Wayanad

scenic view of fog-covered mountains seen from a hilltop

Quick Overview

  • Best Time to Visit: October to May
  • Weather: Cool mornings, misty hills, occasional rain
  • Budget: ₹1,500–₹4,500/day

Plan Your Trip

Getting There

By Train: Kozhikode (85 km) is the nearest major station.

By Air: Fly into Calicut International Airport (95 km).

By Road: Well-linked from Bangalore, Mysore, and Kochi.

Where to Stay?

Treehouses, jungle lodges, boutique homestays. Wayanad’s stay options blend nature with comfort.

Packing List

  • Hiking shoes
  • Umbrella/raincoat (especially June–Sept)
  • Water bottle
  • Insect repellent

Top Places to Visit & Things to Do

Edakkal Caves

Ancient rock engravings and a short trek to stunning views.

Chembra Peak

A dreamy heart-shaped lake halfway to the top—Wayanad’s most iconic hike.

Pookode Lake

A peaceful boating spot nestled in greenery, perfect for families.

Banasura Sagar Dam

Catch sunrise here or enjoy speedboating with mountain backdrops.

Soochipara Falls

Trek through the forest to reach this three-tiered beauty.

Meenmutty Falls

A challenging trail leads to one of Kerala’s tallest waterfalls.

Kuruva Island

Walk barefoot through river-islands filled with butterflies and birds.

Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

Go on a safari to spot elephants, deer, and the occasional tiger.

Thirunelli Temple

Spiritual serenity in the lap of the Brahmagiri hills.

Lakkidi View Point

A winding route leads to this scenic lookout—especially magical at dusk.

Must-Try Experiences

Trekking: Trails to peaks, caves, and waterfalls

Wildlife Safari: Muthanga and Tholpetty zones

Spice Trails: Visit organic plantations

Tribal Visits: Learn the customs of Wayanad’s indigenous tribes

Camping: Forest edge or hilltop with starry sky view

Local Cuisine

  • Breakfast: Puttu-kadala, appam-stew
  • Lunch: Fish Moilee, Malabar Biryani
  • Snacks: Chattipathiri, Chemmeen Pathiri
  • Drinks: Fresh toddy (local brew), coconut water

Culture & Local Life

  • Heritage: Neolithic sites, tribal history, forest lore
  • Festivals: Vishu, Onam, and tribal dance fairs
  • Crafts: Bamboo products, spice blends, tribal bead jewelry

Pro Tip: Attend a tribal dance performance or temple fest to get a true feel of the land.

Local Insights

  • Language: Malayalam is spoken; basic English works fine
  • Best Souvenirs: Wild honey, handmade crafts, organic spices
  • Getting Around: Autos, jeeps, rental bikes available everywhere

Enjoy Your Yatra!

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