10 Best Places to Visit in Wayanad

10 Best Places to Visit in Wayanad with your family or friends or couples. Wayanad is a hilly district in Kerala, famously known for stunning landscapes, misty mountains, abundant wildlife. The district is a paradise for nature lovers, with its waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, and vast stretches of tea and spice plantations. Wayanad is unlike any destination in Kerala, from the Edakkal Caves to millennia-old Jain temples, Chembra peak, Banasura Sagar dam, Pookode lake… The list goes on. Put on your trekking boots and hike off the beaten track. Wayanad gives special experience for every traveler. Take the jeep safari through the Muthanga forest, explore some of the off-beat wonders or have a hand in the bamboo rafting in Kuruva Island.

1. Edakkal Caves

The Edakkal Caves in Wayanad are steeped in mystery. Located at an elevation of 1200 ft above sea level, they have been fascinating both tourists and historians alike, since their discovery in 1895. The paintings and carvings inside the cave, that date back to at least 6000 BC, indicate the presence of ancient human inhabitants in the area. It is believed that human beings had been present here at many different times of history.

2. Chembra Peak

Chembra is the highest peak in Wayanad district, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a heart-shaped lake on the way up. It has managed to maintain its pristine nature over the years. Situated 2,100 m above sea level, this peak offers a breath-taking view. It is a prime spot for trekking but prior permission needs to be taken before going on these treks. Guided tours are available and can help in entire tour experience.

3. Banasura Sagar Dam

The largest earthen dam in India, offering scenic boat rides and trekking opportunities around the reservoir and the nearby. Banasura Hills, Named after the son of Mahabali and made of stones and boulders, the dam packs a charm like no other. The dam stands across the Karamanathodu, which is a tributary of the Kabini river. It is an ideal picnic spot, with breathtaking views all around. Some of the tallest peaks of the Western Ghats.

4. Wayanad Wild Life Sanctuary

A part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, this sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds. Jeep safaris are available for wildlife enthusiasts. Spread over an area of 345 sq. km., it is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. Rich in biodiversity, the sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Established in 1973, the Sanctuary is contiguous to the protected area network of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka on the northeast and Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu on the southeast.

5. Pookode Lake

A serene freshwater lake surrounded by evergreen forests and hills, offering boating and a peaceful nature walk along its banks. The smallest freshwater lake of Kerala also happens to be the highest one. At an altitude of 770 meters above sea level, the Pookode lake in Wayanad is truly a spectacular one; nestled in the Western Ghats. Blue lotus flowers abound in the lake, offering best photographic opportunities.

6. Kuruva Island

A group of islands located in the middle of the Kabini River, ideal for nature walks, bamboo rafting, and exploring the rich flora, located near Pakkom in the estuary of Panamaram river and Mananthavadi river and the tributaries of Kabani, this chain of 64 islets is a land of wonders. Spread over 950 acres, the place is ideal for those looking for an escape into nature and is famous for its boat rides on bamboo rafts.

7. Soochipara Waterfalls

This is Sentinel Rock or Soochipara Waterfalls, on an off-route from Wayanad near Kalpetta, a place ocated amidst dense forests, perfect for a refreshing dip and a short trek through nature. People drive across tense terrains and walk a naturally rocky pathway to reach the summit. But they never complain about the end result. This is a natural masterpiece on the Kozhikode – Vythiri – Gudallur Highway.

8. Phantom Rock

A unique rock formation resembling a human skull, set amidst scenic landscapes. It’s a popular spot for trekking and photography. Phantom Rock, also known as Cheengeri Mala, is a striking natural rock formation located about 13 kilometers from Kalpetta, in the heart of Wayanad, Kerala

9. Neelimala Viewpoint

A picturesque viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, with trekking opportunities through coffee and spice plantations. The trek up to the viewpoint is just as beautiful as the destination itself and you are surrounded by plants and flowers of all varieties with the refreshing aroma of coffee giving you company the entire way.