Stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and rich cultural heritage – there are many reasons to visit Wayanad. The beautiful district sits in the north-eastern region of Kerala and is known for its natural backdrops. You can laze around and gaze at panoramic views that capture the wildlife around. If you’re vacationing during Kerala’s monsoons, Wayanad will offer the best monsoon treks in the state. You could even trek to some of the highest mountain peaks in India or simply climb a little above sea level and live in some of the most gorgeous treehouses in India.
Wayanad is home to a number of beautiful waterfalls, forests, and mountain ranges, making it an ideal destination for those who love admiring nature when on holiday. For culture vultures, Wayanad’s rich cultural heritage includes temples, churches, and historical sites that will teach you a lot as you explore. You could also trek, birdwatch, or raft while vacationing in Wayanad. Naturally, you’ll also get the opportunity to dig into Kerala’s cuisine and sample varieties of roasts, curries, biryani, and more with the softest appam, and crispiest dosa, and wrangle away with idiyappam every morning.
The peaceful and serene atmosphere of Wayanad remains unmatched. And, despite the numerous places to visit in Wayanad, you’ll still find time to relax and slow down. If you’re planning a trip to Kerala, lucky you! If you’re not, we’re sure this list pf places to visit in Wayanad will leave you convinced and ready to book a flight.
Places to visit in Wayanad
1. Meenmutty Waterfalls
Meenmutty waterfalls is one of the best tourist places in Wayanad. But that’s exactly why it’s always crowded in-season. The three-tiered waterfall has a height of 300 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Kerala. The falls are located in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and can be accessed by a 2.5 kilometre trek through the forest. The water at Meenmutty falls from a height of about 100 feet in the first tier, then flows down to the second tier and finally to the third tier, forming a spectacular sight. Add this to the list of places to visit in Wayanad, especially during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak.
There are several viewpoints near the falls from where you can get a panoramic view of the falls and the surrounding landscape. The trek to the falls is moderate in difficulty but is accessible for people of all ages. The area around the falls is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and at times you can also spot animals like elephants, deer, and birds while on the trek.
2. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Wayanad to explore animals in their habitats. You can spot the Asian elephant, tiger, leopard, and gaur here. The sanctuary offers a unique and breathtakingly beautiful landscape with rolling hills, dense forests, and winding streams. You can choose to explore the sanctuary on guided safari tours or by hiking through the wilderness on your own. Make sure to carry your binoculars, as the sanctuary is an important habitat for many species of birds, including several species of hornbills, parakeets, and kingfishers. While you’re at the sanctuary, you can also participate in conservation efforts and learn more about the importance of protecting and preserving the natural environment.
3. Edakkal Caves
Located on Ambukuthi Hill, the Edakkal Caves are believed to be over 3000 years old, which makes exploring them all the more exciting. One of the many tourist places to visit, the caves are formed by two natural rock formations, which have been carved out over time by wind and water erosion. The Edakkal Caves are home to ancient rock paintings, which depict the culture and lifestyle of the ancient people who lived in the region. These ancient paintings depict a variety of subjects, including animals, human figures, and geometric patterns. And, that’s why they are one of the many places to visit in Wayanad to experience the cultural heritage of the region. The Edakkal Caves have become a popular tourist attraction in Wayanad and are visited by thousands of people each year. These caves are also a site of historical and cultural significance, as they provide insight into the lives and beliefs of the ancient people who lived in the region.
4. Chembra Peak
One of the highest mountain peaks in India, The Chembra Peak in Wayanad is on every tourist’s list of places to visit in Wayanad, especially if they love to trek and hike. It stands at an elevation of 2,100 meters (6,890 feet) above sea level and is the highest peak in the Wayanad region. The peak is a popular spot for trekking and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Chembra Peak is surrounded by dense forests and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of plants and animals. The peak is also home to a small lake, the Chembra Heart Lake, which is believed to have medicinal properties. The trek to the top of the peak will take you around six-to-eight hours.
5. Bathery Jain Temple
Of the many temples that are popular tourist attractions in Wayanad, the Bathery Jain Temple is one place that you must visit when there. The temple is dedicated to the Jain tirthankaras, or spiritual leaders, and is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. One of the main attractions of the Bathery Jain Temple is its stunning architecture. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and decorative motifs, making it a visual delight. The main shrine of the temple is dedicated to the Jain deity, Lord Parshvanatha, and is surrounded by smaller shrines dedicated to other tirthankaras. Even if you’re not a believer, this is a place to visit in Wayanad because you can marvel at the beautiful gardens and fountains that surround the temple complex. The peaceful ambience of the temple, coupled with serene surroundings make it a perfect place for visitors to relax and find inner peace. The temple offers guided tours if you want an in-depth understanding of the Jain way of life and its history.
6. Neelimala View Point
Another place to visit in Wayanad for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape, the Neelimala View Point is situated atop a hill, providing a panoramic view of the Western Ghats. From here, you can see the lush green forests and valleys below, as well as the distant mountain ranges. The Neelimala View Point is a great spot for photography, as the views are breathtaking and offer a chance to capture the natural beauty of the region. There are also several benches and seating areas, allowing you to sit and soak in the views. If you feel exhausted at any point during your trip around Wayanad, this is a spot you can come to and unwind.
7. Kuruva Island
Kuruva Island is a beautiful and serene natural paradise, which is enough reason why it should be one the places to visit in Wayanad. It is a small, uninhabited island located around Kabini River, and is surrounded by lush green forests, rolling hills, and picturesque waterways. Naturally, you should visit Kuruva Island for its stunning natural beauty, which includes dense forests, meandering streams, and a variety of flora and fauna. The island is home to a wide range of birds and animals, including the Great Indian Hornbill, which is the state bird of Kerala. One of the main attractions of Kuruva Island is its tranquillity and serenity, which makes it a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the busy city life for a while. The island is also ideal for nature lovers, as it offers ample opportunities for birdwatching, trekking, and other outdoor activities. You can also visit the island's watchtower, which offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and hills. The island also has several small shops and stalls where you can shop for local handicrafts and pick up souvenirs.
8. Vythiri
While you’re exploring Wayanad’s tourist places, consider making a day trip to Vythiri, a small town in the Wayanad district. It is known for its beautiful landscape, with lush green forests, rolling hills, and sparkling waterfalls. And, it is also home to a number of plant and animal species. Its breathtaking natural beauty, as well as its cultural and historical significance, is enough reason for anyone to visit. But the town is home to several ancient temples, including the Pookode Lake Temple and the Chembra Peak Temple, which makes it one of the places to visit in Wayanad to explore the district in all its glory. Vythiri is also a great place to go on a trek, with numerous trails leading to scenic viewpoints and hidden waterfalls. In addition to its natural attractions, Vythiri is a popular destination for adventure sports such as rock climbing, ziplining and paragliding. You will also get many opportunities for birdwatching, as the area is home to a variety of bird species.
9. Lakkidi View Point
The Lakkidi View Point is a popular tourist attraction and is at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level. Offering picturesque views of the surrounding mountain ranges and lush greenery, it should be on your list of places to visit in Wayanad. One of the main reasons everyone visits the Lakkidi View Point is for its panoramic views. From here, you can see the beautiful Thamarassery Churam, a winding mountain pass that runs through the Western Ghats. The viewpoint also offers a stunning view of Pookot Lake, which is surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. The area has a number of walking trails, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll. The viewpoint also has a small café, where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while taking in the stunning views.
10. Wayanad Heritage Museum
Known for its extensive collection of artifacts, artworks, and exhibits that showcase the rich heritage and culture of Wayanad, the Wayanad Heritage Museum is one of the places to visit in Wayanad if you’re looking for a better understanding of the local culture. The museum is spread across three floors, with each floor dedicated to a specific theme. The ground floor is home to a collection of ancient artifacts and manuscripts, including coins, pottery, and manuscripts written in various languages. The first floor is dedicated to the art and culture of Wayanad, with exhibits showcasing the traditional art forms, handicrafts, and musical instruments of the region. The second floor is dedicated to the history of Wayanad, with exhibits showcasing the history of the region from ancient times to the present day. On your visit, you can marvel the unique art and craftsmanship of the region. The museum also hosts regular events and workshops and allows you to participate in traditional art forms too.
Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Best places to eat in Wayanad
While you’re visiting Wayanad, do take out time to sample Kerala’s cuisine at the best restaurants in the district. You can grab a bite at 1980’s – A Nostalgic Restaurant, Wilton Restaurant, The Coffee Grove, Muwalla Restaurant, or Kuruva Family Restaurant.
Best time to visit Wayanad
The best time to visit Wayanad is in the cooler months. So, the ideal time would be between October to May. Although November to February is when you’ll find that the temperatures dip to 10 degrees Celsius. In the winter months, you can also choose to book a stay in one of the treehouses in Kerala for a unique holiday experience.