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The charming town of Wayanad, nestled in the southern state of Kerala, presents an array of attractions including camping and trekking trails, enchanting waterfalls, captivating caves, bird-watching spots, and a rich variety of flora and fauna. It has evolved into a beloved destination for travellers, drawn to the indigenous spices, coffee, tea, bamboo products, honey, and herbal plants. Wayanad's rolling terrain is home to some of the oldest coffee, tea, and cardamom plantations in India. The many valleys are filled with undulating paddy fields. This part of the Western Ghats is one of the world's richest biodiversity hotspots. Wayanad is a must-visit, located less than six hours from Bengaluru, and an hour-and-a-half from Kozhikode. Here are some places to visit near Wayanad.
From Wayanad, it takes around 47 minutes via Thariode Vattoth Road to get to the serene Karalad Lake. This 7-acre lake is relatively undiscovered by tourists and picnic-goers, despite featuring a recreational park with amenities for angling and boating. Just 3 km further lies the Banasura Dam. Adventure enthusiasts can also enjoy activities such as ziplining, kayaking, rock climbing, and archery.
It takes around one hours via NH 766 to reach the stunning hamlet of Lakkidi. Located at almost 3,000 feet above sea level, Lakkidi is known as the 'Gateway of Wayanad'. Many tourists visit for the stunning views and great photography opportunities, while some choose to stay at the area's relaxing resorts. An interesting local attraction is the Chain Tree, a giant ficus tree bound to the ground by chains. While here, check out En Ooru, a tribal heritage village which showcases the vibrant culture and tradition of tribal communities of the state. More about it here.
The Edakkal Caves are natural caves located 1,200 metres above sea level on Ambukutty Mala. These ancient caves showcase remarkable Neolithic rock engravings dating back to 6,000 BCE, depicting human and animal figures. It takes around 40 minutes to get to the caves via Ambalavayal Bypass Rd/Ambalavayal - Meenangadi Rd.
Soochippara Falls, also known as the Sentinel Waterfall, presents an attractive sight, being three-tiered and well-hidden by the dense forest. The waterfall cascades down from a height of 200 metres to the main pool.
Adjacent to Soochippara, on the rocky side, are the Kanthanpara Falls. Smaller and slightly quieter than Soochippara, about 30 metres high, it makes for an ideal picnic spot.
The Meenmutty Falls is located about 32 km from Vythiri, off Ooty Road. These three-tiered falls are 300m high. There is a forest rest house near the falls that offers a refuge. Although otherwise quiet and safe, this place can be dangerous during the monsoons due to unpredictable flooding. Another 2 km upstream from the Meenmutty Falls is the Kombaikani Waterfall, where there is also a forest rest house.
Chembra Peak is a moderately challenging hike surrounded by dense forests and high grasslands. It is the third highest peak in south India, with an altitude of 2,100 metres. The hiking trail to Chembra Peak starts from the Forest Office in Meppadi, which is approximately 22 km from Wayanad. Along the way, hikers will encounter tea plantations, thick forests, overgrown grasslands, and rocky terrains. The 40-km hike concludes at Hridaya Thadakam, a serene heart-shaped lake popular among tourists.
The nearest airport to Wayanad is the Calicut International Airport, which is about 65 km away, and the nearest railway station is Kozhikode, which is about 90 km away. From these places, you can reach Wayanad by cab or bike. Wayanad also has a good road network that connects it with nearby cities and states.
