Wayanad Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Wayanad with this comprehensive tour guide, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, the best things to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Wayanad

Wayanad is a district located in the Malabar region of Kerala, India. It is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic landscapes, wildlife sanctuaries, and historical sites. The district is bordered by the Western Ghats to the east and the Arabian Sea to the west. Wayanad is home to several indigenous tribes and has a rich cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Wayanad

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Edakkal Caves

Edakkal Caves are a group of ancient caves located in the Ambukuthi Hills in Wayanad. The caves are famous for their prehistoric carvings and paintings, which date back to the Neolithic era. The cave walls showcase images of animals, human figures, and other geometric symbols.

Jain Temple

The Jain Temple in Sulthan Bathery is a significant religious site for Jains in Wayanad. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and ancient architecture. It is believed to have been built during the 13th century.

Wayanad Heritage Museum

The Wayanad Heritage Museum is located in the town of Ambalavayal and is home to a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. The museum displays a wide range of objects, including tribal relics, weapons, and pottery.

Natural Attractions of Wayanad: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Chembra Peak

Chembra Peak is the highest peak in Wayanad and is a popular destination for trekking and hiking. The peak offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and is home to a heart-shaped lake that is believed to have medicinal properties.

Banasura Sagar Dam

The Banasura Sagar Dam is located on the Kabini River and is the largest earthen dam in India. The dam is a popular tourist spot and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests. Activities like boating and trekking are also available at the dam site.

Kuruva Island

Kuruva Island is a beautiful uninhabited island located on the Kabini River. The island is covered with dense forests and is home to several species of rare birds, orchids, and herbs. Visitors can enjoy a serene walk along the river or take a boat ride to explore the island.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wayanad

Wayanad offers several hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to explore the district’s natural beauty. The most popular routes include:

  • Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary Trek
  • Thirunelli Temple Trek
  • Banasura Hill Trek
  • Wayanad Ghat Road Cycling

Best Things to Do in Wayanad: Activities and Tours

Wildlife Safari

Wayanad is home to several wildlife sanctuaries, including the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors can take a wildlife safari to spot some of the rarest species of animals, including elephants, leopards, tigers, and deer.

Bamboo Rafting

Bamboo rafting is a popular activity in Wayanad and is available at the Kuruva Island and the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely ride on a bamboo raft through the river and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Tea Plantation Tour

Wayanad is known for its tea plantations, and visitors can take a tour of the tea estates to learn about the process of tea-making and enjoy some freshly brewed tea.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wayanad

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Edakkal Caves and the Wayanad Heritage Museum
Day 2 Trek to Chembra Peak and visit the heart-shaped lake
Day 3 Visit the Banasura Sagar Dam and enjoy the boating and trekking activities
Day 4 Take a wildlife safari at the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Day 5 Explore the Kuruva Island and enjoy bamboo rafting
Day 6 Visit the Jain Temple in Sulthan Bathery and take a tea plantation tour
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Wayanad or go for biking along the Wayanad Ghat Road

Food and Drink Scene of Wayanad

Must-Try Dishes

Malabar Parotta

Malabar Parotta is a popular flatbread in the Malabar region of Kerala, including Wayanad. It is made with flour, oil, and onions and is best served with chicken curry.

Puttu and Kadala Curry

Puttu is a steamed rice cake and is a staple food in Wayanad. It is usually served with kadala curry, a spicy black chickpea soup.

Local Beverages

Toddy

Toddy is a popular alcoholic beverage in Wayanad and is made from the sap of palm trees. It is sweet and sour in taste and is best enjoyed fresh.

Sulaimani Tea

Sulaimani Tea is a specialty tea in Wayanad and is made with black tea, lemon, and honey. It is best consumed after a heavy meal as it aids in digestion.

Where to Stay in Wayanad: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Wayanad offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the popular choices include:

  • Vythiri Village Resort
  • The Wave Wayanad
  • Hiliya Resort
  • Wayanad Wild

What to Buy in Wayanad: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the popular souvenirs and local products to bring home from Wayanad include:

  • Handicrafts made by the indigenous communities of Wayanad, including bamboo and wood handicrafts.
  • Spices, including cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.
  • Coffee and tea from the local plantations.

Local Culture and Customs of Wayanad

Wayanad is home to several indigenous communities, including the Paniyas, Kurumas, and Adiyars. Visitors are advised to be respectful of their culture and customs, including their attire and language. It is also customary to remove shoes before entering a house or a place of worship.

Best Time to Visit Wayanad

The best time to visit Wayanad is from October to May, as the weather is pleasant and the district is covered in greenery. The monsoon season from June to September may cause inconvenience as some places may be flooded and activities may be limited.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wayanad

Do:

  • Dress modestly, especially while visiting religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Litter and pollute the environment.
  • Disrespect the local culture and customs.
  • Pluck plants and flowers from the natural surroundings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wayanad

Wayanad is a safe district to travel to, with a low crime rate. However, visitors are advised to take necessary precautions, especially when traveling alone at night or in secluded areas.

Health in Wayanad

Wayanad has a high prevalence of water-borne diseases, and visitors are advised to drink only bottled or boiled water. Malaria and dengue are also common in the district, and visitors are advised to take necessary precautions, including using mosquito repellent and wearing full-sleeved clothing.

Getting to Wayanad: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wayanad

The nearest airport to Wayanad is the Calicut International Airport, which is located around 90 km away from the district. The airport is well-connected to other major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

Bus Stations Near Wayanad

Wayanad has two major bus stations, located in Kalpetta and Sulthan Bathery. Buses connect Wayanad to several nearby cities and towns, including Bangalore, Mysore, and Ooty.

Other Options

Private taxis and rental cars are also available for hire from nearby cities and towns.

How to Get Around in Wayanad

The best way to get around Wayanad is by hiring a private taxi or a rental car. Buses and autorickshaws are also available, but they may not be the most convenient option, especially for tourists.

Where to Go Next from Wayanad: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the popular nearby destinations and excursions from Wayanad include:

  • Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Mysore
  • Ooty

Conclusion

Wayanad is a beautiful district with an abundance of natural beauty and wildlife. With this comprehensive tour guide, visitors can plan their trip to Wayanad and make the most out of their stay in the district. From historic sites to adventurous treks, Wayanad has something to offer for everyone.

Paddy fields in Wayanad district Paddy fields in Wayanad district Street in Wayanad Street in Wayanad Karapuzha Dam in Wayanad Karapuzha Dam in Wayanad Banasura Sagar Dam Banasura Sagar Dam A tea plantation estate at Meppadi A tea plantation estate at Meppadi The main temple at the Mariamman Temple Complex at Mappadi in Wayanad, India. The main temple at the Mariamman Temple Complex at Mappadi in Wayanad, India. Vegetable shop in Meppadi Vegetable shop in Meppadi


    Begur Wildlife Sanctuary
    Kalpetta
    Mananthavady
    Meppadi
    Sultan Bathery
    Vythiri