Wayanad is a hill station and wildlife sanctuary in Kerala, India, known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity.
Things to do in Wayanad
- Spot wildlife at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: This 344 sq km sanctuary is home to tigers, elephants, leopards, gaur, and a diverse variety of birds like hornbills and woodpeckers. You can go on elephant rides, jeep safaris, or guided treks to spot these magnificent creatures.
- Trek through lush forests: Wayanad offers scenic treks through its verdant forests. Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, offers a challenging trek with beautiful views of the surrounding hills. Edakkal Caves, with prehistoric carvings, can be reached through a short trek.
- Visit waterfalls: Wayanad has several waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing dip or a scenic boat ride. Take a dip in the three-tiered Meenmutty Falls, or enjoy the cascading waters of Kanthanpara Falls.
- Relax on plantations: Wayanad is known for its spice and coffee plantations. You can learn about the process of growing and harvesting spices like cardamom, pepper, and clove. Many plantations offer stays amidst scenic greenery, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
- Experience tribal culture: The tribal people of Wayanad have a rich culture and heritage. Visit museums like the Tribal Museum in Ambalavayal to learn about their way of life. You can also witness their traditional art forms like dance and music performances.
Places to visit near Wayanad
- Banasura Sagar Dam: This second-largest earthen dam in Asia is a sight to behold. Enjoy the scenic boat rides on the reservoir or take a stroll along the dam, surrounded by lush greenery.
- Kuruva Island: This serene island on the Kabini River is accessible only by boat. Explore the island’s rich vegetation, spot birds, or simply relax amidst the tranquility of nature.
- Pookode Lake: This freshwater lake amidst rolling hills is a paradise for birdwatchers. Here, you can spot a variety of birds, including darters, cormorants, and kingfishers. Pedal boating on the lake is a popular activity.
- Soochipara Falls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls: This 200-meter cascading waterfall offers breathtaking views. Take a dip in the pool below the falls or enjoy a ropeway ride for a panoramic view.
- Meenmutty Waterfalls: For the truly adventurous, Meenmutty Falls is a three-tiered waterfall accessible only by a challenging trek through dense forests. The reward is a refreshing dip in the pool at the bottom of the falls and stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
- Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: This wildlife sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is known for its diverse population of elephants, tigers, and birds. Jeep safaris are a great way to explore the sanctuary and spot wildlife in their natural habitat.