from ₹2,500 / night
Jungle stay
Wild Tusker Resort Muthanga
Jungle-side cottages at Muthanga, minutes from the wildlife safari gate.
Temple · 60 km from Kalpetta
Thirunelli Temple
An ancient Vishnu temple in a forest valley below the Brahmagiri hills.
The guide
About Thirunelli Temple
Thirunelli is an ancient Vishnu temple set in a forest valley near Mananthavady, below the Brahmagiri hill. The name comes from nelli, the Indian gooseberry, and the temple is mentioned in several Hindu puranas.
The setting is the draw as much as the temple itself: dense forest, a stream beside the temple, and the Brahmagiri range rising behind. It is also the starting point for the Pakshipathalam trek.
Local tips
- Dress modestly for the temple
- The drive from Kalpetta is long - plan a half day
- Combine with Kuruva Island or Pakshipathalam
- Photography rules apply inside the temple
Questions
How far is Thirunelli from Kalpetta?
About 60 km.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, modest dress is expected at the temple.
What else is nearby?
Kuruva Island and the Pakshipathalam trek.
Near Thirunelli Temple
Places to stay
from ₹2,500 / night
Jungle stay
from ₹1,500 / night
Budget
Morning Bells Homestay
A budget family homestay 4 km from Edakkal Caves, with campfire and home-cooked food.
from ₹2,000 / night
Groups
Edakkal Caves Homestay and Dormitory
A two-bedroom cottage and a 12-bed dormitory on two acres near Edakkal Caves, with a natural pool.
Direct booking
Tell us your dates. We will find the right stay.
One local team, 18 verified stays and no commission markup. Message us on WhatsApp and we will reply with availability and the best direct rate.