreen forests on the banks of the Kabani River, and home to rare species of birds, orchids and herbs.
Situated at an altitude of 1740m and accessible only by trekking, Pakshipathalam is home to several species of birds and is an ornithologist's paradise. It is located in the Brahmagiri Hills near Thirunelly. There is a cave here, which according to legend, was used by rishis (saints) for meditation in ancient times, has become a major attraction for tourists.
It is a challenging tourist spot for any adventure-seeking tourist. The deep rock caves; formed among the thick blocks of rocks at the northern top end of the Brahmagiri are the abode of various birds and wild beasts. The place is bet knows for the presence of `Edible Nest Swift light' as its nest is made of solidified saliva and is used to make bird's nest soup.
Pakshipathalam trek is a trek through the hills in Wayanad, Kerala, which is accessible only through trekking trails. The name translates to “abode of birds” in Malayalam, and true to its name, it’s the home to several rare species of birds, most prominently, bats. This makes for a great one-day excursion in Wayanad. A bonus is that this trek can also be done from Karnataka, starting at Irpu Falls.
Camping is not allowed here. So, you will have to trek back before the forest gets dark. The fact that the forest is home to several animals and reptiles adds to the excitement of the trek.
Throughout the trek, you’re constantly flitting across the border between Karnataka and Kerala. You require permission from the DFO of North Wayanad to trek to this place. You’ll have to pay a permit fee. We suggest that you take a guide with you.