Kuruva Zipline

Kuruva Zipline offers one of the most distinctive adventure experiences in Wayanad, combining the thrill of soaring through the air with the untouched beauty of Kuruva Island and its surrounding riverine landscape. Set near the banks of the Kabini River, this zipline lets you glide above a canopy of evergreen trees, bamboo groves, and rare orchids that make the island a protected biodiversity hotspot. Unlike typical zipline parks, the Kuruva experience is woven into a broader eco-adventure that includes bamboo rafting across the river and guided walks through the island’s dense interior, making it a full half-day outing rather than a quick ride.

What to Expect

The zipline at Kuruva stretches across a forested section near the island, giving riders an aerial view of the Kabini River, thick tropical vegetation, and the rolling hills of northern Wayanad. Before you ride, trained instructors fit you with a full-body harness, helmet, and pulley system, and walk you through the safety procedure. The ride itself lasts roughly 30 to 45 seconds depending on the line, but the rush of gliding above the treetops stays with you far longer. Most visitors pair the zipline with a bamboo raft crossing to Kuruva Island itself, where narrow forest trails lead to freshwater streams, herbal plants, and excellent birdwatching spots. Keep an eye out for Malabar grey hornbills, woodpeckers, and the occasional kingfisher near the water. The combination of ziplining, rafting, and island exploration makes this one of Wayanad’s most well-rounded adventure outings.

How to Reach

Kuruva Zipline is located approximately 17 km from Mananthavady and about 40 km from Kalpetta. From Kalpetta, take NH 766 towards Mananthavady and follow the signs for Kuruva Island near the village of Cheeral. The drive from Kalpetta takes around 1 hour through scenic hill roads. From Mananthavady, the drive is roughly 30 minutes heading south. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available from both towns. If you are arriving from Kozhikode (Calicut), drive to Kalpetta first via Thamarassery Ghat and then continue towards Mananthavady. The zipline starting point is near the bamboo rafting jetty on the riverbank.

Nearby Attractions

• Kuruva Island — The uninhabited river island in the Kabini is a protected ecosystem with rare flora, freshwater fish, and excellent birdwatching trails. Most visitors combine the zipline with a raft trip to the island.
• Edakkal Caves — These ancient rock shelters feature Neolithic-era petroglyphs dating back thousands of years and are one of Wayanad’s most visited heritage sites, located about 30 km away.
• Thirunelli Temple — One of the oldest temples in Kerala, set at the foot of the Brahmagiri Hills about 35 km from Kuruva. The forested drive to the temple is scenic in itself.

Visiting Information

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry around 4:30 PM). Closed during heavy monsoon months (June to August) when river levels rise.
• Entry Fee: ₹300 to ₹600 per person depending on the package chosen. Combo tickets that include bamboo rafting and island entry are available at a slight discount.
• Best Time to Visit: October to February, when the weather is cool and dry, and the river is calm enough for safe rafting. March to May is warmer but still suitable.
• Duration: Plan for 2 to 3 hours to enjoy the zipline, rafting, and a walk on the island.
• Age and Weight Restrictions: Children below 10 years and individuals weighing above 100 kg are generally not permitted on the zipline. Children between 10 and 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
• What to Carry: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip. Carry drinking water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Cameras are allowed but large bags may need to be left at the starting point.