Finding moments of peace and calm amid stressful modern life is precious and rare. Wayanad is a must-visit tourist place if you're looking for a peaceful escape. Wayanad is a captivating hill station in the Western Ghats, known for its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural legacy.
The word "Wayanad" means "land of paddy fields" in Malayalam, and this area is undoubtedly blessed with lush green scenery, spice plantations, deep woods, and breathtaking waterfalls. In addition to its stunning natural surroundings, Wayanad is rich in history and culture. For an insight into the area's cultural legacy, tourists can explore historical temples, archaeological sites, and tribal communities.
Pookode Lake is a natural freshwater lake known for its pure waters and rich plant life, making it one of the top sightseeing places in Wayanad. One can take a boat ride and see various native and migratory birds and aquatic species. Karalad Lake is one of Kerala's largest freshwater lakes, formed by the Karapuzha Dam. Beautiful landscapes surround it, providing an ideal boating and fishing location.
The Banasura Sagar Dam stands at a magnificent height of around 162 metres, is made of boulders and stones, and spans across the Karamanathodu River, a tributary of the Kabini River. The dam provides water and a spectacular panoramic view of the neighbouring Banasura Hills and forms a massive reservoir, which adds to the region's natural beauty.
The Edakkal Caves provide a unique opportunity to explore prehistoric rock art and natural beauty. Natural rock formations formed these ancient caves, featuring intricate engravings and carvings from thousands of years ago. A beautiful walk through the Ambukuthi Hills leads to the caves, where tiny corridors and dimly lit chambers create a mysterious atmosphere. The caves also offer an insight into the lives of early humans.
Wayanad is blessed with various breathtaking waterfalls that add to its natural beauty. Here are some significant waterfalls to visit in Wayanad:
Meenmutty Falls is one of the must-visit tourist places in Wayanad. It is an amazing sight as it cascades from a height of 300 metres, illustrating the incredible strength of nature. Take an adventurous walk through a lush forest surrounded by beautiful vegetation, as it increases the sense of adventure and excitement to reach the falls.
Soochipara Falls, or Sentinel Rock Falls, is a three-tiered waterfall set among lush forests and tea plantations. The waterfall has a stunning backdrop of rugged rocks and generates a natural pool at the bottom where tourists can enjoy a refreshing plunge. The surrounding scenery is ideal for long walks and wildlife photography. One can even relish Kanthanpara Falls, Chethalayam Falls, and Thusharagiri Falls, the hidden gems of Wayanad.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature lover's paradise. It is home to various animals, including elephants, deer, tigers, and various bird species, and can be found throughout beautiful green woodlands. The sanctuary provides guided safaris and trekking trails for spotting wildlife and exploring the scenic scenery. Visitors can see majestic elephants peacefully ranging in their natural habitat.
The Wayanad Heritage Museum is a treasure mine of cultural artefacts and historical relics that provide in-depth knowledge of the region's legacy. It acts as a bridge between the past and the present through its exhibits and educational activities, preserving the legacy of Wayanad's cultural variety for future generations. A visit to this museum is a trip through time that allows people to interact with Wayanad's rich tapestry of cultural history.
Rising magnificently as Wayanad's highest point, Chembra gives panoramic views of the entire region. Trek through lush pathways, serene meadows, and a heart-shaped lake.
The view from Neelimala Viewpoint is breathtaking, with cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and tea plantations. Watch as the mist embraces the hills, creating an ethereal atmosphere and a fascinating site.
Get up early to see a spectacular sunrise at Lakkidi Viewpoint on the Thamarassery Ghat Pass. The valley spreads before your eyes as the sun's golden rays break through the mist, revealing a landscape painted in shades of green.
Temples in Wayanad provide a spiritual experience and glimpses into the region's rich cultural heritage. Thirunelli Temple, an admired shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Brahmagiri Hills, gives a serene spiritual experience. Valliyoorkavu Bhagavathy Temple adores Goddess Durga and hosts vibrant traditional dance performances known for their magnificence and cultural importance.
Sultan Bathery's Maha Ganapathy Temple is acknowledged for its unique architecture and peaceful environment. Puliyarmala Jain Temple displays outstanding architecture and artistry and provides information about Jain culture and spirituality.
The best time to visit Wayanad is from October to May when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Temperatures range from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius during this period. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall and challenging terrain. However, the monsoon season showcases Wayanad's natural beauty if you appreciate lush greenery.
Wayanad's charm can be experienced throughout the year. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or are a nature fanatic, Wayanad guarantees an exciting experience full of picturesque landscapes and cultural treasures. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an extraordinary adventure through the enchanting landscapes of Wayanad. Let Chennai Tours and Travels be your compass, guiding you towards unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. Together, let's explore the beauty and wonders of Wayanad's top best tourist attractions.
