The best places to visit in Wayanad are Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Pookode Lake, Thirunelli Temple and Soochipara Falls, along with a night in one of the district’s tree house stays. Together they cover history, trekking, wildlife and quiet lakeside views in one green Kerala district.
About Wayanad
Wayanad is a hilly district in north-east Kerala, on the Western Ghats, bordering Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Its headquarters is Kalpetta, and the other main towns are Sulthan Bathery and Mananthavady. Coffee, tea, pepper and spice plantations cover much of the district.
The nearest airports are Kannur and Kozhikode, and the nearest major railway station is Kozhikode. Most visitors drive up the Thamarassery ghat road from the Kozhikode side, which has nine hairpin bends.
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Quick guide to the top spots
| Place | Best for | Nearest town |
|---|---|---|
| Edakkal Caves | History, short climb | Sulthan Bathery |
| Chembra Peak | Trekking | Meppadi |
| Banasura Sagar Dam | Boating, views | Padinjarathara |
| Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary | Jeep safari | Sulthan Bathery, Mananthavady |
| Pookode Lake | Boating, family outing | Vythiri |
| Thirunelli Temple | Pilgrimage, forest setting | Mananthavady |
| Soochipara Falls | Waterfall, short forest walk | Meppadi |
1. Edakkal Caves
The Edakkal Caves sit high on Ambukuthi Mala, near Sulthan Bathery. They are not true caves but a deep cleft formed by a split in a huge rock. The walls carry ancient engravings of human figures, animals and symbols, which are often dated to the Neolithic period.
Reaching the caves means a steep climb on steps and rocky paths, so wear good shoes and start early. Phantom Rock, a rock formation shaped like a skull, is close by and makes an easy add-on.
2. Chembra Peak
At about 2,100 metres, Chembra Peak near Meppadi is one of the highest points in Wayanad. The trek passes tea estates and grassland, and the best-known stop is a small heart-shaped lake on the way up.
Treks are run by the Kerala Forest Department with set timings, permits and group limits, and they have been suspended at times for fire risk, weather or safety reasons. Confirm the current status with the forest office before planning your trip around it.
3. Banasura Sagar Dam
Banasura Sagar Dam, near Padinjarathara, is often described as India’s largest earth dam. The reservoir is dotted with small islands, and the hills of Banasura rise behind it.
Speedboat and pedal boat rides are popular, and the views are best in the morning or late afternoon. The Banasura hills also have trekking trails for fit visitors.
4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and links with forests in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, including Bandipur, Nagarhole and Mudumalai. Elephants, gaur, deer and a variety of birds are common sightings, and tigers live here too.
Visitors can take forest department jeep safaris at Muthanga and Tholpetty. Slots are limited and the sanctuary may close during the dry season for fire safety, so check before you go. For more wildlife trips, see our Travel section.
5. Pookode Lake
Pookode Lake is a natural freshwater lake near Vythiri, surrounded by forest and hills. Families come for pedal boating, a short walk around the water and the aquarium and small shops near the entrance.
It is one of the easiest stops in Wayanad, close to the main Kozhikode to Kalpetta road. Lakkidi View Point, at the top of the ghat road, is nearby and good for a quick photo stop.
6. Thirunelli Temple
Thirunelli Temple is an old Vishnu temple near Mananthavady, set in a valley close to the Brahmagiri hills. Many pilgrims visit to perform rituals for their ancestors at the Papanasini stream nearby.
The drive passes through forest, and the temple’s stone architecture and quiet surroundings make it worth a visit even for travellers who are not pilgrims. Dress modestly and follow the temple’s rules.
7. Soochipara Falls
Soochipara Falls, also called Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is a multi-tiered waterfall near Meppadi. A walk through forest and plantations leads to a pool at the base.
The falls are part of a forest area, and entry depends on water levels and safety conditions. Swimming may be restricted, so follow the guards’ instructions.
8. Tree house stays
A night in a tree house is one of the most popular things to do in Wayanad. Many resorts and homestays around Vythiri, Meppadi and other forested areas offer rooms built high in the trees, often with plantation or valley views.
Book through licensed properties, check safety features and reviews, and confirm whether meals are included, since many tree houses are some distance from towns.
Other places worth adding
- Kuruva Island: a cluster of river islets on the Kabini, reached by bamboo raft. Entry is regulated and has been closed for long periods, so check before going.
- Pakshipathalam: a bird-watching area in the Brahmagiri hills near Thirunelli, reached by a guided forest trek.
- Tholpetty: the northern range of the wildlife sanctuary, near the Karnataka border.
Travel tips for Wayanad
October to May is the most comfortable season. The monsoon, roughly June to September, brings heavy rain and lush scenery, but also landslide risk, slippery trails and closures.
On 30 July 2024, massive landslides struck Mundakkai, Chooralmala and nearby villages in Meppadi panchayat, killing more than 200 people. Access to the affected area remains restricted. Travellers should respect these restrictions and check advisories from the District Tourism Promotion Council and Kerala Tourism before visiting. Our Lifestyle section has more tips for planning hill trips.
Frequently asked questions
How many days are enough for Wayanad?
Two to three days covers the main sights, including Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Pookode Lake and a safari. Add a day for the Chembra trek.
What is the best time to visit Wayanad?
October to May offers pleasant weather. Monsoon visits are possible, but expect heavy rain and some closures.
Is Chembra Peak open for trekking?
Treks are controlled by the Kerala Forest Department and have been suspended at times. Check the current status with the forest office before you go.
Is it safe to visit Wayanad after the 2024 landslides?
Most tourist areas are away from the disaster zone, but follow official advisories, avoid restricted areas and take extra care in the monsoon.
Sources: Kerala Tourism: Wayanad, Wikipedia: Wayanad district, Wikipedia: 2024 Wayanad landslides.
