wayanad top 10 tourist spots

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Places to Visit in Wayanad 

Quick navigation, popular wayanad tourist places, edakkal caves.

Edakkal caves are well known for its pictorial depictions (cave art), which are thought to be of 6000 B C. To achieve the hollows, one needs to trek through the Ambukutty Mala. It will take around 45 minutes to climb the hill and you will never get baffled in your outing to these historical caves & it is one of the famous places to see in Wayanad.        

These carvings give incredible confirmation for a very enlightened society that lived in the pre-noteworthy age. Edakkal caves have drawn awesome consideration of archaeologists and students of history around the world. Location:   Edakkal Caves are located at Wayanad, Nenmeni, Kerala 673595 Timings: Opens from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Distance from Bangalore: Eddakal Caves are located at a distance of 273.5 km. Planning a trip to Kerala? Checkout our best-selling  Kerala Honeymoon Packages Also Checkout:  Kerala Family Packages

Kuruva Island

A perfect blend of different natural colours makes Kuruva Island one of Wayanad's best places to visit. It is a protected river delta with a number of islands over the middle of the Kabini River, the famous east-flowing river in Kerala. The island is sprawling across an area of 950 acres with a dense population and some rich and rare species of flora and fauna. It protects the evergreen forest ranges which provide a different ambience and thus making it an ideal choice for tourism.  There are bridges made of bamboo trees and many plants we have not even heard of. Natural lovers and adventure enthusiasts will find Kuruva Island the most suitable space for spending quality time with their beloved ones or even alone.

Activities: Boating, rafting, nature walking etc.

Location: It is located 17 kilometers east of Mananthavadi and 10 kilometers North West of Pulpa.

Chembra Peak

Looking for a weekend getaway this weekend, then head out to Wayanad and visit the famous Chembra Peak. Eight kilometres south of Kalpetta, close to the town of Meppady, lays the most elevated top in Wayanad. Chembra crest borders Nilgiri slopes in Tamil Nadu and Vallarimala in Kozhikode and it is one of the beautiful places to see in Wayanad.     

There is a heart moulded lake while in transit to the highest point of the pinnacle, which is accepted to have never become scarce, is a noteworthy vacation spot here. With authorization from the Forest Department, one-day treks and two-day natural life treks are conceivable.

Activities: Trekking is one of the most favoured activities here. Soak in the greenery of this region while you visit this destination. Location:  Kalpetta,  Wayanad district, Kerala. Distance from Bangalore: Chembra Peak is located at a distance of 306.5 km. Must Check:  Kerala Tour Packages From Mumbai

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary

If someone makes a list of all the places to visit in Wayanad, Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary would always be a sure thing on that list. Located in the lap of Wayanad and the Western Ghats, this region is famed for the variety of wildlife that one can experience here. 

You can take in the views of several animals living in their natural habitats, like Elephants, Tigers, Leopards, Bears, deer, monkeys, and reptiles, fishes and bird species.

Activities: Wildlife safari Location:  Muthanga and Tholpetty, Kalpetta, India Timings: 7:00AM - 10:00AM and 2:00PM - 5:00PM Distance from Bangalore: 232km from Bangalore

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Best of Coorg

Chain Tree is one of the less explored Wayanad attractions but with an old history and a lot of admirers from different parts of the world. It is located on the national highway near the Pepper Wayanad Gate hotel. It is a Ficus tree which holds a massive steel chain which has a multiple stories and legends related to its existence and it is one of the best Wayanad tourist attractions. The major story is associated with a local tribal person called Karinthandan. 

He was killed by the British after seeking help from him to discover the routes through the ghat. The wilderness was the habitat of tribal people and there were no roads to cross the forests even during the British period. People believe that the spirit of that tribal person is in the tree and it causes accidents too many who crosses the hairpin bends. 

There is another story also related to it which says the killing of a Mahout who took the British people to Wayanad first and they did not want the Mahout to go back and get the Portugese. His spirit is the one which is in the tree, as the local people say.

Activities: Sightseeing

Location:  SH29, Lakkidi, Kunnathidavaka, Wayanad, Kerala 673576.

Distance from Bangalore: 306.1 kilometer.

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Neelimala View Point

If you are looking for some fun-filled Wayanad tourist places then the famous Neelima View Point is a must visit for you. A place for thrill seekers, Neelimala View point can be reached  by means of trekking at the same time offering a few astonishing trek trails. The perspective of the valley from the best is essentially captivating alongside a beautiful vision of Meenmutty Falls and it is one of the best Wayanad places to see. From the point, vacationers can see the smooth white streams spouting through the walk, advancing towards the waterway.

One should walk a ton to achieve the place, individuals with joint and leg agony should take a legitimate care of themselves. Limited and uneven pathways from the closest motorable street will take voyagers to the perspective with the mountain folds of the Western Ghats towards its left and a sloping incline loaded with grass alongside stones on the privilege.

This magnificent sight in Wayanad is something that one can always remember all through life. Fog and fragrance around making such a spell, to the point that one will be lost in its magnificence for a drawn-out stretch of time. Activities: Few of the activities which are famous here are trekking, hiking. Location: Neelimala View Point is located at Vaduvanchal, Kerala 673581 Timings: Opens from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Distance from Bangalore: Neelimala View Point is located at a distance of 282.9 km. Popular Reads: Top best sightseeing places in Wayanad Great Deals Available On  Kerala Tour Packages From Bangalore

Meenmutty Waterfalls

A major attraction and one of the scenic Wayanad tourist places is Meenmutty Waterfalls located at a distance of around 29 kilometers from Kalpetta. It is a famous waterfall in the state of Kerala. A three-tiered waterfall is a surprising sight to be visited. The waterfalls fall down from a height of 300 meters. To reach the waterfalls, you can do trekking for about 2 kilometres through the thick jungles from the Wayanad-Ooty Road.  It becomes very dangerous during monsoon and rainy seasons. The gushing waterfalls are located near the Neyyar Reservoir area. People with an adrenaline rush come here plenty to experience the different levels of rock climbing and trekking. The location exhibits an ideal blend of stunning natural sights with amazing trekking trails in Wayanad . Banasurasagar Dam is the closest attraction which gives the waterfalls fame among adventure lovers. Activities:  Trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, swimming etc. Location: Korome- Karimbil Rd, Thondernad, Kerala 670731. Distance from Bangalore: 288.7 kilometers.

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Banasura Sagar Dam

One of the major tourist places to visit in Wayanad is Banasura Sagar Dam which impounds the famous Karamanathodu tributary of the east-flowing river in Kerala that is Kabini River. The dam is encircled by beautiful nature with a lot of options to do trekking and similar adventure activities. Hundreds of tourists arrive at the dam to enjoy its beauty and take photographs. It is a part of the Indian Banasura Sagar Project consisting of a dam and a canal project. Activities:  Sightseeing, trekking, boating. Location:   It is located in Vythiri in Wayanad district, Kerala. Distance from Bangalore: 287.7 km Must Check:  Kerala Tour Packages From Delhi

Bamboo Forests

What could be a better treat to your eyes than a vast greenery with a line of bamboo? All sounds amazing, right? The Nilgiri Biosphere Region additionally reaches out to an extensive extent of teak timberlands, and bamboo trenches and overwhelms. A perfect safari area, deer, buffalo, cheetahs and wild bears are among the spotted creatures here.

The Bamboo woods are simple to access to alternate places to see in Wayanad, for example, Begur, Bandipur, Mudumalai and Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuaries. The connection between the backwoods and the sightseers in Muthanga has years of oldness. Soak in the amazing beauty of the region while you head out to this place. You will find some of Wayanad's homestays in the forest region which will make you amused by the lush greenery and beauty of the place. Activities: While you are visiting the Bamboo Forest you can indulge in wildlife safaris here. Location:  Muthanga, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala  Distance from Bangalore: Bamboo Forests, Muthanga is located at a distance of 276.4 km via NH275 and NH766 Must Read: Best Homestays in Wayanad for relaxing stay

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Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

A famous animal sanctuary in Kerala and one of the major places to visit in Wayanad is Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary which has an extent of 344.4 square kilometers with four ranges. The ranges are called Sulthan Bathery, Muthanga, Kurichiat and Tholpetty. It acts as a haven for many large and wild animals such Indian Bison, elephants, deer, tigers etc along with some unique birds. It is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala bestowed with lush green nature. Some endangered species of flora and fauna are there inside the sanctuary. It was established in the year of 1973 and now it is a major part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and a protected area network of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka in the north east part as well as of Mudumalai in the southeast part. Activities: jungle safari, nature walk, sightseeing, wildlife safari. Location:   Bathery, Puthupally Road, Sultan Bathery, Kerala 673592 Distance from Bangalore: 275.4 kilometers.

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Soochipara Falls

Pookode Lake

When you visit Wayanad, a major hill station in Kerala, you should visit Pookode Lake which is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Wayanad. It is the most beautiful freshwater lake located in South India nestled amidst the large evergreen forests and multitudes of mountain slopes.

The lake provides space to Panamaram, a small rivulet that becomes the Kabani River to originate. The Pookode Lake is spreading across an area of 8.5 hectares with a depth of around 6.5 meters. Geographical experts found that the lake resembles the shape of India’s map. It is a perennial freshwater lake protected by the forested hills and it acts as a haven for freshwater fish and a lot of blue lotus flowers. In some Wayanad tour packages visit to this is place is included while in some you have to go on your own. Activities: T rekking, birding, nature walking, boating. Location: Pookode Lake, Kalpetta, Wayanad, Kerala, 673121, India. Distance from Bangalore: 303.1 kilometers. Do Checkout:   Kerala Tour Packages From Kolkata Also Checkout & Book:  Vr Park Dubai Tickets

Jain Temple

Another Wayanad tourist place that is a must-visit attraction for you is the Jain Temple at Sulthan Bathery. A standout amongst the most imperative among the numerous Jain temples in Kerala, the Bathery Temple in Sulthan Bathery is accepted to have been worked in the thirteenth century. Its plan is emphatically affected by the design style of the then-ruling Vijayanagar Dynasty.

Another interesting element is the somewhat checkered history of the sanctuary which initially filled in as a place of worship, next as a focal point of business exchange lastly, as the ammo store or battery of Tipu Sulthan's armed force. A square rock section with a cutting of Mahavir Jain can be found in the inward sanctorum of the sanctuary which is encompassed by an open verandah.

There is a raised stage made of rock before the principal entrance. This too holds cut columns and their fluted sections end with no crown stones. The encompassing grounds too are cleared in granites.

Location: Jain Temple, Sulthan Bathery is located at Bangalore-Calicut Highway, Sultan Bathery, Kerala 673592

Distance from Bangalore: Jain Temple, Sulthan Bathery is located at a distance of 267.4km.

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Best of Ooty

Phantom Rock

Another fascinating Wayanad tourist place which is a must-see attraction for you is the Phantom Rock. Phantom Rock (Cheengeri Mala) is a prestigious place that is as one of a kind as its name. It's an archaeological ponder that can be not really seen anyplace else on the planet. The stone is normally thrown in the state of the apparition skull and henceforth is well known by the name of Phantom Rock everywhere throughout the world.  The beautiful place is 26 km far from Kalpetta and can be come to by trekking on tight paths. Like different spots of Wayanad, Cheengeri Mala is likewise one of the most loved spots for trekkers and explorers. The pleasant rock is standing tall at a rise of 2600 m over the ocean level and is encompassed by the rich greenery; it's a picture-perfect place for those who are looking for peace and solitude.

Location: Phantom Rock is located at Kumbleri, Kerala 673591

Lakkidi View Point

Lakkidi is the passage of Wayanad as it is situated at the peak of the serpentine Thamarassery ghat pass. There are nine clasp bends from Adivaram (Downhill) to Lakkidi through the mountains and a voyage through the serpentine ghat pass and it is one of the best Wayanad tourist attractions. The lavish greenery of the slopes, chasms, and streams are seen on the two sides of the section up the slope are certain to wait in the guests' psyche for quite a while.

Visitors frequently stop by Lakkidi View Point, the vantage point which offers stunning perspectives of the encompassing bluffs and valleys. Lakkidi has additionally risen as a well-known hill station with numerous resorts and bungalows.

You can see monkeys skipping through the roadside and once you begin setting out through the street to Vythiri, you will see a ficus tree on the left side. You will likewise see a substantial tie tied down to the ground and tied around the strong branches of the tree.

Location: Lakkidi View Point is located at Kozhikode-Mysore-Kollegal Highway, Lakkidi, Kerala 673576

Distance from Bangalore: Lakkidi View Point is located at a distance of 307 km.

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Other Tourist Places in Wayanad

The bamboo factory.

This is among fascinating Wayanad tourist places. The Bamboo Factory in Uravuis an initiative to bring back the art of making crafts using bamboo. Uravu means ‘the bamboo village’ and quite appropriately the locals here earn their living as bamboo craftsmen.

Here bamboo is used to make various souvenirs and even houses. Wayanad serves the dual purpose of being a source of income for the locals due to its bamboo vegetation and also a responsible tourism spot. One could spend an entire day here learning to make bamboo crafts.

Wayanad with its rich history, abounding folklores, misty mountain ranges and ambitious waterfalls has become an ideal holiday destination over the years. Be it for families, couples, group of friends or corporate teams, very few places in the world offer such appeal and charm that pleases every heart. If you are an adventurous soul or seeking a romantic getaway, searching for history or simply want to relax in the lap of nature...Wayanad will satiate all your needs and desires!

Location:  100 Acres Road Thrikkaipatta, Kerala Timings:  All day. Distance from Bangalore:  280 km from Bangalore

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Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary

Nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts find the places to visit in Wayanad beautiful and they seek for reasons to linger and extend their holidays. One such place in Wayanad every nature lover would love is Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary. It is one of the most important bird sanctuaries in Kerala. Bird watching is a common activity done by the locals as well as tourists here. Ornithologists are found in plenty who come to know more about the world of rare birds. The virgin forests create the protection for these rare species of birds. The pathways leading to the sanctuary is a suitable place for trekking in Wayanad  which let the tourists watch lush greenery, streams and hills. Edible Nest Swift Light is the main reason behind the fame this sanctuary has achieved. Inside the sanctuary, there is the nest which is made of solidified saliva and it is used to make bird’s nest soup. Within the boundaries of the bird sanctuary, one can find a temple and a watchtower to help the tourists to come and go out of the sanctuary easily.

Activities: Trekking, birding, camping etc.

Location: It is located in Tholpetty, 7 kilometers from Thirunelli Temple.

Distance from Bangalore: 264 kilometers.

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Thirunelli Temple

An ancient temple which is famous all over Kerala and other states of India is Thirunelli Temple located in Wayanad on the side of Brahmagiri hills. It is dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu. One of the major features of the temple is its location at an altitude of around 900 meters in a valley completely bounded by mountains and forest ranges.  But it is one of the most visited pilgrim centre in Wayanad and an important religious place for the majority of population in South India. The name Thirunelli comes from the words nelli which is given to the tree of gooseberry. There is also a belief that there are Puranas in which the temple is mentioned. There are a lot of legends existing related to this temple which are coming from the ancient mythology texts of Hindus. Activities: S ightseeing, pilgrimage etc. Location: North Wayanad, Thirunelly Road, Thirunelly, Kerala 670646. Distance from Bangalore: 257.7 kilometers.

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Ripon Tea Factory

From its aroma to the refreshing taste, Tea has always been one of the favorite beverages of all time. Spread in an enormous 443 hectares of land at an alarming altitude of 2000 meters from the ground, the Ripon Tea Factory is one of the best stimulating Wayanad tourist places. Considering that the tea factory was established in the 18th century by the British, the place has got a bit of history behind itself.  The factory is also celebrated for its premium quality of extravagant tea that are segregated into dust, leaf and blended flavors. The Ripon Tea Factory is open between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM when visitors can pay a visit here and enjoy various flavors of delicious tea. This should be among the first places to visit in Wayanad, especially for tea lovers. Activities: Witness the tea making process, first hand, Try various kinds of tea. Location: Situated near Meppadi town of Wayanad in Kerala, Wayanad, Kerala 673577 Distance From Bangalore: 289 Km, 6Hr 23 min Must Book & Checkout -  Kerala Tour Packages From Chennai

Sulthan Bathery

Wayanad Heritage Museum

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Karapuzha Dam

Kolagappara

Beginning in the Brahmagiri Hills, Papanisini river is one of the most important pilgrim tourist places in Wayanad. Literally, it translates to ‘washes away all sins’ and the river is considered to have divine powers. 

Tourists flock here during Amavasya to take a dip in its waters and offer their prayers. The enchanting setting of the lush green hills and the gushing waters of the stream makes this river an idyllic spot.

This holy mountain stream also has a sacred rock Pinnappara where the last rites of the dead are performed. 

It is a popular belief that Lord Rama and Lakshmana performed the ‘pithrukarma’ of their father King Dasaratha, standing on this rock. Surrounded by such majestic surroundings and having attached so many popular legends, this place is one of the most interesting Wayanad tourist places.

Location: Thirunelly Temple post, Mananthavady, Kerala

Best Time to visit: One should visit here from the month of September to March.

Timings: The temple remains open from 5:30 am to 12 pm and then from 5:30 pm to 8 pm.

Distance from Wayanad: It is 50 kilometres away from the bus station in Wayanad.

Pazhassi Tomb

Paying tribute to one of Kerala’s great king Pazhassi Raja, this tomb is one of the must-visits for history buffs among places to visit in Wayanad. Known as the ‘Lion of Kerala’, Pazhassi Raja was known for his bravery and guerrilla warfare against the British. 

This tomb is built over the land where he was cremated after the British shot him. One of the main attractions of this place is the museum and the sword of Pazhassi Raja that is kept here. 

It is maintained by the Kerala State Archaeology Department and has on showcase many mural paintings, antique coins and other historical artefacts. Pazhazzi Tomb is also a great place to appreciate the beautiful landscape of Wayanad with an interesting trip.

Location: Pazhassi Raja Museum, Mananthavady, Kerala

Best Time to visit: Pazhassi Tomb can be visited throughout the year.

Entry fee: INR 20/ USD 0.31

Timings: The timings are from 9 am to 5 pm. It is closed on Monday.

Distance from Wayanad: The distance between the two places is approximately 20 kilometres.

Varambetta Mosque

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Wayanad Top Attractions

One of the most spellbinding places to visit in Wayanad, Banasura Sagar Dam is a picturesque tourist hotspot. Known for being India’s largest earthen dam, it boasts of extensive natural beauty with beautiful flora and fauna, majestic hills and mesmerising waterfalls. The Banasura Sagar is a photographer’s delight and offers the most beautiful views from the top of the hill.It is also famous among adventure enthusiasts who look forward to thrilling activities like boating, trekking, horse racing and camel rides. For the avid trekkers, Banasura hill peak is hailed as one of the most challenging treks. Along with that Banasura Hill Resort adds to the charm of this place that is known as the only ‘earthen’ resort in the country.Location: Banasura Sagar Dam, Padinjarathara, KeralaBest Time to visit: November to May offers the most ideal time to visit Banasura Sagar DamEntry fee: INR 10/ USD 0.15 per personTimings: The opening timings are from 9:00 am to 5:00 pmDistance from Wayanad: It is just 2.3 kilometres away from the bus station.

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10 best places to visit in wayanad, kerala.

Top Must Visit Places and Things to Do in the Nature Paradise of Kerala, Wayanad

The mountains of the Western Ghats are the green borders of Kerala and nestled amidst this green paradise is our lovely Wayanad. Emerald green plantations, verdant forests, exotic wildlife, lofty ridges, rugged terrains and deep valleys, it will give you numerous reasons to choose why it is a must visit tourist destination in God’s own country – Kerala . Every traveler finds this enchanting destination worth his/her time. Be it an adventurer who would love to discover trekking trails, water sports and wildlife safaris, couples who would love to discover picture perfect landscapes to cherish some lovely moments of togetherness and a nature lover who would love to become one with nature.   One must visit this lovely tourist destination to escape the chaos of the world.

Wayanad – What’s in the Name

Wayanad has a very interesting tale attached to its name. Wayanad – Vayal Nadu means rice plantation. It is said that Wayanad always remains fertile and green and it is very popular for its paddy fields. Hence it is referred to as Vayal Nadu and in today’s times it is changed to Wayanad.

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Why is Wayanad the Best Destination for Nature Tourism?

• Wayanad is blessed with wildlife sanctuaries, lush tea estates and dense forests. Its eastern border is decked with Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu, Western border is blessed with beautiful hill stations like Coorg. It has plenty of mesmerizing places for nature tourism.
• Peace, serenity and tranquility is what we seek amidst nature. Wayanad is not connected through railways. It is less commercialized in comparison to other cities in Kerala, Hence, It is one of the best jewels for nature tourism in Kerala.
• Want to see Kerala’s own pine forests? Wayanad is the place where in Chandanathode at Mananthavady you will be seduced by the greenery of pine forests.
• For evergreen landscapes and blissful weather Wayanad is often referred to as Ooty of Kerala.
• If you want to see the only dam which is made up of earth materials then visit Banasura Sagar Dam in Wayanad. It is a beautiful nature heaven surrounded by beautiful Banasura hills in the background.

Here is a list of top 10 destinations and best things to do in Wayanad, the green paradise of Kerala.

Meenmutty Waterfalls

Ghat view point, bathery jain temple.

• Chembra Peak
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
• Kuruva Island
• Pookode Lake

Edakkal Cave

Wayanad heritage museum.

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Meenmutty Waterfalls is a delightful and serene stopover whose love for nature knows no bounds. The sound of soulful crashing of water from 1000ft makes the entire rainforests dance with joy. There would be hardly any person who is not mesmerized with this enchanting vista. You can reach here by indulging in a 2km trek. The waterfalls flow in three separate levels and there are three separate viewpoints to see the cascading falls through your eyes and lens. The lush greenery all around gives refreshing vibes. No doubt why it is one of the most beautiful and top tourist places to explore in Wayanad.

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Ghat View Point is decked in the highest locations in Wayanad.  Imagine you are a painter looking for inspiration to rise and shine through your creativity and just in a moment a beautiful landscape appears in front of you. The landscape is bewitching. Lofty mountain peaks on one side, gurgling streams on the other, lush green vegetation, fresh tint of the green trees is everywhere, leaves dancing with the rhythm of breeze that nature has bestowed on them and winding roads decked with trees from both the sides. The weather too is quite delightful.  Now ask us – Is there any place like this? We would say yes, it’s the Ghat view point of Wayanad which has the potential to inspire a normal person to become an artist. Located at an elevation of 700 m above the sea level, you will witness a panoramic view of the entire valley and the sunset and sunrise will take your soul away. If you are planning to visit Wayanad, Ghat View Point is a must visit place.

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Dating back to the 13th century, Bathery Jain Temple is another popular tourist spot to visit in Wayanad. Not only it is a Jain pilgrimage site but also it used to be an administrative hub. Dotted in the hills of Sulthan Bathery it is a beautiful architectural marvel belonging to Vijayanagar dynasty. Shrouded with serenity and royal past, it is a place to get close to the god to seek some divine blessings and spiritual bliss. The idol of God Mahavir is made up of granite. The carved pillars, intricate cornices, stone slab roofs give a visual delight to the tourists. It is said that in the 18th century Tipu sultan used this place to keep ammunition for his army.

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If you love adventures, then you must visit Chembra Peak in Wayanad for thrilling weekend holidays. It is a trekking paradise. It is the highest peak in Wayanad district. The delightful vistas of rare flora and fauna, small waterfalls, a heart shaped lake, lush greenery all around is a healing touch to all the toil-weary souls. You have to take permission from the forest department for trekking in this beautiful landscape. The trekking trail will lead you through emerald tea plantations. If you want to be lost in the folds of time to talk to nature, Chembra Peak is a beautiful escapade for a wonderful holiday in Wayanad.

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In Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary nature is a wild spirit which will seduce your mind with its healing touch and give you a sense of thrill by showing you the wildest creatures whose soul syncs with the energy of wild nature. At times you will feel that the entire jungle resounds with the calls of wild. Located in the southern trenches of popular and mesmerizing Western Ghats. Hilly terrains crisscrossed with dense valleys will take your breath away. You will behold Asian Elephants, tigers, species of vulture, leopards, jungle cats, Gaur, Sloth bear, wild dog, Indian pangolin, sambhar deer and many more wild creatures. It is also a place to get Wild Gold Honey which is a pure wild honey collected from the sanctuary. It is one of the top tourist attractions in Wayanad for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

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In the middle of Kabini River, there are numerous enchanting clusters of Islands decked in a protected river delta known as Kuruva Island. It is one of the best places to visit in Wayanad. This island is teeming with exotic flora and fauna. If you are looking for a place to rejuvenate your mind and body, this evergreen place has all the charm to not only heal your spirit but also seduce your senses. Here you will find beautiful bridges made of bamboo trees, rare species of trees, birds, orchids and herbal plants. If you want to fill your peaceful holidays here with some thrill then boat ride and bamboo rafting by Kerala Tourism Department will be the best thing for you. Nature walks here will be so delightful that you will cherish the moments for a long time.

Timings- 9:00am to 5:00pm

Best Time to Visit – October to May

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Free your soul with the soothing flow of the pristine waters of the delightful Pookode Lake. It is one of the most popular sightseeing places in Wayanad for family vacation. It’s a natural freshwater lake surrounded by dense green forests and enchanted wooded slopes. Watching the clueless flow of water, array of fishes with a childish vigor enjoying and merry making, the pleasant weather and refreshing vibes will make your day here. Your day here will be more fun and memorable with boating, shopping for handicrafts and a visit to spice emporium and if you have kids then a lovely Children Park adds delight to the trip.

Best Time to Visit – August to May

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Get lost in the ancient times to imagine the lifestyle of your ancestors. The two natural rock formations in the cave are the center of attraction. It is believed that the rocks have been formed by a large split in the huge rock. The carvings in the rock look mysterious and delightful at the same time. Some depictions in the rocks are more than 7000 years old. The carvings belong to the Neolithic and Mesolithic Age. According to some research it is linked with Indus Valley Civilization. You have to indulge in trekking from Ambukuthi Hills to reach here. It is indeed the top tourist place to visit in Wayanad.

The aroma of coffee, the lush green landscapes all around, lofty mountain peaks will be a visual delight for you. As per the legends it is said that Lord Rama reached here and shot an arrow which pierced the mountain and as a result a deep cleft was created here. The name Ambukuthi is associated with this legend. Ambu in Malayalam means arrow and Kuthy means to pierce.

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How can you miss the beautiful gateway of Wayanad when you are looking for the most popular tourist destinations in Wayanad? Lakkidi is a green paradise in Wayanad. Surrounded by hills, streams, gorges, deep valleys and ficus trees on the roadsides. Wherever you set your eyes, the greenery welcomes you with a delightful smile. It also houses some of the most beautiful and expensive resorts and plantation stays for tourists. You have to cross a long Ghat road from Adivaram to reach Lakkidi and the entire journey will give you amazing vistas of green hills, gorges and streams etc.

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Located 12km from Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad Heritage Museum is a must visit place in Wayanad if only sightseeing is not your motto. This museum houses various ancient relics that are being unearthed from various places like Ambalavayal, Sultan Bathery and the forests of Wayanad, from time to time. You will get the evidence of the existence of technologically advanced civilization that existed before us. You will find weapons, stone carvings, clay sculptures, pottery of megalithic age, idols of hard and soft rocks, pictorial rock edicts and tribal artifacts dating back from Neolithic age to 12th, 16th, 17th century etc. this museum is a vast ocean of great knowledge about the times of bygone era. Be a part of it, you will cherish these knowledgeable stuffs for a lifetime.

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Top Things to do in Wayanad to make your holidays more fun filled

“Let us step into the night and pursue that flighty temptress”

For an adventurer, Wayanad is a perfect place to be in. From wildlife Safaris, rafting, trekking, ziplining to camping, adventures will keep your day filled with thrill and excitement.

Lap of nature is an ultimate euphoria that one cannot avoid to be seduced by

Nature has bestowed wonderful bliss-inducing landscapes to attract the tourists in Wayanad. From chasing sunsets, enjoying ayurvedic spas amidst the greenery, staying at stunning tree houses surrounded by emerald tea and coffee plantations, farm and village tours, soothing waterfall visits to delightful camping in the jungles- Wayanad is the blessed vessel of nature.

To Shop is to live

If you go by this philosophy then Wayanad will never disappoint you. There are a plethora of places to satisfy your shopper soul.  Here handicrafts, handlooms, antiques would reflect the local culture of Wayanad the simplicity of which would definitely blow your heart away.

I am on the road to paradise with my Cycle 

Cycling would be one of the best things to do in Wayanad, if you really want to enjoy the best of Wayanad tourism. You will be able to explore the beautiful face of greenery and nature from close up. Cycling in the lush tea plantations and taking amazing pictures will make your day here.

Seek Divine blessings to find your soul

Temples in Wayanad have serene vibes and blissful ambiance. If you have a spiritual bent of mind then prepare for a journey to get lost in the spiritual whirlwind of the soothing temples of Wayanad. Some of the most popular religious tourist spots in Wayanad are Thirunelli Temple, Jain Temple, Seetha Devi Temple, Mirror Temple and Devagardha Temple etc.

Give some time to the hills, it is here you will feel most alive

Wayanad is dotted with many beautiful Hillview points which will lead you to dewy tea estates, rugged terrains, enchanting green knolls, small yet surreal water streams and scenic villages which are waiting to be explored.

It’s time for water tourism

Paddle Boating, Shikara Boating, Row boating on reservoir lakes will enrich your travel experience in Wayanad to a whole new level. Surrounded with virgin forests, hills, amazing flora and fauna and lots of birds, the lakes are awe inspiring. Boating would make your holidays in Wayanad one of a kind.

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Best Time to Visit Wayanad

Summer – March to May

Wayanad is the best place to visit in Summer as the weather is pleasant throughout the year. The temperature ranges from 20-30°C. Because of the evergreen forest cover, the temperature is never harsh for sightseeing.

Monsoon – June to October

If you want to behold the greener landscapes in God’s own country Kerala, then visit Wayanad during Monsoon. It receives 300mm of rainfall annually in monsoon. Though you will not be able to enjoy the wildlife, nature sightseeing will mesmerize your senses. The temperature ranges from 15-25°C.

Winter – October- February

Winter is the best time to enjoy holidays in Wayanad. The temperature ranges from 10-25°C. The weather is chilly, the forests and mountains look refreshing and for adventures it is the best season. With a variety of things to do, Winter makes Wayanad sightseeing tours more interesting.

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Stephen Covey once said – Live your life by compass not a clock. If you are the one to live by this philosophy, Wayanad will surely inspire you to travel more, live your life to the fullest, have awesome adventures and never go back to monotonous things. So, plan your Wayanad Tour to create some memorable moments with your loved ones.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best time to plan a holiday vacation to wayanad.

Winter is the best time to enjoy holidays in Wayanad. The temperature ranges from 10-25°C. The weather is absolutely gorgeous for sightseeing and favorable for adventure activities.

How many minimum days are required to explore the best of Wayanad Tourism?

You can explore the best of Wayanad tourism in 3 to 4 days. It is a wonderful nature paradise and adventure destination.

Which are the best places to visit in Wayanad for Couples?

• Meenmutty Falls
• Sunrise Valley
• Banasura Sagar
• Neelima View Point
• Bamboo Forests
• Tea Estates
• Karlad lake
• Sulthan Bathery
• Karapuzha Dam

Which are the best places to see the sunrise in Wayanad?

• Neelima Viewpoint
• Ghati Viewpoint

Which are the best places to visit in Wayanad in 3 Days?

Which are the nearest airports & railway stations to wayanad.

Wayanad is not connected to any railway line, it is less commercial. Hence its a very beautiful place to visit in Kerala if you want to escape the chaos of life for some time. However, the nearest airport to Wayanad is Calicut International Airport.

How are the hotel facilities for tourists in Wayanad?

Wayanad is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Kerala because of the peace and tranquility it offers. It houses some of the best plantation resorts and expensive hotels to give comfort to the tourists. There is also no dearth of budget stays. The scenic nature vistas in the background of the hotels will captivate your soul.

What are the best things to do for tourists in Wayanad?

• Sightseeing
• Wildlife Safari
• Tree House Stay

Is Wayanad a good honeymoon destination?

Yes, Wayanad is a wonderful destination for honeymoon couples. The natural beauty in abundance, the picture-perfect landscapes are worth posing for romantic photographs and spending some romantic moments amidst the serenity and tranquility of nature.

Published: 27 Jan, 2022

About the author

Pallavi Roy

She is a candle who burns and melts in the chaos of infinity, from where her visceral whistles and leaves an imprint of desire in her heart to know the map of an Island where there are different sunrises and sunsets. Her curiosity brightens to conquer the hearts unrelieved and sometimes mysterious. Her name is - Pallavi Roy - A traveller by soul and a writer by Profession.

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20 Tourist Places in Wayanad

Nestled in the verdant embrace of the Western Ghats in the enchanting state of Kerala, Wayanad beckons travelers with its myriad wonders – a harmonious blend of lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, captivating wildlife sanctuaries, and a vibrant cultural heritage. In this extensive guide, we embark on an immersive journey to unveil the top 20 tourist destinations in Wayanad , each promising a unique and unforgettable experience that contributes to the rich tapestry of this captivating region. Bangalore to Wayanad offers you an unforgettable experience on your traveling journey.

1. Edakkal Caves- A Gateway to Prehistory

The Edakkal Caves , perched majestically atop the Ambukuthi Hills, transcend mere geological formations. Carved with petroglyphs dating back to the Neolithic era, these caves offer a captivating journey through the annals of prehistoric civilization. The trek to the summit not only unveils ancient rock art but also rewards the intrepid explorer with panoramic views of the lush surroundings.

2. Banasura Sagar Dam- Nature’s Symphony in Stone

Banasura Sagar Dam , an engineering marvel and the largest earthen dam in India, gracefully sits amidst the rolling Banasura hills. The turquoise waters of the reservoir against the backdrop of lush hills create a picturesque setting, inviting visitors to enjoy a leisurely boat ride or simply soak in the natural splendor.

3. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary- A Biodiversity Extravaganza

Nature enthusiasts find solace in the embrace of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven of biodiversity. This sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including majestic elephants, elusive tigers, and a plethora of rare bird species. Safari excursions through dense forests provide an intimate encounter with the untamed beauty of Wayanad.

4. Chembra Peak- Scaling Heights of Tranquility

Chembra Peak , the highest point in Wayanad , offers a thrilling trek amid the emerald-green tea estates. The heart-shaped Chembra Lake at its summit adds a touch of romance to the adventure, making it a must-visit for trekkers and nature aficionados seeking an immersive communion with the Western Ghats.

5. Meenmutty Falls- Nature’s Aural Spectacle

Nature’s grandeur unfolds at Meenmutty Falls , a spectacular three-tiered cascade that descends from a height of 300 meters. The journey to the falls, winding through dense forests, only amplifies the awe-inspiring experience, making it a pilgrimage for those who seek the symphony of nature.

6. Soochipara Falls- A Verdant Oasis

Known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, Soochipara Falls offers a rejuvenating retreat amid the dense forests of Wayanad . The three-tiered cascade culminates in a pool perfect for a refreshing dip, while the cliff provides an unrivaled vantage point for soaking in the mesmerizing panorama.

7. Thirunelli Temple- A Spiritual Respite

The ancient Thirunelli Temple cradled in the Brahmagiri Hills amidst Wayanad’s lush landscape, offers a serene haven for spiritual seekers. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this testament to Wayanad’s cultural legacy provides a tranquil ambiance for reflection and worship. Surrounded by the verdant embrace of nature, the temple stands as a timeless sanctuary, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a spiritual respite. As the gentle whispers of the breeze mingle with the sacred aura, Thirunelli Temple beckons, promising a profound connection with divinity amid the breathtaking beauty of Wayanad .

8. Pookode Lake- Nature’s Mirrored Canvas

A tranquil freshwater lake, Pookode Lake sits amidst the rolling hills of Wayanad . Boating on its pristine waters and exploring the nearby aquarium offers a peaceful retreat amid the unspoiled beauty of nature.

9. Lakkidi View Point- The Gateway’s Panoramic Gaze

Lakkidi View Point , known as the Gateway to Wayanad, offers a panoramic view of the Thamarassery Ghat Pass. Perched at an elevation of 700 meters, the viewpoint is a perfect spot to witness mist-covered hills and meandering roads, creating an ethereal landscape.

10. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary- A Symphony of Sounds

Teeming with diverse flora and fauna, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary beckons wildlife enthusiasts. Embarking on a thrilling safari unveils the natural habitat of elephants, deer, and various bird species, offering a sensory immersion into Wayanad’s untamed wilderness.

11. Jain Temple Sulthan Bathery- An Architectural Odyssey

Constructed in the 13th century, the Jain Temple at Sulthan Bathery stands as an architectural marvel. The intricate carvings and historical significance make it a fascinating stop for history buffs, providing a glimpse into the region’s bygone era.

12. Karapuzha Dam- Waters of Tranquility

Surrounded by verdant hills, Karapuzha Dam stands as a reservoir of tranquility. Boating on its placid waters while absorbing the scenic beauty provides a rejuvenating experience, inviting visitors to unwind in the lap of nature.

13. Bamboo Forests of Muthanga- Nature’s Whispers

The Bamboo Forests of Muthanga , a testament to Wayanad’s natural allure, weave an enchanting tapestry of mystique. As bamboo leaves rustle in harmony with the breeze, a serene backdrop unfolds—a verdant haven inviting leisurely strolls through nature’s green cathedral. Each step resonates with the whispers of the forest, creating an immersive experience where tranquility and beauty converge. Muthanga’s Bamboo Forests stand as a poetic expression of Wayanad ‘s untouched charm, where visitors can lose themselves in the gentle embrace of nature, surrendering to the whispers that echo through this green sanctuary.

14. Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary- A Feathered Paradise

Perched in the embrace of the Brahmagiri Hills, Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary unfolds as a haven for avian enthusiasts. A unique habitat thrives within its dense forests and rugged terrain, offering a sanctuary for diverse bird species. For ornithophiles yearning for rare sightings, this sanctuary stands as a paradise where the melodies of feathered residents harmonize with the rustling leaves and whispers of the wind. Exploring Pakshipathalam becomes a journey into the heart of avian fascination, where nature’s symphony and the vibrant plumage of resident birds paint an immersive portrait of Wayanad ‘s rich biodiversity.

15. Karalad Lake- The Stillness of Reflection

A hidden gem, Karalad Lake is ensconced by dense forests and hills, offering a tranquil retreat. The still waters of the lake mirror the lush greenery, creating a scene of serene beauty, ideal for those seeking quiet contemplation.

16. Valliyoorkavu Bhagavathi Temple- Cultural Reverie

Immersed in the cultural tapestry of Wayanad , the Valliyoorkavu Bhagavathi Temple stands as a revered abode dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi. This cultural gem becomes especially vibrant during its annual festival, a celebration steeped in tradition. The air is alive with the resonating beats of traditional rituals, and the temple grounds come alive with vibrant processions that offer a captivating glimpse into Wayanad’s rich cultural heritage. The Valliyoorkavu Temple is not just a place of worship; it is a cultural reverie where the past and present coalesce, inviting visitors to partake in the rhythmic cadence of Wayanad’s traditions.

17. Kuruvadweep- Islands of Serenity

Nestled on the Kabini River, Kuruvadweep comprises several small islands in a sprawling river delta. The dense foliage and the tranquil river make it an ideal spot for a day of relaxation, exploration, and an escape from the bustling world.

18. Neelimala Viewpoint- Touching the Sky

Neelimala Viewpoint , a celestial perch atop Wayanad, offers unparalleled vistas of the Western Ghats. The journey to this panoramic vantage point is an adventure in its own right, leading trekkers through nature’s bounty. As you ascend, the landscape unfolds, revealing the majestic Meenmutty Falls and the verdant valleys below. The trek to Neelimala is a sensory symphony, with the fragrance of endemic flora and the rustling of leaves accompanying every step. Reaching the summit is rewarded with a visual feast, making Neelimala Viewpoint an essential stop for those yearning to touch the sky and embrace the grandeur of Wayanad’s landscapes.

19. Sentinel Rock Waterfall- Nature’s Ode in Stone

Hidden amidst the lush greens of Chooralmala, Sentinel Rock Waterfall is a breathtaking symphony in stone. The cascade, plunging from the cliffs, creates a harmonious blend of nature that resonates through the surrounding hills, captivating all who witness its grandeur.

20. Phantom Rock- Nature’s Sculpture Garden

Nature’s own sculpture garden, Phantom Rock , is a geological marvel nestled in the heart of Wayanad . Adorned with unique rock formations resembling a skull, this captivating site is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a picturesque tableau. Phantom Rock serves as a testament to nature’s artistic prowess, inviting explorers to marvel at its intricate sculptures crafted over centuries. As you traverse the verdant landscape, the rock’s mysterious allure adds an enchanting layer to your journey, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking the perfect blend of natural beauty and geological wonders in the heart of Wayanad.

Wayanad, with its diverse topography and rich cultural heritage, unfolds its treasures through these top 20 tourist destinations. Each place contributes to the intricate story that Wayanad narrates to its visitors—a story of ancient history, vibrant culture, and unparalleled natural beauty. Whether you are an adventure seeker, history buff, or nature enthusiast, Wayanad opens its arms to unveil the marvels that make it a destination unlike any other. Embrace the journey, explore the wonders, and let Wayanad weave its enchanting spell upon you.

Wanderlust Spots Pvt Ltd based in India, is one of India's leading online travel companies and operates the website Wanderlustspots.com.

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Wayanad Travel Guide: Most Stunning Places To Visit

Kerala’s Wayanad is a beautiful destination and it boasts the best forms of magical nature. There are tons of places and experiences to explore in this district. With caves, waterfalls, dams, sanctuary, forests, and more, you will have an endless list of places to travel to in Wayanad. If you are planning your itinerary to this destination, then let us help you. This article is all about the 5 must-visit places in Wayanad. A trip here is incomplete without visiting these places.

Most Stunning Places To Explore In Wayanad

Meenmutty waterfalls.

‘Meenmutty Waterfalls’ is one of the most beautiful places to explore in Wayanad. This is a huge 3-tiered waterfall and is one of the most scenic in Kerala. Surrounded by lush greenery, Meenmutty falls is almost 985 ft tall and it is truly a vision to the eyes. You need to cover a trekking distance of almost 2 km to reach this stunning location and the journey in between the verdant trees is very thrilling. If you are an adventure enthusiast, get ready to spend one of the most memorable experiences of your life.

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Karapuzha Dam

‘Karapuzha Dam’ is an iconic place to explore in Wayanad as it is one of India’s largest earth dams. Nestled on the Karapuzha River, this is a major tourist attraction in this Kerala district. The construction of this dam started back in 1977 and it took 2 decades and 5 years to complete it. The views and landscapes from here are magnificent with a blanket of greenery surrounding the whole place.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

For every wildlife lover out there, ‘Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary’ is the most perfect place to explore here. Spread over almost 345 sq km, this sanctuary is one of the popular ones in Kerala. This sanctuary houses 4 ranges; Muthanga, Kurichiat, Sulthan Bathery, and Tholpetty. Jump on a safari ride and witness the stunning nature and wildlife. You will get to see elephants, deers, birds, bison, teak, eucalyptus, and much more.

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Edakkal Caves

Nestled almost 20 km from the Wayanad Centre, ‘Edakkal Caves’ is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Wayanad. This destination is a paradise for adventure lovers. You need to trek for 2 hours through the Ambukutty Mala to reach here. There is a lot to explore inside the caves. Many archaeology students and history lovers are frequent visitors to these iconic caves with 8000-year-old carvings.

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Chembra Peak

Nestled near Meppady and at a height of 6890 feet above sea level, ‘Chembra Peak’ is another must-visit place to explore in Wayanad. Enjoy the mesmerising greenery and calmness here away from all the bustle and noises. If you love to trek, you are going to have the best time here. Also, do not forget to check out the heart-moulded lake en route to the top. Once you reach the pinnacle, enjoy breathtaking views of the Banasura Dam.

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Places to Visit in Wayanad | Wayanad Tourism

Wayanad is often called as the green paradise in God’s own country “Kerala”. It is a hill station, 700 meters to 2000 meters above sea level, in northern part of Kerala with the mist clad peaks. The place is famous for its scenic beauty, wildlife and traditional concepts.

Wayanad promises you memorable holidays, full of greenery, misty mountains, wildlife sanctuaries, lakes, dams, waterfalls, tea estates, coffee estates, full of panoramic views and top of it very pleasant climate throughout the year.

The unique geographical features of Wayanad, expressed in rugged mist-covered mountains and pastoral valleys, lend this northern district a peculiar charm and a delightful challenge for hikers and nature lovers.

Wayanad is one of the districts in Kerala that has been able to retain its pristine nature. Hidden away in the hills of this land are some of the oldest tribes, as yet untouched by civilisation.

Places to Visit in Wayanad

1. wayanad wildlife sanctuary.

There are plenty of tourist spots in and around Wayanad. The most famous among them are Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary established in the year 1973. Extremely rich in biodiversity, the sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which was established for the sole purpose of conserving and protecting the biological heritage of the region. The sanctuary is very rich in flora and fauna.

2. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

Muthanga wildlife sanctuary is situated about 16 km east of Sultan Bathery. It is regarded as the biggest abode of wildlife in Malabar region of Kerala. Main wildlife here includes elephant, spotted deer, tiger, and panthers etc. you can enjoy elephant safari in this sanctuary.

3. Edakkal Cave

Edakkal caves are situated on Ambukuthi Hills about 10 kilometers from Sulthan Bathery, in Wayanad district of Kerala. It has been formed due to a large split in a huge rock, and the resulting landscape represent the world's richest pictographic gallery of its kind.

The depth of both the clefts is about 30ft. On the rock walls you can spot some interesting carvings, which represent human and animal figures and objects commonly used by people at that time.

These carvings speak of a highly civilized people of prehistoric age and inspire the archaeologists and historians to rewrite the history of Wayanad and Kerala as a whole.

4. Thirunelli Temple

A piece of great temple architect Thirunelli temple is situated 29 kms north east of Mananthavady in the Brahmagiri hills. The temple comprises of 30 granite columns. Papanasini River running downhill adds beauty to the place. It is believed that a bath in holy water of the river washes away all the sins.

5. Banasura Dam

This is regarded as the largest earth dam of India. Many islands type of landscape emerges here during the monsoons, when the dam is full of water. These islands with the background of the Banasura hill can surely provide a hypnotizing sight to tourists.

6. Chembra Peak

Located about 2000 meters above the sea level, Chembra is the highest peak in Wayanad hills and provide ideal conditions for trekking. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of Wayanad, from the top of Chembra. The picturesque surroundings never fail to charm you with its beauty. Trekking to the Chembra peak is a risky mountaineering endeavor. Tourists can camp for one or two days at the top of the peak.

7. Kuruva Island

The Kuruva Island having green lush cover of evergreen forests is situated on bank of river Kabini and it is an ideal picnic spot. You can spot rare species of birds, orchids and herbs here.

8. Pookot Lake

It is a natural freshwater lake surrounded by evergreen forest and sloppy hills. A freshwater aquarium with large variety of fish is an added attraction here. Tourists here can enjoy boating. The weather here is lustrous and rich in the scenic beauty. Spices and handicraft items are also arranged for sale at Pookat. The lake is situated 3 km east of Vythiri.

9. Sentinel Rock Waterfalls

Located at 22 km south of Kalpetta and locally known as Soochippara is a very popular leisure destination. It is famous as a picnic spot as well as a trekking center. It is about 200m high and ideal for rock climbing.

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48 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Wayanad

• Wayanad Overview
• Top 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad
• 44 Best Wayanad Tour Packages
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Banasura Sagar Dam

#1 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

About Banasura Sagar Dam

History of banasura sagar dam.

...read more

Edakkal Caves

#2 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

About Edakkal Caves

Soochipara waterfalls / sentinel rock waterfalls.

#3 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

About Soochipara Waterfalls

Height of soochipara waterfall.

#4 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 3 km from Vythiri, and 13 km from Kalpetta, Pookote Lake, also known as Pookode Lake is a natural freshwater lake situated close to the Kalpetta - Kozhikode main road in the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the must-visit Wayanad sightseeing places . At an altitude of about 2500 feet, this fascinating natural freshwater lake is surrounded by evergreen forests and rolling hills. The lake has the shape of India's map. The lake is spread across an area of 13 acres with a maximum depth of 6.5 m. The Panamaram stream, one of the main tributaries of the Kabani River, originates from Pookote Lake. The lake has an abundance of blue lotus and freshwater fishes. Pethia pookodensis is a species of cyprinid fish known to occur only in Pookode Lake. The forests surrounding the lake hold many wild animals, birds, and flies. The view of this vast expanse of water in the picturesque backdrop .....

#5 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 16 km from Kalpetta & 4 km from Pookote Lake, Lakkidi is small hill station situated at the highest point in the Wayanad district. Located at an altitude of about 700 m, Lakkidi gets about 600 cm rainfall annually, making it one of the highest rainfall regions in Kerala and also one of the prime Wayanad tourist places to visit. Often referred as 'the gateway of Wayanad', Lakkidi is located at the crest of the serpentine Thamarassery ghat pass, which features over 9 hairpin curves that start at Adivaram (downhill). The 12 km long ghat road from Adivaram to Lakkidi passing through thick forest leaves a wonderful experience. The lush green hills, gorges and streams on both sides of the passage up the hill are breathtaking sights to the visitors. This beautiful hill town has a number of scenic locations and enchanting viewpoints. Lakkidi Viewpoint .....

Chembra Peak

#6 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

About Chembra Peak

Trekking to chembra peak, meenmutty waterfalls.

#7 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

About Meenmutty Waterfalls

Height of meenmutty waterfall, wayanad wildlife sanctuary - muthanga.

#8 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

About Muthunga Wildlife Sanctuary

History of muthunga wildlife sanctuary, kuruva island.

#9 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

About Kuruva Island

Uravu bamboo factory.

#11 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 12 km from Kalpetta, and 22 km from Sulthan Bathery, Uravu Bamboo Factory is a social organization that promotes skill training activities and ecotourism in Wayanad. Situated at Thrikkaipetta village, it is a beehive of activities and among the most popular places to visit in Wayanad in recent years. Established in 1996, Uravu Indigenous Science & Technology Study Centre, commonly known as Uravu Bamboo Factory, is a non-profit bamboo based developmental organization that strives for rural empowerment through sustainable solutions. It is an initiative to provide employment for the rural craftspeople through the art of making crafts using bamboo, and also for environmental and economic benefits. It is an excellent place to see how one can carry out socio-economic development while caring for natural resources. Uravu means 'the bamboo village' and, quite appropriately, the locals here earn .....

Wayanad Tea Museum & Tea Tasting Tour

#12 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 9 km from Vythiri, 12 km from Kalpetta, and 37 km from Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad Tea Museum is a museum located on the Banasura Sagar Dam road at Achoor near Pozhuthana. It is the first tea museum in Wayanad and among the top Wayanad tourist places . Also known as Achoor Tea Museum, the Wayanad Tea Museum was introduced by Harrison's Malayalam Ltd. The tea factory was built in 1911 with wooden and iron panels and has been converted into a museum by the Harrison management to develop a tea culture among youngsters & general public, imparting knowledge to students in schools and colleges, and providing a tea experience to tourists. The Wayanad Tea Museum is a perfect place to learn the history of tea cultivation in Wayanad, along with knowledge of the different tea species grown here. The first floor of the three-story museum houses historical documents related to the Boston Tea Party Revolution .....

Poopoli Wayanad Flower Show

#13 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 13 km from Sulthan Bathery, and 22 km from Kalpetta, Poopoli Wayanad Flower Show is a flower show held annually at Ambalavayal in the Wayanad District of Kerala. It is the biggest flower show in Kerala and among the must-see places as part of Wayanad tour packages . Poopoli National Agrifest & Wayanad Flower Show is held at Ambalavayal every year from January 1 to 15 and marks the beginning of the New Year. Organized by Kerala Agriculture University & International Society for Horticultural Sciences, it was started in 2014 with the aim of providing a platform for interaction between international experts, scientists, and entrepreneurs in the field of horticulture. The 15-day fiesta is a venue for showing and exploring the latest trends and techniques in horticulture and floriculture. There is an innumerable number of stalls sprawled over 10 acres which display some exquisite flowers and also sell garden plants, .....

Thusharagiri Waterfalls

#10 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 6 km from Kodencheri, 32 km from Kalpetta, & 48 km from Kozhikode, Thusharagiri Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Kozhikode district of Kerala, India. This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Malabar region and among the most popular places of sightseeing in Wayanad . Thusharagiri literally means 'snowcapped mountains'. Two streams originating from the Western Ghats meet here to form the Chalippuzha River. The river diverges into three waterfalls creating a snowy spray, which gives the name - Thusharagiri. The highest of the three falls is the Thenpara Fall dropping from a height of 75 meters. The first waterfall can be reached easily while the remaining two falls can be reached from the first one by trekking through thick forest. A 5 km upstream trek will take one to the origin of the stream. Widely known as the 'trekker's paradise', the place offers challenging trekking .....

Arippara Waterfalls

#14 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 37 km from Kalpetta, 51 km from Kozhikode & 11 km from Kodencheri, Arippara Waterfalls on Iruvanjipuzha River is located near Nellipoyil in Thiruvambadi panchayat of Kozhikode district. Not one of the most popular Waterfalls in Kerala, but absolutely one of the most beautiful river picnic spot. The waterfall is on one of the tributaries of Iruvanji River commonly known as Iruvanjipuzha. This place is surrounded by great natural beauty, with water flowing through huge flat rocks and dropping at different places (usually 10-20 feet high). Thick green forest on both shores of the river enhances the beauty of the place. A pool is formed at bottom layer of this long cascading falls which is a good place for swimming. Visitors can have lot of fun playing in the water and watching the surroundings. This waterfall is about 1 km from Nellipoyil and should be trekked down from the road. The falls can be reached via Kodencheri .....

Thrissilery Shiva Temple

#15 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 8 km from Mananthavady, 20 km from Thirunelly and 37 km from Kalpetta, Thrissilery Shiva Temple is a renowned Hindu temple located on the main Mananthavady-Mysore Highway in Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the popular Shiva temples in Kerala and also one of the well-known places of pilgrimage in Wayanad. The principal deity of this temple is Lord Shiva. There is an interesting fact about this Thrissilery Shiva Temple. It is believed that the performance of ancestral rites at Thirunelly remain unfinished unless followed by offerings at this temple. There is a shrine for Jala Durga in the temple premises, which is believed to have been installed by Parasurama. The temple tank here never dries up. The architecture of this temple is similar to the Vishnu Temple at Thirunelly. The idols and carvings in this temple exhibit exemplary art work. The principal deity Lord Shiva is also very enchanting in his looks. Devotees who visit this temple can offer flowers, .....

Nagarhole National Park

#16 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 10 km from Kutta, 20 km from Iruppu Falls, 62 km from Kalpetta, 88 km from Mysore, 88 km from Madikeri, and 218 km from Bangalore, Nagarhole National Park is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India and among the must include places in Karnataka Tour Packages . Also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, it is spread across Mysore and Kodagu districts in Karnataka. Nagarhole National Park is one of the top attractions you must include in Coorg tour packages . Originally the forest area was the private hunting ground for the Maharajas of Mysore. It was converted into a sanctuary in the year 1955 covering an area of 258 sq. km and subsequently enlarged to include the adjoining areas of Mysore district and now extends over an area of 643 sq. km. Nagarhole got National Park status in 1988 and declared as 37th Project ..... Distance (From Wayanad): 62 Kms Trip Duration (From Wayanad - Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day .....

Seetha Lava Kusha Temple

#17 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 32 Kms from Kalpetta and 25 Kms from Sulthan Bathery, Seetha Lava Kusha Temple is located in Pulpally. This is the only known temple dedicated to Lava and Kusha, the sons of Lord Rama. The primary deity of the Pulpalli temple is Sita Devi. It is believed that Sita was staying here during her exile at Valmiki Ashrama. The Sita Devi idol here is known as -Jadayatha Amma-. It is believed that Lava and Kusha grew up in this place. The original name of this place was Sisumala and later changed to Sasimala. Many devotees consider Sasimala as a sacred place because of its connection with the story of Lava and Kusha. It was the favored shrine of the Pazhassi Raja. Pulpally is connected by bus service from Kalpetta & Sulthan Bathery.

Manikavu Temple

#18 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 16 km from Sulthan Bathery and 19 km from Kalpetta, Manikavu Temple is a Hindu temple located at Choothupara vilage near Meenangadi in Wayanad district of Kerala. Manikavu Temple is one of the most visited temple in Kerala and also one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Wayanad. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Shiva in the form of Shiva Linga. The Shiva Linga at this temple is believed to be Swayambu. The special feature of this temple is that that water is poured continuously over Shiva Linga through a stream, standing testimony to the mythological legend that Lord Shiva carries River Ganges on his head. The amount of water remains the same even in monsoon season. Timing: 6 AM - 11. 30 AM & 4.30 PM - 8.30 PM

Pallikkunnu Church

#19 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 10 km from Kalpetta and 35 km from Sulthan Bathery, Pallikkunnu Church is a Latin Catholic Church situated at Meenangadi in Wayanad district of Kerala. It is a famous pilgrim center in north Kerala and also one of the popular religious places to visit in Wayanad . Popularly known as ' Our Lady of Lourdes ' Church, Pallikkunnu Church was dedicated to Lourdes Matha. It was established by a French priest Fr. Jefreno in 1908 in European style. The church has a mesmerizing green surroundings and the calmness and serenity of the surroundings coupled with its peculiar architecture adds to its charm. An interesting aspect of this church is that it has several rituals and practices similar to those prevalent in Hindu temples. The annual festival of the church is celebrated for 3 days starting from 10th February every year and it draws large number of devotees from other parts of Kerala, as well .....

#20 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 5 km from Lakkidi, 12 km from Kalpetta and 64 km from Kozhikode, Vythiri is a small hill station situated in Wayanad district of Kerala. Vythiri is one of the top tourist attractions in Wayanad and is among prime place to visit on a Wayanad tour . Situated at an altitude ranging between 3750 to 4500 feet, Vythiri is a beautiful summer resort in Kerala state and among the best hill stations near Bangalore . Vythiri has a classic blend of old world charm, peaceful environs & modern amenities. Vythiri is famous for its evergreen rain forests and plantations of coffee, tea, rubber, cardamom and pepper. The forests of Vythiri are home to a wide variety of wildlife. The bird watchers can enjoy exploring this place and get a chance to look at a wide variety of migratory birds from close quarters. This is an ideal .....

Wayanad Adventure Camp

#21 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 3 km from Banasura Sagar Dam, 16 km from Kalpetta, and 41 km from Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad Adventure Camp is an eco-tourism site situated at Thariyod village near Kalpetta, Wayanad. It is one of the top places to visit as part of Wayanad tour packages . Located in deep canopy shades of dense trees and a picturesque location,Wayanad Adventure Camp is locatedon the banks of the Karlad Lake, the second largest fresh water lake in Kerala.The Karlad Lake was formed after a landslide about two centuries ago. Spread across 11.5 acres, the lake in Thariyod Panchayat did not attract attention of tourism officials until recently. In 1998, a master plan was proposed after which basic facilities like camp and a garden were built here.Now the place has become a hub for adventure activities. Wayanad Adventure Camp offers a wide range of activities for the adventure enthusiasts out there. The activities organized involve .....

Neelimala Viewpoint

#22 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 12 km from Ambalavayal, 22 km from Sulthan Bathery, and 27 km from Kalpetta, Neelimala is a stunning viewpoint situated at Vaduvanchal in Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the best places to go trekking in Kerala and among the popular Wayanad Tourist Places. Settled in the picturesque Wayanad region of Kerala, Neelimala serves as a major tourist attraction for nature wanderers and adventure seekers. The viewpoint affords a great view of the cascading Meenmutty falls and the beautiful valley in its forefront. The view of Meenmutty waterfalls from Neelimala resembles like a milky way, tearing apart the intense foliage of Wayanad forests. The scenic vicinity of Neelimala is also an excellent venue for trekking with lots of stimulating trails that go through coffee plantations, virgin forests and acres of flowery land. The destination makes a great spot to go with your family and friends as it offers serene and enchanting environment perfect for a family .....

Ripon Tea Factory

#23 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 7 km from Meppadi, 18 km from Kalpetta and 28 km from Sulthan Bathery, Ripon Tea estate is a well-known tea estate situated near Meppadi town of Wayanad in Kerala. It is one of the popular places to visit in Wayanad and among the best tea estates in Wayanad region. Perched at an altitude of nearly 2000 m, Ripon Tea Estate is spread over an area of 443 Hectares along the slopes of Wayanad Hills. There is also a tea factory built by the British in the 18th century. Ripon Tea Factory encapsulates the best qualities of CTC Teas. It produces three different types of Tea which include Dust, Leaf and Blended. Visitors can see the entire processing method right from the freshly plucked green leaves to its packaging at the factory. The colonial factory and the lush tea plantation give a glimpse of not only the history but also on one of the most popular teas from the region. Factory visits and tea tasting can be organized with prior permissions. Timings: 9 AM .....

Phantom Rock

#24 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 13 km from Sulthan Bathery Bus Stand, and 20 km from Kalpetta, Phantom Rock is a natural rock formation located near Ambalavalayal in the Wayanad District of Kerala. It is one of the least explored tourist places in Wayanad . Phantom Rock is a natural metamorphic rock formation resembling a human skull, hence the name Phantom Rock. Stands at a height of 2600 feet above sea level at Ambalavayal, Phantom Rock, locally known as Cheengeri Mala, it is an archaeological wonder that can be hardly spotted anywhere else in the world. The place is accessible by well-maintained roads, with the final 500 meters reached on foot through a narrow lane making it an exciting spot for trekkers and hikers, offering some amazing opportunities for photography. Once at the top, one will get a splendid view of the city comfortably nestled within the beautiful colors of nature. Besides, the place has ample .....

Varambetta Mosque

#25 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 12 km from Kalpetta Bus Stand, and 44 km from Sulthan Bathery, Varambetta Mosque is a religious place situated in Varambetta village in the Wayanad District of Kerala. Situated near Banasura Sagar Dam, it is one of the oldest mosques in the district, and among the top places to visit as part of Wayanad - Coorg tour packages . Also known as Varambetta Palli or Varambetta Jama Masjid, Varambetta Mosque is about 300 years old. It is one of the three most important Muslim religious centers in Wayanad, the other two being Maithani Palli and Kalpatta Town Juma Masjid. It was built in remembrance of a Sufi saint. Varambetta Mosque is known for its architecture and traditional Islamic design. The mosque features a dome and minarets that are characteristic of mosque architecture. The exterior and interior of the mosque are adorned with intricate patterns and calligraphy, reflecting the rich Islamic heritage. The .....

Kolagappara

#26 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 14 km from Sulthan Bathery, and 20 km from Kalpetta, Kolagappara is a remote village situated near Edakkal Caves in the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the serene places for trekking in Kerala and among the best places for sightseeing in Wayanad . Kolagappara boasts of tranquil surroundings that will provide a rejuvenating experience to visitors who take refuge here from the hustle and bustle of city life. One of the most prominent attractions of this place is the elephant-shaped rock that stands out in the whole landscape. Situated at an altitude of about 3000 feet, this astonishing rock has a flat place where more than five hundred people can stand at the same time. The sides of the rock that resemble an elephant's back can be deceitful. It is one of the best trekking spots in Wayanad. Adventurous tourists can climb the rock. A 2-kilometer trek along a rough path will take .....

Palchuram Waterfall

#27 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 10 km from Kottiyoor, 47 km from Kalpetta, and 54 km from Sulthan Bathery, Palchuram Waterfall is a stunning waterfall located at Boys Town on the border of the Wayanad and Kannur districts in Kerala. It is one of the most prominent waterfalls in Wayanad and among the top places to visit near Mysore . Surrounded by dense forests, Palchuram Waterfall is a four-tier waterfall that cascades down from a height of about 300 meters and forms a natural pool below which is safe for swimming. It is a mere 5 km from Kottiyoor, which is located on Mananthavady Road. Many adventure enthusiast tourists prefer to reach the fall by trekking through the dense deciduous forests surrounding it. Palchuram is a new road opened from Wayanad towards Kottiyoor. The dangerous pin bends at Palchuram are nerve-racking for a novice mountain driver and, on the other hand, absolute gushes of adrenaline rush for the experienced .....

Glass Bridge 900

#28 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 1 km from Kandi, 21 km from Kalpetta, and 39 km from Sulthan Bathery, the Glass Bridge is a glass bridge situated in Sky Park at 900 Kandi, Wayanad, Kerala. It is the first glass bridge in South India, and among the best places to visit as part of the Wayanad - Coorg packages . The Glass Bridge in Sky Park, Wayanad is one of a kind in India and is owned by a private resort. The bridge is about 100 feet from the ground and all the material used by the bridge including the fiberglass, is imported from Italy. The elevated bridge commands an envious view of the surrounding forests, valleys, and mountain peaks like Aranamala Peak, Vavul Mala Hill, and Chembra Peak. Trekkers, nature lovers, and shutterbugs will be enchanted by the untouched forests surrounding this famous Bridge. Besides, the Sky Park provides a wide range of heart-pounding adventure experiences for thrill-seekers of all skill levels, which includes .....

Irupu Falls

#29 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 248 km from Bangalore, 110 km from Mysore, 75 km from Madikeri, 48 km from Virajpet, 32 km from Gonikoppal, 20 km from Nagarhole National Park, 10 km from Kutta & 10 km from Srimangala, Iruppu Falls is a magnificent waterfalls situated in Brahmagiri Hills between Srimangala & Kutta in Coorg district of Karnataka State, bordering the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the best waterfalls in Karnataka and also one of the well-known Coorg tourist places . It can be visited as part of 2 day trip from Bangalore . Also known as Lakshmana Tirtha Falls locally, Irupu Falls or Iruppu Falls is another popular attraction not to ..... Distance (From Wayanad): 60 Kms Trip Duration (From Wayanad - Including Travel): 3-4 Hours .....

#30 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 15 km from Kalpetta, and 41 km from Sulthan Bathery, Chain Tree is an old fig tree with a chain around it. It is located along the national highway near the Pepper Wayanad Gate Hotel and is one of the interesting tourist places in Wayanad . Changala Maram or Chain Tree is a major attraction for travelers who pass through the Calicut - Wayanad route. The chain is rather heavy, hanging from a stout branch and anchored to the ground. This majestic tree has an enthralling tale and provides an intriguing look into local folklore. The myth of the tree is associated with the tribal chief Karinthandan, who lived between 1700-1750 AD. During the colonial era, Wayanad didn't have any developed roads. So, the British took help from the tribes to build a road as only the local tribes were aware of the paths through the forests. Karinthandan, the chieftain of the local Paniya .....

Kurumbalakotta

#31 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 15 km from Kalpetta, and 39 km from Sulthan Bathery, Kurumbalakotta is a stunning viewpoint located in the Kottathara panchayath of Vythiri taluk in Wayanad district. It is one of the top places to visit as part of Wayanad packages . Situated at an altitude of 3,251 feet, Kurumbalakotta is a monolithic hillock in Kerala. Geographically, the mountain is a part of the Deccan plateau and is the meeting point of the Western and Eastern Ghats. Kurumbalakotta is a favorite destination for trekkers as it offers a breathtaking view of sunrise and a 360-degree view of Wayanad. It is the only place in Wayanad that gives a view of almost half of the district. One can opt for a jeep ride or go trekking up the viewpoint. The 2.5 km trek begins from Malankara, from which the hikers may have to walk their way up through bumpy and unpaved paths. The rocky way up the hill can take a lot of effort, but it is worth it when .....

Sri Ananthanatha Swami Jain Temple

#32 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 5 km from Kalpetta Bus Stand, and 27 km from Sulthan Bathery, Ananthanatha Swami Temple is a Jain temple located at Puliyarmala in the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the prominent places to visit in Wayanad . Located on Mananthavadi road from Kalpetta, it is one of the many Jain temples in Kerala, and among the prominent places to visit in Wayanad. Ananthanatha Swami Temple is also known as the Puliyarmala Jain Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Ananthanatha, the 14th Tirthankara of the Jain faith. Jainism came to Kerala in the 3rd century BCE after Chandragupta Maurya traveled to Shravanabelagola in Karnataka accompanied by the Jain Acharya Bhadrabahu. Many of the followers traveled further south to Tamil Nadu and Kerala in search of places of solitude for meditation and penance. Built in the old Dravidian style of architecture, the temple is small and beautiful. One can see .....

Attamala Viewpoint

#33 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 8 km from Soochipara Waterfall, 27 km from Kalpetta, and 47 km from Sulthan Bathery, Attamala Viewpoint is a scenic viewpoint located near Chooralmala in the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the hidden places to visit during your Wayanad tour . Located at the border of Wayanad and Malappuram districts, Attamala is a boon for those who love to enjoy spectacular sunset views. Surrounded by lush tea plantations, the viewpoint is located at an altitude of 858 m. This spot is just adjacent to Valathuri and Thenapuram. The location can be delineated as other level of pristine lush green beauty with mist which cools our mind. Visitors have to trek through the plantations to get a mind blowing view of the hilltops. With the fog and cold climate, Attamala Viewpoint is a must-see for those who come to see the milky white Soochipara Waterfalls. From Attamala, one can clearly witness the distant hills and verdant .....

Cheengeri Hills

#34 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 15 km from Sulthan Bathery, and 22 km from Kalpetta, Cheengeri Mala, or Cheengeri Hills is a rocky hill located on the way to Kaduvakuzhi from Sultan Bathery. It is one of the popular places for trekking in Kerala and among the must-include places in Wayanad packages . Positioned at an elevation of 2600 m, Cheengeri Hills is an adventure tourism hub developed by DTPC Wayanad. The hill's terrain offers a unique trekking experience due to its gentle slope and lack of dense forest cover. The 2 km trek route runs along the top of the rocks, providing an exhilarating journey for tourists. Tourists can scale the hills with the help of hanging ropes tied to the rocks. The hilltop offers a mesmerizing view, especially during the morning hours when the sun rises, casting a magical light over the mist-covered landscape. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of various hill ranges in Wayanad, such as Ambukuthimala, .....

En Uru / En Ooru

#35 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 15 km from Kalpetta, and 42 km from Sulthan Bathery, En Ooru is a Tribal Heritage Village located at Pookode in the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the must see Wayanad tourist places . En Ooru, or En Uru Tribal Village was set up jointly by the Departments of Tourism and Scheduled Tribe Development of Wayanad with a cost of 10 crores on the hillock. Spread over an area of 25 acres, the main aim of the center is to provide visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and culture of the tribal people. This initiative has brought immense joy to the tribal community as they now have a permanent marketplace to sell their produce, ensuring a regular source of income for tribal artists. Moreover, the heritage village serves as a vital platform for preserving traditional knowledge in areas such as food processing and organic farming, offering training programs .....

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary - Tholpetty

#36 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 12 km from Nagarhole National Park, 12 km from Irupu Falls, and 39 km from Kalpetta, Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, is a sanctuary and Elephant Reserve in the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the must include places in India wildlife tours and among the best Wayanad tourist places . Established in 1973, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary was brought under the Project Elephant in the year 1991-92. The sanctuary is bordered with Nagarhole WLS & Bandipur WLS in Karnataka and Mudumalai WLS in Tamilnadu. Occupying an area of 345 sq. km, Wayanad WLS is the second largest WLS in Kerala and is now an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The sanctuary was set up with an objective of conserving the biological heritage of the region .....

Sulthan Bathery

#37 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 26 km from Kalpetta, 99 km from Kozhikode, 95 km from Ooty and 116 km from Mysore, Sulthan Bathery, previously known as Sulthans Battery, is a town and municipality in Wayanad district of Kerala. Situated at an altitude of 930 m it is a cute hill station in Kerala and also one of the popular tourist places in Kerala . Earlier, Sulthan Bathery was known as Ganapativattom. It was also known as Kidanganadu, because the Kidangans lived here. It derives its present name from Tipu Sultan of Mysore who captured the Jain temple here and used it as his battery in the 18th century, hence the name Sultans Battery. Sultan Bathery is known for its magnificent beauty and spice plantations. Lush green hills and cool climate make it an ideal holiday destination. The major attraction of the town is the Jain temple, which was built during the .....

Maha Ganapathi Temple - Sulthan Bathery

#38 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 21 km from Kalpetta, Sri Maha Ganapathi Temple is a Hindu temple situated at the historic Sulthan Bathery town in Wayanad district of Kerala, India. This is one of the ancient temples in Wayanad and also one of the popular attractions of Sulthan Bathery. Dedicated to Lord Ganesh, Bathery Maha Ganapathi Temple is believed to have been built eight centuries ago. It is commonly believed that Sulthan Bathery was previously known as 'Ganapathyvattom' because of this temple. The temple has a rich historical past. The temple was under the administration of the rulers of the Kottayam dynasty. Tipu Sultan is believed to have destroyed the temple and later renovated it. He is believed to have used the stones of the temple to build a fort here. Following the conquest by Tipu Sultan, the town came to be known as Sultan Bathery. Besides, Sulthan Bathery was also known as Purakizha during the reign of the Kulashekara kings. The temple organizes an annual festival that is .....

Jain Temple - Sulthan Bathery

#39 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 24 km from Kalpetta & 1 km from Sulthan Bathery Bus Station, Jain Temple is an ancient temple located in the heart of Sulthan Bathery town in Wayanad district. This is one of the most important amongst a series of ruins spread across Kerala that testify to a period of a strong Jain presence in this region and also one of the best heritage places to visit in Wayanad . The Jain Temple at Sultan Bathery is believed to have been built in 13th century AD. The temple has an interesting history. It first served as a shrine, and then became an important center of commercial activity. Later in 18th century, it became a dumping ground of ammunitions by Tipu Sultan. The town of Sulthan Bathery was earlier known as Ganapathi Vattam and had 12 traditional Jain streets in and around the town. After Tipu's vandalism, the temple was deserted for about 150 years. Later the Archaeological Survey of India .....

Wayanad Heritage Museum

#40 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 11 km from Sulthan Bathery & 5 km from Edakkal Caves, 22 km from Kalpetta, Wayanad Heritage Museum is located in Ambalavayal village. This is one of the best heritage museums in Kerala. The museum houses fascinating items from tribal communities dating back to the second century AD. It has a rare collection of several ancient instruments & tribal artifacts like jewellery, hunting and fishing weapons, farming instruments, a fine collection of 14th - 16th century sculptures, etc. Ancient terra cottas, stone weapons and local art are also on display at the museum. A series of pictorial rock edicts referred to as Hero Stones, memorialize a bygone age of warriors. There is a fine figure of the Goddess of fertility, Urvara, also displayed here. Most of the artifacts are collected from the Wayanad and surrounding regions. The museum is spread in two levels with statues occupying lower level while the tribal artifacts are displayed in first level. The museum .....

Thirunelly Temple

#41 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 22 km from Mananthavady, 28 km from Irupu Falls & 45 km from Kalpetta, Thirunelly Temple is an ancient temple located in a beautiful valley beneath Brahmagiri hill range close to Kerala - Karnataka border (near Kutta). It is one of the most ancient places of pilgrimage in Kerala , and among the most popular religious places to visit as part of Wayanad packages . The temple is dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu. Situated at an altitude of about 900 m, the temple is surrounded by mountains and beautiful forests. History depicts Chera king Kulasekharan as the founder of this temple. There exists documentary proof that Thirunelly at the time of Tamil Chera king Bhaskara Ravi Varma I (962-1019 CE) was an important town and pilgrim center in South India. In the dense jungles surrounding the temple, the ruins of two ancient villages can be found. The name Thirunelli derives .....

Kanthanpara Waterfalls

#42 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 8 km from Meppadi and 19 km from Kalpetta, Kanthanpara is a quaint little waterfall situated near Meppadi in the Wayanad district of Kerala. Located on Vaduvanchal road, it is one of the popular waterfalls in Kerala and among the must-include places in Wayanad sightseeing packages . Kanthanpara waterfall drops down from a height of about 100 feet and is widely acknowledged for its secluded and serene vibe. The waterfall is located at two levels amid lush green bamboo gardens and natural forests. The breathtaking attraction of the path leading to Kanthanpara waterfall seems to more beautiful than the fall itself. This scenic and quaint waterfall is a must-visit place for every tourist on a trip to Wayanad. The tea gardens on both sides elevate its beauty and provide an excellent spot for soft trekking too. This place is a perfect blend of adventure and tourism as the forest department providing bird-watching .....

#43 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 46 Kms from Kalpetta & 23 kms from Mananthavady, Papanasini is a holy mountain stream located near Thirunelly Temple (1 Km). It is believed that a ritual dip in the sacred water of the stream would wash off all the sins. There is an interesting tale behind the stream attaining the power of Papanasini. When Garuda (the eagle vehicle of Lord Vishnu) was flying with Amrita Kumba, Brahma was in the process of consecrating Vishnu's idol at Thirunelly Temple. Garuda noticed it and circled over the ceremony and dropped few drops of Amrita into the stream and the stream attained purifying power. This place can be reached by walk from Thirunelly Temple.

Pakshipathalam

#44 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 7 km from Thirunelly Temple, 29 km from Mananthavady, 35 km from Irupu Falls & 52 km from Kalpetta, Pakshipathalam is an eco-tourist spot situated in the Brahmagiri hills of Wayanad district. Situated at an altitude of 1740 m, Pakshipathalam is one of the popular Wayanad tourist places and also one of the best places for trekking in Wayanad. Pakshipathalam is the abode of large population of several species of birds. It is an ornithologist's paradise. The deep rock caves, formed among the thick blocks of rocks at the northern top end of the Brahmagiri, are the abode of various birds and wild beasts. The hill station of Pakshipathalam was once the meditating area for countless rishis or saints of ancient India. There is also a cave called Munikal Cave, where birds take shelter during night and early morning. The cave is also famous for the endangered species of birds known as 'Edible Nest Swift' which makes its .....

Pazhassi Raja's Tomb

#45 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 30 Kms from Kalpetta, Pazhassi Raja's Tomb is located in Mananthavady. This tomb is the memorial of the 'Lion of Kerala' Veera Pazhassi Raja, a descendent of Kottayam Royal family. Pazhassi Raja organized guerilla warfare against the British around the year of 1800 AD and he is remembered for his bravery. Pulpally Cave near by is the place where the Pazhassi Raja took refuge until he was captured by the British in 1805. The tomb marks the point where he was cremated after being shot by the British. Pazhassi museum located nearby has a sword which is believed to have been used by Pazhassi Raja. The location of the tomb offers beautiful views of the surrounding valleys of Wayanad. Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM. Closed on Monday.

Valliyoor Temple

#46 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 24 kms from Kalpetta & 3 Kms from Mananthavady, Valliyoor Temple dedicated to Goddess Durga is a famous temple in the region. Goddess Durga is worshipped in three different forms in this temple - Vana Durga, Jala Durga and Bhadra Kali. The major festival of the temple is celebrated for two weeks in February / March which attracts thousands of devotees. The dance performed by the local tribal with the music of native instruments is a major attraction of this festival. The traditional ritual art of Kalamezhuthu and different folk art forms are also performed. This place can be reached by private/public transportation from Mananthavady, which is connected by frequent buses from Kalpetta.

Chethalayam Waterfalls

#47 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 12 km from Sulthan Bathery, & 37 km from Kalpetta, Chethalayam Waterfalls is a beautiful waterfall located near Kidangand, towards Pulpally from Sulthan Bathery. It is one of the lesser-known waterfalls in Kerala and among the best places to visit during your Wayanad trip . This is a seasonal waterfall in Wayanad region, but it is ideal for trekking. Chethalayam Waterfalls with its picturesque beauty, scenic slopes, and blue water bodies are worth the trek up. Its surroundings offer several vantage points for bird watching. This waterfall is situated close to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary which is inhabited by spotted deer, sambar, gaur, elephants, and sloth bear, amongst others. One has to trek about 4 km from Kidangand to reach the falls. The Forest Range Office at Chethalayam issues visitor passes to the waterfall. Their permission is mandatory to get into .....

Karappuzha Dam

#48 of 48 Places to Visit in Wayanad

At a distance of 17 km from Kalpetta, Karapuzha Dam is an earth dam situated near Vazhavatta in the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the biggest earth dams in India and also one of the major Wayanad tourist places. Karapuzha Dam is built on Karapuzha River, a tributary of Kabini River. The construction of the dam began in 1977 and it was completed in 2004. The height of the dam is 28 meters and length is 625 meters. The purpose of the dam is irrigation and it left and right bank canals are still under construction. The dam is located in the greenish and natural regions of Wayanad. It is an ideal place for watching aquatic birds that frequent the reservoir, which is surrounded by partially submerged hills and green islands. The Tourism Department has ambitious plans to develop the area around Karapuzha Dam. They plan to landscape the area, construct an aquarium and provide boating and canoeing facilities also. Vazhavatta is connected by few buses with Kalpetta. .....

Most Asked Questions on Wayanad

Wayanad can be vistited through the year, however, winter & summer from September to June are the best season to visit Wayanad . Summer is the busiest season and hotels are usually very expensive in this season. If you are willing to visit the beautiful waterfalls of Wayanad, post monsoon is the best season.

Wayanad usually requires around 3 days to visit the most important attractions. There are several wonderful destinations around Waynad like Nagarhole, Coorg, Mysore, Kozhikode which can be visited along with Wayanad by spending an extra day or two at each of these places.

Budget of Wayanad trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Wayanad tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 6000 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 9000 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Wayanad like Banasura Sagar Dam, Pookote Lake, Lakkidi, Edakkal Caves, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary at Muthanga, Chembra Peak, Soochipara Falls, etc. Kuruva Island, Nagarhole, Iruppu Falls can be visited along with Wayanad by adding few more days to the trip.

Wayanad is famous as a spice land for centuries and the spices like Pepper, Cardamom, cloves and dry fruits can be availed at afforable rate in Wayanad.

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Tourist Places to Visit in Wayanad: 10 Best Tourist Attractions

What makes wayanad famous.

Wayanad, situated in Kerala’s southern state, is a hidden paradise for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Its lush green landscapes, misty mountains, and tranquil waterfalls make this destination famous for its picturesque beauty. Travelers have the opportunity to discover the diverse wildlife of the area through forest treks and wildlife safaris in national parks. The area is rich in culture and history, featuring ancient temples and tribal villages waiting to be explored. Wayanad has something to offer every traveler, be it a serene resort or an exciting outdoor adventure. Wayanad’s natural beauty and cultural heritage provide a deep immersion into Kerala’s diverse tapestry. The region’s rich landscapes, with dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and vast tea plantations, attract biodiversity enthusiasts and nature lovers. Moreover, delving into Wayanad’s cultural heritage uncovers a lively past molded by indigenous tribes and colonial impacts, evident in its impressive architecture and customary rituals. This exploration promotes both ecological appreciation and cultural exchange and preservation. Ultimately, a voyage of enlightenment and enrichment is guaranteed by immersing oneself in Wayanad’s treasures.

1. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is tucked away in lush vegetation and is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Every area of the sanctuary is alive and well, from stately elephants strolling around freely to uncommon bird species filling the air with their melodic calls. For threatened species like the Indian bison and the elusive leopard, the thick forests offer a secure haven. When it comes to seeing the beauty of nature up close, visitors can go on thrilling safaris led by skilled professionals. An outstanding example of the value of conserving and safeguarding our natural environment is the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. The beautiful Keralan district of Wayanad is a must-visit location for lovers of the natural world because it is home to a wide variety of wildlife species and distinctive features. The animals of Wayanad never cease to amaze, from the towering elephants and secretive tigers to the vibrant birds and energetic monkeys. This animal sanctuary is made more charming by the verdant forests, placid lakes, and tumbling waterfalls. Wayanad provides the ideal fusion of action and peace of mind, whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a quiet getaway in the wilderness. Take in the grandeur of Wayanad’s animals and natural surroundings as you discover its attractions.

Exploring Time : 7.00 AM to 10.00 AM and 3.00 PM to 5.00 PM

Best time to visit : March to May

Entry Fee : Safari jeep rent INR.725( 7 persons) and vehicle fee INR. 85 per vehicle.

2. Edakkal Caves

Petroglyphs and ancient rock shelters in Kerala’s scenic Wayanad district provide an intriguing window into the area’s lengthy past. Showcasing the creative and cultural expressions of the early occupants, these rock formations, decorated with elaborate carvings and symbols, act as a window into the past. Considered to be thousands of years old, the petroglyphs shed light on the customs and way of life of the prehistoric people who formerly inhabited these areas. Discovering the mysteries and tales that our forefathers have carved into the stone at these locations is like taking a trip back in time. The Wayanad Edakkal Caves are extremely significant both historically and culturally, having been there for thousands of years. The prehistoric rock engravings that adorn these old caverns include hunting scenes, animals, and symbols that provide insight into the lives of our ancestors. The caves are home to several archeological treasures and are thought to have been inhabited in the Neolithic era. They shed light on the development of human civilization in this area and act as an essential link to the past. The mysterious and alluring Edakkal Caves captivate tourists and serve as a monument to the rich cultural past and heritage of Wayanad.

Exploring Time : 2-3 hours 

Opening Hours : 9.30 AM to 4.30 PM on all days

Best time to visit : March to November

Entry Fee : INR. 20 per person for adults, INR. 40 per person for foreigners

3. Chembra Peak

Chembra Peak, the highest point in Wayanad, Kerala, is 2,100 meters above sea level and provides a stunning view of the surrounding countryside. Its attractiveness stems from the walking adventure it offers as well as its astounding altitude. The peak’s mystery is increased as adventurers journey through verdant woodlands and come across “Hridaya Saras,” a pristine heart-shaped lake halfway up. Rolling hills, thick forests, and flowing streams are all visible from the peak, providing a breathtaking picture of Wayanad’s natural beauty. In the middle of Kerala’s lush splendor, Chembra Peak is a beacon for discovery and reverence. Trekking enthusiasts come here to experience the thrilling ascent through thick forests, where they will come across a variety of flora and fauna. The heart-shaped lake is the focal point; it provides a calm area for relaxation and renewal. As trekkers ascend, Wayanad’s breathtaking landscapes are revealed in all their splendor by the expansive views from the summit. Adventure seekers will find plenty of opportunities and life-changing experiences at Chembra Peak, nestled in the majesty of nature.

Exploring Time : 3-4 hours

Opening Hours : 7.00 AM to 5.00 PM

Best Time to Visit : March to September

Entry Fee : INR 20 per person for Indians and INR 30 per person for Foreigners, Trekking-  750 for Indians(10 people) and 1500 for Foreigners(5 people)

4. Banasura Sagar Dam

The Banasura Sagar Dam, located in Wayanad, Kerala, is the biggest earth dam in India, surrounded by scenic landscapes. This stunning architectural marvel spans the Karamanathodu River, providing awe-inspiring views of the nearby mountains and verdant scenery. The dam, named after Banasura, a legendary demon king, not only stores water for irrigation and drinking but also draws tourists with its peaceful atmosphere. Nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts can enjoy boating, trekking, and camping activities around the dam, making it a popular destination. Banasura Sagar Dam is a perfect example of India’s impressive infrastructure and engineering capabilities. The Banasura Sagar Dam is a breathtaking sight nestled amidst the lush greenery of Wayanad in Kerala, India. The dam is surrounded by unparalleled scenic beauty, with the majestic Banasura hills providing a stunning backdrop to the shimmering waters. Guests have the opportunity to enjoy various activities, including boating, trekking, and picnicking in the beautiful surroundings. With its panoramic views of the valleys and forests, the dam is a beloved location for both nature enthusiasts and photographers. The Banasura Hill Resort and the Meenmutty Waterfalls, two neighboring attractions, also contribute to the charm and attractiveness of this captivating location.

Exploring Time : 2 hours

Opening Hours : 9.00 AM to 5.00 PM

Best Time to Visit :  March to September

Entry Fee : INR 10 per person

5. Pookode Lake

The picturesque freshwater lake Pookode Lake is located in Kerala, India’s Wayanad district. Encircled by verdant vegetation and gently sloping hills, it is a peaceful spot that appeals to both nature lovers and thrill seekers. Guests can take a leisurely boat ride across the lake’s pristine waters, taking in the serene ambiance and breathtaking views of the surrounding terrain. Paddle boats and rowboats are available for rent at Pookode Lake, allowing guests to explore the vast lake at their own leisure. A completely immersive experience that revives the mind and spirit is created by the boat’s soft swaying, the calming sounds of nature, and the cool breeze. Pookode Lake offers a variety of recreational opportunities in addition to boating, including nature hikes, bird watching, and lakeside picnics. Pookode Lake offers an unforgettable experience that promotes the love of outdoor exploration and the beauty of nature, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation.

Exploring Time : 1 to 2 hours

Best Time to Visit : May to August

Entry Fee : INR 10 per person for adults and INR 5 per person for children.

Boating : INR 100 for two people for 20 minutes

6. Soochipara Waterfalls

A magnificent natural beauty, the flowing Soochipara waterfalls are covered within the vivid vegetation of the Western Ghats. As the flowing rivers cascade down the steep cliffs, they create a captivating image that shimmers in the sunlight. Encircled by verdant tropical trees, the peaceful sound of the waterfall’s unceasing flow fills the air, offering a peaceful haven for those looking for comfort in the envelope of nature. For those who value the unadulterated beauty of the natural world, this hidden gem is a must-see location because of the surrounding vegetation’s green hues, which only serve to highlight its attractiveness. For those in search of an exhilarating experience, Soochippara Waterfalls has an abundance of trekking trails and adventure sports options. Within the breathtaking natural splendor of the waterfalls, guests can engage in exhilarating activities such as zip-lining and rock climbing. Visit Soochipara Waterfalls and go on an exciting and exploratory adventure.

Best Time to Visit : Monsoon Season

Entry Fee : No entry fees to visit Soochipara waterfalls.

7. Thirunelli Temple

One of the oldest temples devoted to Lord Vishnu is the historic Thirunelli temple, which is covered up in Kerala’s lush forests. It is thought that Lord Brahma himself constructed the temple, which is a hallowed destination for followers looking for blessings and spiritual comfort. India’s rich cultural legacy is reflected in its architectural magnificence, which features exquisite sculptures and breathtaking surroundings. The Papanasini River, which is close by, and the temple’s calm ambiance all contribute to its attraction, making it a site of great reverence and peace. Travelling to the Thirunelli temple is a spiritual experience unlike any other. Throughout the year, Thirunelli Temple is the site of numerous festivals and cultural activities. All of the celebrations, from the lively Thirunelli Festival to the contemplative Papanasini Puja, bring pilgrims and visitors together to share in the spiritual essence and rich traditions of this holy site.

Timing : 5.30 AM to 12.00 PM in the morning and 5.30 PM to 8.00 PM in the evening

Entry Fee : No entry fees to visit Thirunelli temple.

8. Wayanad Tea Plantations

Visitor experiences at the tea gardens and plantations, covered in the verdant hills of Wayanad, are captivating. Both nature lovers and tea experts will find a gorgeous scene among the expansive green landscapes scattered with rows of tea plants that extend as far as the eye can see. Wayanad’s weather and rich soil make it the perfect place to grow tea, producing first class leaves that are in high demand all over the world. Savoring freshly brewed teas and taking in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings, guests can have guided tours of the estates and learn about the tea-making process. The region’s economy depends heavily on tea growing because it creates jobs, encourages travel by offering tours of tea plantations, and feeds the export market. Tea growing helps locals make ends meet while also showcasing the region’s rich cultural legacy and customs.

Exploring Time : 1 to 1.15 hours

Timing : 8.00 AM to 6.00 PM 

Best Time to Visit : February to December

Entry Fee : INR 50 per person for adults and free entry for children

9. Karapuzha Dam

The Karapuzha Dam is a stunning feat of engineering and natural beauty, situated in Kerala, India’s beautiful landscape. The calm waters of this reservoir, which was created by damming the Karapuzha River, act as a mirror to reflect the surrounding lushness. With its striking backdrop of towering hills covered with emerald foliage, the area invites tourists to become lost in the peace and quiet of nature. The surrounding woodlands are brimming with a variety of flora and fauna, which adds to the attraction of this picturesque location. Boating across the tranquil waterways provides a peaceful respite. For those looking for quiet getaways or those who love the outdoors, Karapuzha Dam is a sanctuary. By providing boating facilities, the Karapuzha Dam allows visitors to have a pleasant and picturesque experience while exploring its tranquil waterways. A wide range of species can be seen and appreciated in their natural habitat, making the surrounding area a good place for birdwatching as well. At the Karapuzha Dam, don’t miss this exceptional fusion of adventure and environment.

Best Time to Visit : May to October

Entry Fees : INR 30 per person for adults, INR 10 per person for children, INR 50 per person for camera and INR 200 for video camera

10. Meenmutty Waterfalls

The stunning Meenmutty Waterfalls are situated in the Wayanad district and are a pleasure to see. With its amazing beauty and tranquil environs, this flowing waterfall is one of Wayanad’s most spectacular natural wonders, drawing people from far and wide. Surrounded by rich flora, the captivating sight of the water plunging down the steep cliffs is quite breathtaking. The sound of the running stream reverberates throughout the woodland, fostering a serene and pleasant environment. In addition to enjoying a leisurely swim in the calm waters, visitors can just relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. For those who enjoy the outdoors and seeking adventure, Meenmutty Waterfalls is a must-see location. Meenmutty Waterfalls in Wayanad offers you exciting adventure activities and charming trekking pathways. As you set off on an incredible journey through the splendor of nature, discover verdant woods, gushing waterfalls, and beautiful panoramas. This location promises thrills and breathtaking experiences at every turn, regardless of experience level.

Exploring Time : 2 to 3 hours

Opening Hours : 9.00 AM to 5.30 PM

Entry Fees : INR 30 per person for adults, INR 15 per person for children, INR 60 per person for foreigners and INR: 75 for camera.

What is the best time to visit Wayanad?

The months of  October  through  May  are the ideal times to visit Wayanad because of the nice cool weather, which is perfect for outdoor pursuits like trekking, wildlife observation, and exploring the rich flora.  Avoid the monsoon season  (June to September) as it may cause travel plans to be disrupted by excessive rainfall.

Is Wayanad better than Munnar?

Munnar  and Wayanad are two different hill stations with somewhat different experiences to offer. Tea plantations and breathtaking views can be found in Munnar, while Wayanad is well-known for its waterfalls, verdant surroundings, and animal sanctuaries. Though each location has its own unique beauty and charm, the decision between the two ultimately comes down to personal tastes.

Discover the Beauty of Wayanad

Wayanad is a haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, renowned for its verdant landscapes and stunning views. There are other popular tourist spots to discover in this breathtaking area, including the breathtaking waterfalls of Meenmutty and Soochipara, the historic Edakkal Caves, and the tranquil Pookode Lake. Wayanad has a wide variety of activities for all kinds of travellers, whether you like going on wildlife safaris in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary or would rather unwind in the Meppadi tea gardens. Take a trip to Wayanad and see its natural beauty and rich culture. Visitors should respect wildlife and ecosystems, stay in eco-friendly lodgings, patronise neighborhood businesses, and stick to approved routes in order to practice responsible tourism and protect Wayanad’s natural heritage. The long-term viability and attractiveness of this breathtaking location can be ensured by visitors by being aware of their impact on the environment and community.

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 Banasura Sagar Dam

Chembra Peak

If you are an admirer of soothing natural beauty and if you love to have an adventure trip, then Chembra Peak in Wayanad, will be a perfect stop for you. Eight kilometer south of Kalpetta, near to the town of Meppady, lays the highest peak in Wayanad, the Chembra Peak (2,100 m). Chembra peak adjoins Nilgiri hills in Tamil Nadu and Vallarimala in Kozhikode. From the town of Meppady you can reach the peak through walking. The peak is visible from almost all parts of Wayanad tourist....

Kuruva Island

Kuruva Dweep or Kuruva Island is a protected river delta, comprising a cluster of islands over the middle of Kabini River in Wayanad. Spread over 950 acres of land, Kuruva Island is densely populated with rich flora and fauna. The geographical peculiarity of this island makes this place evergreen with a serene ambience.Dwelling deep into this island, you can sight many attractive things like bridges made up of bamboo trees and other rare species of trees....

Pookode Lake

The beautiful freshwater lake in Wayanad, Pookode Lake lays 15 kilometre away from Kalpetta. Nestled between evergreen forest and Western Ghats, the lake is spread over 13 acre and is 40 m deep. This is one of the most preferred tourist destinations in Wayanad.While reaching at this gorgeous lake, you will be experiencing a calm and peaceful environment for tourist. The lake is surrounded by forest and you will see green and green all around.... 

Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

Located around 16 km away from Sulthan Bathery, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, popularly known as Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is a rainforest wich connects Nagarhole and Bandipur parks in Karnataka and Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu. Spread over an area of 345 sq km, the sanctuary is an abode of rich flora and fauna. Established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1973, the Muthanga wildlife sanctuary was brought under the Project Elephant in the year 1991-92. It is considered to be the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala....

Edakkal Cave

Edakkal is the only known place in India with Stone Age carvings. You can see here carvings belonging to Neolithic and Mesolithic age. The human figures of these caves have raised hair and some have masks. They all have archeological significance and are interesting too.Along with these pictorial carvings, you can also watch Tamil and Brahmi Script in Edakkal caves. Edakkal is said to have some links with Indus Valley Civilization.... 

Thirunelli Temple

Located around 16 km away from Sulthan Bathery, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, popularly known as Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is a rainforest wich connects Nagarhole and Bandipur parks in Karnataka and Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu. Spread over an area of 345 sq km, the sanctuary is an abode of rich flora and fauna. Established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1973, the Muthanga wildlife sanctuary was brought under the Project Elephant in the year 1991-92. It is considered to be the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala.... 

Cheengeri Hills Wayanad, Kerala, India

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In addition to being a location from where you can see the splashing streams, rich vegetation, and the haughty mountain crests, it is also renowned for its fascinating and alluring view of twilight and sunrise. It has become a well-known hill station with numerous Resorts and Bungalows. If the weather is clear and sunny, you may be able to see the dawn and dusk over the bright green-carpeted peaks that make this viewpoint stand out and be stunning to observe in comparison to others. Visitors can also enjoy bird watching at this peculiar location, which is home to numerous familiar and two exceptional avian faunas.

JAIN TEMPLE IN SULTHAN BATHERY, WAYANAD, KERALA, INDIA

There aren't many holy places that have ever acted as a shrine, an administrative centre, and a supply camp for an advancing army. The beautiful hills of Sulthan Bathery are one of the most sacred places for Jainism in the centre nation. According to legend, the Bathery Jain Temple, which dates back to the 13 th century, was constructed using the dominant architectural style of the Vijayanagar Dynasty at the time.

KARAPUZHA DAM, WAYANAD, KERALA, INDIA

En uru, wayanad, kerala, india.

The forest of Kerala are home to numerous indigenous groups, each of which has its own distinct culture. Private vehicles must park two kilometres away from the venue, thus a Jeep service is offered to get you there. Private vehicles are permitted to drive as far as a parking lot close to the entrance of the Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University main campus in Pookode. As a result of the project, the tribal people have a reliable market where they can sell their goods and the tribal artists can make a living. Numerous people might find both direct and indirect employment opportunities at the centre.

900 Kandi, WAYANAD, KERALA, INDIA

Attamala view point, wayanad, kerala, india.

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"Nature's Abode"

Wayanad tourism.

Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Wayanad in Kerala is famous for its spice plantations and wildlife. Situated at an altitude ranging from 700 to 2100 meters above sea level, this picturesque region is blessed with verdant forests, mist-covered hills, and glistening waterfalls, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. With its name derived from 'Vayal Nadu,' meaning 'Land of Paddy Fields,' Wayanad boasts fertile valleys and terraced fields that contribute to its thriving agricultural economy.  Wayanad is best known for the wildlife reserves. Home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species like the Indian bison, elephants, and leopards, the region is a biodiversity hotspot, offering ample opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers to explore its natural treasures. Wayanad wildlife reserve is an integral part of the Nilgiri biosphere reserve peacefully located amidst the serene hills of Western Ghats. Nature lovers can explore the serene beauty of Soochipara and Meenmutty waterfalls , cascading amidst lush greenery, or embark on wildlife safaris in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to spot elusive species like the Malabar Giant Squirrel and the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Wayanad's cultural heritage is as rich as its natural beauty, with traces of ancient civilizations dating back to the Neolithic Age. The region is dotted with archaeological sites, ancient temples, and tribal villages, providing insights into its fascinating history and vibrant cultural tapestry. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local way of life by interacting with indigenous tribes like the Paniyas, Kurichiyas, and Kurumas, known for their unique traditions, art forms, and hospitality. Popular attractions include the Thirunelli Temple , an ancient shrine nestled amidst the Brahmagiri Hills, and the Banasura Sagar Dam , offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The allure of Wayanad extends beyond its scenic landscapes and cultural heritage, offering a plethora of recreational activities and attractions for travelers to indulge in. Trekking enthusiasts can embark on exhilarating trails through the dense forests of Chembra Peak , Pakshipathalam , and Edakkal Caves famous for its ancient petroglyphs and rock formations, while adventure seekers can enjoy thrilling experiences like bamboo rafting on the Kabini River or zip-lining amidst the treetops of Wayanad's adventure parks. In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Wayanad is renowned for its thriving spice plantations, tea estates, and coffee farms, where visitors can embark on guided tours to learn about the cultivation and processing of various spices and crops. The region's culinary scene is equally enticing, with traditional Kerala cuisine featuring flavorsome dishes like Malabar biryani, appam with stew, and fish curry, providing a delightful gastronomic journey for food lovers exploring Wayanad's culinary delights. Wayanad is a perfect weekend idea from the cities of South India. If taking a road trip from Bangalore, you will drive through three national parks: Nagarhole , Bandipur and Mudumalai . The best time to visit Wayanad is during the winter months from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Must Visit Places in Wayanad

Banasura Sagar Dam

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Chembra Peak

Edakkal Caves

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Soochipara Falls

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23 Tourist Places to Visit in Wayanad with How to Reach Info

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Wayanad > 23 Tourist Places to Visit in Wayanad with How to Reach Info

Surrounded by the majestic Western Ghats, Wayanad district in the northeast part of Kerala is nothing short of a green paradise. From verdant valleys and gushing waterfalls to clear lakes and wildlife sanctuaries, there are plenty of places to visit in Wayanad for nature lovers and peace seekers. And that’s not all! Wayanad is home to some ancient caves and temples, as well as a plethora of options for adventure junkies.

Wayanad, as a popular tourist destination, has good air, rail and road connectivity. Those arriving by air or train can land at Kozhikode International Airport (96 km away) or Kozhikode Railway Station (90 km away), respectively, and then take a taxi or bus to the hotel. You can also take a state-run or private bus from nearby towns and cities to reach Wayanad comfortably. The hotels in Wayanad are spread out across the district and guarantee a pleasant stay.

If you are planning a trip to this beautiful district in Kerala, our Wayanad tourist places  list will assist you in chalking out an itinerary for a rejuvenating and memorable vacation.

1. Banasura Sagar Dam

Banasura Sagar Dam | 1 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Banasura Sagar Dam, located on the Banasura foothills and surrounded by greenery, is one of the best places to visit in Wayanad . The place has a lot of natural beauty and is popular with people who want to spend some time relaxing in the midst of lushness. Boating on the lake is also an option, as is hiking up to the dense forests of Banasura Peak. The view from the top of the hill is mesmerising, with majestic hills, gushing waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. Remember to carry your camera with you so you can capture stunning panoramic views of the surroundings.

• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Time Required: 2 hours
• How to Reach: The dam is about 28 km away from the Wayanad centre, so you can take a taxi to reach the destination.
• Entry Fee: ₹40 per person
• Tip: The top of the dam provides a wonderful view that simply should not be missed.

2. Edakkal Caves

Edakkal Caves | 2 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Edakkal Caves are the only structures in India with about 8000-year-old carvings that date back to the Neolithic Era or the late Stone Age. The two caves are located on Ambukuthi Hills, 3937 feet above sea level. As a result, one must trek for approximately 2 hours before reaching the entrance. Apart from tourists, history buffs and archaeology students interested in studying the carvings of human figures and animals visit these mysterious caves making it among the best places to visit in Wayanad.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• Time Required: 2-3 hours
• How to Reach: Edakkal Caves are 19 km away from Wayanad Centre. Taxis are easily available for comfortable travel.
• Entry Fee: ₹30 per person
• Tip: Photography is not allowed inside the caves.

3. Chembra Peak

Chembra Peak | 3 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Chembra is the highest peak of the Wayanad Hill Range, rising 6890-feet above sea level. The place boasts a lush green and soothing ambience that draws nature lovers from all over. Adventurers can enjoy a thrilling trek up to the peak while soaking in the beauty of the surroundings. Major attractions here are a heart-shaped lake on the way to the peak and panoramic views of Banasura Dam and tea plantations from above.

• Time Required: 3-4 hours
• How to Reach: Take a private bus or taxi to reach Chembra Peak, which is 35 km away from Wayanad centre.
• ₹750 trekking charges (for a group of 10 people), ₹75 for an extra person.
• ₹40 camera charges
• ₹10 parking fee for 2-wheelers
• ₹25 parking fee for 4-wheelers
• Tip: Reach early to avoid the afternoon heat and crowds.

4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary | 4 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, is one of the best tourist places in Wayanad for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary covers 345 square kilometres and is blessed with moist deciduous forests with different plantations, including bamboo, teak, oak, and eucalyptus. A safari through the wildlife sanctuary is among the most thrilling experiences; it offers an excellent opportunity to see herds of elephants, deer, and bison roaming freely in the forest. What’s more, you can also spot sambar, tigers, panthers, snakes, crocodiles, peacocks, cuckoos and many other animals and birds here.

It is one of the top 10 places to visit in Wayanad with friends.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• How to Reach: The wildlife sanctuary is 31 km away from Wayanad Centre, so you have to take a bus or taxi.
• Entry Fee: INR 20 (Indians), INR 110 (Foreigners)
• Tip: You will need a permit from forest authorities before you can enter the main gate of the Muthanga Range of the Wayanad Sanctuary.

  Here’s everything you need to know about Kerala Tourism

5. Soochipara Falls

Soochipara Falls | 5 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

The three-tiered Soochipara Falls in Vellarimala, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is a beautiful place in Wayanad. The sight of large volumes of water cascading from a height of 656 feet among lush green forests and massive rocks is a visual treat! Apart from spending some tranquil time near the falls, you can also take a bath or swim in the pool below and go rock climbing.

• Best Time to Visit: Monsoon season
• Time Required: 1-2 hours
• How to Reach: The falls are 35 km away from Wayanad centre. You can take a bus or taxi to cover the distance.
• Entry Fee: ₹80 per person
• Tip: Carry insect/mosquito-repellent creams.

6. Meenmutty Waterfalls

Meenmutty Waterfalls | 6 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Meenmutty Falls, a wonderful retreat in the lap of nature, is a must-visit Wayanad tourist place. This three-tiered waterfall is 984-feet tall and surrounded by verdant green forests. To reach this natural wonder, one must trek for about 2 km through the forests. The waterfall has different viewing decks and the sight from the summit is incomparable! Shutterbugs must carry their cameras to capture the enticing views.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• How to Reach: Take a bus or taxi to travel from Wayanad Centre to Meenmutty Falls, which is 30 km away.
• Entry Fee: INR 30 (Indians), INR 60 (Foreigners)
• Tip: Be cautious of wet rocks and fast currents.

7. Arippara Waterfalls

Arippara Waterfalls | 7 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Looking for some quietude away from the hustle and bustle? You must visit Arippara Waterfalls near Wayanad. This stunning waterfall originates from the Iruvanji River and cascades down into eight levels amidst dense greenery. Aside from admiring nature’s beauty, you can enjoy a picnic with your family or friends here, as well as take a refreshing plunge in the pool below.

• Best Time to Visit: November to May
• How to Reach: The waterfall is 50 km away from Wayanad Centre. Book a taxi or take the local bus to cover the distance.
• Entry Fee: INR 10 per person

8. Iruppu Falls

Iruppu Falls | 8 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Gushing down the Brahmagiri Hills and surrounded by the majestic Western Ghats, Iruppu Falls or Lakshmana Tirtha Falls is a charming place to visit. The place boasts abundant refreshing greenery and is filled with the melodious chirping of birds in an otherwise serene environment, much to the delight of nature lovers and birdwatchers. After seeking permission from the Forest Department, tourists seeking adventure can enjoy a thrilling trek to the falls.

Iruppu Falls also has a connection with the mythological story of Ramayana and is a popular pilgrimage destination. The waterfall is said to be endowed with divine powers, and taking a dip in its water is said to wash away your sins.

• Best Time to Visit: August to January
• How to Reach: Take a taxi from Wayanad to reach Iruppu Falls, which is 35 km away.
• Entry Fee: INR 50 per person
• Tip: Carry some snacks and drinking water as there are no restaurants near the falls.

9. Kuruva Island

Kuruva Island | 9 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

This stunning island in the Kabini River is among the best places to visit in Wayanad for couples . Kuruva Island, also known as Kuruva Dweep, is surrounded by fresh water and is home to evergreen forests teeming with exotic fauna. Exploring the island and spending quality time in its peaceful surroundings will quickly calm your mind and wash away all worries. While some parts of the island can be explored on foot, others require the use of a boat or raft. You can also go trekking, jungle walks, and on a river safari here.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• How to Reach: The island is 30 km away from Wayanad, so you can book a taxi.
• Entry Fee: INR 80 per person
• Tip: Avoid visiting the island on a rainy day.

10. Pookode Lake

Pookode Lake | 10 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

When you are shortlisting Wayanad sightseeing places , remember to include Pookode or Pookot Lake in your itinerary. This beautiful freshwater lake is nestled among the verdant forests of the Western Ghats. The lake’s shape is interesting because it resembles India’s physical map.

Aside from admiring the mesmerising ambience, you can go boating, spend some time in the children’s park, visit the freshwater aquarium, and shop for spices and handiwork. The lake is also a great place for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

• Best Time to Visit: September to May
• Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
• How to Reach: Hire a taxi to reach Pookode Lake, which is 26 km away from Wayanad centre.
• Tip: The parking spot is a few hundred metres away from the lake.

11. Thirunelli Temple

Thirunelli Temple | 11 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Thirunelli Temple is one of Kerala’s most revered and ancient religious sites. The idol of Lord Vishnu in this temple is said to have been installed by Lord Brahma himself. Located amidst dense Brahmagiri Hills, the temple has a calm and peaceful aura that attracts devotees from all over. Many pilgrims visit the temple to perform ancestral rites and other rituals on the banks of the Papanashini stream; the divine power of the stream is said to wash away all sins.

• How to Reach: The temple is 46 km away from Wayanad centre, so you have to take a bus or taxi.
• Entry Fee: N/A
• Tip: Wear clothes that cover the shoulders and legs.

12. Neelimala View Point

Neelimala View Point | 12 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

If you enjoy adventure, a trip to Neelimala View Point will be one of the most exciting experiences. The area has a serene atmosphere and some stunning trekking trails through the Western Ghats and gushing streams. The fresh air and misty clouds along the trail prevent you from getting tired and make the hike a breeze. When you reach the hilltop, you will be rewarded with enticing views of the lush green vegetation and milky-white Meenmutty Falls. Birdwatchers can also spot different species of birds here.

• Best Time to Visit: January to May and September to December
• Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
• How to Reach: The viewpoint is about 27 km away from Wayanad. Hire a taxi or take the bus for comfortable travel.
• Entry Fee: N/A, ₹500 for a Jeep (6-7 persons)
• Tip: Take prior permission from the Forest Department for the trek.

13. Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary

Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary | 13 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is a popular attraction among nature lovers and birdwatchers due to its incredible population of rare species of birds. The sanctuary is surrounded by dense forests, which serve as a natural habitat for the avian species. If you are an adventure enthusiast, a 3-hour long trek through lush forests, streams, steep hills and rocky caves to traverse the bird sanctuary is sure to provide an adrenaline rush. A watchtower is also available at the sanctuary for easy spotting of birds and animals.

• Best Time to Visit: October to January
• Ideal Duration: Full-day
• How to Reach: Take a bus or taxi from Wayanad to reach the bird sanctuary (34 km away).
• Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians) and ₹200 (Foreigners)
• Tip: Wear sturdy trekking shoes/boots.

14. Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary | 14 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderful attraction for wildlife lovers and a great place to see in Wayanad . The sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna and is a popular destination for birdwatchers. A safari through the sanctuary allows you to get up close and personal with many wild animals, including tigers, panthers, elephants, bison, and deer. You can also plan a stay in one of the tree huts here for a totally different and thrilling experience.

• Ideal Duration: 3 hours
• How to Reach: The sanctuary is 44 km away from Wayanad, so have to take a cab or bus to cover the distance
• Entry Fee: ₹115 (Indian) and ₹300 (Foreigners)
• Tip: Consider taking a guided safari to make the most of your visit. Make sure to carry a valid photo ID with you for entry permits. Foreign tourists may need to provide their passports.

15. Karapuzha Dam

Karapuzha Dam| 15 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Karapuzha Dam, one of the country’s largest earth dams, enthrals tourists with its gushing water and charming environment. This man-made marvel is situated on both sides of the Karapuzha River and is a popular spot for picnics, boating, and nature walks. You can also unwind amid lush greenery and natural surroundings while watching beautiful aquatic birds. The monsoon season is the best time to visit Wayanad’s Karapuzha Dam because it is full to the brim.

• How to Reach: The dam is about 12 km away from Wayanad Centre. Cabs and buses are common modes of transport for tourists.
• Entry Fee: INR 30 per person
• Tip: Witnessing the sunset over the dam can be a magical experience.

16. Kalpetta

Kalpetta | 16 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

This picturesque town in the Wayanad district, surrounded by majestic mountains and dense coffee plantations, is popular with honeymooners and nature lovers. Kalpetta is perched at a height of 2560 feet above sea level and is blessed with scenic landscapes that captivate tourists. Nature lovers can marvel at the beauty of Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Karapuzha Dam, Pookode Lake, Karlad Lake, and Meenmutty Falls, while adventure enthusiasts can trek to Chembra Peak, Neelimala View Point, and other trekking and hiking trails.

The place is also peppered with ancient temples, including Puliyarmala Jain Temple and Koottamundu Glass Temple, which are popular with Jain pilgrims. Those looking for excitement and adventure can visit Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary and Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, where they can see rare species of flora and fauna. Kalpetta is famous for its local delicacies and tribal souvenirs too.

• Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
• How to Reach: Kalpetta is only 13 km away from Wayanad centre, so you can book a cab to explore the town
• Tip: Avoid travelling at night on the highway.

17. Puliyarmala Jain Temple

This popular religious place in Wayanad, also known as Ananthanatha Swamy Jain Temple, is dedicated to Tirthankar Ananthanatha Swamy. The temple was constructed in the 13 th century and features distinctive Jain architecture. Aside from beautifully carved entrance doors, the temple has a Dravidian-style stupa with brightly painted carvings. At the top of the stupa is a carving of the Jain Lord, Mahavira. The temple’s main shrine features a large brass idol and small steps with 20 different Jain idols. Puliyarmala Jain Temple is a popular tourist attraction due to its tranquil environment and ancient architecture.

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
• How to Reach: The temple is 13 km away from Wayanad centre. You can take a taxi or board a local bus.

18. E3 Theme Park

E3 Theme Park | 18 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

E3 Theme Park, nestled among the picturesque hills of Wayanad, is one of the best multi-recreational parks in the country. It provides a plethora of fun activities for people of all ages and is a one-of-a-kind combination of recreation and education. The theme park is divided into four zones: adventure, action, entertainment, and a dinosaur park. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, adventure and action zones offer a variety of thrilling activities such as rappelling, rope course, zip-lining, bumping cars and air hockey. While the dinosaur park, which features several dinosaur models, provides a jaw-dropping and educational experience for kids, the entertainment zone hosts many cultural events and shows for visitors. E3 Theme Park undoubtedly is among the most exciting places to visit in Wayanad .

• Ideal Duration: 4-5 hours
• How to Reach: Take a bus or taxi from Wayanad Centre to reach the theme park, which is 42 km away.
• Entry Fee: INR 600 per person
• Tip: Outside food and drinks are not allowed in the park.

19. The Bamboo Factory

The Bamboo Factory | 19 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Located in Uravu in the Wayanad district, The Bamboo Factory is an interesting yet unexplored place in Wayanad . A trip to the factory will help you understand how bamboo is converted into decorative and functional products, like lampshades, baskets, and furniture. You can also interact with the talented craftspeople here to learn more about their work. Aside from reviving bamboo art, the factory also employs locals and helps them improve their standard of living.

• Ideal Duration: A couple of hours to the entire day
• How to Reach: The factory is 13 km away from Wayanad Centre, so you can take a cab or bus to cover the distance.
• Entry Fee: INR 115 per person

20. Karlad Lake

Karlad Lake | 20 of 20 Places to Visit in Wayanad

Karlad Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and boasting a fun atmosphere, is one of the most stunning places to visit in Wayanad with family and friends . It is more of an adventure centre where you can enjoy different activities like pedal boating, rock climbing, kayaking, zip-lining, archery, land zorbing and paintball. You can also plan a picnic here with your loved ones or simply spend time in nature for a relaxed and rejuvenated feel.

• How to Reach: Karlad Lake is about 26 km away. You can hire a taxi or take the bus.
• Entry Fee: INR 20 per person
• Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the scenic roads around Karlad Lake.

21. Lakkidi View Point

Lakkidi View Point in Wayanad is a breathtaking spot that offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers making it one of the best places to visit in Wayanad in 1 day with family. Enjoy a stroll along the well-maintained paths and check the variety of bird species.

• How to Reach: It is about 20 km away from Wayanad. The nearest bus stop is Kalpetta (16 km).
• Tip: Visit the famous Chain Tree and Karinthandan Temple.

22. Kanthanpara

Kanthanpara is a quaint little waterfall situated near Meppadi in the Wayanad district of Kerala. The waterfall drops down from a height of about 100 feet and provides a serene vibe making it one of the best tourist places to visit in Wayanad. The tea gardens on both sides of the waterfall elevate its beauty and provide an excellent spot for trekking. Indulge in bird-watching trips and a two-hour riverside trek on the banks of the Kanthanpara River.

• Best Time to Visit: September to January
• How to Reach: It is about 25 km away from Wayanad. The nearest bus stop is Kalpetta (22 km).
• Entry Fee: INR 40 per person
• Tip: Consider hiring a local guide. They can help you navigate the trails, provide information about the area, and ensure your safety.

23. Couch Potato

Couch Potato is a restaurant located in Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala. It is one of the main attractions in the area and offers an amazing dining experience for visitors. Couch Potato has a variety of vegetarian food options with a delectable taste. Visitors can also indulge in boating and picnics near the restaurant.

Excited to explore some of Wayanad tourist places on your next vacation? So, what are you waiting for? Plan a trip well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles. Have you visited Wayanad or any place in Kerala? Please share your thoughts in the comments section.

Q. What are the places to visit in and around Wayanad?

A. Some of the famous Wayanad places to see are Banasura Sagar Dam, Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, Pookode Lake, and Arriparra Waterfalls.

Q. How many days are good for a trip to Wayanad?

A. For Wayanad sightseeing, 4-5 days are enough to cover the major attractions. There are some places to visit in Wayanad in 2 days as well for a weekend getaway.

Q. What are some places to visit in Wayanad in 3 days?

A. Some of the best places in Wayanad to visit in 3 days are Meenmutty Waterfalls, Banasura Sagar Dam, Kurumbalakotta Mala, Wayanad Tea Museum, Pookode Lake, Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Kalpetta, Iruppu falls.

Q. Which month is best for Wayanad?

A. The months of March to June is the ideal time to explore the best tourist places to visit in Wayanad.

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• Top 14 Best Tourist Places In Wayanad
• Tourist Place
• 25 July 2022
• By Chitri Banik

Enclosed by the majestic Western Ghats, the Wayanad district of northeast Kerala is a verdant paradise. From verdant valleys and waterfalls to clear lakes and nature reserves, the area has much to offer nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. And that’s not all! Wayanad is home to some ancient caves and temples, as well as a plethora of options for adventure junkies. In this article, we will tell you about the top 14 best tourist places in Wayanad.

Top 14 Best Tourist Places In Wayanad:

1. banasura sagar dam, tourist places in wayanad:.

Banasura Sagar Dam, located in the Banasura foothills and covered by greenery, is one of the best spots in Wayanad. The place has a lot of natural beauty and is popular with people who want to have a relaxing time amidst exuberance. Boating on the lake is also an option, as is hiking to the dense forests of Banasura Peak. The views from the top of the hill are mesmerizing, with majestic hills, gushing waterfalls, and a diverse array of flora and fauna. Remember to bring your camera so you can capture stunning panoramic views of the area.

• Best Time to Visit:  September to March
• Ideal Duration:  2 hours
• How to Reach:  The dam is about 28 km away from the Wayanad center, so you can take a taxi to reach the destination.

2.  Edakkal Caves, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

The Edakkal Caves are the only structures in India with Neolithic or Late Stone Age carvings dating back around 8000 years. The two caves are located in the Ambukuthi Hills, 3,937 feet above sea level. As a result, you have to walk about 2 hours before you reach the entrance. Besides tourists, history buffs and archeology students interested in studying the carvings of human and animal figures also visit these mysterious caves.

• Best Time to Visit:  November to March
• Ideal Duration:  2-3 hours
• How to Reach:  Edakkal Caves are 19 km away from Wayanad Centre. Taxis are easily available for comfortable travel.

3. Chembra Peak, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

Chembra is the highest peak in the Wayanad Hill Range, rising 6,890 feet above sea level. The place features a lush and relaxing green environment that attracts nature lovers from far and wide. Adventurers can take an exhilarating hike to the summit while enjoying the beauty of the area. The main attractions are a heart-shaped lake on the way to the summit and stunning views of the Banasura Dam and tea plantations from the top.

• Best Time to Visit:  September to March
• Ideal Duration:  3-4 hours
• How to Reach:  Take a private bus or taxi to reach Chembra Peak, which is 35 km away from Wayanad center.

4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

Home to many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best tourist spots in Wayanad for nature and wildlife lovers. The sanctuary covers 345 square kilometers and is blessed with moist deciduous forests with various plantations including bamboo, teak, oak, and eucalyptus. A wildlife safari is one of the most exciting experiences; offers an excellent opportunity to see herds of elephants, deer, and bison roaming freely in the forest. You can also see sambar, tigers, panthers, snakes, crocodiles, peacocks, cuckoos, and many other animals and birds here.

• Best Time to Visit:  October to February
• Ideal Duration:  2-3 hours
• How to Reach:  The wildlife sanctuary is 31 km away from Wayanad Centre, so you have to take a bus or taxi.

5. Soochipara Falls, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

The three-tiered Soochipara Falls in Vellarimala, also known as Sentinel Rock Falls, is a beautiful Wayanad site. The sight of large volumes of water cascading down from a height of 200 meters between lush green forests and huge boulders is a feast for the eyes! Not only can you spend some quiet time near the falls, but you can also take a dip or go swimming and rock climbing in the pool below.

• Best Time to Visit:  Monsoon season
• Ideal Duration:  1-2 hours
• How to Reach:  The falls are 35 km away from Wayanad center. You can take a bus or taxi to cover the distance.

6. Meenmutty Waterfalls, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

A wonderful retreat in the lap of nature, Meenmutty Falls is a must-see for tourists in Wayanad. This three-tiered waterfall is 300m high and surrounded by lush green forests. You have to walk about 2 km through the forests to reach this natural wonder. The waterfall has different vantage points and the view from the top is incomparable! Photographers should bring their cameras to capture the alluring views.

• Best Time to Visit:  October to May
• How to Reach:  Take a bus or taxi to travel from Wayanad Centre to Meenmutty Falls, which is 30 km away.

7. Arippara Waterfalls, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

Are you looking for some peace away from the hustle and bustle? You must visit Arippara Waterfalls near Wayanad. This impressive waterfall springs from the Iruvanji River and falls in eight tiers amidst dense vegetation. Here you can not only admire the beauty of nature but also enjoy a picnic with your family or friends or cool off in the pool below.

• Best Time to Visit:  November to May
• How to Reach:  The waterfall is 50 km away from Wayanad Centre. Book a taxi or take the local bus to cover the distance.

8. Iruppu Falls, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

Iruppu Falls or Lakshmana Tirtha Falls gushing out of the Brahmagiri Hills and surrounded by the majestic Western Ghats is an enchanting place to visit. The place has lush, refreshing vegetation and is filled with the melodious singing of birds in a tranquil setting, to the delight of nature lovers and bird watchers. After applying for a permit from the Forest Service, adventurous tourists can take an exhilarating hike to the falls.

Iruppu Falls also has a connection to the mythological history of Ramayana and is a popular pilgrimage destination. The waterfall is said to be endowed with divine powers, and immersing in its waters is said to wash away sins.

• Best Time to Visit:  August to January
• How to Reach:  Take a taxi from Wayanad to reach Iruppu Falls, which is 35 km away.

9. Kuruva Island, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

This beautiful island withinside the Kabini River is most of the great locations to go to in Wayanad for couples. Kuruva Island, additionally called Kuruva Dweep, is surrounded with the aid of using clean water and is domestic by evergreen forests teeming with special fauna. Exploring the island and spending the best time in its non-violent environment will speedy calm your thoughts and wash away all worries. While a few elements of the island may be explored on foot, others require the usage of a ship or raft. You also can pass trekking, jungle walks, and on a river safari here.

• Best Time to Visit:  October to March
• Ideal Duration:  3-4 hours
• How to Reach:  The island is 30 km away from Wayanad, so you can book a taxi.

10. Pookode Lake, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

When shortlisting Wayanad’s sightseeing places, don’t forget to encompass Pookode or Pookot Lake for your itinerary. This lovely freshwater lake is nestled in the various verdant forests of the Western Ghats. The lake’s form is thrilling as it resembles India’s bodily map.

Aside from admiring the mesmerizing ambiance, you could move boating, spend a while withinside the children’s park, go to the freshwater aquarium, and store for spices and handiwork. The lake is likewise a great area for birdwatchers and natural world enthusiasts.

• Best Time to Visit:  September to May
• How to Reach:  Hire a taxi to reach Pookode Lake, which is 26 km away from Wayanad center.

11. Thirunelli Temple, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Thirunelli Temple is one of all Kerala’s most respected and historical non-secular sites. The idol of Lord Vishnu on this temple is stated to have been set up through Lord Brahma himself. Located amidst dense Brahmagiri Hills, the temple has a peaceful and non-violent air of secrecy that draws devotees from all over. Many pilgrims go to the temple to carry out ancestral rites and different rituals at the banks of the Papanashini stream; the divine strength of the stream is stated to clean away all sins.

• Ideal Duration:  1-2 hours
• How to Reach:  The temple is 46 km away from Wayanad center, so you have to take a bus or taxi.

12. Neelimala View Point, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

If you experience adventure, a journey to Neelimala View Point may be one of the maximum thrilling experiences. The place has a serene ecosystem and a few lovely hiking trails thru the Western Ghats and gushing streams. The clean air and misty clouds alongside the path save you from getting worn out and make the hike a breeze. When you attain the hilltop, you may be rewarded with attractive perspectives of the luxurious inexperienced flowers and milky-white Meenmutty Falls. Birdwatchers also can spot one-of-a-kind species of birds here.

• Best Time to Visit:  January to May and September to December
• How to Reach:  The viewpoint is about 27 km away from Wayanad. Hire a taxi or take the bus for comfortable travel.

13. Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is a famous enchantment amongst nature fanatics and birdwatchers because of its fantastic populace of uncommon species of birds. The sanctuary is surrounded by dense forests, which serve as a herbal habitat for the avian species. If you’re a journey enthusiast, a 3-hour lengthy trek via lush forests, streams, steep hills, and rocky caves to traverse the chook sanctuary is certain to offer an adrenaline rush. A watchtower is likewise to be had on the sanctuary for clean recognizing of birds and animals.

• Best Time to Visit:  October to January
• Ideal Duration:  Full day
• How to Reach:  Take a bus or taxi from Wayanad to reach the bird sanctuary (34 km away).

14. Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, Tourist Places In Wayanad:

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary is a tremendous appeal for natural world fans and an extraordinary vicinity to peer in Wayanad. The sanctuary is domestic to an extensive variety of plants and fauna and is a famous vacation spot for birdwatchers. A safari thru the sanctuary permits you to arise near and private with many wild animals, such as tigers, panthers, elephants, bison, and deer. You also can plan a stay in one of the tree huts right here for a very distinctive and exciting experience.

• Best Time to Visit:  October to February
• Ideal Duration:  3 hours
• How to Reach:  The sanctuary is 44 km away from Wayanad, so have to take a cab or bus to cover the distance
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The Best Wayanad Itinerary And Travel Guide for 2023

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A Brief Background of Wayanad – Things You Must Know

Wayanad Itinerary for 3 days – A Snapshot

Day 1 of Wayanad Trip Plan

• Reach by 9 am and have breakfast.
• Visit the Banasura Sagara Dam
• Check out the Karlad Lake just 5 km away from Banasura Sagara Lake (if you are put up around Vythri)
• Meenmutty Falls (optional) or Banasura Spice Garden tour (optional)
• Break for lunch – Kerala porota is my favorite!
• Board a bamboo raft and visit Kuruvadweep
• Spend time at the Pookode lake (if it’s not too crowded)
• Retire at the resort

Day 2 of Wayanad Itinerary

• Trek to the Soochipara waterfalls.
• Explore the Edakkal caves in Sultan Bathery
• Visit the Ancient Jain temple located in Sultan Bathery (optional)
• Short trek to the Phantom Rock
• Then visit the Heritage Museum Wayanad
• In the end, rest at the Kalpetta tea estate

Day 3 of Wayanad Travel Itinerary

Top places to visit in wayanad in 3 days, banasura sagara dam 🌟😍.

Entry Ticket – Rs. 30 for adults Van Ticket – Rs. 10 per-side, per-person Speedboating – Rs. 950 for a group of 5 (max) *This is the most popular place in Wayanad for all good reasons. So visit it early in the day before the long queues appear for boating

Chembra Peak

Sailing to kuruva island on a bamboo raft 🌟.

Kalpetta tea estate

Phantom Rock

Edakkal Caves

Wayanad Heritage Museum

Entry Ticket – Rs. 20 for adults *Photography is prohibited inside the museum

Soochipara Falls

Lakkidi viewpoint

Coffee groves, spice plantations and more

Wildlife tour in Wayanad

Pookode Lake

Entry Ticket – Rs. 30 for adults *The parking area is over 300 meters away uphill from the gate.

Best Time to visit Wayanad

What to eat in wayanad, where to stay in wayanad.

My Top Picks

Sterling Resort in Sultan Bathery – A beautiful family friendly resort where we stayed on our second trip for affordable luxury. Wayanad Wild – Rainforest Lodge by CGH Earth, Vythiri – A travel-sustainable luxurious property $$$$ Teaside Inns, Vythiri – A 2-BHK cottage in the Vythiri hills. It can accomodate upto 6 people and turns out to be budget friendly.

How to reach Wayanad?

• Kerala Itinerary and a Comprehensive Travel Guide
• Thekkady Itinerary – A guide to the forest of southern Kerala
• Bekal Itinerary – A hidden gem close to Wayanad, in the northern part of Kerala

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34 Comments

What a beautiful place to visit! Not going to lie I had to look up the location! I think the waterfalls and especially wildlife safaris is where you’d find me! Love the lush and greenery!

Thank you. Wayanad is not world-famous, so it’s expected that you might not know about it.

I wasn’t familiar with this place, glad you included a map. My husband and I love to hike so I’m intrigued with that. Thanks for opening my eyes to a new place! Saving for future reference.

The tea estates are high on my list and now I need to add spice plantations. The smaller owned plantations would be ideal to see the entire process, without crowds of people. The map really helps demonstrate how far apart everything is.

Thanks Jen. Hope you visit the tea gardens of India soon!

What an incredible itinerary. Amazing how just three short days can give you such a wonderful diverse experience.

Thanks Karen. I read and dream a lot about slow travel but unfortunately most working professionals like us don’t have the luxury of time. These short weekend trips are what keeps our wanderlust spirit alive.

Is coffee and tea from India that different from the once in europe`?

I have to admit, that I have never even heard of this place :O Shame on me, but I give a great thanks for the education 🙂

Thanks Ann. There are many treasures of India that people are unaware of. Nothing to be ashamed of. As far as I know the best quality tea and coffee produced in India are exported to the West because they are way too expensive for Indian markets.

India is really starting to grow on me, I am getting more and more intrigued. And to be honest, if I could afford one more, longer trip in 2020, it would probobly be to India 🙂

This looks like the type of place to slow travel your way through. I like the idea of using homestays to explore this part of the world, but how to you find out where they are. Is there a website that lists them all?

Hi Jay, The homestays for Wayanad can be searched on the Indian hotel booking sites like MakeMyTrip.com or even on HotelsCombined. Makemytrip has separate category for homestays.

Jumping on a bamboo raft to reach Kuruva island looks like an amazing adventure!

Thank you for sharing so much helpful information Sinjana! This looks like a beautiful area. I love the idea of a homestay on a coffee plantation. That would be so interesting to learn and connect with the farmers. The waterfall looks gorgeous. So many things to do in this area. It would be hard to narrow down choices. I can see why you’d want to stay for at least a few days.

Thanks Nancy. This is a beautiful part of India. You must visit if you are travelling to India

India is beautiful and this post gives a comprehensive guide of a place I had never ever thought of travelling to. Thanks for sharing

How did I manage a trip to Kerala but not know about Wayanad? Roaming around lakes, forests and tea plantations sounds heavenly. Would love to stay on a coffee plantation. If you can’t get a proper coffee there, where can you!

This is such a beautiful part of India and I am so glad that things are improving after the horrible floods. It certainly is God’s country with all the culture and hertiage

Wayanad looks beautiful! I hadn’t heard of it before, but now I want to pack my bags! Soochipara Falls would be a must-see for me, but the caves and lookout look stunning too.

Did not know about this place and your highlights have certainly made me think of including it in my itinerary if I should visit this part of the world. Love the lush green and the views.

The waterfall photo is lovely. Wayanad is a beautiful place that I didn’t know anything about. The raft ride looks fun, too!

Wow! Breathtaking area! Just wonderful for a weekend getaway. I love the scenery and your photos are spectacular!

I must confess to having to google Wayanad. It looks like a beautiful place to visit with spectacular scenery. Thank you for telling me about this hidden treasure.

Wow great itinerary! Very well thought out!

Wow, Wayanad sounds like such a fascinating place in India. Before reading your article I had never heard of it and now I want to visit. The caves sound particularly interesting. Thanks for all the great information.

Wayanad is truly fascinating! We visited the place a few years ago and your post evoked the nostalgia about this place. The best time to visit is always the cooler time of the year as Kerala can get quite humid in summer. 🙂

Amazing itinerary!!! It looks like you have covered almost every place. A very detailed, inspiring and informative post, all pictures are extremely beautiful.

nice, India blogs always makes me excited to explore. love from London…

If we wish to do a complete experience of Wayanad and around (don’t minnd more travel too) because we have 8 days, what do you suggest? How many days in Wayanad and how many elsewhere?

Hi Reshal, If you have 8 days you can easily spend 3 full days in Wayanad. After that you drive to Oooty, Coonoor and Kodaikanal if you are into forests and hills. Or you can head south to the beaches. Feel free to reach out to me with more questions.

This looks brilliant! I love the kind of holiday that involves interesting history (Edakkal Caves is fascinating) aaaand so much nature, viewpoints and waterfalls! I can totally see why you loved Wayanad.

Thanks a lot Josy

This is a great itinerary very informative. I hadn’t heard of Wayanad before, but it looks like a great travel destination. I’ll save this post for later when planning a trip there.

Thanks a lot Lenore

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Wayanad Tourism and Travel Guide

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Places To Visit Near Wayanad

Best Time To Visit Wayanad

The district enjoys a pleasant climate all through the year which might be responsible for its flourishing Wayanad tourism. The year is categorised into four seasons here – chilly climes during December-February, summer during the months of March-May, the south-west monsoon which is characterised by copious rainfall and windy days during June-September and the north-east monsoon during October-November.

If your idea of the perfect vacation is being surrounded by tangles of vivid greenery and heavy rains that bring with it the scent of the earth, then it is recommended you visit between May and October. However, for those who’d like to enjoy the best of Wayanad tourism without getting drenched, the best time to visit is anytime between October and May.

Top Attractions In Wayanad

Wayanad is replete with forests that shelter an amazing variety of wildlife, prehistoric caves that hold stories in their confines, peaks to trek up to, sparkling water bodies for a delicious swim and solemn and beautiful temples, all of which contribute to Wayanad tourism. Just pick up this Wayanad travel guide for a comprehensive bout of Wayanad sightseeing!

  Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

One of the major highlights of Wayanad tourism is its wildlife, and you’ll find plenty of it in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. It was started in 1973 and became a key part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the first biosphere out of 14 biospheres in India. Comprising two major sections named Muthanga and Tholpetty, the sanctuary shares borders with other regions famous for their biodiversity. 

  Both Muthanga and Tholpetty are closed from mid-March to mid-April but are open during Wayanad’s soaking monsoons. The drive towards Muthanga and Tholpetty is beautiful with a wall of green on both sides. Paddy fields, plantations and thickets of bamboo trees and ginger bushes keep pace with you.

Wayanad tourism offers a two-hour jeep safari to get your fill of the awe-striking flora and fauna here. Ride under the dappled sunshine of the deciduous forest with patches of evergreen forests alive with the calls of around 216 bird species including peacocks, babblers, owls, cuckoos and black woodpeckers to mention a few. You’ll spot bamboo groves and trees like teak, rosewood, eucalyptus and silver oak plantations. 

Book a safari at one of the two entrances to gape at langurs, bison, bonnet macaques, sambar, wild boars and herds of majestic elephants in their habitat. If luck favours you then you might be able to spot a fiery-eyed tiger or a graceful leopard in the forest. Snakes and monitor lizards slither in the undergrowth and crocodiles and termite hill geckos lurk in the shadows. 

Cost of two-hour jeep safari : Rs 650

Banasura Dam

The largest earthen dam in India and the second-largest in Asia, the Banasura Dam features prominently in the list of Wayanad tourist spots. 

It is made of massive stones and boulders and is built along the Karamanathody river. This quaint dam has occupied pride of place in Wayanad tourism. The dam helps provide for irrigation, drinking water and electricity to the surrounding areas. The climb is well worth the effort when you arrive at the top of the dam to look down at the gleaming expanse of the reservoir below. 

  The water is dotted with small, verdant islands which are home to elephants. The monsoon lends the view an ethereal touch. You can hike up to the Banasura Peak to cross tinkling streams, waterfalls and lush greenery. Look down upon the Banasura lake framed by the Banasura hills which owe their name to the son of a famous ruler, King Mahabali. 

  Wayanad tourism has built a children’s park with tree swings to keep them busy. There are also some food stalls you can browse through to load up on snacks to go with the sensational view. Go speed boating on the lake to feel the wind in your hair and your adrenaline coursing or take a pedal boat to relax and enjoy the sight around you. 

Entry fee: Rs 10

Speed Boating: Rs 450 for five people

  Photography: Rs 20

Kuruva Dweep 

This river delta is a hidden gem of Wayanad tourism and comprises a cluster of islands all carpeted with greenery and spread over 950 acres. The island is inhabited with exotic species of birds and plants such as rarely found orchids and herbs. Surrounded by streams, Wayanad tourism has come up with bamboo rafts and fibreglass boats that glide across the water for ten minutes until you reach the thickly forested islands. Take the rafts around to explore all the islands, each more charming than the last. Delve deeper inside the island to come upon bridges made of bamboo and towering trees which are rare and wizened with age. Stroll through the pristine island to soak in its beauty or trek around to cover more ground. This ecologically delicate island is well protected by Wayanad tourism and hence no parties or picnics are allowed here.

  You must get passes from the Forest Department to visit the island which are readily available at the counter. Visits to the cluster of islands are restricted during the monsoon. They remain open during October to May and you can feast your eyes on this beauty at a nominal fee. Just make sure you get here between 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.

Thirunelli temple 

  This attraction has to have a spot in your Wayanad tourist places list. The Thirunelli temple with ancient temple architecture stands pretty beside the forest-covered Brahmagiri hills in Wayanad and paints a pretty picture, making it one of the gems in the crown of Wayanad tourism. 

  Known as Wayanad tourism’s ‘Kashi of the south’, the temple was built around an interesting legend. The story goes that while going around the world, Lord Brahma came upon the Brahmagiri hills which left him smitten with their beauty. He descended to explore the place and had a vision of Lord Vishnu under an amla tree. According to Wayanad tourism, Lord Vishnu’s three incarnations namely Parasuram, Ram and Krishna have visited the temple on separate occasions during different ages. Lord Vishnu, in turn, promised that the water around the temple could wash away all earthly sins and gave birth to the stream of Papanashini (destroyer of sins). 

  The temple is imbued with an air of devotion and soul-soothing serenity, surrounded as it is with lush forests. All rituals of the temple are performed on the banks of the Papanashini stream which is believed to have medicinal properties. A sacred pond lies next to the stream where earlier five streams would pour in. Fringed by dense bushes, the pond holds in the middle a stone slab with the foot imprint of Lord Vishnu. These religious elements make the temple a hotspot for Hindu pilgrims in Wayanad tourism.

There is a holy rock in the temple where people pray for peace for their ancestors. On the western side of the temple lies the cave temple Gunnika which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Sit down by the temple to stare at the grand pillars and stone carvings against the mesmerising backdrop of mist-covered peaks to sense the tranquillity seeping through your being.

Opening hours: 5.30 am to 12.00 pm, 5.30 pm to 8.00 pm

Activities and Things To Do In Wayanad

Wayanad tourism pairs numerous activities with the beauty of its misty hills and sprawling overgrown forests to keep you enthralled. If you’ve been wondering about the kind of activities you can indulge in the peaceful and laidback district, you won’t be disappointed. We’ve got enough activities in this Wayanad travel guide to fill up your days on your Wayanad trip. 

Trek to a heart-shaped lake

Lace on your trekking shoes to hike to Wayanad tourism’s highest attraction, the Chembra Peak. The climb is well worth it when you come across a stunning heart-shaped lake called Hridaya Saras set on rolling green meadows. Naturally shaped into a heart, the lake has a glassy surface and is so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom. 

The climb itself is a treat. Starting off, you’ll be treated to green plantations and rolling hills which are one of the delights of Wayanad tourism. As the climb steepens and your legs start protesting, you’ll be compensated with valleys opening up before you to give you sweeping views of the panoramic hills and countless treetops. There is a five-kilometre hike to get to the watchtower and a three and a half kilometre trek through dappled forests and grasslands to get to the summit. The trek is spread over five hills; sing a cheery tune along with the birds in the forest to break through the foliage and look at the unique lake. 

Wayanad tourism has made permits available for the trek at the VSS office, which is two kilometres away from the town of Meppadi. You’ll need a ticket which is valid for a group of ten people and comes with a guide who will meet you on the observation deck. The only downside is that a single person, without a group, will still have to shell out the same amount regardless of whether he’s travelling with a group or not. 

Ticket cost: Rs 750

Pakshipathalam

If you’re a hardcore trekker who’d like something more challenging then head out for this 7 km-trek which has large boulders studded deep in the forest for clambering. The lush forest has deciduous trees through which sunlight streams in shafts. With numerous kinds of birds chittering in the trees, bring your binoculars along for a good session of birdwatching. 

Permits are required for this trek which you can get at forest offices in the south or north Wayanad. The DTPC office in Kalpetta, under Wayanad tourism, also organises trekking guides that charge about Rs 600 per day. You can also camp in the forest and spend a night under a starry ceiling for an incredible experience. You can rent camping gear at Rs 250. If you love your own company when it comes to trekking then get your permit and reach the Thirunelli temple bright and early at 8.00 am. 

Enjoy amazing waterfalls

While Wayanad tourism boasts of numerous waterfalls sprinkled liberally all over the evergreen landscapes of Wayanad, a particularly striking waterfall is the Soochipara Falls.

Enjoy a scenic drive replete with views of rolling green tea estates as you drive from Meppadi to the Sentinel Rock Waterfalls which Soochipara is also known as. Nestled amid deciduous, evergreen and alpine forests, this three-tiered waterfall cascades with tremendous force. The waterfall is named Soochipara or Needle rock as the water hits sharp spikes of granite at the base.

The 200m high waterfall has a cliff face which adrenaline junkies can climb. The waterfall forms a pool which looks so tempting that you won’t be able to resist diving in for a refreshing dip. If you’d rather stay dry, stand near the falls to feel the cool spray on your face.

You can also trek up to the Sunrise Valley to look down upon the falls.

Timings : 9.00 am - 5.00 pm

Entry Fee: Rs 80

Camera: Rs 50

Marvel at cave drawings

Eddakal cave is one of India’s prominent prehistoric rock shelters and a highlight of Wayanad tourism. Get a workout on the one-kilometre uphill trek through an aromatic coffee estate.

The cool darkness of the caves harbour art from the Neolithic Age in 4000 BC and Megalithic Age. Some caves have 98ft long, 30 ft wide carvings of a chieftain, wild animals and writings in the Brahmi script.

A steep 20-minute walk up the Ambukuthi mountain takes you to a wonderfully lit cave which has a collection of ancient petroglyphs which goes back over 3000 years and offers sweeping views of Wayanad which will make your jaw drop.

If you’d like to stick around longer amidst all the history, then head to Eddakal Hermitage which has cottages around the hill and a cave restaurant where you can dig into delicious food during a candle-lit dinner. 

Timings: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm (No entry after 4 pm)

Stare in awe at legendary Chain Tree

The Chain Tree is a lesser-known attraction of Wayanad tourism and is set in the mist-shrouded ghats of Lakkidi. The shackled ficus tree has a legend around it in which a tribal, Karinthandan showed a British engineer a way through the eerie Thamarassery Ghat. The Britisher wanted to grab credit for the route and killed the tribal. Since then, the outraged ghost of the tribal started haunting passerby who pleaded with a priest to rid them of the spirit. The priest exorcised the ghost and tied him to the tree. Incredibly, as the tree grew taller, the shackles draped around the branches grew with it and miraculously didn’t fall short in length. 

Visit this temple which was once a storage centre for ammo

Wayanad tourism has some spectacular places on offer and Sultan’s Battery, a quaint peaceful town with plenty of greenery and sparkling streams is one of them. The place has an intriguing story behind it. In the 18th century, when Tipu Sultan was opposing the British colonialists, he erected a watchtower on the outskirts of Ganapathivattom for defence. He needed a place to store ammunition and hatched a clever plan to hide his armoury in a 14th-century Jain temple. He cleared the idols and stored his ammunition there to fool the invading forces. The place is thus named Sultan’s Battery or Sultan Bathery. The Jain temple still exists today and helps tell the fascinating story. 

Timings: 8.00 am to 12.00 pm, 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm

Get bamboo handicrafts from Uravu 

  Uravu, a design centre and a bamboo processing unit near Kalpetta is a place for bamboo handicrafts created by rural artists, women and tribals to help them earn and utilise the bamboo freely abundant in Wayanad. Wayanad tourism encourages tourists to buy beautiful lampshades, handicrafts, spice boxes, binsi (a hollow reed with a musical sound) and a rainmaker in which seeds are filled in a hollow bamboo to recreate the sound of rain. Sounds amazing, doesn’t it?

Experience a stay in a treehouse

Staying in a treehouse is both fun and will firmly stay etched in your mind as an unforgettable experience. Wayanad tourism has ensured that visitors can enjoy this experience since the forest department has created some tree-top accommodations which give residents sweeping views of the entire Western Ghat valleys.

Wayanad tourism also has some private tree-top accommodations such as the Vythiri Resort which is perched 60 ft above a rainforest canopy and is a sight for sore eyes.

Where To Stay In Wayanad

There are some truly beautiful locations you can spend the night at thanks to Wayanad tourism which has pulled out all stops to help tourists soak in the serene atmosphere of Wayanad. This Wayanad travel guide has a variety of stay options depending on your budget. 

Resorts 

One of the best ways to indulge in the tranquil feel of Wayanad is by staying in a resort. There are a lot of luxurious and eco-friendly resorts on offer by Wayanad tourism and make it a point to thoroughly pamper you with gourmet food and beautiful views. 

  Vythiri Village, Wayanad

Vythiri Resorts, Wayanad

Vythiri Meadows, Wayanad

Wayanad Silver Woods, Wayanad

Contour Island Resort and Spa, Wayanad

The Serenity Resort, Wayanad

Thennal Jungle Camp Resort, Wayanad

Adithya Nature, Wayanad

Homestays 

Wayanad tourism has also got a few homestays where you can experience the comfort of home, far away from home. Relax and unwind at these stays, whip up a meal or bring out a board game to create fun memories!

Airbnb Wayanad, Kalpetta

Blooms Green Farm, Wayanad

Free Bird Homestay, Wayanad

Fringe Ford, Wayanad

Sarang Wayanad, Wayanad

Olives Homestay, Wayanad

Budget hotels

For the budget traveller, the important thing is to gather experiences without loosening your purse strings too much. Wayanad tourism has lots of budget hotels on offer to help you get the most under a budget!

Bamboo Groves, Wayanad

Akan Hotels & Residence, Wayanad

OYO 5024 Mist Heaven Hill Resort, Wayanad

Hill Top Camping, Wayanad

Treebo Trend Brahma, Wayanad

Cuisine And Best Places To Eat

Apart from Wayanad’s lavish greenery, musical streams, undulating roads and mist-wrapped hills, Wayanad tourism also draws in food pilgrims galore. Malabar cuisine is known for its drool-worthy albeit spicy flavours. Its food consists of natural produce and distinctive flavours of the state. From street food whipped up on sizzling pans to restaurants offering an authentic Kerala experience, Wayanad tourism’s food options will leave you spoilt for choice. Sample fish delicacies fresh from the sea or get a taste of tribal cuisine there, you’ll leave Wayanad with an expanded waistline. 

  Malabar Biryani

A highlight of Wayanad tourism, every die-hard foodie has dreamt of a plate of Malabar biryani in their lifetime. Made of special rice, tender chicken and a melange of spices, this is one dish you can’t afford to miss. 

Malabar Duck Roast

The Malabar duck roast will leave you licking your fingers with its rich gravy created with aromatic spices. Pair it with parotta , rice or appam.  

Kadala Curry

With the zing of spice, this dish made of black chickpeas is similar to the north Indian variation of black chickpeas just with the added creaminess of coconut. It is served with appam and puttu and is a popular breakfast dish. Wayanad tourism has got this delectable dish in numerous street stalls across the district as well as in furnished restaurants.

Meen Moilee 

A hot favourite among locals, Meen Moilee is a fish curry made from fresh, moist fish, coconut milk, mustard seeds, curry leaves and turmeric. Get a plate of piping-hot Gandhasakala rice which is cultivated in Wayanad and pour some Meen Moilee curry over it for a hearty lunch!

Get a taste of Wayanad’s tribal cuisine! This one will be a surprise for your taste buds because of its unconventional ingredients. Made of a combination of diluted raw mango pulp, spices, chicken, fish and tapioca, the soup tastes like a delicious porridge. It also has medicinal properties.

Karimeen Pollichathu

One taste of this and foodies will flock to the scenic district to single-handedly boost Wayanad tourism. Fish is marinated and wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. Unwrap the leaves to tender, fall-apart fish that melts in your mouth. 

Then Nellikka

Another simple tribal dish, Then Nellikka is gooseberries soaked in honey. The finest berries are hand-picked from the wilderness of the jungles in Wayanad and then soaked in honey for eight months. The result is the candied gooseberries oozing with sweetness!

Wayanad tourism has a lot of authentic Malabar cuisine on offer in the form of eateries which have earned their repute by sating countless appetites. All that trekking and sightseeing will leave you with a rumbling stomach. Dig into drool-worthy food at these eateries:

Clayhut, A Village Restaurant

True to the spirit of Wayanad tourism is Clayhut which aims to give tourists an experience of authentic Kerala cuisine not just in terms of food but also in terms of ambience. The place is designed to mirror an ancient village with bamboo furniture and folk art on the walls. For an authentic taste of Malabar cuisine, take yourself here.

Malabar Restaurant

The Malabar restaurant is featured in this Wayanad travel guide owing to the authentic Malabar flavours it dishes out at affordable rates. They serve a variety of seafood, chicken and other items in a relaxed and casual environment. 

Udupi Pure Vegetarian Restaurant

Another eatery that contributes to Wayanad tourism is the Udupi Pure Vegetarian restaurant. If you thought South Indian cuisine was all about non-vegetarian food, this place will prove you wrong. There are regional dishes as well as unique elements in the menu, all at affordable prices!

Jubilee Restaurant

One of Wayanad tourism’s finest is the Jubilee restaurant located at a height of 3000 ft. The restaurant serves up traditional food avial, payasam and vellarika kichadi with amazing views of the landscape. The interiors are decked up in the style of a traditional South Indian home to make you feel at ease.

How To Travel In Wayanad

The best way to explore Wayanad tourism and traverse emerald landscapes is to get your own car so that if you come across a spot that touches the chords of your heart, you can stop and stay awhile longer. However, if you’d rather forego the hassle of bringing your own vehicle and managing it (parking is forever a problem for vehicle owners), there are plenty of transport options available in Wayanad, courtesy Wayanad Tourism, which we’ll mention in this Wayanad travel guide. 

Thanks to Wayanad tourism all the places in the district are well connected. There are private companies with a network of buses that can take you to all the places of interest in Wayanad and its outskirts.

If you feel like you haven’t gotten your fill of Wayanad’s rolling tea estates, Wayanad tourism’s got that covered too. KSRTC has non-AC all Wayanad round buses that take you through the sights starting from Sultan Bathery. The bus goes through all the major stops such as Chulliyod, AmbalaVayal, Vaduvanchal, Meppadi, WIMS Hospital and more.   

Wayanad tourism also has arrangements for taxis on hire throughout your Wayanad trip. Some companies provide a guide and a driver along with the taxi while others have tour packages you can book online. You can also choose to get the local experience by travelling in shared or private rickshaws!

Typical Costs In Wayanad 

Wayanad tourism welcomes all travellers to come to partake of its beauty. Whether you’re travelling on a budget or want to rejuvenate in the lap of luxury or get the best of both, Wayanad tourism has an array of options available for all kinds of travellers. 

Budget travel

Wayanad tourism has plenty of options available for budget travellers by way of hostels, dormitories and guest houses. Dormitories offer stays for as low as Rs 200 per day. It is recommended that you travel in a group to split transport costs. All in all, with stay costs, travel expenses and food, estimated costs should come up to around Rs 2,500 per person for around three days. 

Mid-budget travel

Wayanad tourism has plenty to offer to mid-budget travellers as well. You could opt to stay at an inn which can cost you anything between Rs 750 to Rs 1,500 per day. 

Luxury travel 

If you’d rather spend your holiday surrounded by all kinds of creature comfort, then Wayanad tourism has plenty of resorts complete with a pool and downy beds. Be prepared to shell out around Rs 5000 per day at resorts. However, if you’re travelling with family, it would be prudent to book a homestay for the ease and comfort of a home where you can save on costs by cooking your own meals. This would put down costs at Rs 15,000 to Rs 18,000 for around two-three days.

 Written by Neeti Chopra. She's a cat lady who loves curling up in corners with a book. 

Frequently Asked Questions

This depends on your tastes and preferences. Wayanad tourism has seen a spike due to nature lovers who flock to the district to feast their eyes on the lush greenery, forests, carpeted hills, sparkling streams and waterfalls. History buffs will also be riveted due to pre-historic caves and legends that are entwined with places. Ideally, people spend three days here. 

The Wayanad tourism site suggests that you remember to pack an umbrella for those brief but heavy downpours. Pack a hairdryer which will prove to be your saviour during the monsoon. You’ll not only be able to dry your hair but also other items like clothes, bags etc.

Make sure you carry a waterproof bag for your camera. Light clothes that dry easily would be a good pick. However, also carry warm clothes according to the season as Wayanad can get chilly sometimes.

While Wayanad tourism sees the influx of tourists all year round, it is best to make plans for a Wayanad trip between the months of October to May. The scenic location sees heavy rains during the other months which play damper on your Wayanad sightseeing plans.

Wayanad tourism recommends that you be accompanied by an experienced guide or be part of a group when you venture into Wayanad’s deep forests. It is easy to get lost in the dense forests if you’re unaccompanied.

Pack light clothing with full sleeves to stay safe from insect bites. Dress appropriately and be considerate of the local culture. 

There are many hidden gems in Wayanad tourism’s bank which you can explore without having to brave crowds. 

1) Visit Jain temple ruins

The Wayanad district was once home to a Jain populace which disappeared a few hundred years ago. The cause remains unknown. They left behind Jain temple architecture which now stand as scattered ruins across Wayanad. Pamaram has ruins of a Jain temple which you can visit to understand the ancient culture of the vanished community. The structure stands wizened by time but remnants of its glorious rock sculptures still remain. 

2) Sit by the Phantom rock

Another attraction of Wayanad tourism, though not as famous as the others, is the Phantom rock. Glimpse at nature’s handiwork called the Phantom rock which has several rocks seemingly precariously balanced to form a human-like figure. Locally the attraction is known as Cheengeri Mala. The metamorphic rock formation lies near Ambalavayal in Wayanad and resembles a human skull. The site of the rock offers a vantage point to look out to some beautiful landscapes. 

3) Gaze at the Kanthanpara Waterfalls in Meppadi

The Kanthanpara falls lose out to its more famous peers of Wayanad tourism but is no less charming. It is likely, that this waterfall won’t be crowded so you can enjoy some peace in seclusion at the falls. The 30 m high waterfall swells during the monsoon and becomes a stunning sight to see. 

There are many ways by which you can reach the picturesque district. Wayanad tourism has ensured that Wayanad is well connected by road, air and rail.

Kozhikode airport is around 25 km away from the heart of the city. You can fly down to Wayanad from Madurai, Chennai, Coimbatore, Goa, Bangalore and Mumbai.

  By rail

There is a Kozhikode railway station, south of the Manachira Square. You can take a train to the railway station from Mangalore, Ernakulam, Thiruvananthapuram, Chennai, Coimbatore, Goa and Mumbai.

Kozhikode is linked to various places in Kerala and other neighbouring states by National Highway 17. 

• Destinations
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Places to visit in Wayanad

Most Popular Places to Visit in Wayanad

Situated in the mountains of Western Ghats in northeast region of Kerala, Wayanad district is one of the best tourist destination in Kerala . Wayanad is the only district in Kerala that shares its borders with Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Wayanad is creating a new boom among tourists from across the world by its unbelievable beauty.

Recently, Wayanad become the top holiday destinations for travellers across the globe. Whether it is a family trip , group trip or a honeymoon trip, everyone opts for Wayanad. The reason behind is it’s unique and jaw dropping beauty of hill stations, green zigzag valleys, trekking and camping spots, tea gardens, deep forests, temples, famous chain tree, wildlife, beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and more.

Wayanad at a Glance

Famous for – Chain Tree, Wildlife, Dense Forests, Waterfalls, Tea Plantations and more.

Shares Borders with – Bangalore and Tamil Nadu

Best Season to Visit – During Summer (Best Months March, April and May), winter (between Decembers to February).

Weather – During summer up to 36°C, in winter season there is downfall of temperature up to 10°C.

How to Reach Wayanad

Wayanad has a strong communication connection with most of the metro cities and other places.

Reach Wayanad by Air

The nearest airport to Wayanad is Calicut International Airport, which is about 65 km from Wayanad. Visitors can commute from various metro cities to Wayanad airport. After reaching airport, travellers can catch a taxi, bus, auto, etc. to reach the destination.

Reach Wayanad by Road

Road journey is more adventurous to Wayanad. KSRTC buses are available form various cities like Bangalore, Mysore, Kochi, Chennai and Trivandrum to Kozhikode. There are also different buses that drop up to Wayanad.

Available bus from various cities to Wayanad

• Bangalore to Wayanad
• Hyderabad to Wayanad
• Ernakulam to Wayanad
• Alleppey to Wayanad
• Mysore to Wayanad

Available bus from Wayanad to various cities

• Wayanad to Bangalore Bus
• Wayanad to Hyderabad Bus
• Wayanad to Ernakulam Bus
• Wayanad to Alleppey Bus
• Wayanad to Mysore Bus

Reach Wayanad by Rail

Visitors can also reach Wayanad by railway. The nearest railway to Wayanad is Kozhikode. After that, visitors can book taxis, buses, etc. to Wayanad.

Top Places to Visit in Wayanad

There are plethora of attractions in Wayanad to pay a visit. If Wayanad is your next holiday destination, do visit Wayanad, which is famous for Hill station, deep forestlands, waterfalls, and more. You can book your holidays with your family, friends, and groups. This is also a perfect honeymoon destinations for newly wedded couples. You can choose the number of days you want to spend in Wayanad. Divide the time so that you can enjoy all the popular destinations in Wayanad. Find below the names of places in Wayanad to spend your holidays.

Chembra Peak 

Chembra Peak is one of the most famous destinations among visitors. It is the highest peak in Wayanad at 2,100 m above sea level. It is one of the best trekking spot for the trek lovers. The peak is near Meppadi and is around 8 km south of Kalpetta. What you will love in this peak is its heart shaped lake on the way to Chembra Peak. The famous and important thing about this lake is that it never gets dry. It is a perfect photography spot. Visitors can camp at the top of the peak and stay there for one or two days to enjoy the nature.

“Unfold the beauty of Chembra Peak and enjoy its natural beauty.”

Edakkal Caves 

Edakkal Caves is one of the best tourist places in Wayanad. It is located in a remote place named Edakkal, which is 25 km from Kalpetta. The caves lies 1,200 m (3,900 ft) above sea level on Ambukuthi Mala. The caves is famous for its rock carvings of different shapes that represents humans and animals. In simple sense, the carvings represents the prehistoric age. It is also a trekking spot in the rocky mountains.

Visiting Hours

Tuesday –        8:30AM–4PM

Wednesday – 8:30AM–4PM

Thursday –      8:30AM–4PM

Friday –            8:30AM–4PM

Saturday –       8:30AM–4PM

Sunday –         8:30AM–4PM

Monday –        Closed

Banasura Sagar Dam 

Banasura Sagar Dam is one of the largest earth dam in India. The dam is located in Kalpetta. The dam made in the Banasura Lake. It has great scenic beauty. The mountain adds an extra gem to the place. Visitors can take candid photos in dam. Apart from that, visitors can do speed boating, motor boating and more. It is also a great trekking point, amazing sightseeing, mountains, and more. Visitors can get local spices, coffee, tea, bamboo stuffs, honey, herbal plants and more from the local shops in Wayanad.

Entry Fee – Rs. 10 per Person, Rs. 450 for 5 person for speed boating, Rs. 10 Parking Charge, Rs. 20 for still photographs.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary 

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife Sanctuary located in Wayanad. It is one of the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. Visitors will be mesmerised by the 344.44 km2 area of the Sanctuary. You will get an awesome experience in the deep and dense forest. You will get to see different wild animals like Indian bison, elephant, deer, tiger, etc. Apart from that, you will get see varieties of birds in the Sanctuary.

“Enjoy the lush green forests and rich wildlife in the Sanctuary”

Sunday –          7AM–12PM

Tuesday –        7AM–12PM

Wednesday – 7AM–12PM

Thursday –      7AM–12PM

Friday –           Closed

Saturday –       7AM–12PM

Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary

Nature lovers will love to visit the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary. You will get to see flock of birds chirping and playing in the ground. Inside the sanctuary, visitors will love the orchid plantations and different herbs. You can also make a camp and stay overnight to enjoy the amazing moment. There is also a trekking option in the place. There is also a watchtower in the place to guide the visitors and navigate their ways.

Best Time to Visit – October and January

Closed – February till May

06:00 AM to 06:00 PM, Open in all days

“Enjoy the wildlife scenes with your family, kids and friends”

Pookode Lake, Kalpetta 

Pookode Lake is a freshwater lake in the Wayanad district in Kerala. It has a great scenic beauty. The lake is 15 km away from Kalpetta. In the lake visitors will get to see blue lotus, fish and greenery everywhere. Things to do in Pookode Lake are boating, a great picnic spot, a children’s park for kids, aquarium, a handicrafts’ emporium. The shape of the lake is like the Map of India. An amazing natural beauty is the Blue water lily flowers in the lake.

Neelimala View Point 

This is a splendid view in the heart of the Wayanad. Covered by dense forest and lush green trees, Neelimala Viewpoint will give you a jaw dropping experience. It is located in Vaduvanchal in Wayanad. You can feel the cool breeze in the place. It has an amazing cooling breeze. Tourist will amazed by the great mountain view in the clouds, chirping of birds, flying of colourful butterflies, and more.

Sunday –          Closed

Monday –        9AM–6PM

Tuesday –        9AM–6PM

Wednesday – 9AM–6PM

Thursday –      9AM–6PM

Friday –           9AM–6PM

Saturday –       Closed

Meenmutty Waterfalls 

Meenmutty is the largest waterfall in Wayanad. This is a three-tiered waterfall with a height of 300 metres. The waterfall is 25 km from Kalpetta, 5 km from Banasura Dam and 48 km from Sulthan Bathery. It is a trek spot form jungle trek of the main Ootty road and is only 2 km. Tourist love this place for its beautiful scenery and specially the three-tier fall. The fall is in the middle of lush green forest, which gives an amazing view.

Entry Fee – Rs. 20 for Adults, Rs.10 for Children, Rs. 25 for Still Photography, Rs. 150 for Video Camera, Rs. 200 for Foreigners, extra charge for Parking is also available.

Sunday –         8AM–4:30PM

Monday –        8AM–4:30PM

Tuesday –       8AM–4:30PM

Wednesday – 8AM–4:30PM

Thursday –     8AM–4:30PM

Friday –           8AM–4:30PM

Saturday –      8AM–4:30PM

Soochipara Falls, Kalpetta 

The fall is also known as the Sentinel Rock Waterfalls. The fall is in Vellarimala, Wayanad. It is a great tourist place. Visitors love to take bath in the fall. You can relax and arrange for a great picnic day. Visitors can also pay a visit the tea plantations, which is near the fall. There is also a pool at the base for swimming. Enjoy the cool ambience in the fall and do capture the moment.

Sunday –         9AM–5:00PM

Monday –        9AM–5:00PM

Tuesday –       9AM–5:00PM

Wednesday – 9AM–5:00PM

Thursday –     9AM–5:00PM

Friday –           9AM–5:00PM

Saturday –      9AM–5:00PM

Kuruva Island 

It is a small Island on river Kabini in Wayanad, Kalpetta. Visitors love to do the bamboo raft, which is famous among the visitors. You will hear and feel the great humming of birds, amazing boat tour of the lake, and more. There is also a long trek through the forest on the Island. The lake is covered by green trees all around. It is also a home for plethora of flora and fauna.

“Enjoy the eco-friendly nature and mingle with the breeze of the place”

Chain Tree, Wayanad

Chain Tree is one of the most visited tourist destination. It is located along the national highway near the Pepper Wayanad and Gate Hotel. Visitors will mesmerised by the unique beauty of the Chain Tree. Chain Tree is a Ficus tree with a massive steel chain hanging on it. The tree is around 25 feet tall. A small temple is there near the Chain Tree. The tree has certain religious beliefs.

Thirunelli Temple 

Thirunelli Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to the Lord Maha Vishnu on the side of Brahmagiri hill in Wayanad. The place will give a peace of mind, and will relax your mind. The temple is surrounded by deep green forests and a great wildlife scenario. It is believed that the temple is a sub-deities of Ganapathy, Hanuman and Nagam.

“Pay a visit to the temple and get a peace of mind and get the blessings”

Bathery Jain Temple

The Bathery Temple in Sulthan Bathery is one of the most visited destinations among tourists. The temple was built during the 13th century. The design of the temple has a great architectural beauty. Nearest station to the temple is Kozhikode, 97 km from Sulthan Bathery.

Highlights on Things to do in Wayanad

• Camping (Do take all the materials along with you)
• Cycling Tour
• Experience the Tea Plantations
• Wildlife Safari
• Photography in the deep forests
• Know the history of the historic places in Wayanad
• Bamboo Rafts
• Experience a stay in the tree House
• Walk around the lakes in Wayanad
• A night stay at forest

Resorts to Head in

• Vythiri Village resort
• Oxyfarm Resort
• Blue Ginger Spa Resorts
• Windflower Resort
• Banasura hill Resort
• Silverwoods Resort
• Kedara Village Resort
• The Meenmutty Heights
• Petals Resorts Wayanad
• Sharoy Resort

For more details, stay tuned to our website.

Here is some package tours to explore Kerala. Kerala family tour packages & Honeymoon packages to Kerala

Author:  Kerala Tour Packages Guide

Kerala Tour Packages Guide is one of the fastest growing tour operator in Kerala. We help foreign tourists and Indian tourists to enjoy Kerala. Our Expert tour coordinators will help you to choose the best destinations, hotels, houseboats in Kerala.

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Exploring Wayanad: Top Tourist Destinations and Attractions

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Wayanad, nestled in the verdant hills of Kerala , India, offers a plethora of enchanting tourist destinations and attractions. One must explore the breathtaking beauty of Chembra Peak, home to the heart-shaped lake amidst lush tea estates. Edakkal Caves, adorned with ancient petroglyphs, provide a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric art and culture. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary beckons with its diverse flora and fauna, including majestic elephants and elusive tigers. Banasura Sagar Dam, boasting as India’s largest earth dam, offers serene boating experiences against the backdrop of scenic mountains. Here are Top 10 Places to Visit in Wayanad.

1. Chembra Peak

Chembra Peak is the highest peak in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India, towering at an elevation of approximately 2,100 meters above sea level. This picturesque peak is a prominent attraction for trekkers and nature enthusiasts alike, offering breathtaking views of lush greenery, mist-covered valleys, and the serene heart-shaped lake known as “Hridaya Saras” situated midway to the summit. The trek to Chembra Peak typically starts from the foothills, winding through dense forests, rolling grasslands, and rocky terrains.

Related Article – Top Nilambur Tourist Places

2. edakkal caves.

Edakkal Caves, nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Kerala, India, are a fascinating archaeological site renowned for their ancient rock carvings and paintings. Perched on Ambukuthi Hills in Wayanad district, these caves date back over 3,000 years and offer a unique glimpse into prehistoric civilization. The name “ Edakkal ” means “a stone in between” in Malayalam, aptly describing the caves’ formation, where a large boulder wedged between two rocks creates spacious chambers. Visitors can trek through scenic trails to reach the caves and explore the enigmatic symbols and figures etched into the walls, believed to depict hunting scenes, rituals, and daily life of the time. 

3. Soochipara Waterfalls

Soochipara Waterfalls, nestled in the verdant landscapes of Wayanad in Kerala, India, is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors with its pristine beauty. Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, it cascades down from a height of about 200 feet into a large pool below, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Surrounded by lush greenery and dense forests, reaching the falls involves a short trek through the picturesque terrain, offering adventurers a delightful experience amidst nature’s splendor. The name “Soochipara” translates to “needle rock,” aptly describing the unique rock formations surrounding the waterfall.

Related Article – Tourism in Kerala

4. banasura sagar dam.

Banasura Sagar Dam, located in the picturesque district of Wayanad in Kerala, India, stands as the largest earth dam in the country and the second-largest in Asia. Nestled amidst the verdant Western Ghats, this marvel of engineering is built across the Karamanathodu River, a tributary of the Kabini River. The dam not only serves as a vital water reservoir for irrigation and drinking purposes but also attracts tourists with its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities. The reservoir formed by the dam offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and lush greenery, making it a popular spot for boating and other water-based activities. 

5. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the picturesque Western Ghats of Kerala, India, is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Spread over lush green landscapes and dense forests, the sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Its rich biodiversity includes species like elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, langurs, and a plethora of bird species. Visitors can explore the sanctuary through guided safaris and trekking trails, immersing themselves in the serene beauty of the surroundings while spotting various wildlife species in their natural habitat. 

Related Article – Must-See Attractions

6. pookode lake.

Pookode Lake, nestled amid the lush greenery of Wayanad in Kerala, India, is a serene natural attraction that captivates visitors with its pristine beauty. Surrounded by dense forests and verdant hills, the lake offers a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Boating on the emerald waters of Pookode Lake is a popular activity, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. The lake is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, adding to its allure as a haven for nature enthusiasts. 

7. Thirunelli Temple

Thirunelli Temple, nestled in the serene landscapes of Wayanad district in Kerala, India, is a revered pilgrimage site known for its antiquity and spiritual significance. Situated amidst lush greenery and surrounded by the majestic Brahmagiri hills, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of Chaturbhuja. Its architecture, with intricately carved pillars and traditional Kerala style, reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. The temple is renowned for its unique rituals and festivals, drawing devotees and tourists alike seeking solace and blessings. 

8. Kuruvadweep

Kuruvadweep, located in Wayanad, Kerala, is a captivating island nestled amidst the serene waters of the Kabini River . Enveloped by lush greenery and rich biodiversity, it offers a tranquil escape into nature’s embrace. The island is renowned for its dense forests, sparkling streams, and diverse wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can explore the island’s pristine beauty through guided walks, bamboo rafting, and bird watching, immersing themselves in the serene ambiance of this untouched paradise.

Related Article – Kovalam Unveiled

9. meenmutty waterfalls.

Meenmutty Waterfalls, nestled in the lush greenery of Wayanad, Kerala, is a sight to behold. Cascading down in three tiers from a height of over 300 meters, it presents a mesmerizing spectacle for visitors. Surrounded by dense forests and rocky terrain, reaching the falls involves a trek through nature’s bounty, adding to the adventure. The journey is as enchanting as the destination itself. The thundering sound of water reverberates through the surroundings, creating a serene ambiance that captivates all who venture here.

10. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in Wayanad district of Kerala, India, is a biodiverse haven renowned for its rich flora and fauna. Spanning over 345 square kilometers, this sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Its dense forests are home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and exotic bird species. Visitors can explore the sanctuary through guided safaris and trekking trails, offering glimpses of its natural beauty and vibrant ecosystem.

Wayanad, nestled in the lush greenery of Kerala, India, is a captivating destination that enchants visitors with its natural beauty and cultural richness. This serene district is renowned for its mist-covered hills, sprawling tea plantations, and dense forests teeming with diverse wildlife. Travelers are drawn to its picturesque landscapes, which feature cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, and meandering rivers. Wayanad also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with ancient temples, tribal villages, and historical sites offering glimpses into its storied past. Adventurers can embark on thrilling treks through the Western Ghats, explore hidden caves, or unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings of its luxury resorts.

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14 gorgeous places to stay in Wayanad

By Shradha Shahani and Arundhati Ail

The forests of Kerala have some of the best-kept secrets, and Wayanad is one of them. The region boasts of untouched luscious green landscapes, rice paddies, coffee plantations and majestic mountains, leading us to hotels with some of the most gorgeous scenery. Here are our top picks:

Windflower Resort and Spa Vythiri, Vythiri

Take long walks through tea and spice plantations in the vicinity, enjoy a candle-lit dinner for two with panoramic views of the majestic mountains and lounge in the pool surrounded by silver oaks. When you're done, you can indulge in some more self-care by heading to the in-house spa Emerge, which offers 20 different treatments to relax and rejuvenate. Two out of the 38 rooms are wheelchair friendly, though these are situated about 150m from the reception—if you require wheelchair access, call the hotel in advance to book these rooms. Children will enjoy the magic shows and dance programs the property organises. There are also indoor and outdoor games to keep them busy. 3-hour drive from Calicut airport; the last stretch is a slightly hilly road. Doubles from Rs10,350* inclusive of breakfast.

Lakerose Wayanad, Kalpetta

A pristine lake, pastures of lush green and undulating mountains lie beyond the gorgeous infinity pool at the Lakerose Wayanad. The cottages sit on the bank of the lake and the private patios open up to unobstructed views of the Western Ghats dotted with dense forests. There are indoor games and cycling tracks for kids, and if the weather permits, you can enjoy bonfires and a barbecue hot off the grill here. 3-hour drive from Calicut and Mysore airport, the hotel is situated on a main road. Doubles from Rs10,500*.

Wayanad Silverwoods, Kalpetta

Sprawling over 16 acres of land, this resort offers views of the Banasura Sagar Dam, lush tropical forests, rolling mountains, waterfalls and a variety of flora and fauna. While one room has wheelchair access, the rest of the property is not easily accessible via wheelchair. There’s a clubhouse with indoor games as well as a play area for little ones, and pets are allowed as long as they don’t disturb other guests. You can choose from a range of villas of varying sizes. The star attraction amongst these is the Sky Romantico Villa. Enjoy the view of the Banasura Hill from the villa's jacuzzi in the balcony. There's a lake below, the sky above and the views of a lifetime. 2.5-hour drive from Calicut airport, the hotel is situated on a main road. Doubles from Rs5,488*.

Wayanad Wild, Lakkidi

Wayanad Wild is located amidst the lush green rainforest of Lakkidi with rooms that overlook an infinity pool tipping over foliage. While jeep safaris are available, they say the best way to discover the wilderness is on foot. Sign up for a guided tour of the property or a bird-watching excursion with the in-house naturalist. Or you can even explore the forests on your own. In the meanwhile, there are indoor games to keep your children entertained. All the food served at the hotel is prepared with fresh produce from the local markets. A must-try here is the kingfish stuffed with chillies and onions and payasam. 3-hour drive from Calicut Airport; the last 3.5km is a stretch of rugged terrain. Doubles from Rs18,000*

After The Rains, Meppadi

Smell the magic of a rainforest and enjoy a hot cuppa in your private garden while taking in the views of the Nilgiris at this resort. Spreading over 16 acres of land, After The Rains has four kinds of villas of varying sizes. The bathroom of the Lilikoi suite houses a bathtub that opens up to panoramic views of the hills and forests. Gorge on the local cuisine at Ahua, that serves Malabar fish curry and delicacies such as Kuttanadan kozhi peralan. Children and adults will enjoy learning fishing at the freshwater pond and walks through neighbouring coffee and spice plantations. The property is not wheelchair accessible. About a 3-hour drive from Calicut airport. Doubles from Rs7,203*.

Chateau Woods Wayanad

Inspired by colonial tea estate bungalows, this boutique property features just seven rooms overlooking the Soochipara Waterfalls valley. There are three categories of rooms and suites, along with the cliffside cottages which are situated at the highest point of the estate and are perfect for couples looking for complete privacy. The highest category is the Presidential Suite, which comes with a balcony overlooking the mountains and a private jacuzzi. While you’re here, enjoy nature treks, mountain biking, fishing, ziplining and outdoor yoga. There are also indoor games like carrom and board games to enjoy if it’s raining outside. The hilly terrain of the property does not allow for wheelchair accessibility. 2.5-3 hours’ drive from Calicut airport, the road to the property is easily drivable without any off-road routes. Doubles from Rs8,500*.

Fringe Ford Estate, Mananthavadi

Spread over 520 acres of wilderness, Fringe Ford Estate has no internet or television and was once owned by a British settler. The stone accommodations have been built mindfully and feature heavy wooden furnishings, walls converted into windows and luxurious bathrooms. The food is cooked on a charcoal stove and often features foraged ferns and produce. You can eat the Kerala-style meals in the kitchen, outside or by a waterfall that you can trek to if the weather permits. Take long walks in the forest or trek to natural pools nearby. Those looking for a challenge will appreciate the 120-minute trek to the checkpost with the in-house guide Shaji. About a 2-hour drive from Kannur airport; the property recommends that you leave your vehicle at the designated pick-up point at Talapoya and make the trek up to Fringe Ford in the pick-up van they send for you. Doubles from Rs6,384* a night for a minimum stay of two nights.

Annapara Homestay, Vythiri

This homestay hosted by couple Zafar and Reshma Salim is perfect for that quiet holiday you’ve been dreaming of, away from life’s worries. Perched on a hillock, the home, which was built in the 1950s, has five rooms and two suites. The latter come with two queen beds on the ground floor and two single beds in the attic, a living area, a verandah and an aerial view of a coffee plantation against the forest-covered hills. There’s a badminton court and swimming pool on the property and the hosts are happy to organise walks to the nearby waterfall for you. Pets are welcome and will likely enjoy the ample outdoor space and greenery. The property is not wheelchair accessible. About a 2-hour drive from Calicut airport. Doubles from Rs7,200* inclusive of breakfast.

Palkadavu Warium Villa Homestay

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Zinara Rathnayake

This 1946 house is surrounded by lush tropical trees and overlooks paddy fields. Hosts Subin and Swaroop are lovers of nature and travel and enjoy interacting with guests. The home has three bedrooms with king-size beds and two small rooms with single beds. There’s also an attic that kids will enjoy sleeping in and a playground for them to play. There’s an organic farm close to the villa that the hosts can show you around and you can even pluck your own seasonal vegetables. Pets are welcome on request and can access the entire property apart from the bedrooms. The property is not wheelchair accessible. About a 2-hour drive from Kannur airport; you can drive right up to the property on tarred roads. Doubles from Rs3,000*.

Mountain Shadows Resort, Padinjarathara

This luxury property towards the outskirts of Wayanad in Padinjarathara, features 51 cottages and is flanked by Banasura lake and a dense green forest. There are three categories of villas, of which the most luxurious is the 1,100sqft Romantic Private Pool Villa with a spacious balcony, 15ft pool and lake views. You can hike to a nearby peak or take a long walk in the forest and enjoy bird-watching while you’re at it. The property houses an infinity pool, an outdoor basketball court and football turf as well as indoor games. The property is not wheelchair accessible. 3-hour drive from Kannur airport and a 3.5-hour drive from Calicut airport, the last 3km involves driving on a slightly rough road but you can drive right up to the reception. Doubles from Rs19,192*.

Taj Wayanad Resort & Spa, Padinjarathara

Situated right on the banks of the beautiful Banasura Lake, this Taj property offers luxury, wellness and scenic views. You can pick from rooms or cottages, some of which come with private gardens and open-to-sky decks. The Deluxe Cottage is the highest category and is located close to a waterfall, with views of the hills and the lake. There are ample options for food and drinks including a South Indian cuisine restaurant and a poolside bar and grill. Take a cycling tour close to the property, book a private yoga session or get a private dining experience at your villa. If that’s not enough, there’s a spa, sauna, fitness centre and pool to keep you busy. About a 3-hour drive from Calicut and Kannur airports. Doubles from Rs17,000*.

Saptha Spa & Resort, Kuppady

Spread across five acres of beautiful, swaying paddy fields, Saptha Spa & Resort is a sight for sore eyes. The property has been designed by architect Tony Joseph and features large windows, 63 spacious rooms, a spa and a pool with a gorgeous view of the surrounding hills. Deluxe rooms come with a balcony and views of the paddy fields while premium rooms also have an open-air bathtub. The suites have a living and dining area, king-size bed and a bathtub in the balcony. While you soothe your muscles at the spa, kids can enjoy indoor games and foosball, take a dip in the pool or enjoy the property’s green, open spaces. Pets are allowed at an extra charge and can stay with you in your room. The property is wheelchair accessible and senior-friendly. 2.5-hour drive from Calicut and Mysore airport, easily accessible by road. Doubles from Rs10,000*.

Morickap Resort, Kalpetta

Wake up to misty mountains and the soothing sounds of babbling jungle streams. You can opt for the studio room or suite, or pick the villas that come with a private jacuzzi or pool. Two out of the ten premium villas are wheelchair accessible. While you unwind at the spa with an abhyanga or shirodhara, little ones can busy themselves with the indoor games, zipline or rock climbing facility within the property. 3-hour drive from Calicut and Kannur airports. Doubles from Rs11,000*.

Vaayo Bubbles, Mundakkai

If you don’t ever want to lose sight of the views of Wayanad, book yourself into this ‘bubble resort’ where your room is a transparent dome. Located about a kilometre away from Soochipara Waterfalls, Vaayo Bubbles offers a glamping experience atop a hill, with views of tea estates on one side and forests on the other. While the one-room property is not wheelchair accessible, it has played host to senior guests before. The four-poster bed has curtains that you can draw for privacy, as well as a fully covered dressing room and bathroom. There’s a small pool where the property can arrange for a floating breakfast, and treks and walking trails closeby. About a 3-hour drive from Calicut airport; the road is hilly but you can drive right up to the property. Call 8590600400 for prices.

*Prices are subject to change.

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Tourist Places

Tourist places of Wayanad district in Kerala.

Phantom Rock

The towering Phantom Rock and its surroundings are popular among nature lovers and photographers. The rock formation, which resembles a…

Tholpetty WildLife Sanctuary

Lying towards the north of the district of Wayanad, this region harbours a rich diversity of flora. Open to wildlife…

Banasura Sagar Dam

Wayanad is home to India’s largest earthen dam, the Banasura Sagar. The dam, which was constructed in 1979, is built…

Edakkal Caves

Located at about 1200 ft above the sea level, the Edakkal Caves are among the oldest human settlements ever discovered….

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• Offbeat Places In Wayanad: Discovering 5 Places To Relax And Unwind

17 May 2024

Wayanad, the verdant hill station in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a nature lover’s paradise. While its lush green landscapes, misty valleys, and cascading waterfalls are well-known attractions, this picturesque district also houses a bucket full of offbeat places in Wayanad that remain relatively unexplored. This guide will take you on a beautiful journey through some of the most intriguing gems of the region where you can immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage, marvel at nature’s raw beauty, and create unforgettable memories. Get ready to discover the lesser-known facets of this enchanting hill station that will leave you spellbound and craving for more.

Top 5 Offbeat Places in Wayanad

Wayanad is renowned for its lush greenery, misty mountains, and rich biodiversity. There are several hidden offbeat places in Wayanad that offer unique experiences. They are:

1. Banasura Sagar Dam

Image Source: Shutterstock

Banasura Sagar Dam is a must-visit for any nature lover visiting Wayanad. Constructed in 1979, this dam is India’s largest earthen dam and ranks second in Asia. The dam, one of the offbeat places in Wayanad, itself is quite scenic, but the real beauty lies in the reservoir it creates. The Banasura Sagar reservoir is a sprawling lake surrounded by lush green hills. You can take a boat ride on the Banasura Sagar reservoir. For a more unique experience, try a coracle ride. Coracles are small, round boats made of woven reeds and covered with leather or plastic. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, try ziplining across the lake. This is a great way to get your adrenaline pumping and enjoy stunning views from above.

Best Time to Visit The optimal time to visit Banasura Sagar Dam is during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September. The lake is at its fullest, and the surrounding hills are lush green. How to Reach Wayanad to Banasura Sagar Dam?

• Car: If driving from Bangalore, take the NH 212 highway to Mysore. From Mysore, take the NH 85 highway to Kannur. From Kannur, take the NH 17 highway to Kalpetta. The Banasura Sagar Dam is well-signposted from Kalpetta, located about 21 km.
• Taxi or Bus: You can hire a taxi or bus from Kalpetta to the Banasura Sagar Dam.

Must Read: Wayanad Tourist Places

2. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

For those seeking offbeat places in Mysore, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary offers an adventurous escape into the heart of nature. It is a must-visit place for nature lovers. It covers an area of 344.44 square kilometres and is the second-largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. It is divided into two disconnected parts: North Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and South Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to various animals, including tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and gaur. You can explore the sanctuary’s dense forests on an exciting jeep safari. This is the best way to spot wildlife and get close to nature.

Best Time to Visit The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary’s optimal visiting times are from October through May. Nevertheless, the sanctuary remains closed during the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall.

How to Reach Wayanad to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary?

• By Air: The Calicut International Airport is the closest airport, approximately 90 kilometres from Wayanad. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to Wayanad.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Thalassery Railway Station (TAS), about 60 kilometres from Wayanad. You can take taxis and buses from the railway station to Wayanad.
• By Road: Wayanad enjoys robust road connectivity with major cities across Kerala and South India. Travellers can board a bus or hire a taxi to reach Wayanad.

3. Chembra Peak

Chembra Peak, towering at an elevation of 2,100 meters above sea level, claims the title of the highest peak in Wayanad. The trek to the peak is moderate, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills, tea plantations, and lush green valleys. The trek to Chembra Peak is about 4.5 km long and takes 3-4 hours to complete. Hridayasarasu, or the heart-shaped lake, is a beautiful spot about halfway up the trek to Chembra Peak. The lake is said to be never-drying and is a popular spot for photography. You can visit the forests around Chembra Peak, home to various wildlife, including birds, snakes, and mammals.

Best Time to Visit The prime period to explore Chembra Peak is winter (November to February). The trek can also be done during the summer (March to May) but can be hot and humid. How to Reach Wayanad to Chembra Peak?

• By road: Chembra Peak is about 8 kilometres from Meppadi, a town in Wayanad. To reach the base of the trek, you can hire a taxi or rickshaw from Meppadi.
• By bus: Regular buses run from Kalpetta, the main town in Wayanad, to Meppadi. From Meppadi, you can hire a taxi or rickshaw to reach the base of the trek.

Suggested Read: Resorts Near Wayanad

4. Edakkal Caves

Edakkal Caves are two natural caves nestled amidst the lush green hills of Wayanad. Edakkal means “a stone in between” – apt for these caves formed by a giant boulder wedged between two other large boulders. These caves are famed for the prehistoric petroglyphs or rock carvings believed to date back to at least 6,000 BCE, offering a glimpse into the lives of our ancestors.

The carvings depict figures like animals, humans, tools, and even some Tamil Brahmi scripts, making Edakkal Caves a significant archaeological site and one of the most offbeat places in Wayanad. Reaching the caves involves a scenic trek through the Ambukutty Hills. Enjoy the fresh air, verdant surroundings, and the beauty of the Western Ghats as you make your way up. The vantage point from the caves offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Wayanad.

Best Time to Visit The ideal time to visit Edakkal Caves is during the winter months, from November to February. How to Reach Wayanad to Edakkal Caves?

• Local Bus: Take a local bus from Kalpetta, the administrative headquarters of Wayanad, to Ambukutty Mala. You can hire a jeep or taxi to reach the caves from there.
• Taxi: To reach the caves directly, hire a taxi from Kalpetta or any nearby town.

5. Soochipara Falls

Soochipara Falls is also famous as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, one of the best offbeat places in Wayanad for couples. It is a breathtaking three-tiered wonder nestled amidst the lush green forests of Wayanad. The name Soochipara comes from the Malayalam words “Soochi”, meaning “needle”, and “Para”, meaning “rock”, referring to the sharp needle-shaped rocks surrounding the falls. The cascading waters plunge from a height of about 200 meters, creating a pool ideal for swimming and a visual spectacle that awakes visitors. You can dip in the invigorating pool at the foot of the falls. Birdwatchers can listen to the calls of various avian residents. Simultaneously, photographers have the opportunity to capture the breathtaking beauty of the falls and its picturesque surroundings. Best Time to Visit The ideal time to visit Soochipara Falls is during the monsoon season, from June to September, when the waterfalls are most potent. If you prefer drier weather, you can visit between November and February. How to Reach Wayanad to Soochipara Falls?

• By Road: You can hire a taxi or cab from Wayanad town or take a bus to Meppadi. From Meppadi, you can take another cab or jeep to reach the falls.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Thalassery, about 70 kilometres from Soochipara Falls. From Thalassery, you can hire a taxi to reach the falls.

Further Read: Villas In Wayanad

Wayanad offers a treasure trove of offbeat destinations for the spirited traveller. This region calls you for an extraordinary journey. Whether you yearn for peace amidst nature’s embrace or thirst for a deep dive into cultural richness, Wayanad assures you of an unforgettable journey that resonates with your soul. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and go on an unforgettable adventurous trip to Wayanad , where the offbeat trails of Wayanad await your exploration. Book your trip today and let the magic of this captivating land unfold before your eyes.

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Cover Image Source: Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions About Offbeat Places in Wayanad

Which is the most beautiful village in Wayanad?

Wayanad has many charming villages, including:

• Meppady: A village known for its spice plantations and proximity to Chembra Peak.
• Tholpetty: Nestled amidst hills, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting.
• Virajpet: A town with a strong indigenous culture and historical sites.

Can we cover Wayanad in one day?

Wayanad has much to offer, and covering everything in one day would be hectic. To truly experience its beauty, a minimum of two to three days is recommended.

What is the scenic beauty of Wayanad?

Wayanad boasts rolling hills, lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, and dense forests—a nature lover's paradise!

What is the special food of Wayanad?

Some local specialities are Kappi (bamboo rice), Kadala Curry (black gram curry), and Ghee Rice. Don't miss the fresh fruits and spices!

Which is the famous peak in Wayanad?

Chembra Peak stands as the famous peak of Wayanad, renowned for its trekking routes and awe-inspiring vistas.

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10 Best Tourist Spots to Visit in South India for a Refreshing Vacation

S outh India offers an array of exciting vacation opportunities, from stunning beaches to lush plantations, gushing waterfalls to lively temples, exhilarating activities to peaceful backwater excursions. Here is a comprehensive list of the top 20 locations to visit in South India if you intend to travel to this region of the nation. These locations should be at the top of your bucket list because they are nothing short of travellers’ fantasies. Look at this!

1. Alleppey

Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, especially in the winter. It is known as the Venice of the East. It is nothing short of a marvel, nestled within lush surroundings. As you visit this stunning location in South India, Alleppey, you’ll notice a striking resemblance to Venice.

November through February is the best season to travel to Alleppey.

How to travel to Alleppey: Cochin International Airport, which is 78 kilometres from the location, and Alleppey Railway Station, which is 4 kilometres from the destination, are the closest airfield and railhead, respectively.

In the state of Karnataka, Coorg is arguably one of the most well-liked tourist spots. Coorg draws tourists from India and other countries because of its coffee and tea plantations, gushing rivers, peaceful meadows, overflowing lakes, and stunning waterfalls. There are several places to stay in Coorg, ranging from luxurious hotels to backpacker hostels.

October through March is the ideal season to explore Coorg.

How to travel to Coorg: The closest airport to Coorg is Mangalore Airport, and the closest railhead to the city is Mysore Railway Station, both of which are 135 and 120 km distant, respectively.

Kabini is renowned for its distinctive experiences and for having one of India’s rarest wildlife reserves. It is one of the best locations in Karnataka to escape the bustle of the city.

October through February is the best season to travel to Kabini.

How to travel to Kabini: Mysore Airport and Mysore Railway Station are the closest airfield and railhead, respectively, and are located 66 and 70 kilometres from Kabini, respectively.

4. Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, one of Tamil Nadu’s most beautiful hill towns, is accessible both in the summer and the winter. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India due to the misty hills coated in fog and the chilly temperature.

March to May is the best season to visit Kodaikanal.

Reaching Kodaikanal: Madurai Airport, 120 kilometres away, and Kodai Road Railway Station, 95 kilometres away, are the closest airfield and railhead, respectively, to Kodaikanal.

5. Wayanad

Wayanad, a well-known tourist destination in South India, is known for its unique flora and fauna and is tucked away in and around the lush green forests of the Western Ghats. It is located in Kerala, around 16 kilometres from Sultan Batheyr.

October through May is the best season to travel to Wayanad.

How to travel to Wayanad: Karipur Airport and Kozhikode Railway Station are the closest airfield and rail hubs, respectively, and are each 100 and 110 km apart from Kodaikanal.

The Agumbe rainforest, the first of its kind, is one of the top tourist destinations in South India. This evergreen forest is a haven for those who love the outdoors and is home to a diverse range of biomass. You can also pursue several waterfalls in the area of Agumbe.

October through February is the best season to travel to Agumbe.

Getting to Agumbe:  Manguluru Airport, which is 95 kilometres away, and Udupi Railway Station, which is 50 kilometres away, are the closest airfield and railhead, respectively, to Agumbe.

Ooty, one of the most well-known hill towns in South India, is yet another must-visit location if you’re in this part of the country. Ooty, a stunning visual getaway in the state of Tamil Nadu, is known as the “Queen of the Hills.” Officially called as Udhakamandalam, it is regarded as South India’s top destination for honeymooners.

Ooty is best visited between April and June and September and November.

How to get to Ooty: The closest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore Airport, and the closest railhead is Mettupalayam Railway Station, both of which are located respectively 100 and 47 kilometres distant from the city.

8. Kumarakom

This Kerala vacation spot is nothing short of a winter wonderland. This location is also a popular honeymoon destination and has a special charm that adds to the trip’s allure. Kumarakom is a delight for the senses because to its abundance of palm palms, verdant meadows, and a long stretch of backwaters.

November through February is the ideal season to travel to Kumarakom.

Getting to Kumarakom – The closest airport to Kumarakom is Kochi Airport, and the closest railhead to the city is Kottayam Railway Station, both of which are 45 and 16 km away, respectively.

The three rivers that run through Munnar gave it its name, and it is a beautiful hill station in South India that is nestled in the Kannan Devan Hills in the Devikulam taluk of the Idukki district. Munnar, which is well-known for being a honeymoon destination, is a location that charmed tourists with its stunning beauty and serene atmosphere.

December through February is the ideal season to visit Munnar.

How to travel to Munnar: The closest airport and train station, respectively, are Cochin International Airport and Kochi Railway Station, both located 125 and 124 kilometres from Munnar, respectively.

10. Thanjavur

Thanjavur, a history town in Tamil Nadu, is a sought-after travel destination in South India that offers a variegated perspective of the local religion and architectural wonders. Thanjavur is a centre for learning about India’s rich cultural past because it is home to the Great Living Chola Temples, which are also acknowledged as UNESCO World past Sites.

From October to March is the best season to visit Thanjavur.

Getting to Thanjavur: The heritage city of Thanjavur is located around 59 kilometres from Tiruchirapalli International Airport, which is also the closest railhead.

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USA TODAY 10Best

Experience the nostalgia of the open road at these 10 classic motels

Best Roadside Motel (2024) May 15, 2024

During the early years of the 20th century, Americans took to the nation’s brand-new highways, and roadside motels (a portmanteau of “motor hotel”) popped up to accommodate these travelers. Many of these historic properties have gotten retro-chic makeovers, blending their vintage charm with modern amenities. 

To find the best, an expert panel and USA TODAY 10Best editors selected their top picks, then our readers voted for their favorites. Here are the 10 best roadside motels in the United States.

No. 10: The Ozarker Lodge - Branson, Missouri

Surrounded by the Ozark Mountains, The Ozarker Lodge is reminiscent of mountain lodges from days gone by. The guest rooms come with such modern amenities as Bluetooth speakers, 50-inch HDTVs, and luxury toiletries. 

No. 9: Americana Motor Hotel - Flagstaff, Arizona

Located on iconic Route 66, the Americana Motor Hotel harks back to a time when road tripping was the way to travel. However, this property elevates the roadside motel to the next level with a year-round heated pool, fire pits and yard games, and a fenced-in "backyard" with dog wash station for your furry traveling companions. 

No. 8: The Starlite Motel - Kerhonkson, New York

Since the 1960s, the Starlite Motel has welcomed guests to the Catskills for a relaxing getaway. While the exterior still features direct guest room access from the parking lot typical of roadside motels, the interiors have been renovated to reflect a clean, modern aesthetic coupled with simple, yet comfortable furnishings.  

No. 7: Rhode's Motor Lodge - Boone, North Carolina

Not far from the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina's High Country, Rhode's Motor Lodge blends together the charm of a drive-up motor inn with the comfort of a mountain lodge, complete with scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Sit back and relax by the fire pit on the front porch, inside the lobby by the fireplace, or tucked away in your own guest room. 

No. 6: The Local - St. Augustine - St. Augustine, Florida

Owners Leila and Adam have restored this former Island Shores motel in St. Augustine to its heyday in the 1950s, added app-based self-check-in/check-out and keyless entry, and rechristened it The Local - St. Augustine. The non-smoking and air-conditioned rooms have a retro feel with coral and tropical themes, and each includes a refrigerator, microwave, safe, and high-speed Wi-Fi. 

No. 5: Bear Cove Inn - St Ignace, Michigan

At Bear Cove Inn, guests can "sleep under the trees" in the hotel's various themed rooms decorated with nature-inspired wallpaper, window curtains, bedding, and other decor items. For the ultimate "natural" escape, stay in the "Bear-Themed Cottage" outfitted with two recliners with heat and massage.  

No. 4: Roadrunner Lodge Motel - Tucumcari, New Mexico

The lovingly restored Roadrunner Lodge Motel on Route 66 blends mid-century style with modern conveniences, like premium mattresses, plush towels, and free Wi-Fi. This historic property is truly a mom and pop operation, and guests will get a sense of the care put into it during a stay.

No. 3: The Sunset Motel - Brevard, North Carolina

The Sunset Motel celebrates the allure of the open road by providing clean, comfortable rooms and friendly service to visiting guests. Amenities include free Wi-Fi and cable, plus chairs outside each door so guests can visit with their neighbors.

No. 2: Sugarloaf Mountain Motel - Virginia City, Nevada

Once a 19th-century brick-and-stone residence for miners, the Sugarloaf Mountain Motel now features 12 rooms with wood furniture and comfortable beds. The motel is just minutes from such attractions as the Mackay Mansion Museum, Washoe Club Museum & Saloon, and the Way It Was Museum. 

No. 1: The Groovy Nomad - Trenton, Georgia

A renovated 1959 roadside motel, The Groovy Nomad now features 10 themed rooms that will offer a fun and eclectic background for your next road trip. Try "Elvis' Jungle," inspired by the King of Rock 'n' Roll's Jungle Room at Graceland, let loose your inner flower child in "Flower Power," or tap into your '80s kid in "Pac-Man." 

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chez chesak.

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jacky Runice

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home...   Read More

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home safety choice and not a coffee order, Jacky Runice has been knocking around Chicago as a professional print, online and broadcast journalist and editor specializing in separating the riff from the raff in culture, entertainment, food, travel and pure unadulterated fun. Jacky is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). In her best Chicagoese, Jacky asks, "Who has the time or money to blow on hotels, attractions, restaurants, exhibits and activities that blow?"

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Kyle McCarthy

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of...   Read More

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com , America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and  The Family Vacationist  e-newsletter  provide destination reviews, tips and  seasonal roundups  for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival...   Read More

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

Shea Peters

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent...   Read More

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent world traveler that looks to the history of a location in order to tell the story. Growing up in a Southern family that loves to travel, Shea has seen 44 of the 50 US states and believes that every place has a story worth telling, regardless of how populated or rural. She's currently a regular contributor discussing travel, culture, history, food, wellness, and business at Travel + Leisure, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Oprah Daily, Women’s Health, TripAdvisor, Cosmo, and Revolt TV. When she's not traveling, rooting for some unlikable sports team, or taking a pilates class, you can find Shea in her rooftop garden that is currently flourishing above the streets of New York City. You can follow Shea on  Instagram  and  Twitter .

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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