Known as the ‘Ooty of Kerala’, Ranipuram Hills is the most sought-after tourist destination of Kasargod. It is situated 3843 ft above sea level. The hills, covered in lush grassland and the surrounding shola woods and monsoon forest, provide both adventure and leisure. The trekking trails take you through the shola woods and end with the scenic beauty of greenery and mist-covered hilltops. The short trekking trail is easy to climb, making it suitable for both children and the aged. Visitors also enjoy jeep safaris along the route. The hills used to be called ‘Madathumala’.
Ranipuram Hills along with its biodiversity falls under the Panathady forest reserve which merges with the Talacauvery wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka. The Ranipuram reserve has a wide variety of flora and fauna like elephants, jungle cats, malabar civet, wild boar, leopards, Malabar giant squirrel, slender loris, porcupine, rare butterflies and a large number of medicinal plants. One can enjoy some quiet time surrounded by the sounds of the forest.
