An early jeep safari in Muthanga for elephants, gaur and deer, the forest highway to Ponkuzhi, Pulpally's Seetha Devi temple and a forest walk to Chethalayam falls.
6:00 AM — Pickup Kalpetta KSRTC bus station · Sulthan Bathery bus station · your resort on the way (Kalpetta 6:00 · Bathery 6:45)
7:15 AM — Muthanga jeep safari Forest department jeep with a guide through the sanctuary at its best hour. Breakfast after, own expense. (Safari paid direct · seats limited)
10:00 AM — Forest drive to Ponkuzhi Slow drive on the NH 766 forest stretch to the Ponkuzhi Sri Rama temple, near the Karnataka border. (Watch from the vehicle)
11:15 AM — Pulpally Seetha Devi Temple The Ramayana temple of Seetha and her sons Lava and Kusha. Lunch in Pulpally, own expense. (Temple dress code applies)
1:30 PM — Chethalayam Falls A forest walk of about 4 km return to a seasonal waterfall. (Forest entry own expense)
5:00 PM — Drop-off Kalpetta, Sulthan Bathery, or your resort
Good to know
🐘 The safari: Jeeps and guides are from the forest department; tickets at the counter or online. Seats are limited — we arrive early; sightings are never guaranteed.
🌳 In the forest: No stopping or getting out on the forest highway; animals have right of way. Speak softly; no bright colours, perfume or plastic.
🗓️ Closures: Safaris and the falls can close in fire season, heavy rain or on forest orders. We check the evening before and call you if plans change.
🥾 The walk: Chethalayam is a forest path, slippery when wet; leeches in the rains. Not for knee trouble — wait at the gate if you prefer.
