EXPLORE WAYANAD
Banasura Sagar Dam
The dam at Banasura Sagar is reckoned as the largest earth dam in India. The dam is located in the southwestern part of Wayanad district and is close to the Karalad Lake. The project area of the Banasura Sagar Dam also has the start point for treks to the Banasura Peak. An interesting feature is a set of islands that were formed when the reservoir submerged the surrounding areas. While you take in the captivating sights, sounds and fragrance of Wayanad, you may also shop for some rare specialities of Wayanad like spices, coffee, tea, bamboo products, honey and herbal plants.
Chethalayam
Yet another waterfall that attracts visitors to Wayanad is the Chethalayam Falls, located close to Sulthan Bathery in the northern part of Wayanad. This waterfall is smaller in size when compared to Meenmutty. The falls and the adjoining areas are ideal locales for trekking and a favorite haunt for bird watchers
Neelimala
Located in the southeastern part of Wayanad, and approachable from Kalpetta as well as Sulthan Bathery, Neelimala is a trekkers delight, with options for various trekking routes. At the top of Neelimala, the sight is breathtaking with a view of the Meenmutty Falls located nearby and the valley in the foreground.
Pakshipathalam
Pakshipathalam is located deep within the forest in the Brahmagiri Hills at an altitude of more than 1700 metres. The region predominantly comprises large boulders, some of them really massive. The deep caves found here are home to a wide variety of birds, animals and distinctive species of plants. Pakshipathalam is located near Mananthavady and a visit to the region requires a 7 km trek through the forest, starting from Thirunelli. Visitors to Pakshipathalam are to seek permission from the DFO- North Wayanad.
Bramhagiri Trekking
The trek to Brahmagiri hills is one of the most popular treks in Wayanad and one of the few which strikes a balance between awesome views and being first-time-trekker-friendly. This is a 3 hours intense trek to reach the top of Brahamagiri, which is about at 1608 m high. Trek begins from Thirunelli.
Explore Villages
The Village Life Experience of Responsible Tourism in Wayanad offers a travel through the sleepy hamlets of Nellarachal and Ambalavayal. The experience ranges from savouring native cuisines to the making of indigenous tribal percussion instruments and handicrafts. Some of the village life experience packages offered by Reponsible Tourism are A Day at Thekkumthara and A Day at Chetyalathoor
Wayanad Ghat
Each hairpin bend opens up a new frontier. With each curve, the valley below beckons you. Every single day, people pass through the emerald Ghats to Wayanad and fall in love with mystical aura surrounding this place. The misty peaks glare back right at your soul and at each of the nine bends, one feels the desire to stand still and stare back. The Thamarassery Churam, as the locals call it, was once explored by the tribals before the British further developed it. Today, people cannot help making pit stops and soaking in a view that no other place on Earth can offer.
Pookot Lake
Pookot Lake is a natural freshwater lake situated in the verdant greenery of the rolling hills overlooking the lake and it offer a view that is so riveting that it reminds you of a beautiful picture postcard. Kayaking, pedal and row boating, a freshwater aquarium, children’s park, a handicrafts and spices emporium are among the tourist facilities available here.
Edakkal Caves
A trip to Edakkal Caves is like a journey into our forgotten past. Located 10 kms from Sulthan Bathery, they have provided historians with great information regarding the lives and habits of our ancestors. The caves are two natural rock formations believed to have been formed by a large split in a huge rock. The carvings inside are extremely beautiful. A trek up the majestic Ambukuthi Hills is required to reach these caves. The aroma of coffee stays with you the entire way. It is truly a surreal experience as we step into the palms of history.
Wayanad Heritage Museum
The Wayanad Heritage Museum at Ambalavayal houses some of the most important relics and artefacts from Wayanad’s past, dating all the way back to the 2nd century C.E. These have convinced archaeologists and historians of the advances that these civilizations made, with the clay sculptures, ancient hunting equipment like bows and arrows, stone weapons and other curios all adding to the mystique surrounding the place.
Kuruwa Island
Kuruvadweep or Kuruva Island comprises of a cluster of islets over the middle of Kabini River in Wayanad that is popular for the boat rides it offers on specially crafted bamboo rafts. Spread over 950 acres of land, Kuruva Island, is popular for its diverse flora and fauna. These islands contain two small fresh water lakes. They are also a known safe haven for migratory birds along with hornbills, parrots and many butterfly species.
Thirunelli Temple
Surrounded by the Kambamala, Karimala and the Varadiga Peaks, the Thirunelly Temple embodies classical, traditional Kerala architecture. A famous pilgrim centre, this temple which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu – the god who maintains life, attracts hordes of devotees especially for performing ancestral rites. The shrine is shielded with 30 granite columns and the ground is paved with huge square pieces of granite.