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Places to Visit in Wayanad

Wayanad is a hill district in northern Kerala where forests, plantations, waterfalls and historic sites come together across the Western Ghats. Places such as Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam and Chembra Peak showcase very different sides of the region, while wildlife sanctuaries offer opportunities to explore its forest landscape. The district is spread across several areas, so attractions that appear close on a map can still take time to reach by road.

Edakkal Caves

Edakkal Caves are among Wayanad’s most important archaeological sites, located on the Ambukuthi Hills near Ambalavayal. The caves contain prehistoric carvings and markings that provide evidence of early human settlement in the region.

Reaching the site involves a climb through the hillside, making the visit as much about the approach as the caves themselves. The rock formations and surrounding views add to the experience. It is a good choice for travellers who want to combine history with an outdoor excursion.

Banasura Sagar Dam

Set among the hills of eastern Wayanad, Banasura Sagar Dam is known for its large reservoir and the small islands formed within it. The area provides broad views of the surrounding mountains and is also a starting point for activities around Banasura Peak.

Boating and other outdoor activities make the reservoir more than just a viewpoint. Its combination of water, hills and open landscapes makes it one of Wayanad’s distinctive day-trip spots.

Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

Muthanga is known for its dense forests and elephant habitats. Jeep safaris are available for exploring the forest area and spotting wildlife.

Thirunelli Temple

Located in the Brahmagiri Hills, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is surrounded by forested mountains.

Meenmutty Waterfalls

A multi-tiered waterfall reached by a trek through the surrounding terrain. The route and access conditions can vary with the season.

Lakkidi View Point

Positioned at the crest of the Thamarassery Ghat, offers views across the winding roads and green valleys below.

Chembra Peak

At about 2,100 metres, Chembra Peak is the highest peak in Wayanad and one of the district’s best-known trekking destinations. The trail passes through tea plantations, forests and open grassland before reaching the famous heart-shaped lake, Hridaya Saras.

The trek offers increasingly wide views of Wayanad’s hills and valleys as you gain altitude. Trekking is regulated by the Forest Department, so visitors need to check the current permit and access arrangements before planning the climb.

Soochipara Waterfalls

Soochipara, or Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, drops through three tiers amid the forests and hills. The surrounding landscape makes the waterfall particularly scenic, while the rocky setting gives the area a more adventurous feel.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Spread across the forested areas of Muthanga and Tholpetty, this sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It protects elephants, deer, gaur, wild boar and a variety of birds, along with other wildlife.

Kuruva Island

A group of small, uninhabited islands surrounded by the Kabini River and its tributaries. Dense greenery, bamboo groves and natural streams give the area a peaceful setting away from Wayanad’s busier tourist spots.

Pookode Lake

Pookode Lake is a freshwater lake surrounded by wooded hills near Vythiri. Its calm setting makes it a quieter alternative to Wayanad’s trekking and waterfall destinations, with boating available on the lake.

The surrounding greenery also makes the area pleasant for a relaxed walk and short visit. It works well for travellers who want some downtime between more active sightseeing stops.

Kozhikode

Located west of Wayanad, Kozhikode offers a change from the district’s hills and forests to Kerala’s coastal landscape. The city is known for its historic connection with the Malabar Coast, Kappad Beach and its distinctive food culture.

Visitors can also explore the old trading areas and spend time along Kozhikode Beach. It works well as an extension to a Wayanad trip, particularly for travellers arriving or departing through Kozhikode.

Nagarhole National Park

Lies in Western Ghats and is known for dense forests, waterways and diverse wildlife. Jeep and other safari experiences provide a way to explore the park without leaving the designated routes.

Bandipur National Park

Protects a large stretch of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is known for its wildlife-rich forests. Safari routes offer opportunities to spot elephants, deer and other species.

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

A forested sanctuary in the Western Ghats with elephants, deer, wild boar and numerous bird species. Its hills, streams and forest trails make it suited to nature-focused trips.

Nilambur

Located in Malappuram district, known for its teak forests, Conolly’s Plot and the scenic Chaliyar River. It offers a quieter forest experience beyond Wayanad’s main tourist circuit.

Kannur

Kannur lies north of Wayanad and is known for its beaches, forts and Theyyam traditions. St. Angelo Fort overlooks the Arabian Sea, while Muzhappilangad is famous for its drive-in beach.

The region also has several traditional Theyyam performance centres and historic sites. A visit here adds coastal and cultural experiences to a Wayanad itinerary.

Thalassery

Thalassery, north of Wayanad, is known for its colonial-era landmarks, coastal setting and distinctive Malabar cuisine. The town is also associated with Thalassery Fort and the traditional culinary style that gave rise to dishes such as Thalassery biryani.

Mahe

A small former French settlement on the Malabar coast, Mahe has a different character from the surrounding Kerala towns. The riverside promenade, St. Teresa’s Shrine and remnants of its French-era past make it an interesting short detour.

Bekal

Located farther north in Kasaragod, Bekal is best known for the massive Bekal Fort overlooking the Arabian Sea. The fort’s sea-facing location, laterite walls and nearby beach make it a worthwhile coastal extension to a longer Wayanad trip.

Ooty

Across the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border, Ooty is a popular hill station surrounded by tea estates and the Nilgiri hills.

Its cooler climate, botanical gardens, lake and heritage Nilgiri Mountain Railway make it quite different from Wayanad. The journey involves winding mountain roads, so travel time can vary considerably. It is better suited to a separate day or overnight trip rather than a quick stop.

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