Escape to the lush green hills of Wayanad and discover a world of adventure and tranquility! Wayanad is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats, offering breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage.
Experience the thrill of hiking through misty mountains and trekking to cascading waterfalls. Indulge in a peaceful retreat at one of the many eco-friendly resorts and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature. Get up close with majestic elephants at the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary or take a serene boat ride along the serene Pookode Lake.
Discover the flavors of Wayanad with its exotic cuisine and aromatic spices. Learn about the history and culture of the indigenous tribes at the Edakkal Caves and the Wayanad Heritage Museum. Or simply relax and soak in the laid-back charm of the quaint hillside towns.
With so much to see and do, Wayanad is the perfect destination for families, couples, and adventure seekers alike. Book your trip today and experience the magic of Wayanad for yourself!
About Wayanad
Wayanad is a district located in the northern part of the Indian state of Kerala. It is bordered by the districts of Kannur and Kozhikode to the west, Tamil Nadu to the east, and the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu and the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka to the north.
The name Wayanad is believed to have been derived from the words ‘Vayal Nadu’ which means the land of paddy fields. The region was historically known as Mayakshetra, which means the land of Maya, as it is believed to have been ruled by the king Mayasura, who was a renowned architect and magician.
The area was part of the ancient Chera kingdom of Kerala and later came under the control of the Western Ganga dynasty of Karnataka. It was also ruled by the Hoysalas, the Vijayanagara Empire, and the Mysore Kingdom before finally coming under British control in the 18th century.
During the colonial era, Wayanad was a major producer of tea, coffee, and spices. The district was also home to several indigenous tribes, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. Today, Wayanad is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural heritage. The district has also become a hub for eco-tourism and sustainable tourism practices.
Architecture of Wayanad
The architecture of Wayanad is a unique blend of traditional Kerala architecture and indigenous tribal architecture. Traditional Kerala architecture is characterized by the use of wood, tiled roofs, and open courtyards, while indigenous tribal architecture features mud walls, thatched roofs, and simple structures.
The traditional Kerala-style houses in Wayanad are typically built using locally sourced materials such as teak, jackfruit wood, and coconut wood. The roofs are made of clay tiles or thatch, and the houses are designed with open courtyards that allow for natural ventilation and light.
The indigenous tribes of Wayanad, such as the Paniyas, have their own distinct style of architecture. Their houses are made of mud and bamboo, with thatched roofs made of coconut leaves or grass. The houses are built on stilts to protect against flooding, and the walls are decorated with intricate murals and motifs.
Another unique architectural feature of Wayanad is the use of Jain temples. Wayanad was once a major center of Jainism in Kerala, and several ancient Jain temples can still be found in the district. These temples are built using stone and feature intricate carvings and sculptures.
Overall, the architecture of Wayanad reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage and the influence of its indigenous tribes, as well as its historical connections to the rest of Kerala and southern India.
40 Places to Visit in Wayanad
- Chembra Peak – a popular trekking spot and the highest peak in Wayanad.
- Pookode Lake – a beautiful natural freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery.
- Edakkal Caves – ancient caves with prehistoric rock art and scenic views.
- Banasura Sagar Dam – the largest earth dam in India and a popular picnic spot.
- Thirunelli Temple – a 5000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and located amidst lush greenery.
- Meenmutty Waterfalls – a stunning waterfall with three tiers, located amidst lush greenery.
- Kuruva Island – a beautiful island surrounded by the Kabini River and home to a variety of flora and fauna.
- Lakkidi Viewpoint – a popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the valley below.
- Soochipara Falls – a beautiful waterfall located in a lush forest area.
- Karapuzha Dam – a scenic dam located amidst lush greenery.
- Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary – a wildlife sanctuary known for its rich birdlife and scenic beauty.
- Chethalayam Falls – a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary – a popular wildlife sanctuary home to a variety of flora and fauna.
- Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary – another wildlife sanctuary in Wayanad, known for its elephant population.
- Brahmagiri Peak – a popular trekking spot located on the border of Kerala and Karnataka.
- Jain Temple, Sultan Bathery – an ancient Jain temple known for its intricate carvings and architecture.
- Pazhassi Raja Museum and Art Gallery – a museum dedicated to the legendary king Pazhassi Raja.
- Neelimala Viewpoint – a popular viewpoint offering scenic views of the surrounding hills.
- Ambukuthi Mala – a hill known for its ancient megalithic structures.
- Chethalayam Waterfalls – a lesser-known but beautiful waterfall located in a scenic area.
- Phantom Rock – a unique rock formation that resembles a human skull.
- Kanthanpara Waterfall – a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
- Meppadi – a scenic town known for its tea and coffee plantations.
- Sentinel Rock Waterfall – a beautiful waterfall located amidst lush greenery.
- Puliyarmala Jain Temple – an ancient Jain temple known for its intricate carvings.
- Thusharagiri Waterfalls – a series of waterfalls located amidst scenic surroundings.
- Kuruvadweep – a beautiful island located amidst the Kabini River.
- Valliyoorkkavu Temple – a popular temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.
- Ananthanatha Swami Temple – an ancient Jain temple known for its beautiful architecture.
- Pazhassi Tomb – the tomb of the legendary king Pazhassi Raja.
- Thovarimala Ezhuthupara – a beautiful hill with ancient rock carvings.
- Nadavayal – a scenic town known for its tea and coffee plantations.
- Thirunelli Maha Vishnu Temple – an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Sulthan Bathery Jain Temple – an ancient Jain temple known for its beautiful architecture.
- Jain Temple, Sulthan Bathery – another ancient Jain temple in Wayanad.
- Edakkal Hermitage – a scenic place located close to the Edakkal Caves.
- Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary – a wildlife sanctuary known for its rich flora and
- Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kakkayam Dam
- Kambalakkad Viewpoint
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Wayanad, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Weather and Best time to visit Wayanad
Wayanad enjoys a tropical monsoon climate with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, ranging between 15°C to 35°C. The region experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September. The winter season from October to February is considered the best time to visit Wayanad when the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures and clear skies.
During the summer season from March to May, the region experiences hot and humid weather, but this is still a good time to visit Wayanad as the temperature is not too extreme. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional rainfall during this time.
The monsoon season from June to September should be avoided as the heavy rainfall can make it difficult to travel and enjoy outdoor activities. However, the lush greenery and the waterfalls in full flow during this time can be a sight to behold for those who don’t mind the rains.
Overall, the best time to visit Wayanad is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the region.
How To Reach Wayanad
Wayanad is well-connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air. Here are the different modes of transportation to reach Wayanad:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Wayanad is the Calicut International Airport, which is located around 100 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Wayanad.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Wayanad is Kozhikode Railway Station, which is around 110 km away. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Wayanad.
- By Road: Wayanad is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and Karnataka by road. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from cities like Bangalore, Mysore, Kozhikode, and Kochi to reach Wayanad. There are also several private and state-run buses that operate regularly to and from Wayanad.
Once you reach Wayanad, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to explore the region. The roads in Wayanad are well-maintained and offer beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Helicopter and Charter Services to Wayanad
Yes, helicopter charter services are available to Wayanad. Many private helicopter operators provide helicopter charter services from major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Kochi to Wayanad. The helicopter journey to Wayanad is a unique and exciting experience, as it offers breathtaking views of the lush green forests, winding rivers, and picturesque landscapes.
The helicopter charter services can be customized as per your requirements and budget. The duration and itinerary of the flight can be tailored to your preferences, and the helicopter can be booked for one-way or round-trip journeys. The cost of helicopter charter services varies depending on the duration, distance, and type of helicopter used.
Some of the popular helicopter charter service providers to Wayanad are Thumby Aviation, PHL Helicopter, and Indwell Aviation. It is advisable to book the helicopter charter service in advance to avoid last-minute hassles and ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
Charter Services providers to Wayanad and their Price
There are several helicopter charter service providers that offer services to Wayanad. Here are some of the popular helicopter charter service providers to Wayanad along with their estimated prices:
- Thumby Aviation: Thumby Aviation is a leading helicopter service provider in India and offers helicopter charter services to Wayanad. They operate a fleet of modern helicopters, including the Bell 407, Bell 206L, and Airbus H130. The cost of hiring a helicopter from Thumby Aviation to Wayanad starts from around INR 1,50,000 for a one-way journey.
- Indwell Aviation: Indwell Aviation is another popular helicopter charter service provider in India that offers services to Wayanad. They operate a fleet of helicopters, including the Bell 407, Bell 206L, and Airbus H130. The cost of hiring a helicopter from Indwell Aviation to Wayanad starts from around INR 1,75,000 for a one-way journey.
- PHL Helicopter: PHL Helicopter is a helicopter charter service provider that offers services to Wayanad. They operate a fleet of helicopters, including the Bell 407, Bell 206L, and Airbus H130. The cost of hiring a helicopter from PHL Helicopter to Wayanad starts from around INR 1,50,000 for a one-way journey.
It is important to note that the prices mentioned above are only indicative and can vary depending on factors such as the type of helicopter used, the duration of the flight, and the distance traveled. It is recommended to contact the respective helicopter charter service providers for more accurate and updated pricing information.
Accommodation Options in Wayanad
Wayanad offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the popular accommodation options in Wayanad:
- Resorts: Wayanad is home to several luxurious resorts that offer world-class amenities and services. These resorts are located amidst lush green forests, tea estates, and plantations, and offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Some of the popular resorts in Wayanad are Vythiri Resort, Wayanad Wild, and Banasura Hill Resort.
- Homestays: Homestays are a popular accommodation option in Wayanad, especially for those who want to experience the local culture and lifestyle. These homestays are run by local families and offer comfortable rooms, home-cooked food, and personalized services. Some of the popular homestays in Wayanad are Chateau Woods, Wayanad Silverwoods, and Pepper Trail Homestay.
- Hotels: Wayanad has several budget-friendly hotels that offer comfortable rooms and basic amenities. These hotels are ideal for backpackers and budget travelers. Some of the popular hotels in Wayanad are Green Gates Hotel, Mint Flower Residency, and Edakkal Hermitage.
- Camping: For those who love outdoor adventure, camping is a great option in Wayanad. There are several campsites located in the heart of nature, where you can pitch your tent and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Some of the popular campsites in Wayanad are Karapuzha Village Resort, Meppadi Inn, and Nature’s Hill.
Overall, Wayanad offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid last-minute hassles.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Wayanad As per users Reviews and Ratings
Here is a brief on the top 10 hotels to stay in Wayanad, as per user reviews and ratings:
- Vythiri Resort: Vythiri Resort is a luxurious resort located amidst lush green forests and tea plantations. The resort offers well-appointed rooms, world-class amenities, and stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Users have rated this resort highly for its excellent hospitality, beautiful location, and top-notch services.
- Wayanad Wild: Wayanad Wild is a luxurious resort located in the heart of nature. The resort offers spacious rooms, an infinity pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine. Users have rated this resort highly for its tranquil atmosphere, friendly staff, and exceptional services.
- Banasura Hill Resort: Banasura Hill Resort is a luxurious resort that offers stunning views of the Banasura Hill and the surrounding tea plantations. The resort features well-appointed rooms, an infinity pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine. Users have rated this resort highly for its breathtaking views, excellent hospitality, and serene atmosphere.
- Pepper Trail Homestay: Pepper Trail Homestay is a beautiful homestay located amidst coffee and spice plantations. The homestay offers comfortable rooms, home-cooked food, and personalized services. Users have rated this homestay highly for its authentic experience, friendly staff, and serene location.
- Chateau Woods: Chateau Woods is a beautiful homestay located amidst tea and coffee plantations. The homestay offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and personalized services. Users have rated this homestay highly for its beautiful location, delicious food, and friendly staff.
- Green Gates Hotel: Green Gates Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities. The hotel features a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine. Users have rated this hotel highly for its excellent value for money, clean rooms, and friendly staff.
- Mint Flower Residency: Mint Flower Residency is a budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities. The hotel features a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine. Users have rated this hotel highly for its clean rooms, friendly staff, and convenient location.
- Edakkal Hermitage: Edakkal Hermitage is a beautiful homestay located in the heart of nature. The homestay offers comfortable rooms, home-cooked food, and personalized services. Users have rated this homestay highly for its serene atmosphere, friendly staff, and authentic experience.
- Hiliya Resort: Hiliya Resort is a beautiful resort located amidst coffee plantations. The resort offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine. Users have rated this resort highly for its beautiful location, friendly staff, and peaceful atmosphere.
- Wayanad Silverwoods: Wayanad Silverwoods is a luxurious resort located in the heart of nature. The resort offers spacious rooms, an infinity pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine. Users have rated this resort highly for its tranquil atmosphere, breathtaking views, and exceptional services.
Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Wayanad
Here are some travel tips to know before your trip to Wayanad:
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Wayanad is from October to May when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear.
- Carry warm clothing: Even if you are visiting Wayanad in the summer months, it is advisable to carry warm clothing as the nights can be chilly.
- Choose comfortable footwear: Wayanad has many scenic trekking trails, so it’s essential to wear comfortable footwear while exploring the region.
- Carry sunscreen and mosquito repellent: The sun can be quite harsh in Wayanad, so it’s essential to carry sunscreen with a high SPF. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, so it’s advisable to carry mosquito repellent.
- Book accommodation in advance: Wayanad is a popular tourist destination, so it’s advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season.
- Respect local customs and traditions: Wayanad has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s essential to respect the local customs and traditions.
- Avoid plastic: Wayanad is known for its natural beauty, so it’s advisable to avoid using plastic and to dispose of waste responsibly.
- Learn some basic phrases in the local language: Learning some basic phrases in the local language can help you communicate with the locals and make your trip more enjoyable.
- Hire a local guide: Hiring a local guide can help you explore the region better and learn more about the local culture and traditions.
- Follow COVID-19 guidelines: Make sure to follow COVID-19 guidelines issued by the government, such as wearing a mask, maintaining social distance, and carrying a negative COVID-19 test report.
Food To Eat in Wayanad
Wayanad offers a unique culinary experience, with a mix of traditional Kerala cuisine and local tribal delicacies. Here are some of the must-try foods in Wayanad:
- Malabar Parotta and Beef Fry: Malabar parotta is a flaky, layered flatbread, and beef fry is a spicy and flavorful dish made with tender beef pieces.
- Appam with Stew: Appam is a soft, fluffy pancake made with fermented rice batter, and stew is a creamy and aromatic coconut milk-based gravy.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Puttu is a steamed cylindrical rice cake, and Kadala curry is a thick and flavorful curry made with black chickpeas.
- Fish Curry and Rice: Kerala-style fish curry is a tangy and spicy dish made with coconut milk and a variety of spices, and is usually served with steamed rice.
- Thalassery Biriyani: Thalassery biriyani is a special biriyani variety from the Malabar region, with aromatic rice, tender meat, and a blend of spices.
- Bamboo Rice: Bamboo rice is a rare and unique rice variety grown in the forests of Wayanad. It is said to have a distinct flavor and aroma.
- Kappa and Meen Curry: Kappa is a boiled and mashed tapioca dish, and Meen Curry is a fish curry made with tamarind and a variety of spices.
- Neyyappam: Neyyappam is a sweet and crispy rice flour-based snack, usually made during festivals and special occasions.
- Elaneer Payasam: Elaneer Payasam is a refreshing dessert made with tender coconut pulp, milk, and jaggery.
- Tribal Delicacies: Wayanad is home to various tribal communities, and each community has its unique food traditions. Some of the must-try tribal delicacies include bamboo shoot pickle, wild mushroom fry, and jackfruit seed curry.
Best Places for Shopping in Wayanad
Wayanad is famous for its traditional handicrafts, spices, tea, coffee, and honey. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Wayanad:
- Uravu Eco Shop: Uravu Eco Shop is a social enterprise that promotes the sustainable development of local communities by selling handcrafted bamboo and cane products.
- Wayanad Handlooms: Wayanad Handlooms is a cooperative society that sells hand-woven fabrics, shawls, and sarees made by local weavers.
- Pookode Lake: Pookode Lake is a scenic lake surrounded by lush green forests and hills. It has a small shopping center that sells souvenirs, spices, and handicrafts.
- Vythiri Village: Vythiri Village is a luxury resort that has a shopping center that sells traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and spices.
- Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for wildlife safaris. It has a small shopping center that sells souvenirs and handicrafts made by local tribal communities.
- Sultan Bathery: Sultan Bathery is a small town in Wayanad that has several shops and markets selling spices, tea, coffee, and honey.
- Thariode: Thariode is a village in Wayanad that is famous for its handcrafted pottery. Visitors can buy pottery items directly from the artisans.
- Chembra Peak: Chembra Peak is a popular trekking destination in Wayanad. It has a small shop that sells tea, coffee, and snacks.
- Kuruva Island: Kuruva Island is a scenic river island in Wayanad. It has a small shopping center that sells souvenirs and handicrafts.
- Kalpetta: Kalpetta is the district headquarters of Wayanad and has several shops and markets selling spices, tea, coffee, and handicrafts.
Things you should buy as a Tourist From Wayanad
Wayanad is known for its traditional handicrafts, spices, tea, coffee, and honey. Here are some things you should buy as a tourist from Wayanad:
- Handicrafts made of bamboo and cane: Wayanad has a rich tradition of bamboo and cane craft, and you can find a variety of items like baskets, lampshades, and furniture made of bamboo and cane.
- Handwoven fabrics: Wayanad Handlooms is a cooperative society that sells hand-woven fabrics, shawls, and sarees made by local weavers. These fabrics are made of natural fibers like cotton and silk and have unique designs and patterns.
- Spices: Wayanad is known for its spices like pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. You can buy these spices directly from the farmers or from local markets.
- Tea and coffee: Wayanad has several tea and coffee plantations, and you can buy high-quality tea and coffee directly from the plantations.
- Honey: Wayanad is home to several varieties of honey like wild honey, forest honey, and rock honey. You can buy pure and organic honey from local beekeepers.
- Pottery: Thariode is a village in Wayanad that is famous for its handcrafted pottery. You can buy pottery items like cups, bowls, and plates directly from the artisans.
- Tribal handicrafts: Wayanad is home to several tribal communities, and each community has its unique handicrafts like bamboo shoot pickle, wild mushroom fry, and jackfruit seed curry.
- Ayurvedic products: Wayanad has several Ayurvedic centers that sell herbal oils, powders, and creams made from natural ingredients.
- Souvenirs: You can buy souvenirs like postcards, keychains, and magnets from local shops and markets.
- Organic fruits and vegetables: Wayanad has several organic farms that grow a variety of fruits and vegetables. You can buy fresh and organic produce directly from the farmers.
Nightlife in Wayanad
Wayanad is a nature lover’s paradise and does not have a vibrant nightlife scene. However, there are a few things you can do after sunset in Wayanad:
- Enjoy a bonfire: Many resorts and homestays in Wayanad organize bonfires where you can relax and unwind under the starry sky.
- Stargazing: Wayanad has a clear night sky and is an ideal place for stargazing. You can do stargazing from your resort or homestay or join a guided stargazing tour.
- Night safaris: Many wildlife sanctuaries in Wayanad organize night safaris where you can spot nocturnal animals like tigers, leopards, and elephants.
- Visit a local bar: Wayanad has a few local bars that serve beer and liquor. However, the drinking culture in Wayanad is subdued, and it is not a party destination.
- Enjoy a night walk: Wayanad has several trekking trails and nature trails that you can explore at night. Many resorts and homestays organize guided night walks where you can experience the sights and sounds of the forest at night.
It is important to note that Wayanad is a rural area, and most shops and restaurants close early. It is advised to respect the local culture and not indulge in loud or disruptive behavior at night.
Activities and Things to do in Wayanad
Wayanad is a beautiful hill district in the state of Kerala, India. It is a popular tourist destination known for its lush green forests, rolling hills, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. Here are some of the best activities and things to do in Wayanad:
- Trekking: Wayanad has many beautiful trekking trails that lead you through dense forests and hills. Chembra Peak, Banasura Hill, and Brahmagiri Peak are popular trekking destinations.
- Wildlife Safari: Wayanad has several wildlife sanctuaries where you can spot wild animals like tigers, elephants, deer, and leopards. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, and Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary are popular options.
- Camping: Camping is a popular activity in Wayanad. You can camp near the waterfalls, in the forest, or on the hills. Many resorts and tour operators offer camping packages.
- Boating: You can enjoy boating in the serene waters of the Pookode Lake, which is surrounded by green hills and forests.
- Visit Tea Gardens: Wayanad has several tea gardens where you can take a tour of the plantation and learn about the tea-making process. The tea gardens in Meppadi and Vythiri are popular.
- Visit Waterfalls: Wayanad has several beautiful waterfalls, such as Soochipara Waterfalls, Kanthanpara Waterfalls, and Meenmutty Waterfalls. You can take a dip in the cool waters and enjoy the scenery.
- Visit Edakkal Caves: Edakkal Caves are ancient rock shelters that contain carvings and paintings dating back to the Neolithic era. The caves are located on a hill and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Visit Banasura Sagar Dam: Banasura Sagar Dam is the largest earthen dam in India and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding hills and forests.
- Visit Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several species of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. You can take a jeep safari or trek through the sanctuary to spot wildlife.
- Visit Jain Temple: The Jain Temple in Wayanad is an ancient temple that dates back to the 13th century. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and architecture.
Lesser Known facts about Wayanad
Here are some lesser-known facts about Wayanad:
- The name “Wayanad” is derived from the Malayalam words “Vayal Nadu,” which means the land of paddy fields.
- Wayanad is located on the Western Ghats, which is one of the world’s 34 biodiversity hotspots and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Wayanad has the highest tribal population in Kerala, with around 20% of its population belonging to various tribal communities.
- The district has the highest number of dams in Kerala, with more than 20 dams located here. These dams are used for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and tourism.
- Wayanad has several ancient caves that are believed to date back to the Neolithic era. These caves contain carvings and paintings that depict the lives of the people who lived in the region thousands of years ago.
- The region is known for its unique cuisine, which includes dishes made from local ingredients like bamboo shoots, jackfruit, and wild mushrooms.
- Wayanad is also known for its handloom industry, which produces high-quality cotton and silk fabrics. The region has several weaving centers where you can see the traditional process of making fabrics.
- The district is home to several endangered species of animals, including the Nilgiri langur, the Malabar giant squirrel, and the Indian bison.
- Wayanad is a popular destination for birdwatching, with more than 350 species of birds found here.
- The district is also known for its traditional art forms, such as Theyyam and Kalaripayattu, which are performed during festivals and special occasions.
FAQ about Wayanad
What is the best time to visit Wayanad?
A: The best time to visit Wayanad is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
Q: How can I reach Wayanad?
A: The nearest airport to Wayanad is the Calicut International Airport, which is about 100 km away. The nearest railway station is at Kozhikode, which is about 75 km away. You can also reach Wayanad by road from nearby cities like Bangalore and Kochi.
Q: What are the popular tourist attractions in Wayanad?
A: Some popular tourist attractions in Wayanad are Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Soochipara Waterfalls.
Q: Is Wayanad a safe place to travel?
A: Yes, Wayanad is a safe place to travel. However, like any other tourist destination, you should take basic safety precautions like not carrying too much cash, avoiding isolated places, and not trusting strangers.
Q: What are some popular local dishes in Wayanad?
A: Some popular local dishes in Wayanad are appam, puttu, dosa, sambar, avial, and thoran. You can also try traditional tribal dishes like bamboo rice, bamboo chicken, and pork curry.
Q: Can I go for trekking in Wayanad?
A: Yes, Wayanad has several trekking trails that lead you through beautiful forests and hills. Some popular trekking destinations are Chembra Peak, Banasura Hill, and Brahmagiri Peak.
Q: What are the popular shopping destinations in Wayanad?
A: Some popular shopping destinations in Wayanad are the Wayanad Handloom Cooperative Society, the Uravu Bamboo Workshop, and the Churam Artisan Village. You can buy local handicrafts, spices, tea, and silk and cotton fabrics at these places.
Q: Is Wayanad a good place for a family vacation?
A: Yes, Wayanad is a great place for a family vacation. It has several tourist attractions, outdoor activities, and wildlife sanctuaries that are suitable for people of all ages.
