Exploring the Best Tourist Places in Wayanad, India

Wayanad is a beautiful hill district located in the north-east of Kerala, India. The district is known for its lush green forests, majestic hills, and the colourful wildlife. Wayanad offers a wide range of attractions and activities to visitors, from the winding roads of the Western Ghats to the wildlife sanctuaries, spice plantations and tea estates. Whether you’re looking for adventure, wildlife viewing or just some beautiful sightseeing, Wayanad has something for everyone. Here is a guide to the best places to visit in Wayanad.

Chembra Peak

Chembra Peak is the highest peak in the Wayanad district, and the second highest peak in Kerala. It stands at an altitude of 2,100 metres above sea level and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests. Trekking to the top of the peak is a popular activity among tourists, and can take around 6 to 7 hours. The trek is relatively easy, but it can be quite steep in some parts. Once on top, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and the lush green landscape.

The area around Chembra Peak is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including exotic birds and mammals. It is also a great spot for photography and nature lovers. Visitors can also explore the nearby lake, which is a popular picnic spot.

Chembra Peak is a popular tourist destination and is accessible by road from Kalpetta, the district headquarters of Wayanad. A permit is required to trek up to the peak and can be obtained from the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) office in Kalpetta.

Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park is a popular wildlife sanctuary located in the Wayanad district. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and several species of birds. The park is also the venue for several annual festivals and events, such as the Elephant Festival and the Tiger Festival.

Visitors can explore the park on foot, or take a jeep or elephant safari to get a closer look at the wildlife. The park also offers excellent opportunities for bird watching and photography. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the park to learn about its ecology and history.

Bandipur National Park is accessible by road from Wayanad and is open from 6am to 6pm. A permit is required to enter the park and can be obtained from the Park headquarters in Mysore.

Edakkal Caves

Edakkal Caves are a popular tourist destination located in the Ambukuthi Hills in Wayanad district. The caves are believed to be more than 5,000 years old and are home to several ancient petroglyphs and pictographs. The caves are divided into two sections, the upper cave and the lower cave. The upper cave is accessible to visitors, while the lower cave can only be accessed with the help of a guide.

Edakkal Caves are a great place to explore and learn about ancient cultures and traditions. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the caves to learn more about the history and significance of the petroglyphs. The caves are accessible by road from Wayanad and are open from 9am to 5pm.

Kuruva Island

Kuruva Island is a serene island located in the middle of the Kabini River in Wayanad district. The island is a popular tourist destination for its lush green forests, wetlands and the variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the island on foot or take a boat ride through the river to get a closer look at the wildlife. The island is also home to several species of birds, making it a great spot for bird watching.

Kuruva Island is accessible by road from Wayanad and is open from 8am to 5pm. A permit is required to enter the island and can be obtained from the Park headquarters in Mysore.

Thirunelli Temple

The Thirunelli Temple is a popular Hindu temple located in Wayanad district. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is said to have been built more than 2,000 years ago. The temple is home to several shrines and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. Visitors can explore the temple and its surroundings, and take part in several religious rituals and ceremonies.

The Thirunelli Temple is located at the foot of the Brahmagiri Hills and is accessible by road from Wayanad. The temple is open from 6am to 10pm, and visitors are expected to follow the dress code before entering the temple.

Pookode Lake

Pookode Lake is a serene lake located in Vythiri, Wayanad district. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and is home to several species of birds and aquatic life. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake to get a closer look at the wildlife. The lake is also a popular picnic spot and visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, trekking and bird watching.

Pookode Lake is accessible by road from Kalpetta and is open from 8am to 6pm. A permit is required to enter the lake and can be obtained from the Park headquarters in Mysore.

Kanthanpara Waterfalls

Kanthanpara Waterfalls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Wayanad district. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visitors can take a dip in the pool at the base of the waterfall, or explore the nearby forests on foot.

Kanthanpara Waterfalls is accessible by road from Kalpetta and is open from 8am to 6pm. A permit is required to enter the waterfall and can be obtained from the Park headquarters in Mysore.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular wildlife sanctuary located in the Wayanad district. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and several species of birds. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on foot, or take a jeep or elephant safari to get a closer look at the wildlife. The sanctuary also offers excellent opportunities for bird watching and photography.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is accessible by road from Wayanad and is open from 6am to 6pm. A permit is required to enter the sanctuary and can be obtained from the Park headquarters in Mysore.

Banasura Sagar Dam

Banasura Sagar Dam is the largest earthen dam in India and is located in Wayanad district. The dam is surrounded by lush green forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake to get a closer look at the wildlife, or take a guided tour of the dam to learn about its history and significance.

The Banasura Sagar Dam is accessible by road from Kalpetta and is open from 8am to 6pm. A permit is required to enter the dam and can be obtained from the Park headquarters in Mysore.

Lakkidi View Point

Lakkidi View Point is a popular tourist destination located in the Wayanad district. The viewpoint offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, and is a great spot for photography and nature lovers. Visitors can also explore the nearby forests on foot or take a guided tour of the viewpoint to learn more about the area.

Lakkidi View Point is accessible by road from Kalpetta and is open from 8am to 6pm. A permit is required to enter the viewpoint and can be obtained from the Park headquarters in Mysore.

Conclusion

Wayanad is a beautiful district in Kerala, India, known for its lush green forests, majestic hills, and the colourful wildlife. The district offers a wide range of attractions and activities to visitors, from the winding roads of the Western Ghats to the wildlife sanctuaries, spice plantations and tea estates. Whether you’re looking for adventure, wildlife viewing or just some beautiful sightseeing, Wayanad has something for everyone. From Chembra Peak and Bandipur National Park to Edakkal Caves and Kuruva Island, there are plenty of places to explore and enjoy in Wayanad. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Wayanad!