Wayanad nestled in the Western Ghats is one of the most scenic destinations in Kerala. This place is also called the Green paradise because of its virgin forest lands, wild life, mist clad mountains, sprawling spice plantations, spell binding waterfalls and tranquil fresh water lakes. Wayanad is derived from the word Vayalnadu, meaning the land of paddy fields. Wayanad is home to some of the oldest tribes. A large percentage of the population in this region are tribals. Wayanad also has numerous evidences depicting new Stone Age civilization in the prehistoric engravings in in the foothills of Edakkal and around Ambukuthimala. It is a revenue state and one of the biggest foreign exchange earners of the State because cash crops like pepper, cardamom, coffee, tea, spices and other condiments.
Wayanad is also home for amazing range of flora and fauna and the wild life sanctuaries of Wayand are must visit for all the nature lovers. Wayanad hills which are contiguous to Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu and Bandhipur in Karnataka is home for exotic species of plants and wild animals. Wayand has a unique terrain of hills, rocks and valleys which provides for exceptional adventure experiences. Wayand is the most beautiful retreats in Kerala because of its natural scenic beauty, rich natural resources and very unique terrain. Wayand has mean maximum and minimum temperature of 29 degree Celsius and 18 degree Celsius respectively. The best time to visit Wayanad is between August and March.
Top Tourist Places to Visit in Wayanad (Kerala)
Chembra Peak
Located near Meppadi in the southern part of Wayanad, Chembra Peak is at a height of 2100 metres. Chembra peak is the highest hill in Wayanad and is a perfect destination for trekkers. Even though climbing this peak is a challenging mountaineering endeavour it is worth the effort. The view from the top of the peak is breathtakingly beautiful.
Banasura Sagar Dam
This is the largest dam in India and is flanked by lush green verdant hills on all three sides providing a spell binding view. A set of islands that were formed when the reservoir submerged the surrounding area is a unique feature of this place. Speed boating facilities are also available.
Edakkal cave
Edakkal cave is 25 km from Kalpetta and two caves are located at a height of 1000 m. The cave is formed by an enormous boulder straddling a massive fissure in a gigantic rock. This has created a covered space that is 96 feet long, 22 feet wide and 30 feet high. Edakkal cave in the Ambukuthy Mountain have the New Stone Age pictorial writings on the walls giving evidence to the pre historic civilizations existence.
Kuruva Island
This uninhabited island is an ideal picnic spot. This island is covered by 950 acres of evergreen forest on the tributaries of east following river Kabani and is home for rare species of orchids and herbs.
Pookot Lake
It is a beautiful natural fresh water lake surrounded by thick woods and trees. It is a picturesque location and some attractions here include boating facilities, a children's park and a spices and handicrafts emporium.
Neelimala
This place is trekkers delight with options for different trekking routes and a mesmerising view from the top.
Meenmutty waterfalls
This is the largest and most spectacular waterfall in Wayanad. Meenmutty can be reached by an interesting 2 km jungle trek off the main Ooty Road.
Soochipara waterfalls
This is another waterfall providing a scenic beauty along the trail. Stretches of waterfalls range from 100 to 300 feet height and one can go water rafting and swimming in the pool below.
Pakshipathalam
Pakshipathalam is located deep within the forest in the Brahmagiri hills and is a formation of large boulders. Wide variety of birds, animals and distinctive and rare species of plants can be found in the caves.
Pazhassi Raja’s tomb
Pazhassi tomb is situated in at Mananthavady. Known as Lion of Kerala, Pazhassi Raja was one of the earliest to revolt against British in this region. He used the classic techniques of guerrilla warfare against British forces. He was killed in a ferocious battle against the British and Pazhassi’s tomb marks the point where he was cremated.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary – Muthanga and Tholpetty
Wayanad wildlife sanctuary covers an area of 344 sq. km. comprising the Tholpetty and Muthanga wildlife sanctuaries. Muthanga is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Region and is located 18 kms East of Sultan Bathery. It is connected to two other major sanctuaries - Bandipur National Park in Karnataka and Mudumalai Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu. Tholpetty is situated in the northern side of Wayand bordering Coorg in Karnataka.
Muthanga and Tholpetty wildlife sanctuaries provide unforgettable wilderness experience. Rich in bio diversity one can see frequent sightings of wildlife like herds of elephants, guars, deers, monkeys, tigers, leopards, bears, many species of reptiles and wide variety of birds.
Sultan Bathery Jain Temple
Believed to have been built in the 13th century this is among the most important Jain ruins spread across the state of Kerala. This place was used as battery or ammunition store for Tipu Sultan’s marching armies.
There are many other sightseeing places around Wayanad like Sunrise Valley, Sentinal Rock Waterfalls, Kanthan Para Waterfalls, Pazhassi Park, Pazhassi Tourist Resort, Lakkidi Ghat Pass along with many Heritage trails like Wayanad Heritage Museum, Muniyara, Chain Tree, Uravu etc.
Wayand is located at a distance about 76 km from the Calicut. Wayand is well connected by buses to all the major cities in Kerala. There is frequent bus services owned by private and state. There are many state owned buses(KSRTC) running in this route. Nearest Railhead to Wayanad is Kozhikode railway station, which is nearly 110 km from Wayanad. The nearest airport from Wayanad is the Karipur airport of Kozhikode. It is situated at a distance of around 100 kilometres from the city.
Various accommodation options are available in all categories. Wayand has some very good resorts, star hotels as well as budget hotels. Many homestay options are also available.