Kalpetta Travel Guide

Explore the best of Kalpetta, from historic landmarks to natural attractions, with this comprehensive tourist guide. Discover the best places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, what to buy, and more!


Introduction to Kalpetta

Kalpetta is a small town located in the district of Wayanad in Kerala, South India. It is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife. Kalpetta is an ideal destination for travelers seeking an offbeat and relaxed vacation away from the rush of the city.

List of Places to Visit in Kalpetta

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Wayanad Heritage Museum

Wayanad Heritage Museum is one of the must-visit places in Kalpetta. It is a museum that displays the history, culture, and traditions of Wayanad. The museum has a rare collection of artifacts, weapons, hunting tools, and other items that reflect the life and culture of the ancient tribes of Wayanad.

Edakkal Caves

Edakkal Caves are the ancient stone etchings that date back to the Neolithic period. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kalpetta, as it is believed that the carvings found in the caves are over 8000 years old. Located atop Ambukuthi Hill, the caves can be reached only by trekking through the dense forests.

Natural Attractions of Kalpetta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Chembra Peak

Chembra Peak is the highest peak in Wayanad and an ideal destination for trekking enthusiasts. The trek to the peak takes around 3 to 4 hours, but it offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. At the summit, you can see a heart-shaped lake that is believed to have never dried up.

Meenmutty Waterfalls

Meenmutty Waterfalls is one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in Wayanad. It is located deep in the forests, and a trek of about 2 km is required to reach the falls. The trek itself is an adventure, as you need to cross streams and boulders. Once you reach the falls, you can take a dip in the cool water or just enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kalpetta

Kalpetta is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trekking trails winding through the mountains, forests, and valleys. Some of the popular hiking trails in Kalpetta are:

  • Thusharagiri Waterfalls Trek
  • Banasura Hill Trek
  • Pakshipathalam Trek
  • Brahmagiri Trek

For biking enthusiasts, the roads of Kalpetta offer some of the toughest and most scenic biking trails. The roads leading to Banasura Sagar Dam, Chembra Peak, and Meenmutty Waterfalls are popular among bikers.

Best Things to Do in Kalpetta: Activities and Tours

Kalpetta offers a host of activities and tours that cater to travelers of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Kalpetta:

  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Jeep Safari
  • Bamboo Rafting in Kuruva Island
  • Zip Line Adventure in Banasura Sagar Dam
  • Ayurvedic Spa Treatment
  • Local Village Tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Kalpetta

If you’re planning to visit Kalpetta for a week, here’s a recommended itinerary:

  • Day 1: Wayanad Heritage Museum and Edakkal Caves
  • Day 2: Thusharagiri Waterfalls Trek
  • Day 3: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Jeep Safari
  • Day 4: Chembra Peak Trek
  • Day 5: Kuruva Island Bamboo Rafting
  • Day 6: Banasura Sagar Dam Zip Line Adventure
  • Day 7: Local Village Tour and Ayurvedic Spa Treatment

Food and Drink Scene of Kalpetta

Must-Try Dishes

Kalpetta has a unique cuisine that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. Some of the must-try dishes in Kalpetta are:

  • Wayanad Chicken Fry
  • Thalassery Chicken Biriyani
  • Kerala Porotta with Beef Fry
  • Appam with Fish Curry
  • Meen Thala Curry (Fish Head Curry)

Local Beverages

  • Sambharam (Buttermilk)
  • Tender Coconut Water
  • Sulaimani (a black tea with lemon and spices)
  • Toddy (a fermented drink made from coconut sap)

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

Kalpetta has a range of accommodation options for all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Kalpetta are:

  • Vythiri Resort
  • Pepper Trail Homestay
  • Tranquil Resort
  • Wayanad Silver Woods Resort
  • Hotel Haritagiri

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

Kalpetta is known for its handicrafts, spices, and tea. Some of the things that you can buy in Kalpetta are:

  • Wayanad Handloom Products
  • Spices (Pepper, Cardamom, Cinnamon, etc.)
  • Tea and Coffee
  • Handicrafts (Wooden Toys, Clay Figurines, etc.)
  • Wayanad Honey

Local Culture and Customs of Kalpetta

The local culture of Kalpetta is deeply rooted in the traditions and customs of the ancient tribes of Wayanad. The people of Kalpetta are friendly and hospitable, and they take pride in their rich cultural heritage. It is customary to remove your shoes before entering a temple or a traditional house.

Best Time to Visit Kalpetta

The best time to visit Kalpetta is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June to September) should be avoided, as heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kalpetta

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress modestly while visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Carry a light jacket or shawl, as the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter the surroundings.
  • Photograph people without their consent.
  • Harm the animals and birds in the wildlife sanctuary.
  • Smoke, drink or use drugs in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kalpetta

Kalpetta is a safe destination for travelers. However, it is advisable to take precautions such as:

  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Carry a copy of your identification and emergency contacts.
  • Be cautious while trekking and follow the instructions of the guide.

Health in Kalpetta

It is important to carry a basic first-aid kit while traveling to Kalpetta. The town has many hospitals and clinics that offer medical facilities. However, it is recommended to take adequate precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses and drink only bottled water.

Getting to Kalpetta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kalpetta

The nearest airport to Kalpetta is the Calicut International Airport, which is located about 80 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kalpetta.

Bus Stations Near Kalpetta

Kalpetta has a well-connected bus station that operates regular services to major cities in Kerala and other states.

Other Options

You can also reach Kalpetta by train or by car. The nearest railway station is Kozhikode Central, which is located about 75 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the station to reach Kalpetta.

How to Get Around in Kalpetta

The best way to explore Kalpetta is by hiring a local taxi or an auto-rickshaw. Buses also operate within the town, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. Biking and trekking are other options for exploring the town.

Where to Go Next from Kalpetta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Kalpetta, you can visit some of the nearby destinations such as:

  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Banasura Sagar Dam
  • Pookode Lake
  • Soochipara Waterfalls
  • Vythiri Hill Station

Conclusion

Kalpetta is a hidden gem in the Western Ghats that offers a perfect blend of adventure, history, and culture. With its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Kalpetta is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an offbeat and relaxed vacation.

Banasura Sagar Dam Banasura Sagar Dam Kalpetta Flower Show Kalpetta Flower Show Neolithic caves at Edakkal Neolithic caves at Edakkal Meenmutty Falls Meenmutty Falls Rice and chicken curry is popular in Kalpetta Rice and chicken curry is popular in Kalpetta St. Joseph's Shrine, Mooppanad, Meppadi St. Joseph's Shrine, Mooppanad, Meppadi