Wayanad is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage. The district offers a range of activities for tourists, including trekking, wildlife safaris, visiting waterfalls, exploring historical sites, and experiencing the local culture.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Wayanad is the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds. The sanctuary offers visitors the opportunity to take guided jeep safaris or trek through the forest to spot the wildlife.
Another popular attraction is the Edakkal Caves, which are ancient rock caves that feature prehistoric petroglyphs and carvings. The caves are situated at a height of 1200 meters above sea level and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Wayanad also has several beautiful waterfalls, including Soochipara Falls, Meenmutty Falls, and Kanthanpara Falls. These waterfalls are popular spots for tourists to relax, swim, and take in the natural beauty of the area.
For those interested in history and culture, Wayanad has several interesting sites to explore. The Thirunelli Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. The Wayanad Heritage Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the area, showcasing artifacts from the region's tribal communities.
Overall, Wayanad is a wonderful destination for tourists looking to explore the natural beauty, wildlife, and culture of Kerala.
Things to Do
There are many things to do in Wayanad, ranging from exploring the natural beauty and wildlife of the area to experiencing the local culture and cuisine. Here are some of the top things to do in Wayanad:
Visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds. Take a guided jeep safari or trek through the forest to spot the wildlife.
Explore the Edakkal Caves: These ancient rock caves feature prehistoric petroglyphs and carvings and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is a great place for history and nature enthusiasts.
Trek to Chembra Peak: The highest peak in Wayanad offers a stunning view of the surrounding hills and valleys. Trek to the top of the peak and enjoy the panoramic view of the area.
Visit Pookode Lake: This beautiful freshwater lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular spot for boating and picnicking.
Experience the local culture: Visit the various tribal communities in Wayanad and learn about their culture and way of life. Attend a cultural performance or visit a local market to experience the local cuisine and handicrafts.
Visit Banasura Sagar Dam: This is the largest earthen dam in India and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
Visit the Thirunelli Temple: This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is located in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. It is a great place to experience the spiritual and religious side of Wayanad.
Soochipara Falls: This beautiful waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular spot for tourists to relax, swim, and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Wayanad Heritage Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the area, with exhibits showcasing artifacts from the region's tribal communities. It is a must-visit place for those interested in the history and culture of Wayanad.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Wayanad. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or culture seeker, Wayanad has something for everyone
Must See Nearby Places
There are several beautiful places to visit near Wayanad, making it an ideal base to explore the region. Here are some nearby places to see:
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Located just 45 km from Wayanad, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of rare and endangered species of animals, including tigers, leopards, and elephants.
Kabini River: Located just 60 km from Wayanad, Kabini River is a picturesque river that flows through the lush forests of the Western Ghats. Visitors can go on a river safari to spot wildlife or take a leisurely boat ride.
Thirunelli Temple: Located about 64 km from Wayanad, Thirunelli Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.
Banasura Hill: Located just 20 km from Wayanad, Banasura Hill is the second-highest peak in Wayanad and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Kuruva Island: Located just 30 km from Wayanad, Kuruva Island is a beautiful river island that is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Pakshipathalam: Located about 70 km from Wayanad, Pakshipathalam is a beautiful hill station that is known for its rich biodiversity and offers a great opportunity for trekking and birdwatching.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Wayanad is from October to May, during the winter and early summer season. During this time, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The winter season is also the driest time of the year, with little to no rainfall, which makes it easier to explore the region without any weather-related disruptions.
Althouogh the monsoons bring lush greenery to the region, it can make travel difficult due to landslides and flooding. Hence, it is recommended to avoid visiting Wayanad during this time.
Summers in Wayanad, which occur from March to May, can be slightly warm, but still bearable, with temperatures averaging around 30°C. However, the region experiences occasional thunderstorms during this period.
