En Ooru
En Ooru Gotra Heritage Village is a unique initiative by the state government to preserve the heritage and culture of Kerala's tribal people while promoting traditional knowledge. The village brings together the diversity of tribal communities under one umbrella and has become a popular tourist destination. It is situated on 25 acres of hilly terrain near Pookode Veterinary University in Lakkidi, one of the most beautiful places in Wayanad, where the weather is always pleasant with fog, wind, and cold. The entrance fee is Rs. 50+20, and admission tickets can be booked through our experts. Online tickets are limited to 1500 per day. To reach Nur, climb the Tamarassery pass, which is just four kilometres away from the village and 62 kilometres from Kozhikode.
Pookode Lake
Pookode Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake in Wayanad district. This lake is a favourite place for tourists visiting Wayanad. Spread across 13 acres, this lake is surrounded by dense forest and hills. The depth is 40 metres. There is also a walking path around the lake.
The landscape surrounding this lake, filled with blue lotuses and amber trees, will also delight the tourists. Boating facilities are also available here to enjoy the full beauty of the park. Kayaking is also available. Visitors are admitted from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
It also has a children's park, an aquarium, and a handicraft market. Coming from Kozhikode, after crossing the Wayanad pass, from the first Lakkidi,you can drive on the Kalpetta road for about two kilometres, and you will see the road to Pookode Lake on the left side.
This is before reaching Vythiri, the first major town after climbing the pass. The distance to Pookode Lake is 15 kilometres from Kalpetta,the district headquarters. Vythiri Park: Vythiri Park is located near Pookode Lake. There are many games that kids will love.
Chembra Peak
Chembra Peak, also known as Chembramudi, is a 2100-metre-high peak located near Meppadi in Southern Wayanad and is a must-visit destination for trekking enthusiasts. As one of the highest peaks in the Malabar region, it is recommended to set aside a full day to climb and descend the peak. The changes in nature and the breathtaking views of Wayanad from the heights make it a memorable experience for visitors.
The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) of Kalpetta provides camping facilities for those who wish to stay overnight. To reach the Chembra Trekking Office, one can travel a little further on the Chembra Estate Road from Meppadi. Currently, trekking to Chembra Hill is being organised by the Forest Department, and visitors are allowed to trek from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. every day. The ticket price for a group of five people is Rs. 1770, which includes taxes. Visitors need to pay separately for a camera and water bottle, which will be refunded if the water bottle is returned after the trek. This is one of the best decisions made by the Forest Department to minimise plastic waste on the mountain.
There is no change in the ticket price, even though there are fewer than five people. Those who come alone or in groups of two or three can reduce the ticket price if they arrive at the counter early, form a team, and buy tickets together.
As the mountain is more than six thousand feet high, one can see the beautiful distant scenery from the top of the mountain. One of the main attractions is Hridaya Thadakam (the heart-shaped lake), which is located at the top of Chembra Hill. The grassy hills and steep ascents are intriguing and adventurous at the same time. The Chembra Mala trek is about three hours long.
Chooralmala
If you travel 13 kilometres from Meppadi, you will reach Chooralmala, a hilly area surrounded by countryside. The road is winding, but the scenery is beautiful. There are many tourist centres here. Soochipara Falls is the main attraction. But there are places like Vellarilapara, Sita Lake, Vattappara, Hollywood Valley, and Apsara Falls that are not visited by many tourists. All these are located within a radius of six kilometres. Chooralmala is just 99.7 kilometres from Munderi in Malappuram District.
Aranamala
Aranamala is a beautiful hill station located at a distance of 12 km from Meppadi. The towering hills, dense forests and green meadows, small streams with clear freshwater flowing in between, cool winds, and occasional mists make Aranamala a place of magical sights. The journey to Aranamala is beautiful and full of adventure. The verdant hills and mist-covered valleys beyond offer mesmerising views. The trail passes through cardamom groves and forests. Some of the best cardamom plantations in Wayanad are in Aranamala.
The aroma of cardamom is also available at some places during the trek. Grasslands cover the steep hills like an emerald carpet. Small rocks, like dark spots in between. The area has been secured with an electric fence for fear of wild animals. During the journey, you can see elephants and other animals. Pipelines have been installed to permanently use the water flowing down the hill to the houses below. The water from the stream is clean and cold.
900 Kandi
Meppadi and Kandi are 15 kilometres apart.At Meppadi in Wayanad, after going a little further on the road to Soochipara Falls, you reach the road to Kandi at 900. The road is rough. Only four-wheel-drive vehicles and bikes can pass through. The journey is through the rainforest. If you start climbing early in the morning, you can experience the journey through the snow. It can be enjoyed only if you go during the rainy season. Nine thousand Kandi, which means nine thousand acres of land, are owned by many people today. There is a beautiful glass bridge there. There are also a few resorts.
Soochipara Falls
Soochipara Falls, also known as Sentinel Para Falls, is situated in the Meppadi Grama Panchayat and is a captivating sight as water cascades down from a height of 100 to 300 feet. Visitors can swim and bathe in the small lake formed by the waterfall, while the hermitages offer a stunning view of the Western Ghats and the stream below. Adventure boating, whitewater rafting, and swimming activities are available at the three-tiered waterfall, making it a perfect destination for people of all ages. Soochipara is located 22 kilometres south of Kalpetta, and visiting hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Seethamma Kund Falls
Seethamma Kund Falls is located at a distance of 15 km from Meppadi, 24 km from Kalpetta, and 6 km from Soochipara Falls. The waterfall flows from the middle of the rocks into a lake from a moderate height, and it is a part of a stream flowing from the forest. Kumbh is poured during the Mundakai Mariamman temple festival. The waterfall is located in the Mundakail town area, four kilometres away from Chooralmala. Its name is derived from the legend associated with the goddess Sita.
Kanthanpara Falls
Kanthanpara Falls is another best places in Wayanad, located about 22 km from Kalpetta in a dense forest area. The waterfall adds to the area's natural beauty as water cascades down the rocks from a height of about 100 metres. Visitors must travel 19 km from Kalpetta to the Meppadi-Vaduvanchal route and then travel three kilometres inland from the main road to reach the falls.
Neelimala View Point
Neelimala is 26 km from Kalpetta and 16 km from Meppadi. When you reach Chundale before Kalpetta, take a right on Ooty Road and reach Vaduvanchal via Meppadi. From there, turn right and reach here. It is a three-and-a-half-kilometre rocky road from Vaduvanchal. On top of the hills is the ancient Neeliyammantemple. Only 44 vehicles can go up. Trekking is also available here. Seven people can travel in a jeep for Rs 500; it costs 200 rupees for seven people to walk.
Banasura Sagar Dam
The lovely Banasura Sagar Dam is located on the west bank, 20 kilometres from Kalpetta. It is India's largest earthen dam and Asia's second-largest dam. The dam was created to aid the Kakkayam hydropower project and to fulfil the people's irrigation and drinking demands during the summer. It is best places to visit in Wayanad greatest picnic sites. Boating is also permitted on the dam. There is a children's park and several picture opportunities. Entry is available beginning at 9 a.m. Adults pay Rs. 40 for their tickets. Meenmutty Falls and Karlad Lake are the closest tourist attractions.
Meenmutty Falls
After travelling about 2.5 kilometres from Banasura Sagar Dam, Meenmutty Falls can be seen. You can also enjoy the beautiful Naina Falls during the period from June to December. It is also a great trekking place. Hanging from the rope and climbing over the cliffs will be a great experience for adventure lovers. A must-see for those who enjoy a pleasant journey through the forest with cool breezes and fresh air Meenmutty Falls is also a beautiful place to visit with family and friends. (Come with small children only during the season.) There is also a good security system for the forest guard. The ticket price is Rs. 60 for adults. Entry times are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Karlad Lake
Karlad Lake is an unknown tourist destination in Wayanad. It is four kilometres from Banasura Sagar. You can reach Kolad by turning off the Vythiri-West Thara route. This small tourist centre is located in Thariyot Panchayat. It is a major adventure tourism centre under the Wayanad Adventure Camp. The main pastime here is boating on the lake. It has a garden and a children's park. Cottages have been set up to accommodate overnight travellers. Kayaking and boating here are cool. Wayanad Heritage Museum. Wayanad Heritage Museum is 11 km from Neelimala and 5 km from Karapuzha Dam. Also known as the Ambalavayal Heritage Museum. It is maintained by the District Tourism Promotion Council. The museum exhibits various artefacts like stone tools,stone carvings, 14th to 16th century sculptures, megalithic weapons, toys, clay sculptures, and idols. These are organised into four sections, namely Veerasmriti, Deva Smriti, Jeevan Smriti, and Gotra Smriti. Visiting hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Karapuzha Dam
Karapuzha Dam is a great place for a short family visit in Wayanad. Like BanasuraSagar Dam, there is no parking and you must walk to a very high altitude. The vehicle will reach the gate of the dam. Immediately upon entering, there is a walkway. Beautiful plants and flowers on both sides. There is a small park for children. There are facilities that can be used by adults as well. Cherry trees have been planted in many places. Very sweet fruit. There are also some activities like the zip line, trampoline park, human gyro, and bungee jumping that can be used by paying separately. There is a stone-paved walkway over the dam. There are also many benches to sit on. The view from the top of the dam to the water is spectacular. A pleasant breeze at any time. Drinking water facility and good, clean toilets. It is advisable to arrive at 4 p.m.
Arattupara
The distance from here is 8 km from Karapuzha Dam. Arattupara is a lesser-known place. This rock is located right next to Phantom Rock. From here, you can see Ambukuthi Mala, Karapuzha Dam, and Phantom Rock.
Phantom Rock
It is a rock formation in the shape of a skull. It is also called Cheengerii Mala. The distance to Phantom Rock is one kilometre from Arattupara. 2.7 km from Ambalavayal. The historical Edakkal Cave is 6 kilometres away from here.
Edakkal Cave
Edakkal Cave is one of the most important places in Wayanad that must be visited by history lovers. This ancient cave is situated on Ambukuthi Hill in Nenmeni Grama Panchayat, 12 km from Sultan Batheri. Palaeolithic scripts can be found carved into the rock inside the cave.
It is believed to be the written language used by Stone Age ancestors. Edakkal Cave is a must for history students. Many history students come to Edakkal Cave to learn about Stone Age culture and historical facts. Edakkal Cave is under the control of the Archaeology Department. The District Tourism Promotion Council is responsible for this.
Mailadipara, Jain Temple
Mailadipara is a beautiful view point in Kalpetta. The sunrise and the most beautiful sunset can be enjoyed from Mailadipara. This is a place named after a private trust. There is a Jain temple on top of Mailadipara. Mailadipara is located Mailadipara, Jain Temple
Mailadipara is a beautiful view point in Kalpetta. The sunrise and the most beautiful sunset can be enjoyed from Mailadipara. This is a place named after a private trust. There is a Jain temple on top of Mailadipara.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is located at a distance of 16 kilometres from Sultan Bathery. Popularly known as Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, this wildlife sanctuary is a 345 sq. km. rainforest that is linked to Nagarhole and Bandipur wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka and Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu. Established in 1973, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is the second-largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. Muthanga and Tholpetti are two ecotourism centres in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. This eco-camp provides facilities for the visitors to go on forest treks, see wild animals, visit the Muthanga Elephant Camp, and enjoy the cultural performances of the tribals.
Ecotourism activities here are being done under the Muthanga and Tholpetty Eco Development Committees (EDCs). The main activities here are jeep safaris in Tholpetty and Muthanga, an interpretation centre, trekking, bird watching, three days of camping, a medicinal herb garden, and tribal folklore. For accommodation, resorts, dormitories, rooms, and forest huts are available in and around Muthanga. August to February are the best times to visit here. Tourists are not allowed in the forest areas during the months of February and April.
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
The distance from here is 66 km from Muthanga and 20 km from Kuruvadweep. Tholpetti was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1973. During 1991–92, the centre was included in Project Elephant. A jeep ride into the forest is arranged. Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, and Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary are located nearby. The forest areas that comprise Wayanad are the largest elephant sanctuary in the Western Ghats.
Muthanga and Tholpetty wildlife sanctuaries in Wayanad are generally known as Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries.
Kuruva Island
Kuruva Island is a 950-acre island community in a tributary of the Kabini River. Kuruva Island is located in a tributary of the Kabani, a river flowing east from Kerala. It is an uninhabited island. As a protected area, a variety of birds, medicinal plants, and herbs grow here. This area is a group of about 150 small islands. Therefore, access to the main part of Kuruva Island requires a boat or other facilities during flood events. All the islands are accessible on foot through rocky creeks. Route: The distance from Mananthavady to Kuruva Island is 17 km. As the area is often closed, you have to call the District Tourism Information Centre and inquire.
Thirunelli Maha Vishnu Temple
Thirunelli Temple is a famous Lord Vishnu temple. On the Karnataka border,Thirunelli Temple is also known as Sahyamalakshetra and is surrounded by Kambala, Karimala, and Varadoga mountains in the Brahmagiri Hills. This temple is also known as Amalaka Temple.
Supported by 30 granite pillars, Thirunelli Temple is an architectural marvel. The floor of the temple is paved with large slabs of granite. The important days of the temple are Puthari, Chuthuvilak, Navratri, Shivaratri, and Karkidaka Bali. The main festival of the temple is held in the month of Media for the equinox. The main deity of this temple is Lord Vishnu.
There is also the presence of Lord Shiva in the cave near the temple. Here, you can see the Jyotirlinga deity of Lord Shiva. This temple is known as "Dakshina Kashi" and "Dakshina Gaya". This temple is an important place in North Malabar for offering sacrifices to ancestors. Sacrifices are made on the Amavasi days of the Malayalam months of Karkidakam (July–August), Thulam (October– of Lord Shiva. This temple is known as "Dakshina Kashi" and "Dakshina Gaya." This temple is an important place in North Malabar for offering sacrifices to ancestors. Sacrifices are made on the Amavasi days of the Malayalam months of Karkidakam (July–August), Thulam (October–November), and Kumbham (February–March). Hence, many people come here to perform Pitrubali, Thilahomam, and Pitrupuja.