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Mananthavady Travel Essentials

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"Mane Eytha Vady (The place where an arrow was shot at the deer)"

Mananthavady Tourism

On the banks of the Mananthavady River or locally known as ‘Pusha’, a tributary of the Kabini River, lies the municipality of Mananthavady, in Wanayad, Kerala. It is one of the three major towns and the second largest in the district. Adorned with lush green hills of the Western Ghats, it has a history ranging from those of kings and queens to colonial India.

With temples, parks, tombs and bird sanctuary as well as a group of islets nearby, Mananthavady provides a perfect recluse to forego the demands of the hustle and bustle of your life and breathe in the laps of nature. The oldest town in the district of Wanayad, Mananthavady was established in the 19th century. The term was coined from the Malayalam word, ‘mane eytha vadi’ which refers to the place where an ‘arrow was shot at the deer’.

Indeed is a place on the outskirts of Mananthavady, named Ambukuthy, where there has been evidence found of a deer being pierced. The town is a pride among the local folks due to the history it beholds, that of a martyr and a ruler, Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja, more commonly known as ‘Kerala Simhan’ or the ‘Lion of Kerala’. Being a garrison town during the British Raj, Mananthavady also has a rich history of colonial architecture evident in its map.

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Places to Visit

1. Tomb of Pazahassi Raja
Tomb of Pazahassi Raja, a museum and a park dedicated to the history of the great ruler. Situated on the banks of River Kabani, the tomb was constructed on the cremation ground of the great ruler. The museum houses four galleries, namely, Pazhassi Gallery, Tribal Gallery, Heritage Gallery and Numismatic Gallery along with a beautiful collection of weapons, statues, utensils as well as documents of communication that the British used to suppress the revolt.

2. Post Office Road
Post Office Road which is a suburb of various attractions including temples and mosques.

3. Boys Town
Boys Town, a nature park and a sericulture unit. At a distance of 13 km from Mananthavady, Boys Town is perfect for a day ride and enjoy the undulating tea plantations in the area. The Gene Park at Boys' Town is, in particular; a must-visit herbal garden, set up as a part of an Indo-Danish project.

4. Valliyoorkkavu Bhagavathi Temple
Valliyoorkkavu Bhagavathi Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. The idol of the goddess is alleged to be miraculously self-manifested. The temple hosts a 14-day annual festival every year in March, revered by thousands of devotees and it is the biggest festival in Wanayad.

5. Pakshipathalam
Pakshipathalam is a bird sanctuary known for housing several rare migratory birds such as the Asian fairy bluebird, the paradise flycatcher, the gold fronted chloropsis, the emerald dove, giant malabar squirrels, and gaurs. The sanctuary is situated 36 km away from the city, on the outskirts of Mananthavady. Visitors need to take prior permission of the Forest Department before they visit the place. Legend has it that the eagle king, Garuda of ancient Indian mythology, rested on a rock in the region, which has been named as 'Garudankunnu' after him.

6. Kuruvadweep
Kuruvadweep, a biodiversity hotspot and a haven for photographers, ornithologists and nature lovers. Also called Kuruva Island spread over 950 acres of land, the islets over the middle of Kabini River are perfect for family picnics and boat rides. These uninhabited islands are home to rare species of migratory birds and other flora and fauna. The place remains closed to tourists from May to December due to monsoon as well as summer fires. Visitors must obtain a pass from the Forest Department to go to the Kuruva Islands.

Local Culture of Mananthavady

A numerous tribe of the Adivasi population resides in Mananthavady which consist mainly of Paniyas, Kurumas, Asiyars, Kurichyas, Kadars, Ooralis and Kattunaikkans. About 36% of the people in the town is of tribal origin.

Local Festivities
A display of their culture and art takes place during the 14-day annual festival celebrated in Valliyoorkkavu, an exceptional festival to witness. The importance of this festival lay in the exchange of slaves during the ancient times by the various tribal landlords. Today, the vitality has shifted to the holy ritual of Kalamezhuthu along with various folk art and dance performances.

Things to Do In and Around Mananthavady

1. Trekking in Pakshipathalam
At the height of 1,740 m, Pakshipathalam is one of the most beautiful trekking sites in the country. The trails course through the moist deciduous forests of the Western Ghats, narrow, rocky caves, and the borders of Kerala and Karnataka. The Pakshipathalam trek is a significant delight for adventure seekers. There are no proper roads and camping is prohibited in the area. One needs a permit from the Department of Forest to trek here and taking a guide is highly recommended.

2. Bamboo Raft Rides, Trekking and Swimming in Kuruvadweep
The tickets to the Kuruvadweep islands include the traditional bamboo raft rides at nominal prices. The raft is the only way to reach the islands. Once on the islands, visitors can walk around freely but must hire a guide if they wish to trek deep into the forest, due to wild animals. Swimming too is allowed in certain tourist zones.

Food and Restaurants

Although there are no particular dishes specific to Mananthavady, one must taste the indigenous Kerala cuisines offered in the local restaurants. Visitors should try the filter coffee, a South Indian speciality in the local shops. Malabar Restaurant, Wynn Berry, Village Restaurant and Century Restaurant are among a few of the recommended family restaurants one can visit for domestic as well as North Indian food.

History of Mananthavady

Mananthavady had been a significant army garrison during the British colonial period, the remnants of which are still evident through the various structures like canteens, clubs, barracks, cemetery etc. in and around the town.
Mananthavady is known for its brave ruler, Kerala Verma Pazhassi Raja (1753-1805) who did not yield to the British, or Hyder Ali until his last breath. He was the only person to defeat Sir Arthur Wellesley, the first Duke of Wellington and relentlessly fought for his people. He built a strong fort in Mananthavady to serve as a base for the rebels. The British had finally agreed that their war in Wanayad could not be won unless the Raja was killed and this war came to be known as the 'Cotiote War'. He is commonly referred to as 'the Undefeated Malabar King'.

Traveller Tips

There are not any specific tip to visit Mananthavady.
However, one should research their accommodation and transport options well in advance and book the same to avoid any hassle.

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How to Reach Mananthavady

How to Reach Overview

The Calicut International Airport is the nearest airport to Mananthavady and buses as well as taxi services are readily available from the airport to the town. The town has no railway station either, hence, the nearest railway station is Vatakara, which is 65 km away. Mananthavady is reasonably accessible through KSRTC from the nearby major towns and cities.

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FAQs on Mananthavady

What is famous about Mananthavady?

The tranquility that the town offers, along with being a sanctuary for nature lovers is the most welcoming and the best part about Mananthavady.

What is not so good about Mananthavady?

Less communication options are available within the town.

Who should visit Mananthavady?

Not featuring among the glorified tourist spots, Mananthanvady is a perfect hermit for a couple as well as family outing when one has less time for a vacation. One can also plan a trip to Mananthanvady with their group of friends if they wish to travel to an inconspicuous or less excitable town.

What is the best time to visit Mananthavady?

Mananthavady, being located in the Western Ghats in the ‘God’s Own Country’, enjoys pleasant weather almost all throughout the year. However, summers may witness temperature as high as 37° C. Therefore, October to May are the most comfortable months to visit the place.
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What is the best way to reach Mananthavady?

What are the places near Mananthavady?

The top places near to Mananthavady are Wayanad which is 7 km from Mananthavady, Ooty which is located 79 km from Mananthavady, Coorg which is located 80 km from Mananthavady, Mysore which is located 85 km from Mananthavady, Nagarhole which is located 31 km from Mananthavady

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Mananthavady Travel Essentials

"Mane Eytha Vady (The place where an arrow was shot at the deer)"

Mananthavady Tourism

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