Overview
Ezhimala is a 286-meter-high hill that surrounds a pristine beach. Ezhimala, located 38 kilometers from Kannur in Payyanur, has a few carved stone structures, and the herbs found there are well-known for their unusual medicinal properties.
The term Ezhimala is a combination of the words ‘ezhu’ and’mala’, which mean seven and peaks, respectively. This popular hill station in Kerala, southern India, has a rich history of its own. The seven peaks are thought to have been dropped here by Lord Hanuman while carrying the Sanjeevani herb to Lord Lakshman.
The Naval Academy Ezhimala (NAVAC), Asia’s largest, was inaugurated by the Prime Minister on January 8, 2009, and is a key feature of this tourist attraction. This destination also has religious significance for the Buddhist community, as it is believed that Lord Buddha visited Ezhimala with his holy presence. Ezhimala will enchant you with its scenic beauty and winding paths.
Attractions at Ezhimala
Walking up the hill, tourists can see the ruins of a mosque, which is thought to be the resting place of Shaikh Abdul Latheef, a Muslim reformist. The path up to the hilltop is not only breathtakingly beautiful, but it also contains a variety of herbs that are extremely beneficial.
When you reach the hillock’s peak, you can see the Mount Dilli lighthouse, the Lord Hanuman temple, and the ruins of an old fort nearby. While visiting Ezhimala, you can also see the Indian Naval Academy, one of India’s most prestigious institutions.
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According to local legend, this location features a magnificent statue of Lord Hanuman. This destination, believed to be the location where the deity dropped the seven hills of Ezhimala, houses South India’s largest Hanuman statue. This concrete figure, also known as ‘Anjaneya’, stands 41 meters tall. A small temple is also located near the statue, attracting visitors from all over the country. An ancient mosque nearby is also worth seeing.
The fact that Ezhimala is a hill station surrounded by a beach distinguishes it from other tourist destinations. This location is also known for its diverse bird population and golden sunsets.
Tips For Visiting Ezhimala
1. The road leading up to this destination is quite sinusoidal, so caution must be exercised when traveling there.
2. Please keep in mind that visiting the Indian Naval Academy requires prior permission.
3. Due to the presence of the Indian Naval Academy in Ezhimala, photography and videography are not permitted in certain areas.
How To Reach Ezhimala
Ezhimala can be reached via Ramanthali, the nearest town. This town is only 2 kilometers from Ezhimala. Regular buses travel along this route, making it easy to get there.
Best Time To Visit Ezhimala
Avoid visiting the destination during the monsoon season, which occurs between June and September, as the road becomes impassable. Driving there during the wet monsoon season is not recommended due to the numerous twists and sharp bends.
History of Ezhimala
One of the most important locations mentioned in the historical accounts of northern Malabar is Ezhimala. Local Hindu legends and Ramayana chapters have mentioned the connection between the Ezhimala hills and the well-known episode involving Lord Hanuman even before the period of known history. It is thought that Lord Hanuman, en route to deliver the Sanjeevani herb to Lord Lakshman, dropped the seven peaks located here.
Ezhimala’s history is documented dating back to the Sangha period, during which it served as the capital of the Ezhimala and Mooshika kings.
When the Common Era started, Ezhimala was a thriving seaport and a hub for trade. In the eleventh century, it also saw the start of the Chola-Chera Wars. The place is all the more charming because it is believed by some that Lord Buddha paid a visit to Ezhimala. Relics like burial chambers, carved stone pillars, caves, and granite platforms can be found at the foothills of Ezhimala.
