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13 Best Tourist Places in Wayanad

About Wayanad

Welcome to Wayanad, a paradise nestled amidst the verdant Western Ghats in Kerala, India. This picturesque district beckons nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers with its captivating landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey as we unveil the 13 best tourist places in Wayanad, showcasing its natural wonders and cultural treasures.

From mist-clad mountains and emerald-green landscapes to ancient temples and breathtaking waterfalls, Wayanad offers an array of experiences for travelers seeking tranquility and adventure. Join us on this comprehensive virtual tour, where we'll guide you through the must-visit destinations that define the allure of Wayanad.

Immerse yourself in the serenity of tranquil lakes, soak in the panoramic views from stunning viewpoints, and witness the vibrant wildlife in protected sanctuaries. Delve into the aromatic world of spice plantations and explore the historical sites that tell tales of a bygone era. Whether you crave a peaceful retreat amidst nature's embrace or a thrilling expedition into the wilderness, Wayanad has something extraordinary to offer.

Tourist Places in Wayanad

Are you looking to explore more about this place?

Here is a list of some of the beautiful tourist places in Wayanad.

1. The Edakkal Cave

Tourist Places in Wayanad

For an unforgettable Wayanad sightseeing experience, visit the renowned Edakkal Caves. These caves house invaluable treasures of rock engravings, a true world heritage. Situated amidst breathtaking natural vistas, these prehistoric caves offer a timeless appeal. The human figures are the most beautiful artistic expressions among the intricate carvings. Edakkal Caves are hailed as the top attraction in Wayanad for their exquisite artwork and rich historical significance.

Location: Nenmeni, Kerala 673595

How to Reach: The nearest railway station and airport are in Calicut, a few hours away from the caves.

Entry Fee: INR 15 for adults

Visiting Hours: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

2. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

Tourist Places in Wayanad

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, is a top-notch attraction for nature and wildlife enthusiasts visiting Wayanad. Spanning 345 square kilometers, this sanctuary showcases an abundance of rare and endangered species, making it a haven for biodiversity. The sanctuary's lush expanse is adorned with moist deciduous forests adorned with bamboo, teak, oak, and eucalyptus plantations.

Embarking on a safari through the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary promises an exhilarating experience. Witness the captivating sight of elephants, deer, and bison herds as they freely roam amidst the forest. The sanctuary also offers glimpses of remarkable creatures such as sambar, tigers, panthers, snakes, crocodiles, peacocks, cuckoos, and many other fascinating animals and birds.

  • Best time to visit: To make the most of your visit, plan your trip to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary between October and February when the weather is pleasant, and the wildlife activity is at its peak. The ideal duration for exploring the sanctuary and immersing yourself in its natural wonders is approximately 2 to 3 hours.
  • Location: Located 31 kilometers from Wayanad Centre, reaching the wildlife sanctuary is convenient by bus or taxi, ensuring easy accessibility for travelers.

Here, You can enjoy seeing spectacular flora species like Maruthi, karimaruthi, Rosewood, venteak, Bengal, and more and view the magnificent wild animals such as elephants, tigers, leopards, jungle cats, civets, monkeys, and wild dogs and an endless species of birds, including peacocks, cuckoos, owls, woodpeckers, and jungle birds.

3. Thirunelli Temple

Tourist Places in Wayanad

Thirunelli Temple, an ancient temple, is devoted to Bhagwaan Vishnu and is primarily based in the Wayanad on the side of Brahmagiri hill. There is a famous story about the temple that while touring around the world, bhagwaan Brahma witnessed a spectacular hill now known as Brahmagiri Hill. By its magnificence, he went down the hills and discovered an idol resting on an Amla (Gooseberry) tree. He identified the idol as Lord Vishnu. Then, with the support of other deities, he established the idol there.

Soon after this, at Brahma's request, Lord Vishnu assured that the water around the temple would help wash away all the sins. Thus, the Papanashini River was created, which destroyed all sins. So, the temple's name comes from Nelli, which means Amla (gooseberry) and is known as Thirunelli.

  • Location: The temple is 32 Km away from Mananthavady, surrounded by beautiful hills & trees. Shyamalan Kshetram and Kashi of the South are two other names for the temple.
  • Famous for ancient stories: Five rivers were believed to merge here in ancient times. There are dense bushes around the pond, and the stone slab in the middle of the pond bears the footprints of Sri Lord Vishnu. The pond dries in the summer.
  • Ideal duration: The time taken to complete all rituals is 1 to 2 hours
  • Best way to reach the place: To reach the temple, located 46 kilometers away from Wayanad center, you can conveniently avail of bus or taxi services.

4. Chembra Peak

Tourist Places in Wayanad

Whether you are a nature lover or full of adventure and looking for soothing natural beauty, then Visit Wayanad's Chembra Peak, the highest peak of Wayanad, 8 km away from south of Kalpetta, near the town of Meppady and the peak of Chembra adjoins the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu and the Vallarimala in Kozhikode. You can reach the highest peak by walking from the town of Meppady.

For an optimal experience, the best time to visit Chembra Peak is between September and March. The weather is pleasant during this period, and you can enjoy the trekking trails and panoramic views.

  • How to reach Chembra Peak: To reach Chembra Peak, located approximately 35 kilometers from Wayanad center, you can travel by private bus or taxi.
  • Ideal duration: Once you arrive at the peak base, be prepared for a captivating adventure that typically takes 3 to 4 hours.
  • Important points to remember: Carry adequate water, snacks, and comfortable footwear for the trek. Also, obtaining the necessary permissions, if required, before starting your expedition is advisable to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

5. Kuruva Island

Tourist Places in Wayanad

Kuruva Dweep, also known as Kuruva Island, is a popular tourist place in Wayanad and is famous for its beautiful and mesmerizing freshwater and lush forest growth. You can find many exciting ways to mix up your mood with joy, such as bamboo bridges and other rare tree species that look up to you to be captured in your frames. Moreover, rare birds, orchids, and herbs inhabit uninhabited Islands, making the places more enchanting and releasing.

  • Best time to visit: The best time to visit Kuruva Island is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and conducive to outdoor exploration. It is recommended to allocate around 3 to 4 hours for your visit to fully enjoy the island's beauty and tranquility.
  • How to reach: You can easily book a taxi for Kuruva Island, approximately 30 kilometers from Wayanad.
  • Things to remember: Don't forget to carry essentials such as water, sunscreen, and insect repellent to make your visit more comfortable.

6. Pookode Lake

Tourist Places in Wayanad

Wayanad has a beautiful freshwater lake 15 km from Kalpetta, Pookode Lake. Surrounded by lush green forests and the majestic Western Ghats, the lake covers 13 hectares and is 40 meters deep. It's one of the most popular and unique tourist spots in Wayanad. You'll be surrounded by a calm and peaceful environment when you visit this lovely lake. The lake is full of greenery, making it a perfect place for nature lovers and photographers.

  • Location: Kalpetta, Wayanad, Kerala, 673121
  • How To Get There: The closest railway station is Kozhikode, approximately 58 kilometers away.
  • Time Required: It usually takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore the destination fully.
  • Timings: The site is open for visitors from 9 am to 5 pm, providing ample time to enjoy the experience.
  • Entry Fee: For children, the entry fee is INR 5, while adults are charged INR 10. Additionally, boating charges are INR 30 for 2 people and INR 50 for 5 people.
  • Accommodation Options: Visitors can stay at Adithya Nature Resort & Spa or Mangosteen Holidays, offering a comfortable and peaceful retreat.
  • Recommended Restaurants: For delightful dining experiences, Coco Café Hub and Rest N Dine are popular choices, serving delicious meals to cater to different tastes.

7. Banasura Sagar Dam

Tourist Places in Wayanad

Banasura Hill, the third-highest peak in the Western Ghats, adds to the region's allure. The dam was built in 1979 as part of the Banasura Sagar Project, supporting the Kakkayam Hydroelectric Power Project and meeting the water needs for irrigation and drinking purposes.

A beautiful tourist attraction in Wayanad, the Banasura Dam, is just a few kilometers away from Kalpetta. It is a testament to exceptional engineering, constructed using enormous stone and rock piles. The grandeur of the Banasura Sagar Dam draws visitors from far and wide to admire the engineering marvel and the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding it.

  • Location: Wayanad, Kerala, India
  • How To Reach Banasura Dam: The most convenient way to access Banasura Sagar Dam is by road trip from Wayanad.
  • Entry Fee: The entry fee for adults is INR 10, and for children, it is INR 5.
  • Stay Options: Visitors can stay at Wayanad Silverwoods, Banasura Hill Resorts, and Sharoy Resort, offering comfortable accommodations.
  • Best Eat-Outs: For delightful dining experiences, head to The Wayanad Gate, Hotel Woodlands, and 1980s A Nostalgic Restaurant, serving delectable meals to cater to various tastes.

8. Soochipara Falls, Wayanad

Tourist Places in Wayanad

Soochipara Waterfalls in Wayanad is a top-rated attraction among tourists, stands tall at 200 meters, and offers rock walls ideal for hiking and trekking adventures. The cascading water forms a vast pool, inviting visitors like you to swim and enjoy the refreshing bathing experience. As the water flows from Soochipara, it meanders through the hills of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, eventually joining the Chaliyar River, also known as the Chulika River.

The name "Soochipara" derives from two words: "Soochi," meaning "Rock," and "Para," meaning "Needle," as the rocks in the area resemble needles. With its three-tiered structure, the falls range from 100 feet to 200 feet. Tourists frequent this destination for sightseeing, trekking, and rock climbing.

  • Location: Vellarimala, Wayanad, Kerala
  • How To Reach: To reach Vellarimala, the nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, 65 kilometers from Wayanad.
  • Entry Fee: The entry fee for Vellarimala is INR 80 per person.
  • Stay Options: For accommodation, visitors can choose from Blue Ginger Spa Resorts and Vythiri Village Resort, both offering comfortable and enjoyable stays.
  • Best Eat-Outs: For delightful dining experiences, head to Test Of Indian Restaurant, Family Restaurant, and Hr Bakery, where you can savor delicious meals.

9. Neelimala View Point

Tourist Places in Wayanad

The Neelimala viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas of the Meenmutti waterfall and its picturesque valleys. Tourists can witness the milky white stream gracefully flowing down, eventually merging with the river. Though it requires a fair amount of walking, adventure and trek enthusiasts will find it an exhilarating experience.

The narrow and uneven road leading from the nearest motorway takes visitors through the captivating scenery of the Western Ghats Mountain folds on the left and the grassy and rocky hillsides on the right.

  • Location: Meenmutty Falls Road, Kallar, Kerala
  • How To Reach: The falls are approximately 45 kilometers from Trivandrum, accessible via cab.
  • Stay Options: Visitors can opt for The Meenmutty Heights for a comfortable stay.
  • Best Eat-Outs: Enjoy delightful dining experiences at Kanakakkunnu Palace, Sri Saravana Bhavan, and Blooming Bay, offering a variety of mouthwatering meals.

10. Meenmutty (Kalpetta) Falls

Tourist Places in Wayanad

Meenmutty Falls is the best and most attractive tourist place and the most visited place. This three-tiered waterfall is 984 feet high and is surrounded by a green forest. It is a beautiful hideaway in nature. To reach this natural wonder, you must trek about 2km through the green and heavy forest.

The waterfall has a variety of display platforms, and the view from above is incomparable. Shutterbugs must carry a camera to capture a compelling view. The perfect time to visit this location is between October and May, and the tourists require approximately 2-3 hours to visit it. Visitors can book a cab or take a taxi from the Wayanad Center to reach Meenmutty Falls, which is 30 km away from the center.

  • Location: Located at Kallar Road, Kallar, Kerala, these stunning waterfalls are a captivating sight to behold.
  • How To Reach: The falls are approximately 45 kilometers from Trivandrum, easily accessible by hiring a cab.
  • Stay Options: Enjoy a comfortable stay at The Meenmutty Heights, ensuring a pleasant experience amidst the natural surroundings.
  • Best Eat-Outs: For delightful dining experiences, visit Kanakakkunnu Palace, Sri Saravana Bhavan, and Blooming Bay. These eateries offer a variety of delicious meals to satisfy your palate.

11. Arippara Waterfall

Tourist Places in Wayanad

If tourists want a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle, they must visit the most beautiful place, i.e., Arippara Falls near Wayanad. This breathtaking waterfall springs from the Iruvanji River, divided into eight layers surrounded by lush greenery.

In addition to admiring the beauty of nature, here tourists can enjoy a picnic with family and friends or cool off in the pool. The ideal time to travel to this place is from November to May. The ideal duration for visiting this place is 2-3 hours. The waterfalls are 50 km from Wayanad center, so tourists can book a cab or take a local bus to cover the distance.

12. Iruppu Falls

Tourist Places in Wayanad

Down the hills of Brahmagiri Hills, surrounded by the majestic Western Ghats, the Iruppu Falls is fascinating. The place is full of refreshing greenery, melodious birds chirping, and a quiet environment. It greatly delights nature lovers and birdwatchers. Adventurous tourists can take an exciting hike to the waterfall after getting permission from the Forest Department.

Iruppu Falls is a famous pilgrimage place related to the mythological history of Ramayana. The waterfall is said to be blessed with the power of God, and it is said that the sins get washed away after taking a bath in this waterfall. The ideal time to visit this place is in August-January.

13. Karapuzha Dam, Wayanad, Kerala

Tourist Places in Wayanad

The Karapuzha Dam is situated 16 km away from Kalpetta and stands as one of India's largest earth dams, constructed on Lake Karapuzha. The uniqueness of this lake lies in its composition, as it consists of around 12 other lakes. The dam's construction began in 1977 and was completed in 2004, primarily for irrigation purposes.

For tourists, the Tourism Board has developed the area around the dam, featuring an aquarium and facilities for boat rides and canoeing.

  • Location: Conveniently located just 7 km from Kakavayal, reaching the Karapuzha Dam is a breeze. Whether you opt for a relaxing taxi ride or immerse yourself in the local charm by taking a bus
  • Things to visit: For travelers seeking more than just sightseeing, the Tourism Board has thoughtfully developed an aquarium near the dam, offering a glimpse into the fascinating underwater world






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