Elegantly standing in the northeastern part of Kerala is Wayanad, an enchanting district with its magical scenic beauty and soothing climate. Godโs own country sure does offer you the beauty of backwaters and beaches, but nothing can quite replace the heavenly bliss of Wayanad.
If youโre planning a holiday trip and thinking if there are things to do in Wayanad, then the answer is yes. The answer is plenty! There are several things for you to enjoy in Wayanad.
From enchanting waterfalls to enthralling caves and luxurious resorts to lovely homestays, Wayanad gives us everything for a perfect visit, making it one of the best places to visit in South India. So, letโs take a look at some of the exciting things to do in Wayanad.
1. A thrilling trek to Chembra peak
Are you a nature-loving adventure seeker? If yes, a trek to Chembra peak should be on the top of your list of things to do in Wayanad. Chembra peak is one of the highest peaks in the western ghats and the post-monsoon is the best time to visit here.
This exquisite trek leads you to stand at a peak 6900 feet above sea level, letting you intake the aroma of spices and devour the picturesque view of lush greenery amidst foamy clouds. From here you can sight the whole Wayanad and Nilgiri districts.
And itโs not all. On the way, you will come across a beautiful heart-shaped lake, which apparently, has never dried up. If youโre planning to go on an adventurous trip with your sweetheart, you may as well make a stop here and take in this heart-stealing heart-shaped lake, when you visit Wayanad.
2. Wayanad wildlife sanctuary for animal lovers
Located in the southern trenches of western ghats, Wayanad wildlife sanctuary is one of the major tourist attractions here, thanks to its rich wildlife. This wildlife sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Being an abode of rich flora and fauna, a trip to Wayanad wildlife sanctuary is an ideal activity for wildlife enthusiasts.
With permission from the forest department, you can go on safaris where youโll be thrilled to see exotic animals. It has the worldโs largest recorded population of Asian elephants and tigers, so youโll see plenty of those along with glimpses of civet cats, dhole, gaur, sloth bear, other rare species and many more wild animals. You can see that a trip to the Muthanga wildlife sanctuary is on everyoneโs list of things to do in Wayanad.
A trip with the family? friends? spouse? or a solo trip? Whatever the choice is, a trip to Wayanad wildlife sanctuary is a must.
3. Bamboo rafting at Kuruva Island
Kuruva Island, a group of three scenic Islands, is a protected river delta over the middle of the Kabini River in Wayanad. Bamboo rafting is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable things to do in Wayanad, thanks to the Kabini river.
This natureโs paradise is surrounded by streams and is home to many exotic birds, flowers, green trees as well as herbal plants.
Among bird watching and sightings of rare species of trees, Kuruva Island, or Kuruvadweep as they call it, offers you bamboo rafting and trekking as well. Take a walk around here and your mind will be refreshed with the beauty of nature. I assure you, the sight of bamboo trees elegantly standing here will not be disappointing.
The best time to visit Kuruva Island and take a stroll around it would be October and May, with its pleasant weather, making it a lovely visit.
4. Cave exploring at Edakkal caves
Caving is always an interesting option in travel destinations. A little bit of adventure mixed with history and culture, caving is just perfect. And if itโs Edakkal caves? Even more perfect. This cave, which is surrounded by dense forests, lures people with its elegant look.
Located at a height of 1200 metres above sea level on the Ambukuthi Hills, Edakkal caves cannot be considered caves in a scientific view. It is said to be formed naturally as a huge boulder got wedged between two others. And the light sweeping in through the opening gives it a final touch of magical effect.
Locals say the best time to visit Edakkal caves is in winter. The caves are not only a picturesque site, but it also gives us a look at carvings of symbols, animals and ancient inscriptions. Beautiful, historic and cultural? Uh, yes, please.
5. Boating in Pookode Lake
This beautiful freshwater Lake is the epitome of natural beauty. Lying between western ghats and evergreen forest, this is another one of the most sought-after destinations in Wayanad.
An ideal location for nature lovers, Pookode Lake leaves you to look around and see green everywhere. Also, itโs said to be in the shape of an Indian map, with blue lotuses and blue water lilies, making it even more enchanting.
You canโt talk about Pookode lake without mentioning boating, of course. With the help of pedal boats, you can make sure that youโve captured every single scenery here. Apart from these, you can also visit the childrenโs park nearby, along with fresh water aquariums and shopping centres. From spices and honey to things made of bamboo and coconut husk, itโs the best spot to pack some souvenirs.
6. Take a look at Banasura Sagar Dam
You canโt make a list of things to do in Wayanad without having the Banasura Sagar dam in it! Banasura Sagar Dam, an earthen dam, which is the largest one in India and the second largest in Asia, offers a beautiful view of the wildlife sanctuary. The lush greenery among fog and the mountains aligned beautifully in the backdrop makes it every photographerโs dream destination.
Thought Banasura Sagar dam is only for nature lovers and photographers? Oh boy, youโre wrong. Adventure seekers can easily love this destination for all the readily available adventures.
This place offers you boating through the crystal clear water and trekking to another enchanting destination, Meenmutty waterfalls. And thatโs not all. Camel riding and horse racing are waiting here for you as well.
7. Enjoy the Meenmutty waterfalls
So, from Banasura Sagar dam, you can trek your way right to one of the major tourist attractions, the Meenmutty waterfalls. At a height of 300 meters, stands the biggest waterfalls in the Wayanad district. Snuggled safely amidst the Meppadi forest, the Meenmutty waterfall is an enchanting view to take in.
For rock climbing lovers, this is perfect. You get to go on a little adventure, climb through all of those rocks and will be rewarded with this breathtaking sight of elegant waterfalls.
And if youโre tired from all of the trekking and rock climbing, this place also offers you a perfect spot to lie back and relax, enjoy the beautiful view of the sunset and maybe even camp near the waterfalls. Sounds great, right?
8. Have fun at the E3 theme park!
Offering a variety of fun and exciting activities, the E3 theme park is one of Indiaโs best multi-themed amusement parks. Located in Vellamunda, E3 park offers you almost everything from entertainment to adventure.
From cricket and baseball to bull rides and bungee trampolines, the action zone is packed with fun and excitement. And if youโre up for something up a notch, donโt worry. Rope Course, Paintball, Magnetic Freefall, Zip Line, Rock Climbing, Rifle shooting, Archery, Bumper Zorbing, Rappelling, Laser Tagโฆ And thatโs only the adventure zone. If itโs a friendโs trip, this park is a must.
If youโre on a holiday trip with your family, this is a perfect place to visit in the Wayanad district. Kids would definitely have a fun time with the dinosaur park, water ridesโฆand well, kids multi play station.
9. Pay a visit to the Wayanad heritage museum
Situated in Ambalavayal, this heritage museum gives you a glimpse of some of the important relics and artefacts from Wayanadโs past, like the ancient hunting and farming equipment, stone weapons, jewellery and clay sculptures.
Some of the artefacts in the Wayanad Heritage museum are said to be from the Neolithic era. Having stone idols of the twelfth to sixteenth centuries, this place is a must to visit in Wayanad for people who love to explore culture and history.
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This is one of the best destinations to visit if youโre into archaeology or want to know more about the place youโre staying. It is cool to dive back to the second century AD, isnโt it?
10. Be mesmerised by Lakkidi view point
At an elevation of 700 meters above mean sea level, this beautiful spot gives you chills literally and figuratively. This misty region gives birds eye view of the city, giving us a chance to see all those scary yet beautiful hairpin turns down the hill. The thrill of driving up in addition to the breathtaking view? Ah, worth it.
Lakkidi view point is beautiful on its own, and if you get to witness the beautiful sunrise and sunset from here, even more enthralling. And what if you can come up here for a picnic? A cherry on top, right? This viewpoint is indeed a popular picnic spot, often known as the Gateway to Wayanad.
10. Explore the Phantom Rock
This destination is definitely a piece of art by nature. The Phantom rock, also known as Cheengeri mala, which evidently resembles a skull, is one of the major attractions in Wayanad.
Apart from admiring this natureโs sculpture, this place is known for the nearby hillocks, a great spot for trek lovers. If youโre a nature lover, you know how interesting this might be. And for those who love photography, this will be a great place to click some.
This is, without a doubt, one of the best sightseeing options in Wayanad. The excitement of climbing different hills to reach a point where you can observe natural beauty is quite refreshing.
11. Take a peek inside the Pakshipathalam bird sanctuary
Wayanad is not all about wildlife sanctuaries, but bird sanctuaries too. With long trekking trails and rocky caves, this again is a good spot for trek lovers. Pakshipathalam bird sanctuary, true to its name, is indeed an abode of birds. If youโre an ornithologist or a person with an interest in bird watching, this place is heaven.
A huge number of birds of various species can be spotted in this bird sanctuary, including some rare and exotic species. Edible Nest Swift and deep rock caves lure tourists into the Pakshipathalam bird sanctuary and make it one of the best places to visit in Wayanad.
And donโt worry, youโll be enjoying this with the help of a local tribe guide. The best time to visit the Pakshipathalam bird sanctuary is said to be between October and January. So grab the binoculars and look up, because this is an absolutely delightful activity to do!
12. Get spiritual and be stunned by the glass temple
Apart from Thirunelli temple, Pallikkunnu church (a Latin catholic Church) and Varambetta mosque, another famous spot of pilgrim tourism is the Koottamunda glass temple. This glass temple is an important pilgrimage for Jains, created to honour the Jain saint Parshawanatha Swami.
As the name suggests, this Jain temple is filled with several glass mirrors, which creates a magical effect. The interior of the temple is decorated with glass mirrors as well, giving us reflections of the idol inside.
A perfect place to meditate and pay respect, this fascinating Jain temple should be definitely on your list of places to visit when youโre in Wayanad.
13. Explore the lush greenery of tea estates
A long walk through the dewy tea estates in Wayanadโฆsounds soothing, right? It actually is! Walking around the tea estates, taking in the aroma of fresh tea leaves, is definitely a major activity to do in Wayanad.
Apart from this calming experience by lush tea plantations, you also get to know Wayanadโs tea culture and mingle with the local people and know more about their lives. Also, take out that mobile phone of yours and click some beautiful pictures of you standing amidst the tea gardens. Now that sounds good, yeah?
And donโt stop at the lush tea estates, there are also coffee plantations and spice plantations spread throughout Wayanad for a calming walk. It is marvellous to witness the local people efficiently and effortlessly pluck the tea leaves. Itโs sure a sight to behold.
14. Go cycling and enjoy the natural beauty!
Exploring via cycling holds its own uniqueness and advantages. And thereโs nothing better than cycling around Wayanad. They offer you a lot of cycle rental options, so grab the chance, cycle around, and take in the beauty of Wayanad.
Enjoy the beautiful hill stations on cycle and be hypnotised by the land of plantations, forests and wildlife. And also, take a look at Keralaโs local life and the tribals. Youโll get an even closer look into what their life is like. And maybe youโll make a friend or two.
If you and your gang are a bunch of nature lovers, this is definitely for you. A cycle tour through the north of Wayanad gives you a chance to appreciate the lush greenery, and dense forests and see Wayanad as the green paradise it is.
15. Relax and enjoy at Vythiri village resort
Surely, after all these trekking and walking and cycling, one must relax in peace, right? And what better than a beautiful tree house? That too, offered by a resort which has an international quality crown award? Oh, yes.
Vythiri village resort is truly the best place to visit in Wayanad. Wrapped in greenery, Vythiri village resort offers warm and generous services including spa and ayurvedic treatmentโฆA total luxurious stay. But what attracts most of the people is their tree houses, set high above, letting you be a part of the rainforest.
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Thatched roof, bamboo walls handmade by the tribals and localsโฆ A blissful glimpse into rural life. And if that is not an escape to reality, I have no idea what is.
And what if I say these are only some of the places to visit in Wayanad? Muthanga wildlife sanctuary, Wayanad chain tree, Soochipara waterfalls, Brahmagiri hills, more thrilling trekking trails and jungle treksโฆ Cool, right? It really is. There are plenty of things to do in Wayanad, things that are beautiful, things that are adventurous, things that are thrilling and things that are soothing. Wayanad gives it all.
So, if you were contemplating a trip to visit Wayanad, hereโs the proof that you need to. With many beautiful sights, this place is one of the gorgeous creations of nature, offering you various types of activities to enjoy and to make the trip memorable.
A trip to green paradise, to enjoy natureโs marvellous creations sure is compelling. Soโฆwhat are you waiting for? Pack your bags and visit Wayanad for a wonderful holiday to do all these exciting and thrilling things!
Enjoy the journey. Au revoir!
PS: If you are doing a India tour, do not miss out on Agra.
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Last Updated on by Himani Rawat
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