10 Top Tourist Attractions in Wayanad, Kerala Wayanad, which is also known as the ‘green paradise’ lies in between the mountains of the Western Ghats. It is called the ‘green paradise’ because it forms the border of the greener portion of Kerala. It lies at a distance of 76 km from Kozhikode. There are many places to visit in Wayanad and here’s a quick introduction to some of the most interesting of Wayanad tourist places. The ones with an affinity for nature would do well to check out Chembra Peak, Lakkidi View Point, and Soochipara Falls. Another well-known place is Thirunelli Temple. Besides, Edakkal Caves, Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, Pazhassi Tomb, and Meenmutty Falls are further lovely must see Wayanad places to visit. 1. Pookode Lake: Pookode lake is a beautiful natural fresh water lake with its own dreamy serenity. Surrounded by meadows and trees on all sides, this lake is a haven for travellers who like tranquility. It is located close to Kalpetta. 2. Chembra peak: Chembra is the highest peak, located 14 kms away from Kalpetta at an altitude of 2100 mts above sea level. The trekking to Chembra peak is a risky mountaineering endeavour. The breathteaking beauty of Waynad can be enjoyed from here. The District Tourism Promotion Council provides guides, sleeping bags,canvases,huts and trekking equipment on hire. 3. Edakkal caves: The two rock caves at Ambukuthy Hills, 12 kms south of Sultan’s Battery has ancient carvings and pictorial writings of the New Stone Age. These caves are world famous as one of the earliest centres of human habitation. The caves are located on the Ambukuthi Hills which can be reached only by trekking 5 kms from Ambalavayal. 4. Thirunelly temple: This Vishnu shrine amidst the thick evergreen forest is located about 32 kms away from Mananthavadi. This temple is often referred to as the Kasi of the South . A little away from this temple is the mountain spring called Papanasini. It is believed that, if the mortal remains are immersed in this holy river, it gives eternal bliss to the departed soul. 5. Valliyur kavu Bhagavathy temple: This temple, dedicated to the goddess Bhagavati, is located 8 kms away from Mananthavadi. In the festive season tribes from all over Wayanad assemble here. 6. Pakshipathalam: Pakshipathalam is located 10 kms away from Thirunelly. This tiny hillock is the abode of migratory birds. During the season rare species of birds can be seen here. Trekking is the only mode of accessibility. There is also a cave believed to be used for meditation by saints. 7. Karalad Lake: An unusually quiet retreat, the lake offers facilities for angling and boating as well as a recreational park. The trek to this lake is also quite exciting. 8. Kuruva Island: Kuruva Island is situated 16 kms away from Mananthavadi. Located on the river Kabani this island forms a unique delta where herbal plants, orchids and rare species of flowers, animals and birds are found in abundance. 9. Lakkidi: Lakkidi is situated 700 m above mean sea level, at the crest of the Thamarasseri Ghat Pass. Lofty peaks, gurgling streams and luxuriant forests add magic to the journey up the winding roads to this hill station. 10. Soochipara Waterfall: Soochipara waterfall is a three tiered waterfall at Vellarimala in Wayanad. This waterfall, surrounded by dense green forest, is also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfall. A 20 minute drive from Meppadi in Wayanad will take you to this splendid waterfall. The name Soochipara derived from the words ‘soochi’ and ‘para’ means ‘rock’ and ‘needle’. Located near Kalpetta in Wayanad, this spectacular waterfall attracts visitors from near and far. How to Reach Wayanad Nearest railway station: Kozhikode (Calicut), about 63 km Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, about 73 km Nearest Bus Station: Wayanad is accessible from Calicut, Kannur, Mysore, Bangalore and Ooty. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has bus services from Trivandrum, Eranakulam (Kochi), Calicut (Kozhikkode), Mysore and Bangalore through Wayanad. Karnataka Road Transport Corporation also has bus services from Bangalore/Mysore to Calicut/Eranakulam following the route Mysore – Gundlupet – Sulthan Bathery(Wayanad) – Kalpetta(Wayanad).
