Have you felt a slight nip in the air of late, especially during the evenings? Well, you’re not alone. The autumnal equinox is here: which means, we may officially say goodbye to the sultry summers for now and dust off the cozy woollens.
And if you’re wondering what would be the ideal place to spend your vacation this season, let me suggest Wayanad. Wayanad is located at the southernmost tip of the Deccan Plateau and is a part of the vernal Western Ghats. Wayanad’s salubrious climate, its rich flora and fauna will make for a perfect retreat from the humdrum urban life you’ve been looking to escape.
Located amid the World Heritage Site of the Western Ghats, with the Kabini river carving its way across its land area, Wayanad has delightful sights to offer. Here is a list of 12 places you must explore when you’re in Wayanad.
Tourist Places in Wayanad
1. Chembra Peak
Chembra Peak is one of the most noted among Wayanad’s many marvels. Standing at a height of 2,100 metres, it is the highest peak in the region. Lush tea plantations surrounding the peak and the Hridayasarasu Lake close by offer uniquely beautiful and exhilarating views.
2. Banasura Sagar Dam & Hill
The Banasura Sagar Dam is the largest earth dam in India and the second largest in all of Asia. Its project area also serves as the starting point for treks to the Banasura Peak. An interesting feature of this place is the set of islands that are formed upstream when the reservoir is full. These islands, with the Banasura hill in the backdrop, will mesmerise discerning visitors.
3. Thirunelli Temple
Surrounded by mountains and beautiful thickets, Thirunelli Temple is an ancient temple in North Wayanad dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
4. Lakkidi View Point
Lying atop Thamarassery at an elevation of 700 metres, Lakkidi is one of the highest locations in Wayanad commanding a picturesque scenery. The 12 km long journey from Adivaram to Lakkidi through thick forests is a riveting experience. It receives the second highest rainfall in the world and is home to different species of herons and other rare Indian birds.
5. Edakkal Caves
Edakkal Caves are two natural caves in Ambukuthy mountain of Edakkal. Situated at 1,200 metres above sea level, a trek up here is a challenging one and not advisable for children and the elderly.
6. Soochippara Falls
The waterfalls at Soochippara, ranging from 100 to 300 feet height, are a veritable treat to the eyes. The pool below is good for swimming, bathing and water rafting. The tree top huts give unique views of the surrounding valleys and glimmering waters from the springs.
7. Kuruvadweep
The Kuruva island is spread over 950 acres of evergreen forest on the tributaries of Kabani River. It is a protected delta serving as a peaceful abode for rare species of flora and fauna.
8. Pookode Lake
A natural freshwater lake adorned with evergreen mountains, Pookode Lake is another must-visit in Wayanad. The salacious weather, scenic beauty and crisp, unspoilt nature in Pookode Lake’s precincts will make your journey to Wayanad worthwhile.
9. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Wayanad comes under the Western Ghats, which have now become renowned as World Heritage Site and the Hottest Hot Biodiversity Hotspot. Explore the wildlife of this region up close for an unforgettable rendezvous with a number of bird and animal species.
10. Jain Temple
This temple, said to have been built in the 13th century, is now mostly in ruins. It is a testimony to Jain architecture and the strong presence of Jain population in this region. The temple was taken over by Tipu Sultan and eventually got the name ‘Sultan Bathery’.
11. Neelimala
Located in southeastern Wayanad and accessible from Sulthan Bathery, Neelimala offers great options to trekking enthusiasts who will be aptly rewarded with breathtaking views, including that of the Meenmutty Falls, from atop the hill.
12. Pakshipathalam
Pakshipathalam is located deep within the forest of Brahmagiri hills at a height of more than 1,700 metres. The deep caves here are home to a diverse species of birds, animals and plants. A visit to the region would require a fascinating 7 km trek from Thirunelli dotted with forest.
Read More:
Wayanad Road Map
Wayanad District Map
Places to Visit in Kerala
Travel to Kerala
Kerala Backwaters
Beaches in Kerala
Kerala Wildlife Sanctuaries
Hill Stations in Kerala
