Kerala Tourist Places in Wayanad
Wayanad is a scenic district located in the northeastern region of Kerala, India. It is bordered by the Western Ghats mountain range on the east and the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve on the west, and is known for its natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage.
The district is home to several wildlife sanctuaries, including the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, and Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary. These sanctuaries are home to a variety of animal species, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and deer.
Wayanad is also known for its natural attractions, such as the Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, and Pookot Lake. The Chembra Peak is the highest peak in Wayanad and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The Edakkal Caves are ancient caves that feature rock art and carvings from the Neolithic era. Pookot Lake is a scenic freshwater lake surrounded by lush green hills and is a popular destination for boating and fishing.
In addition to its natural attractions, Wayanad is also known for its cultural heritage. The district is home to several tribal communities, including the Paniyas, Kurichyas, and Adiyars, who have a rich cultural heritage and way of life. Visitors can learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life by visiting tribal villages and interacting with the locals.
Overall, Wayanad is a beautiful district in Kerala and is a must-visit for those interested in nature, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
Kerala's Most Attractive Places in Wayanad
Kerala is Gods Own Country so if you are visiting Wayanad in Kerala you must see these places.
- Pookot Lake
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kuruva Island
- Chembra Peak
- Sentinel Rock Waterfalls
- Banasura Dam
- Thirunelli Temple
- Edakkal Cave
- Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Pookot Lake
Pookot Lake is a scenic freshwater lake located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It is a natural lake surrounded by lush green hills and is a popular tourist destination in the region.The lake is spread over an area of around 13 acres and is surrounded by dense forests and coffee, tea, and spice plantations. Visitors can take a walk on the well-manicured gardens around the lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area. There are also several viewpoints around the lake, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.One of the major attractions of Pookot Lake is its boating facility. Visitors can take a pedal or rowboat and enjoy a leisurely ride on the calm waters of the lake. The lake is also a popular destination for fishing, and visitors can catch various species of freshwater fish.
Pookot Lake also has a children's park, an aquarium, and a small zoo, making it a perfect destination for families with kids. The park has several play areas and rides for kids, and the aquarium and zoo feature a variety of fish and animal species, including snakes, birds, and mammals.Overall, Pookot Lake is a beautiful destination in Wayanad and is a must-visit for those interested in nature, boating, and family-friendly activities.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area and wildlife sanctuary located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It was established in 1973 and covers an area of around 344 square kilometers.The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, jungle cats, civets, bison, deer, bears, monkeys, and many species of birds. It is also home to a large number of reptiles and amphibians.Visitors to the sanctuary can enjoy a variety of activities, including wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and trekking. The best time to visit is between November and May when the weather is dry and cool.In addition to the wildlife sanctuary, Wayanad district is known for its scenic beauty, tea and coffee plantations, and cultural heritage. It is also a popular destination for adventure activities such as trekking, camping, and rock climbing.
Kuruva Island
Kuruva Island, also known as Kuruva Dweep, is a protected river delta located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It is a group of small islands formed by the delta of the Kabini River and is known for its lush green forests, serene atmosphere, and diverse wildlife.The island is spread over an area of around 950 acres and is covered by dense forests and bamboo groves. Visitors can take a walk on the bamboo bridges that crisscross the islands and explore the natural beauty of the area. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, deer, wild boars, and a variety of bird species.
One of the major attractions of Kuruva Island is its river rafting facility. Visitors can go on a thrilling rafting adventure on the Kabini River and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding forests and hills. The island is also a popular destination for picnics, and visitors can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the area.
Kuruva Island is a protected area, and visitors are required to obtain a permit from the Forest Department before entering the island. The island is closed during the monsoon season from June to August, as the river water levels rise significantly during this time.Overall, Kuruva Island is a beautiful destination in Wayanad and is a must-visit for those interested in nature, adventure, and wildlife.
Chembra Peak
Chembra Peak is the highest peak in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It is located at an altitude of 2,100 meters above sea level and is part of the Western Ghats mountain range. The peak is a popular trekking destination and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.The trek to Chembra Peak is a moderate to difficult level trek, and visitors are required to obtain a permit from the Forest Department before starting the trek. The trek takes around 3-4 hours to reach the peak, and the trail passes through dense forests, grasslands, and steep rocky terrain.
The main attraction of Chembra Peak is the heart-shaped lake, which is located near the summit. The lake is believed to have formed naturally and is a major attraction for trekkers. Visitors can trek up to the lake and take a dip in its crystal clear waters.
The peak is also known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills, forests, and valleys, and on a clear day, visitors can even see the distant Arabian Sea.Overall, Chembra Peak is a beautiful destination in Wayanad and is a must-visit for those interested in trekking, adventure, and nature. However, visitors are advised to follow the rules and regulations set by the Forest Department and take necessary precautions while trekking.
Sentinel Rock Waterfalls
Sentinel Rock Waterfalls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It is a popular tourist destination and a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
The waterfall is located in the midst of dense forests and can be reached by trekking through a rugged terrain. The trek takes visitors through lush green forests and steep rocky terrain, and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trek is moderate to difficult level, and visitors are advised to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines.
At the waterfall, visitors can take a dip in the cool and refreshing waters or simply relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the area. The waterfall is also a popular destination for picnics, and visitors can enjoy a meal or snack while taking in the beauty of the surroundings.Sentinel Rock Waterfalls is also home to several species of birds and butterflies, and is a popular destination for birdwatching and butterfly watching. Visitors can spot several species of birds, including the Malabar Grey Hornbill, Nilgiri Flycatcher, and Indian Pitta.Overall, Sentinel Rock Waterfalls is a beautiful destination in Wayanad and is a must-visit for those interested in nature, trekking, and adventure. Visitors are advised to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines while trekking and enjoying the waterfall.
Banasura Dam
Banasura Dam is a large earthen dam located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It is built on the Banasura Peak, which is the third-highest peak in the Western Ghats. The dam is a major tourist attraction and is one of the largest earth dams in Asia.
The dam was built in 1979 and is named after Banasura, a mythical demon king who is believed to have ruled the region. The dam is built on the Karamanathodu tributary of the Kabini River and has a height of around 29 meters and a length of around 1.5 kilometers.The reservoir created by the dam is surrounded by lush green hills and is a popular destination for boating and other water sports. The area around the dam is also known for its scenic beauty, and visitors can enjoy trekking, hiking, and camping in the nearby hills.
Banasura Dam is also known for its eco-friendly initiatives. The area around the dam has been developed as an eco-tourism destination, and visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the traditional farming practices of the local communities. The dam also has a solar-powered lighting system, which reduces its carbon footprint and makes it a sustainable destination.
Overall, Banasura Dam is a beautiful destination in Wayanad and is a must-visit for those interested in nature, adventure, and sustainable tourism.
Thirunelli Temple
Thirunelli Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It is situated in the midst of the Brahmagiri hills and is surrounded by lush green forests and the Papanasini River.The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to have been built over 1,000 years ago. It is considered to be one of the most sacred temples in Kerala and is often referred to as the "Kashi of the South." The temple is built in a traditional Kerala architectural style and has a large courtyard surrounded by pillared halls and shrines.
The temple is also known for its beautiful location and serene atmosphere. It is surrounded by the Brahmagiri hills, which are part of the Western Ghats, and is situated at an altitude of around 900 meters above sea level. The Papanasini River, which is believed to have purifying powers, flows nearby, and visitors often take a dip in its waters before visiting the temple.Thirunelli Temple is also known for its festivals and rituals. The annual Vishu festival, which falls in April, is celebrated with great fervor and attracts a large number of devotees. Other important festivals celebrated at the temple include Navaratri, Sivaratri, and Ashtami Rohini.
Overall, Thirunelli Temple is a significant cultural and religious site in Kerala and is a must-visit destination for those interested in Hinduism, architecture, and history.
Edakkal Cave
Edakkal Cave is a natural cave located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It is located on top of Ambukutty Mala, a hill that is about 1,200 meters above sea level. The cave is famous for its prehistoric rock art, which is believed to be over 8,000 years old.The cave consists of two chambers, one of which is a natural fissure created by a split in a large rock. The other chamber is smaller and has a narrow entrance. The cave contains numerous petroglyphs, or rock carvings, depicting various animals, humans, and symbols. The petroglyphs are believed to have been created by the Neolithic people who inhabited the region thousands of years ago.
Visitors to the cave can reach it by a steep uphill trek of around 1.5 kilometers from the parking area. The climb can be challenging, but the stunning views of the surrounding landscape make it worth the effort. Inside the cave, visitors can see the ancient rock art and learn about the history and culture of the region.Edakkal Cave is considered to be one of the best examples of prehistoric rock art in India and attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is also an important archaeological site and has been studied extensively by researchers and historians.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area and wildlife sanctuary located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.The sanctuary covers an area of around 345 square kilometers and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, monkeys, bison, and many species of birds. It is also home to a large number of reptiles and amphibians.
Visitors to the sanctuary can enjoy a variety of activities, including wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and trekking. The best time to visit is between November and May when the weather is dry and cool.Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its lush green forests, rolling hills, and scenic beauty. It is also an important destination for eco-tourism and sustainable tourism in Kerala. The local communities are actively involved in the conservation and management of the sanctuary, and visitors can learn about their traditional knowledge and practices.