12 Places to Visit in Wayanad: Embrace this Green Paradise in Kerala

Wayanad, the land of cascading water, majestic hills, lush foliage, mist-covered views, and a charming aura is where you should head for your next vacation. This district in Kerala is as vast as it is lush with natural beauty. The evergreen landscape of this place is what attracts the tourists from all over the world and since South India’s beauty has always been the talk of the town, Wayanad is the best destination to experience that. From solo travelers, honeymooners, to families and children, everyone can enjoy their time here. So, step into this kaleidoscope of gorgeous places to visit in Wayanad and witness the wonders of nature.

Best Places to Visit in Wayanad: Get ready for an Awe-Inspiring Holiday

We’re all looking for unique and hidden gems when it comes to planning a vacation, and Wayanad is one such place that fulfils the criteria. This quaint hamlet on the fringe of Kerala and Tamil Nadu has some of the most breathtaking attractions hidden from the tourists’ eyes that would make you spoiled for choice.

Here are the must visit places in Wayanad you can’t miss out on

1. Kururva Island
2. Chembra Peak
3. Meenmutty Waterfalls
4. Edakkal Caves
5. Banasura Sagar Dam
6. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
7. Soochipara Falls
8. Neelimala Viewpoint
9. Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary
10. Kuruva Dweep
11. Kanthanpara Waterfalls
12. Pookode Lake

1. Kuruva Island: Connect with Nature

A haven for nature lovers, couples, and families, this island is the epitome of serenity because of all the elements that make it what it is. The calmness of the Kabini River, the shelter of the trees, and the cozy vibe of the place makes it ideal for enjoying some leisure time. The soothing surroundings are enough to heal your soul and make you feel rejuvenated. Nature’s the best remedy for everything and makes for a great companion. This island is a group of islands that you can explore via boats or rafts and the dense forests here are home to several flora and fauna, acting as their guardian. So, spend some time amidst nature and watch a change in yourself.

Best time to visit Kuruva Island, Wayanad: October to March

Kuruva Dweep timings: 9:30 A.M to 3:30 P.M

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, approx. 113 km

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode railway station, approx. 105 km

Attractions near Kururva Island, Kerala: Lakkidi Viewpoint, Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Waterfalls, Chembra

Things to do in Kuruva Island: Boating, rafting, nature walk,

How to reach Kururva Dweep: You can either board a bus from Manathavady or Pulpally to reach this island.

2. Chembra Peak: One of the Top Places to Visit in Wayanad

Trek to the highest peak of the Wayanad Hill Range for the most mesmerizing views of Wayanad, Nilgiri, Malappuram, and Kozhikode districts. The vast pastures adorned with gorgeous waterfalls, a heart shaped lake, diverse flora and fauna, and much more make it one of the best places to visit in Wayanad for couples. The highlight is that this peak border the Nilgiri slopes in Tamil Nadu and Vallarimala in Kozhikode, so as you trek to the top, you’ll be greeted by some of the most glorious views. It’s truly a paradise for adventurers, so consider visiting this place on your holiday here.

Best time to visit Chembra Peak, Wayanad: September to March

Chembra Peak timings: 7 A.M to 5 P.M

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, approx. 97 km

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode railway station, approx. 89 km

Attractions near Chembra Peak, Kerala: Heart-shaped Lake, Kanthanpara Falls, Soochipara Falls, Lakkidi Viewpoint

Things to do in Chembra Peak: Trekking

How to reach Chembra Peak: You can take a bus or taxi to the Forrest Office, which is the base of the trek, especially if you’re traveling from Bangalore or Kozhikode.

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3. Meenmutty Waterfalls: Soak in the View of the Second Largest Waterfall

Let’s move on to this natural beauty, a three-tiered waterfall falling from a height of around 300 m is quite a spectacular sight. The verdant greenery surrounding it and the gushing sound of the falls is quite a unique experience that you must indulge in. The beauty of this waterfall is the reason why it’s among the top places to visit in Wayanad in 1 day. You’ll have to undertake a short trek to this location, but that shouldn’t stop you from visiting this place. People from all walks of life can enjoy this view and even capture it on their cameras. A Kerala travel guide is incomplete without the mention of this beauty.

Best time to visit Meenmutty Waterfalls, Kerala: October to May

Meenmutty Waterfalls timings: 9 A.M to 5:30 P.M

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, approx. 98 km

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode railway station, approx. 90 km

Attractions near Meenmutty Waterfalls, Wayanad: Banasura Sagar Dam, Karlad Lake, Pazhassi Raja Museum, Edakkal Caves

Things to do near Meenmutty Waterfalls: Trekking, rappelling, rock climbing, swimming

How to reach Meenmutty Waterfalls, Wayanad: You can either take a bus from Kalpetta to the lake or trek to the waterfalls.

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4. Edakkal Caves: Travel to the Past

Step into a time warp as you experience the mystical energy of these caves, rendering these caves as one of the popular places to visit in Kerala. The 6000 B.C old pictorial depictions from the Neolithic age shroud this place in an aura of mystery and add an archaeological significance to this attraction. However, trekking via the Ambukutty Mala is required for you to reach this place. The name of this cave, Edakkal means “a stone in between” and that is exactly how this cave is structured, with one smaller stone wedged between two huge stones. As you venture inside these caves, you’ll be awestruck by their imposing height and structure, located at an altitude of around 1200 m above sea level. It’s the perfect place for history buffs and those interested in uncovering mysteries.

Best time to visit Edakkal Caves, Wayanad: November to March

Edakkal Caves timings: 8 A.M to 4 P.M

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, approx. 105 km

Nearest railway station: Nilambur Road railway station, approx. 84 km

Attractions near Edakkal Caves, Kerala: Soochipara Waterfalls, Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Cheengery Hills, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Things to do near Edakkal Caves: Trekking

How to reach Edakkal Caves, Wayanad: You must travel via a taxi or bus from Kalpetta to reach this cave.

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5. Banasura Sagar Dam: Marvel at the Magnificence of this Dam

The Wayanad itinerary is incomplete without adding this marvelous tourist place to it. Being the largest earthen dam in India and second largest in Asia, visiting this place is one of the best things to do in Wayanad with your loved ones to set your sights on such a beauty. It’s a picture-perfect place with milky white waterfalls, lush greenery, mist-covered hills, and scenic beauty ahead of you. There are several adventure activities that you can indulge in, such as boating, horse riding, and much more. Constructed as a means to provide irrigation water, electricity and drinking water to the people, this dam has turned into a major tourist hotspot.

Best time to visit Banasura Sagar Dam: September to March

Banasura Sagar Dam timings: 9 A.M to 5 P.M

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, approx. 96 km

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode railway station, approx. 87 km

Attractions near Banasura Sagar Dam: Pookode Lake, Banasura Hill, Karlad Lake, Lakkidi Viewpoint

Things to do in Banasura Sagar Dam: Boating, horse riding, camel riding, trekking

How to reach Banasura Sagar Dam: You can travel via taxi or cab from nearby cities to this dam.

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6. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: One of the Top 8 Places to Visit in Wayanad

As you explore the alluring attractions in this district, one place you can’t miss out on is Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Taking a trip to this tourist attraction is among the best things to do in Kerala, so make the most of it. There are four ranges in this sanctuary, namely Sulthan Bathery, Muthanga, Kurichiat and Tholpetty. You’ll come across several animals, including Indian Bison, Elephants, Leopards, Deer, and other species that would keep you engaged for hours. In fact, this sanctuary even protects some of the endangered flora and fauna. Kerala’s bestowed with natural beauty and this wildlife sanctuary is the proof of that. What makes this place even more important is that it’s the part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which was the first biosphere in India.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary timings: 7 A.M to 5 P.M

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, approx. 118 km

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode railway station, approx. 111 km

Attractions near Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala: Sree Thirunelli Mahavishnu Kshetram, Banasura Sagar Dam, Kuruva Dweep, Meenmutty Falls

Things to do in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Jungle safari, wildlife safari, nature walk, elephant ride, bird tour

How to reach Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Buses or taxis are the convenient modes of transport to reach this sanctuary.

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7. Soochipara Falls: One of the Soulful Attractions in Wayanad

Here’s another suggestion for those wondering where to go in Wayanad. This three-tiered waterfall is a sight to behold with its gorgeous cascading water passing through the undulated path full of rocks and rough surfaces. Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfall, the water falls from an altitude of around 200 m and is engulfed by deciduous, evergreen, and montane forests that accentuate its beauty even more. The tranquility you’ll experience here is truly awe-inspiring and would make you want to stay here indefinitely. You can indulge in various adventure activities at this place because the terrain here offers great opportunities to adventure enthusiasts.

Best time to visit Soochipara Falls: June to September or October to November

Soochipara Falls timings: 9 A.M to 5 P.M

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, approx. 98 km

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode railway station, approx. 90 km

Attractions near Soochipara Falls: Kanthanpara Falls, Sunrise Valley Viewpoint, 900 KANDI, Chembra Peak

Things to do in Soochipara Falls: Swimming, rock climbing, trekking, rappelling, hiking

How to reach Soochipara Falls: The best option would be to hire a cab to the entry point of the waterfall or board a public bus to a stop near the waterfall. Public transport can’t access the entry point of this place, so you’ll have to hike the rest of the way, approx. 2 km.

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8. Neelimala Viewpoint: Cotton Clouds, Cool Breeze, and Serenity

You can’t resist the pull of this location, which is considered among the top places to visit in India in summer. The trek to the top is an easy one because the reward at the end of it is worth every tired muscle. The view of the gorgeous valley, alluring Meenmutty waterfalls, as well as small streams passing through the area are reason enough to plan a trip to this point. This soul-stirring destination is nothing less than a paradise as you listen to the distant sound of the gushing waterfall, the soothing chirping of the birds, and feel the fresh breeze. Soak in this magnificent view and breathe in the mountain air because that’s truly the way to heal your soul. It’s this memory at the end of the vacation that will remain etched in your mind forever.

Best time to visit Neelimala Viewpoint: January to May or September to December

Neelimala Viewpoint timings: 9 A.M to 5 P.M

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, approx. 101 km

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode railway station, approx. 93 km

Attractions near Neelimala Viewpoint: Meenmutty Waterfall, Soochipara Falls, Lakkidi Viewpoint, Karlad Lake

Things to do in Neelimala Viewpoint: Trekking, hiking, jeep ride

How to reach Neelimala Viewpoint: You can travel via a taxi or bus to this viewpoint.

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9. Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary: Nature’s Sanctuary for Your Soul

Tucked away in the verdant forests of Wayanad, Kerala, India, Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is a naturalist's and birdwatcher's paradise. Perched on the summit of the Brahmagiri Hills, this immaculate sanctuary is well-known for its exotic bird species, abundant biodiversity, and stunning scenery. The Malabar trogon, grey-headed bulbul, white-bellied treepie, and the secretive Malabar grey hornbill are just a few of the birds that consider Pakshipathalam home. Pakshipathalam is a cultural and historical gem in addition to being a birdwatcher's dream come true and one of the best places to visit in Kerala. The sanctuary is endowed with old caves that are thought to have formerly been home to ascetics and sages.

Best time to visit Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary: November to January

Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary timings: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, approx. 23 kilometers

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode Railway Station

Attractions near Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary: Chain Tree, Rajarajeshwara Temple, Chembra Peak, Tellicherry Fort, Lakkidi Viewpoint, Soochipara Waterfalls

Things to do in Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary: Trekking, Birdwatching, Wildlife encounters, Camping, Caves Exploration

How to reach Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary: The best way to reach Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is to hire a cab or taxi directly to the destination.

10. Kuruva Dweep: Where Time Slows Down to Nature’s Rhythm

One of the best places to visit in Wayanad, Kuruva Island or Kuruva Dweep is a pristine natural beauty in Kerala, India, tucked away among the verdant Wayanad district. This deserted island, which spans 950 acres, is formed by the Kabini River and its branches, offering a tranquil sanctuary to both adventurers and lovers of the outdoors. Trekking through Kuruva Dweep's virgin forests and exploring its remote & scenic trails is one of the pleasures of a vacation there. Visitors can spot indigenous species of flora and fauna while strolling through the island's lush greenery on guided nature hikes. Spot on animals like the big squirrel, the large Indian hornbill, and the Malabar pied hornbill, among others.

Best time to visit Kuruva Dweep: October to February

Kuruva Dweep timings: 9 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, approx. 100 kilometers

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode Railway Station

Attractions near Kuruva Dweep: Kuruva Reserve Forest, Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, Glass Bridge 900 Kandi Wayanad, Kurumbalakotta

Things to do in Kuruva Dweep: Bamboo Rafting, Nature Walk, Trekking, Bird watching, Nature photography

How to reach Kuruva Dweep: You can reach Kuruva Dweep via cab or taxi.

11. Kanthanpara Waterfalls: Gateway to Timeless Treasures & Natural Charm

Tourists are drawn to the breathtaking Kanthanpara Waterfalls in Wayanad, Kerala, India, for its calming atmosphere and serene beauty. With its stunning surroundings and constant symphony of light and shadow, Kanthanpara Waterfalls offers a plethora of photographic options for the visitors to capture lifetime memories. Kanthanpara Waterfalls provides a plethora of creative exploration opportunities, whether you're capturing the exquisite details of the surrounding flora and fauna or the serene flow of water against the backdrop of rich vegetation. One of the best things to do in Wayanad is to spot some exotic avian species including colorful butterflies and other wildlife species.

Best time to visit Kanthanpara Waterfalls: October to March

Kanthanpara Waterfalls timings: 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

Nearest airport: Calicut International airport, approx. 86 kilometers

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode Railway Station

Attractions near Kanthanpara Waterfalls: Soochipara Waterfalls, 900 Kandi, Sunrise Valley Viewpoint, Thusaragiri Waterfalls, Ambalavayal Heritage Museum

Things to do in Kanthanpara Waterfalls: Sightseeing, Photography, Picnic, Nature Walk, Trekking, Swimming, Bird Watching, Village tours

How to reach Kanthanpara Waterfalls: You can reach Kanthanpara Waterfalls via cab or taxi.

12. Pookode Lake: Unwind in the Lap of Nature’s Luxuriant Bounty

Nestled amidst the verdant landscapes of Wayanad in Kerala, India, Pookode Lake is a calm haven that entices visitors with its gorgeous surroundings and serene beauty and one of the best places to visit in Wayanad. Undertake a leisurely boat ride across Pookode Lake's serene waters is one of the joys of a visit there. Visitors can rent rowboats and pedal boats and explore the lake at their own leisure while admiring the stunning surroundings. Nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers can take short walks around the lake, traversing the picturesque walking trails, which provide views of the local wildlife and flowers. The lake and the trees around it are home to a wide range of bird species, making it an ideal spot for the bird watchers.

Best time to visit Pookode Lake: December & May

Pookode Lake timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, approx. 100 kilometers

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode Railway Station

Attractions near Pookode Lake: Chain Tree, Glass Bride 900 Kandi Wayanad, En Ooru, Kurumbalakotta

Things to do in Pookode Lake: Nature Walks, Boating, check out the Aquarium, relaxing in fish spa, Buying souvenirs

How to reach Pookode Lake: You can reach Pookode Lake via cab or taxi.

As we come to the end of this blog, it’s clear that these places to visit in Wayanad are absolutely worth exploring. They are the perfect combination of adventure, beauty, and nature, and it’s not a surprise that these three elements combined make a holiday complete. Wayanad’s lush green landscape is famous globally and people from all over the world visit this place for a peaceful retreat, away from the humdrum of city life. So, it’s time for you to see what the hype is all about by booking your Kerala tour packages.

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