Wayanad

Rugged landscapes switching from mountains to valleys, playful streams splashing and gushing all over, alluring paddy fields and lush green forests in all directions – the nature seems to be partial towards Wayanad, one of the most popular districts of Kerala. Spanning large area over Western Ghats, the place entertains romantic honeymooners, devout nature lovers and those on wildlife expeditions. No South India destination is complete without temples and Wayanad is not an exception. Apart from temples, there are churches, pre-historic caves, museums and many other attractions of Wayanad that complement the natural vistas like waterfalls, lakes, wildlife sanctuaries and gardens.

District’s name is amalgamation of two words – vayal (paddy fields) and nadu (land). No wonder that the region is popularly called the Land of Paddy Fields. The overall elevation of different tourist places in the district varies between 700 and 2100 m. and cool and pleasant climate dominates Wayanad throughout the year. It is one place in the southern part of India where history, culture and wilderness gel together to favour the tourism industry. Spice and tea plantations in the district are a distinguished feature and so is the array of trekking routes. You really need to go through this tourist guide for a cherishing holiday experience in Wayanad.

October to May

Stated below are some of the must visit places at Wayanad:

When in Wayanad, you are not far from the spicy Kerala cuisines like pal payasam, moru kootan, rasam, poricha kootu and of course variety of rice preparations. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes from all over the world can also be found at multi-cuisines restaurants, the best of them being those accommodated by resorts and hotels. Small cafes and eating points serving hot beverages and snacks can be located everywhere in the district.

Mats with beautiful embroidery, wood and metal souvenirs and bamboo articles are the interesting articles to purchase at various places in Wayanad. You would not like to miss buying different varieties of tea, coffee and fine quality spices that are locally grown. Some other interesting items include Chinese ceramics and attractive crafts made of coconut shells, mirrors and ivory.

The district of Wayanad can be accessed through well-maintained National Highway 212 from all major destinations of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Those travelling by air must land at Karipur International Airport in Kozhikode which is about 100 km. away. The closest railhead is also located at Kozhikode about 88 km. away. State run buses operate in all parts of Wayanad including Sultan Bathery, Mananthavady and Vythiri. Private vehicles and taxis are also good mediums. For short trips and interesting sightseeing in Wayanad, one can hire taxis, bikes, cycles or prefer to trek, only with right tourist information obtained from an expert.

Plan your trips to other popular places that include Banasura Sagar Dam, Kuruva Dweep, Pazhassi Tomb and Park, Phantom Rock and Lakkidi.

Kollam (about 86 km.): A coastal city and an old seaport, Kollam is home to lakes, backwaters and some very important temples, mosques and churches. Kozhikode (about 86 km.): Also known as Calicut, the place is famous for attractions like Kozhikode Beach, Marine Water Aquarium, historic temples and Science Centre and Planetarium. Kannur (112 km.): The city is another well-known tourist place with attractions like St. Angelo Fort, Meenkunnu Beach, Payyambalam Beach and numerous temples. Ooty (about 114 km.): The most popular hill station of the neighbouring state Tamil Nadu, Ooty has spectacular botanical gardens, rose gardens, waterfalls and tea gardens. Mysore (about 119 km.): The city needs no introduction for accommodating magnificent Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens and many other outstanding attractions.

Other prominent tourist destinations in the adjoining districts include Thalassery, Vadakara and Nilambur.