Wayanad, nestled amidst the majestic Western Ghats in Kerala, attracts travelers from all over with its verdant hills, cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, and rich cultural heritage. This land of mesmerising beauty offers a perfect blend of nature's bounty and captivating history, making it an ideal destination for a rejuvenating escape. From adventurous treks to tranquil boat rides and wildlife safaris to ancient cave exploration, Wayanad has something for every kind of traveller, and you will not leave disappointed but culturally enlightened. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover these 12 must-visit tourist places in Wayanad:
Banasura Sagar Dam
They started strong with an engineering marvel and one of the largest earthen dams in the whole of India, which is pretty impressive. It is surrounded by stunning rolling hills reflected in the clean blue reservoir, creating a picturesque setting you could stare at for hours. These views invite visitors and travellers to bast in the beauty while also experiencing a leisurely boat ride or a spot of food while soaking in the natural splendour.
- Ideal Travel Period: September to March
- Duration: 2 hours
- How to Get There: The Wayanad centre is about 28 km from the dam, so a taxi is the easiest way to get there.
Chembra Peak
For nature lovers, Chembra Peak is one of the thrilling treks you can embark on while visiting Wayand. It is one of the highest points and within the trek, you can visit the heart-shaped Chemrba Lake. This would be a romantic outdoor date idea, making it a must-visit for outdoor fanatics or those just seeking adventure in the Western Ghats.
- Ideal Travel Period: September to March
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Getting There: Chembra Peak is 35 km from Wayanad Centre; to get there, take a private bus or taxi.
Edakkal Caves
Step back in time to the prehistoric Edakkal Caves, adorned with ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions dating back to the Neolithic Age, the perfect place for you historians. Delve into the mysteries of the past as you decipher the symbols and imagine the lives of the people who inhabited these caves millennia ago. It’s somewhere you could spend a full day and leave culturally entrenched and smarter. The serene ambience and historical significance make this a truly unique attraction.
- Ideal Travel Period: November to March
- Time: between 2 to 3 hours
- Getting There: Wayanad Centre is 19 km from Edakkal Caves. You can easily find taxis for a comfortable ride.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Embark on a thrilling and one-in-a-lifetime jeep safari through the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for diverse flora and fauna. Spot tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and a plethora of birds in their natural habitat; these memories will last a lifetime. Experience the excitement of encountering these magnificent creatures amidst the dense forests and rolling hills.
- Ideal Travel Period: October to February
- Time: between 2 to 3 hours
- Getting There: You will need to take a bus or taxi as the wildlife sanctuary is located 31 km from Wayanad Centre.
Soochipara Falls
Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, Soochipara Falls cascades down from a height of 300 feet and is a visual spectacle. Take a dip in the refreshing pool beneath the falls, trek through the surrounding forests, or bask in the beauty of the cascading waters. The lush greenery and vibrant atmosphere make this a perfect spot for the summer months. You could spend a full day just dipping in and out of the water and this is a place where you will create lasting memories.
- Ideal Travel Period: Monsoon season
- Time: between 1 to 2 hours
- Getting There: The Wayanad Centre is 35 km away from the falls. To travel the distance, you can take a bus or a taxi.
Meenmutty Waterfalls
Another perfect spot for those who thrive in the outdoors. Nestled amidst dense forests and rolling hills, Meenmutty Waterfalls is a three-tiered cascade offering an unforgettable experience for hikers and travellers all over. Trek through the scenic landscapes, witness the cascading waters from different viewpoints and feel the refreshing spray on your face. The secluded location and stunning beauty make this a hidden gem worth exploring.
- Ideal Travel Period: October to May
- Time: between 2 to 3 hours
- Getting There: Meenmutty Falls is 30 km away from Wayanad Centre; take a bus or taxi there.
Kuruva Island
Escape to the little island of Kuruva. Within this gem, you will be met with beauty, peace and pure tranquillity, not to mention the breathtaking landscapes they have to offer. You can get there only by boat, which is an experience in and of itself. Here, you have the opportunity to enlighten yourself with some unique tribal culture and diverse flora and fauna.
Throughout the day, you can occupy yourself with activities like bird watching or learning about the traditions of the indigenous community.
- Ideal Travel Period: October to March
- Time: between 3 to 4 hours
- Getting There: Book a short taxi, approximately 30km from Wayanad Centre.
Thiruneli Temple
Add this to your bucket list when visiting Wayanad on a spiritual journey to the ancient Thirunelli Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Perched at the top of a hill amidst breathtaking landscapes, pack your gym leggings in preparation. This temple is renowned for its architectural beauty, its association with the Puranas, and its sacred atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the temple and experience the serenity of the surrounding hills.
- Ideal Travel Period: September to March
- Time: 1-2 hours
- Getting There: Bus or taxi from the centre of Wayanad, as it's 46 km away.
Neemlimala View Point
Witness the breathtaking panoramic views of Wayand from the Neelimala View Point. Situated at an altitude of 2,600 feet, you will be able to capture a few pictures of the surrounding beauty. It is a great hiking destination. You can even catch glimpses of the distant Arabian Sea on a clear day. Watch the sunrise paint the sky with vibrant hues, enjoy breathtaking sunsets, and enjoy a snack or two for celebration.
- Ideal Travel Period: January to May or September to December
- Time: 2 to 3 hours
- Getting There: It is 27 km so a bus or taxi from Wayanad centre.
Lakkidi Viewpoint
While on the topic of viewpoints surrounded by fields of trees and greenery in the Western Ghats, Lakkidi View Point offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valleys and hills. This would be a perfect place to sit and wait for the sunrise and sunset and capture some one-of-a-kind pictures for memories.
Pookode Lake
Start the day off right and hop on a serene boat ride across the pristine waters of Pookode Lake, surrounded by verdant hills and lush greenery. Explore the various boating options available, from pedal boats to rowboats, and admire the diverse birdlife that calls this lake home. The peaceful ambience and natural beauty of Pookode Lake make it a haven for nature lovers.
Here, you could bask in the sun with friends or strangers while enjoying some snacks and drinks, or maybe take up some casual activities like finishing.
- Ideal Travel Period: September to May
- Time: between 1 to 2 hours
- Getting There: 26 km away from Wayanad Centre, you could taxi it or find transport links to somewhere close to it and walk the rest.
Jain Temple Sulthan Bathery
This architectural odyssey was constructed in the 13th century; the intricate carvings and historical significance make it a must-visit spot if you are ever in Wayanad. You can spend your time researching and talking to locals about the right and exciting history and spend the day appreciating the opportunity of being able to witness its significance.
