Wayanad, Kerala, (South India)
Wayanad is a beautiful hill district located in the state of Kerala, India. It is known for its lush greenery, mist-covered hills, and rich biodiversity. Wayanad offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, and Banasura Sagar Dam. The region is also known for its tea and coffee plantations, spice gardens, and traditional tribal villages. Wayanad is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to experience the tranquility of Kerala's hills.
Unlock the beauty of Wayanad with our comprehensive guide to the best things to do and places to visit in this mesmerizing region. From nature's marvels to cultural gems, Wayanad has it all
Wildlife
Located in a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, this sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Spot elephants, tigers, panthers, and numerous bird species.
Best Time to Visit: January - May, October - December
Timings: 07:00-10:00,15:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 150.0 (Price is for 1 people)
You can book Safari Jeep and also get your personal vehicle inside the Sanctuary
Rafting
A set of islands located on the Kabini River. Bamboo rafting is a popular activity, offering a serene and scenic experience.
Best Time to Visit: January - March, October - December
Timings: 09:30-15:30
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 600.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Consumption of alcohol or any other intoxicating products is strictly prohibited during this trip
Sightseeing
Visit a tea estate to see how tea is grown and processed. Includes scenic walks through the plantation and possibly tea tasting.
Best Time to Visit: January - May, October - December
Timings: 11:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Taste freshly brewed tea
Religious Visit
Located at the base of Brahmagiri Hills, this ancient temple is an important pilgrimage site and also offers beautiful views.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 05:30-12:00,17:30-20:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Check if temple is open before planning a visit
Cycling
A great way to explore the local area, taking in the sights at your own pace while getting some exercise.
Best Time to Visit: January - May, October - December
Timings: 09:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 1300.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Equipment available for rent
Waterfalls
Visit this beautiful waterfall where you can enjoy the view, picnic, and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool.
Best Time to Visit: June - September
Timings: 08:00-16:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 80.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Be cautious of slippery rocks
Sightseeing
With a variety of fun-filled activities for all age groups, E3 Theme Park offers a day of excitement and entertainment.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 09:30-17:30
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 600.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Check opening hours before visiting this place
Wildlife
Renowned for its large variety of bird species, this sanctuary is a haven for bird lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: January - May, October - December
Timings: 08:00-21:00
Closing Days: Closed on Monday
Price: 50.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Bird watching opportunities
Trekking
Trek through the misty landscapes and lush greenery of Sahibkkunnu, and marvel at the breathtaking Valley of Clouds.
Best Time to Visit: January - May, October - December
Timings: 06:00-10:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Ideal for sunrise and sunset views
Trekking
Take a peaceful and rejuvenating hike to Kurisumala Peak, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Best Time to Visit: January - May, October - December
Timings: 06:00-10:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Moderate difficulty
Sightseeing
Visit this beautiful village to get a glimpse of rural life in Wayanad, surrounded by lush plantations and scenic landscapes.
Best Time to Visit: January - May, October - December
Timings: 06:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Experience local culture
Sightseeing
Enjoy the scenic beauty of the river, participate in water activities, and possibly spot wildlife on the riverbanks.
Best Time to Visit: January - May, October - December
Timings: 10:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Water depth varies
Sightseeing
Visit Asia’s second-largest earth dam, famous for its stunning views and a small set of islands formed from the reservoir.
Best Time to Visit: January - May, October - December
Timings: 09:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 40.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Activities like Coracle Ride and Zip Lining can be booked
Trekking
A popular trekking destination, the highest peak in Wayanad. The heart-shaped lake en-route is a major attraction.
Best Time to Visit: January - February, October - December
Timings: 07:00-15:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 50.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Extra charge are applicable if travelling in a group.
Sightseeing
Explore these natural caves known for their rock carvings, which date back to the Neolithic era. A short trek leads up to these historical caves.
Best Time to Visit: January - March, October - December
Timings: 08:30-16:00
Closing Days: Closed on Monday
Price: 50.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Carry water and wear comfortable shoes
Sightseeing
Offering breathtaking views of the lush green valley and waterfalls, Neelimala is a popular viewpoint in Wayanad.
Best Time to Visit: January - May, October - December
Timings: 08:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Jeep can also be booked for 6-7 people at extra charges
Experiences
A natural freshwater lake surrounded by evergreen forests. Activities include boating and enjoying the serene surroundings.
Best Time to Visit: January - May, October - December
Timings: 07:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 20.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Boating charges are not included
Zip Lining
Experience the thrill of soaring through the sky over lush landscapes in this exciting outdoor adventure.
Best Time to Visit: January - March, October - December
Timings: 09:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 250.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Weight and height restrictions apply
Experiences
Visit this bamboo processing center to see how bamboo is transformed into various products. You may also be able to participate in a workshop.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 09:30-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Hands-on bamboo craft experience
Religious Visit
Admire the beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere of this ancient Jain temple, also known as the Ananthanatha Swami Temple.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 08:00-17:30
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Maintain silence and respect
Waterfalls
A spectacular three-tiered waterfall, Meenmutty is an ideal spot for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Best Time to Visit: January - May, October - December
Timings: 09:00-17:30
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 30.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Check opening hours before visiting this place
Shopping
Discover local handicrafts, spices, tea, and other unique products of Wayanad in the local markets and shops.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 10:00-21:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Flexible (As per your budget)
Bargaining common
Museum
Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Wayanad at this museum, which houses a collection of historical artifacts.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 09:00-17:30
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 50.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Guided tours available
Travel Guidelines for Wayanad, Kerala (South India) For Indian Travellers Only
1. Place Information
Wayanad, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is known for its lush green landscapes, waterfalls, historical caves, and diverse wildlife. It offers a perfect blend of nature and culture. The region is dotted with spice plantations, dense forests, and tribal settlements. Further insights can be found on the Official Kerala Tourism Website.
2. Travel Related Information
By Road: Wayanad is well connected by road. The nearest cities are Kozhikode (Calicut) which is about 86 km away and Mysore, around 130 km away.
By Air: The nearest airport is Kozhikode International Airport, approximately 95 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Wayanad.
By Railway: The closest major railway station is Kozhikode (Calicut). From the station, taxis and buses are available to Wayanad.
3. Visa Related Information
Indian citizens don't need a visa to travel within India. For any ID or other travel-related queries, it's advisable to refer to local administrative offices or the Ministry of Home Affairs website.
4. SIM Card/Network Related Information
Major telecom providers in Wayanad include Jio, Airtel, Vodafone-Idea, and BSNL. Generally, connectivity is reliable in towns, but it may be spotty in some remote or forested areas.
5. Govt Safety Guidelines
It's essential to follow guidelines when visiting wildlife sanctuaries or trekking in forested areas. Some treks or areas might require special permits. Always stay updated on local advisories, especially during monsoon when there's a risk of landslides. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare provides health guidelines.
6. Internal Transport Related Information
Auto-rickshaws, local buses, and taxis are available for internal transportation. Many tourists prefer to rent a taxi for the duration of their stay for ease of exploration.
7. Special Mentions
The Edakkal Caves, with their ancient petroglyphs, offer a glimpse into prehistoric times.
Chembra Peak is a popular trekking destination, with a heart-shaped lake at its summit.
Kuruvadweep, a group of islets on the Kabini river, is a biodiversity hotspot and ideal for bamboo rafting.
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is home to elephants, tigers, and various other species.
Thirunelli Temple, set amidst mountains, is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Try local Wayanad cuisines, particularly dishes made from bamboo shoots and local spices.