Drive In Wayanad

Travel through the winding roads of Wayanad, and for once, you will be pardoned for forgetting the promises that you have to keep and for being struck by the dark, deep, lovely woods. The freshness and charm of the cloud-kissed mountains with the green canopy here is so irresistible that you can’t help but stay and enjoy nature. For nature lovers, who would like to be hypnotised by the thick greenery of the mountains, the pleasant magic of the valleys, the wild charm of the lashing rains, Wayanad is a Green Paradise. For the adventure tourist, who loves to explore the wilderness of the dense forests and to enjoy a difficult trek through the rugged hills and rocks, the place offers an irresistible challenge. The place is also a historians’/archaeologists’ favourite destination, thanks to the presence of caves and hills from where the relics as old as the New Stone Age have been unearthed. With the cool climate, fertile soil, rolling paddy fields and spice, tea and coffee plantations, the region also allures farmers/planters. In short, the scenic beauty of the land, which is located on the southern tip of the Deccan plateau, is so much that it attracts thousands of visitors every year. A journey through the interiors of the district is sure to amaze visitors with its large stretches of majestic teaks and green plantations, which gradually give way to dense forests. Apart from the rich flora and bio-diversity, the unspoilt regions of Wayanad where the modern civilisation is yet to creep into, also house various tribes who are the original inhabitants of the district.

Chembra peak

Chembra peak is situated near Meppady. A drive from Meppadi to the foothill of the peak is breathtaking and you can feel the cool wind and the lush greenery of tea estates on both sides of the road rejuvenating your spirits. You can see a three-storied forest watch tower on the foothill of the peak and a three kilometre trek from the foothill is at the same time tiring and exciting. A heart-shaped crystal perennial lake fed by natural springs can be seen at the middle of your journey. Even if it is scorching summer, the lake brims with water and helps you quench your thirst.

Banasura Sagar Dam

Another tourist attraction of Kalpetta is Banasura Sagar dam. It is the largest earth dam in India and the second largest of its kind in Asia. The dam is made up of massive stacks of stones and boulders. Situated about 15 km from Kalpetta, the dam holds a large expanse of water and its picturesque beauty is enhanced by the chain of mountains seen on the backdrop. It is constructed in the Banasura Lake and the nearby mountains are known as Banasura Hills. Legends say that the Asura king of Banasura, (the son of King Mahabali, who is believed to visit Kerala during every Onam festival) undertook a severe penance on the top of these hills and thus it was named after him. The scenic mountains beckon adventure tourists and the dam site is an ideal starting point for trekking.

Kuruva Dweep or Kuruva Island

Kuruva Dweep or Kuruva Island is a protected river delta, comprising a cluster of islands over the middle of Kabini River in Wayanad. Spread over 950 acres of land, Kuruva Island is densely populated with rich flora and fauna. The geographical peculiarity of this island makes this place evergreen with a serene ambience. Dwelling deep into this island, you can sight many attractive things like bridges made up of bamboo trees and other rare species of trees. The uninhabited island is home to rare species of birds, orchids, herbal plants etc

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 Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is made up of two discontinuous pockets – Muthanga and Tholpetty. While Muthanga is situated to the south of Wayanad, about 18 km from Sulthan Bathery, Tholpetty is located towards the north of the district adjacent to Thirunelli. Both these pockets together cover an area of 344.44 sq km and are known for their rugged wild charm.

Cocooned in the Nilgiri Biosphere, Muthanga lies adjacent to Bandipur Tiger Reserve in Karnataka and Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu. It also borders Sulthan Bathery and Kurichiat Ranges within Kerala and is known for its rich biodiversity. Tholpetty also lies adjacent to Nagarhole Range of Karnataka.

Phantom Rock

Phantom Rock is situated about 13 km from Kalpetta adjacent to the Ambalavayal town. The rock has the shape of a skull and hence the name. Locally called Cheengeri Mala, the place offers great photographic opportunities.

Pakshipathalam

Pakshipathalam is situated in Brahmagiri Hills and is about 36 km drive from Mananthavady and 7 km from Thirunelli. Situated about 1740 m above the sea level, it is a favourite destination of adventure tourists, ornithologists and nature-lovers. Rocky hillocks and deep rock caves are characteristics of the region and it is a haven for myriads of birds and wild animals. The thick block of rocks in the area offer a challenging trek.  The place is also believed to have provided a serene haven to ancient sages. It is said that the sages and godmen used to reach here during their wanderings and had taken shelter in the deep caves in the area.