30 Breathtaking Places To Visit In Wayanad: Nature’s Paradise
Kerala, often called “God’s own land”, is a stunning state filled with natural wonders. From lush green hills and plantations to beaches and islands, Kerala offers diverse beauty. If you’re a nature enthusiast looking for a Kerala tour package, Wayanad should be at the top of your list.
Wayanad perfectly shows off the beauty of Kerala’s nature. Its amazing landscapes make it an ideal place for those who love the outdoors. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic getaway, or an adventure with friends, this Wayanad travel guide will help you discover the area’s hidden gems like sparkling waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and beyond. To know more explore the 30 best places to visit in Wayanad in Kerala.
30 Tourist Places To Visit In Wayanad: For Every Nature Lover
1. Soochipara Falls:
Sochipara Falls is one of the top places to visit in Wayanad. You need to trek through the lush forests to reach Soochipara Falls. The cascading water, surrounded by trees, creates a natural paradise. Diving into the pool for a refreshing swim is one of the top things to do in Wayanad. Feel the thrill of nature embracing you, with each step etching a joyful tale of adventure.
- Address: Sentinel Rock Waterfalls Road, Vellarimala, Kerala 673592, India.
- Main Attractions: Cascading waterfalls surrounded by dense forests.
- Activities: Trekking to reach the falls, and swimming in the natural pool.
- Most Famous Dish: Enjoy local snacks like banana fritters from nearby stalls.
2. Edakkal Caves:
Out of the many things to do in Kerala, exploring caves that whisper stories from ancient times is a very enjoyable one for explorers. Edakkal Caves, with their rock engravings, offer a glimpse into the past. Trek up and absorb the breathtaking views of Wayanad. As you climb, let the tales of ancient civilizations fill your heart with wonder.
- Address: Nenmeni, Kerala 673595, India.
- Main Attractions: Ancient petroglyphs, panoramic views of Wayanad.
- Activities: Trek to the caves, and explore the rock engravings.
- Most Famous Dish: Savour traditional Kerala Sadhya (feast) at nearby eateries.
3. Chembra Peak:
Chembra Peak is one of the top places to visit in Wayanad. Embark on a thrilling trek to Chembra Peak, where the mountain and a heart-shaped lake await. The stunning landscape, filled with dreams, makes it a perfect spot for boating. Nature lovers, get ready for an unforgettable experience, as you boat on the heart-shaped lake, let the beauty of nature create ripples of joy in your heart.
- Address: Meppadi, Kerala 673121, India.
- Main Attractions: Majestic mountain peak, heart-shaped lake.
- Activities: Trekking to the summit, and boating in the lake.
- Most Famous Dish: Relish Malabar biryani, a local culinary delight.
4. Banasura Sagar Dam:
Picture yourself at the largest earthen dam in India, Banasura Sagar Dam. The picturesque surroundings and boating in Banasura Lake create a perfect setting. Don’t forget to try the local Malabar biryani for a tasty treat — one of the top things to do in Wayanad. As you savour the biryani, let the flavours dance on your taste buds, creating a symphony of culinary delight. Banasura Sagar Dam is one of the most popular Wayanad tourist places.
- Address: Padinjarathara, Kerala 673122, India.
- Main Attractions: Largest earthen dam in India, picturesque surroundings.
- Activities: Boating in Banasura Lake, trekking to nearby hills.
- Most Famous Dish: Indulge in Malabar seafood specialties at local eateries.
5. Pookode Lake:
Fifth on the list of 30 places to visit in Wayanad in Kerala is Pookode Lake. Absorb the serenity of Pookode Lake, surrounded by greenery. Enjoy pedal boating, and explore the freshwater aquarium nearby. The local snack stalls offer delicious banana fritters, adding a touch of joy to your visit. While you pedal on the lake, let the calm waters mirror the peace in your heart. Pookode Lake is one of the top sightseeing places in Wayanad.
- Address: Pookode Lake Road, Vythiri, Kerala 673576, India.
- Main Attractions: Serene freshwater lake, pedal boating.
- Activities: Explore the surrounding forests, and visit the freshwater aquarium.
- Most Famous Dish: Try local Malabar porotta with spicy curry.
6. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:
Get lost in the diverse flora and fauna of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. A wildlife safari awaits, providing an opportunity to see birds and animals. Capture the moments and indulge in a delightful Kerala Sadhya afterward. It is one of the popular Wayanad attractions.
- Address: Bathery Puthupally Road, Sultan Bathery, Kerala 673592, India.
- Main Attractions: Diverse flora and fauna, Muthanga Range.
- Activities: Wildlife safari, bird watching.
- Most Famous Dish: Savour Kerala Sadhya, a traditional vegetarian feast.
Suggested Read: Kerala Travel tips
7. Lakkidi View Point:
Lakkidi View Point is one of the popular destinations in Wayanad. Imagine standing at Lakkidi View Point, feeling the cool mountain breeze. The panoramic views of the Western Ghats create a dreamy setting. Capture the beauty through your lens and end your day with a tasty Malabar chicken curry. Let the cool breeze at the viewpoint hug you, and the chicken curry kiss your taste buds with delight. It is one of the famous Wayanad attractions.
- Address: Lakkidi, Kerala 673576, India.
- Main Attractions: Mesmerising views of the Western Ghats
- Activities: Photography, enjoy the cool mountain breeze.
- Most Famous Dish: Taste local specialties like Malabar chicken curry.
8. Meenmutty Falls:
8th of the 30 places to visit in Wayanad is Meenmutty Falls. Trek through nature’s wonders to reach the three-tiered Meenmutty Falls. The pristine waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, is a sight to behold. Bird watchers, this is your paradise, and don’t forget to try the Kerala-style fish curry nearby — one of the top things to do in Wayanad. As you stand near the falls, let the melody of water soothe your soul, accompanied by the songs of chirping birds.
- Address: Kallar Meenmutty Falls, Kerala 673595, India.
- Main Attractions: Three-tiered waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery
- Activities: Trekking to reach the falls, nature photography
- Most Famous Dish: Relish Kerala-style fish curry with rice.
9. Kuruva Island:
If you’re looking for one of the good places to visit in Wayanad, head to Kuruva Island to experience bamboo rafting and the best nature walks. This serene spot, with dense evergreen forests, offers a peaceful retreat and is one of the best honeymoon places in Kerala. The traditional Kerala Sadya nearby completes the experience with a variety of curries. The bamboo raft becomes your vessel into a world of calmness, guided by the whispers of the island’s greenery.
- Address: Kuruva Island, Kerala 673576, India.
- Main Attractions: Dense evergreen forests, Kabini River
- Activities: Bamboo rafting, nature walks
- Most Famous Dish: Enjoy traditional Kerala Sadhya with a variety of curries.
10. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary:
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the top tourist spots in Wayanad Kerala. Feel the excitement of a jeep safari at Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, surrounded by rich biodiversity. Capture the wildlife moments with your camera and end your day with a taste of spicy Kerala fish curry. Let the safari be a joyous ride through the animal kingdom, and the curry a spicy celebration on your palate.
- Address: Sultan Bathery, Kerala 673592, India.
- Main Attractions: Rich biodiversity, Nagarhole National Park.
- Activities: Jeep safari, wildlife photography.
- Most Famous Dish: Try spicy Kerala fish curry with steamed rice.
11. Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary:
Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Wayanad. Imagine trekking to Pakshipathalam surrounded by unique bird species. Bird watching becomes a joyful experience, and tasting the spicy Kerala-style prawn curry adds a perfect touch to your adventure. The trek unveils a bird ballet, and the prawn curry becomes a flavourful note in the symphony of your journey.
- Address: Thirunelly, Kerala 670646, India.
- Main Attractions: Unique bird species, caves.
- Activities: Trekking to Pakshipathalam, bird watching.
- Most Famous Dish: Delight in Kerala-style Prawn Curry.
12. Thirunelli Temple:
Pilgrimage and nature walks create a harmonious experience. Feel the spiritual energy at Thirunelli, an ancient Vishnu temple. Thirunelli Temple is one of the best Wayanad attractions.
- Address: Thirunelli Temple Road, Thirunelli, Kerala 670646, India.
- Main Attractions: Ancient Vishnu temple, sacred mountain stream.
- Activities: Pilgrimage, nature walks.
- Most Famous Dish: Savour Kerala-style beef fry.
13. Neelimala View Point:
On the 13th number of 30 places to visit in Wayanad in Kerala is Neelima Viewpoint. Picture yourself at Neelimala View Point, surrounded by panoramic views. Trekking to this spot and capturing the landscape through photography make it a dreamy adventure. Taste the joy with Malabar chicken biryani. Let the panoramic view be a visual symphony, and the biryani a flavourful crescendo on your plate. You can enjoy your time in many similar hill stations in Kerala.
- Address: Neelimala, Vaduvanchal, Kerala 673581, India.
- Main Attractions: Panoramic views of Meenmutty Falls and Vaduvanchal.
- Activities: Trekking to Neelimala, photography.
- Most Famous Dish: Enjoy Malabar chicken biryani.
14. Pazhassi Raja Tomb:
Are you looking for historical landmarks? Pazhassi Raja Tomb is just for you! Step straight into history at Pazhassi Raja Tomb, the final resting place of Kerala’s Lion. Take a historical tour and visit the memorial museum. The journey becomes complete with the taste of Kerala-style vegetable stew. The tomb becomes a doorway to history’s embrace, and the stew is a hearty chapter in your culinary exploration. Pazhassi Raja Tomb is one of the best places to go in Wayanad.
- Address: Mananthavady, Kerala 670645, India.
- Main Attractions: Tomb of Kerala’s Lion of Kerala, Pazhassi Raja.
- Activities: Historical tour, visit the memorial museum.
- Most Famous Dish: Relish Kerala-style vegetable stew.
15. Chain Tree:
Imagine standing near the ancient Ficus tree at Chain Tree, hearing local folklore. Photography becomes an emotional journey, and tasting traditional Kerala appam with egg curry adds joy to the experience. Let the tree’s chains unlock local stories, and the appam with egg curry becomes a flavourful expression of tradition.
- Address: Lakkidi, Kerala 673576, India.
- Main Attractions: Ancient Ficus tree with chains, local legend.
- Activities: Photography, listening to local folklore.
- Most Famous Dish: Try traditional Kerala appam with egg curry.
16. Vythiri Village:
It is one of the best places to stay in Wayanad. Feel the luxury at Vythiri Village, a resort amidst serene surroundings. Relax and indulge in spa treatments, creating a perfect getaway for fun-loving explorers. The taste of Malabar prawn curry adds flavour to your stay. Let the resort become your haven of relaxation, and the prawn curry a culinary melody.
- Address: NH 212, Near Vythiri Town, Vythiri, Kerala 673576, India.
- Main Attractions: Luxury resort, serene surroundings.
- Activities: Relaxation, spa treatments.
- Most Famous Dish: Indulge in Malabar Prawn Curry.
17. Karapuzha Dam:
Picture the beauty of Karapuzha Dam, a picturesque spot for boating. Nature walks around the dam provide a sense of calm. Don’t miss the chance to taste Kerala-style crab curry nearby. As you boat on the dam, let the tranquillity sink in, and the crab curry will become a spicy punctuation to your day.
- Address: Karapuzha, Kerala 673122, India.
- Main Attractions: Picturesque dam, Karapuzha Reservoir.
- Activities: Boating, nature walks.
- Most Famous Dish: Savour Kerala-style crab curry.
18. Puliyarmala Jain Temple:
Imagine the tranquillity at Puliyarmala Jain Temple, an ancient temple with a calm ambience. A spiritual retreat with meditation awaits you, and tasting Malabar fish curry with coconut milk adds pleasure to your visit. The temple becomes your sanctuary of peace, and the fish curry a flavourful indulgence in your spiritual journey.
- Address: Jain Temple Road, Sulthan Bathery, Kerala 673592, India.
- Main Attractions: Ancient Jain temple, calm ambience.
- Activities: Spiritual retreat, meditation.
- Most Famous Dish: Try Malabar fish curry with coconut milk.
19. Kanthanpara Waterfalls:
Feel the joy at Kanthanpara Waterfalls, surrounded by tea plantations. Trekking to the falls and capturing the beauty through photography create unforgettable memories. And visiting Kerala in June, when north India is facing harsh summers makes it even more amazing. Relish the taste of Kerala-style mutton curry nearby. Let the falls be a joyful cascade of nature, and the mutton curry a spicy note in your tea plantation adventure.
- Address: Kanthanpara Waterfalls Road, Kuthuparamba, Kerala 670646, India.
- Main Attractions: Scenic waterfall, surrounded by tea plantations.
- Activities: Trekking to the falls, photography.
- Most Famous Dish: Delight in Kerala-style mutton curry.
20. Chethalayam Falls:
Chethalayam Falls is one of the best places to visit in Wayanad. Picture yourself at Chethalayam Falls, a pristine waterfall in dense forests. The trek to the falls and bird watching make it an adventure for nature lovers. Enjoy the taste of Kerala-style beef roast for a delightful experience. As you stand near the falls, let the sounds of nature refresh your soul, accompanied by the flavours of the beef roast.
- Address: Kidangand, Kerala 670646, India.
- Main Attractions: Pristine waterfall, dense forests.
- Activities: Trekking to the falls, bird watching.
- Most Famous Dish: Enjoy Kerala-style beef roast.
21. Sunrise Valley:
Imagine the thrill of an early morning trek at Sunrise Valley, surrounded by a scenic landscape. Meditate and absorb the thrilling sunrise views. The traditional Kerala fish molee nearby adds a tasty touch to your morning adventure. Let the valley’s sunrise be a heart-thrilling spectacle, and the fish molee a delightful start to your day.
- Address: Sunrise Valley, Panamaram, Kerala 673574, India.
- Main Attractions: Scenic valley, panoramic sunrise Views.
- Activities: Early morning trek, meditation.
- Most Famous Dish: Taste traditional Kerala fish molee.
22. Muniyara Dolmens:
Picture the mystery of Muniyara Dolmens, prehistoric stone structures. Archaeological exploration and photography become a journey through time. Relish the taste of Kerala-style squid curry nearby. Let the dolmens whisper ancient tales, and the squid curry becomes a flavourful exploration in your archaeological journey.
- Address: Muniyara, Kerala 673577, India.
- Main Attractions: Prehistoric dolmens, mysterious stone structures.
- Activities: Archaeological exploration, photography.
- Most Famous Dish: Relish Kerala-style squid curry.
23. Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary:
Feel the excitement of a jeep safari at Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary. Bird watching becomes a joyful activity, and tasting Kerala-style crab curry adds flavour to your wildlife adventure. Let the sanctuary become your wildlife playground, and the crab curry a spicy note in your adventure journal.
- Address: Muthanga Tholpetty Road, Thondernad, Kerala 673592, India.
- Main Attractions: Wildlife Sanctuary, Tholpetty River.
- Activities: Jeep safari, bird watching.
- Most Famous Dish: Try Kerala-style crab curry.
24. Begur Wildlife Sanctuary:
Imagine the tranquillity at Begur Wildlife Sanctuary, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. Nature walks and bird watching become soul-refreshing experiences. Indulge in the taste of Kerala-style prawn masala nearby. Let the sanctuary become your haven of serenity, and the prawn masala a flavourful celebration of nature.
- Address: Begur Reserve Forest, Begur, Kerala 670731, India.
- Main Attractions: Diverse flora and fauna, tranquil ambience.
- Activities: Nature walks, bird watching.
- Most Famous Dish: Indulge in Kerala-style prawn masala.
25. Ambukuthi Mala:
Picture the panoramic views from Ambukuthi Mala, an ancient megalithic site. Trekking and archaeological exploration create an adventure for history enthusiasts. Relish the taste of traditional Kerala avial afterward. Let the panoramic views be a historical panorama, and the avial a delightful expression of Kerala’s culinary heritage.
- Address: Ambukuthi Mala, Kerala 673122, India.
- Main Attractions: Ancient Megalithic structures, panoramic views.
- Activities: Trekking, archaeological exploration.
- Most Famous Dish: Savour traditional Kerala avial.
Suggested Read: 20 Amazing Things to Do in Wayanad: Best Traveller’s Guide
26. Chembra Heritage Estate:
Feel the charm of Chembra Heritage Estate, surrounded by tea plantations. Guided plantation tours and tea tasting are the joyful and must-do activities in Wayanad. The taste of Malabar chicken curry adds a perfect flavour to your day. Let the estate become your haven, and the chicken curry a spicy note in your plantation adventure.
- Address: Makkimala, Meppadi, Kerala 673122, India.
- Main Attractions: Tea plantations, heritage estate.
- Activities: Guided plantation tours, and tea tasting.
- Most Famous Dish: Try Malabar chicken curry.
27. Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village:
Imagine the cultural experiences at Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village, surrounded by fishing villages. Village tours and homestay experiences make it a fun-loving adventure. Savour the taste of Kerala-style prawn curry for a delightful treat. Let the village become your cultural playground, and the prawn curry a flavourful celebration of local cuisine.
- Address: Kumbalangi, Kochi, Kerala 682007, India.
- Main Attractions: Fishing villages, cultural experiences.
- Activities: Village tours, homestay experiences.
- Most Famous Dish: Savour Kerala-style prawn curry.
28. Wayanad Heritage Museum:
Heritage Museum is one of the main attractions in Wayanad. Explore the museum filled with artefacts and historical exhibits. The museum itself is a journey through Wayanad’s history. Relish the taste of Kerala-style fish mappas for a cultural experience. Let the museum become your time-travel portal, and the mappas a flavourful dip into Kerala’s historical culinary archives — One of the best places to go in Wayanad.
- Address: Ambalavayal, Kerala 673593, India.
- Main Attractions: Artefacts, historical exhibits.
- Activities: Museum tour, learn about Wayanad’s history.
- Most Famous Dish: Delight in Kerala-style fish mappas.
29. Mazhuvannur Maha Siva Kshethram:
Picture the spiritual retreat at Mazhuvannur Maha Siva Kshethram, an ancient Shiva temple. Witness traditional rituals and feel the soul-refreshing ambiance. Taste the joy of Kerala-style vegetable kurma for a cultural treat. Let the temple become your sanctuary of spirituality.
- Address: NH 66, Kozhikode Mysuru Kollegal Highway, Kerala 673591, India.
- Main Attractions: Ancient Shiva temple, cultural Significance.
- Activities: Spiritual retreat, witnessing traditional rituals.
- Most Famous Dish: Taste Kerala-style vegetable kurma.
30. Koottamundu Glass Temple:
Imagine the tranquillity at Koottamundu Glass Temple, with its unique glass architecture. A spiritual retreat with meditation becomes an emotional journey. Relish the taste of traditional Kerala fish curry for a soul-refreshing experience.
- Address: Koottamundu, Kerala 673591, India.
- Main Attractions: Unique glass architecture, tranquil ambience.
- Activities: Spiritual retreat, meditation.
- Most Famous Dish: Relish traditional Kerala fish curry.
Extra Trivia:
Top Places To Go Shopping At Wayanad
The best places to go shopping at Wayanad include:
- The Focus Mall – For fashion clothing and footwear
- Trident Arcade – For fashion accessories and crockery
- Aiswarya Shopping Complex – For watches and sunglasses and also quality restaurants
- Santhi Pappadam – For handicrafts, handloom, and antiques
- Dubai Shopping Centre – For electronic goods
Best Time To Visit Wayanad
The best time to visit Wayanad is from October to May. The weather is best during this time, and the nature is very lively. This is the ideal time to visit tea fields and waterfalls.
How To Reach Wayanad
If you are wondering how to reach Wayanad, below are the travel options.
By Plane:
The closest airport is in Kozhikode (also called Calicut), about 93 km from Wayanad. After you land, you can take a taxi or a bus to Wayanad.
By Train:
If you’re coming from the north, the nearest train station is Nilambur, about 90 km from Wayanad. For more train options, you can go to Kozhikode station, which is 110 km away. From either station, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach Wayanad.
Local Transport:
The easiest way to move around in Wayanad is by auto-rickshaw or taxi. Many hotels and resorts can also help you rent a car.
Conclusion
In this Wayanad travel guide, we have talked about 30 places to visit in Wayanad that will make this trip worth remembering. These locations show us how beautiful and adventurous Wayanad is, not only for couples but for anyone, whether a group of friends or a family. So don’t wait. Book your trip to Wayanad, and enjoy it with your loved ones.
Which are the best waterfalls to visit in Wayanad?
Soochipara waterfalls, Kanthanpara waterfalls, Chethalayam waterfalls, and Meenmutty waterfalls are some of the best waterfalls to visit in Wayanad.
What are some offbeat places to visit in Wayanad?
Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, and Soochipara Falls are some of the offbeat places to visit in Wayanad.
How many days are sufficient to explore Wayanad?
3 to 4 days are usually sufficient to explore major attractions in Wayanad.
What are the best places for a family trip in Wayanad?
Banasura Sagar Dam, Pookode Lake, Edakkal Caves, and Thirunelli Temple are some of the best places to visit in Wayanad with family.
What are the best places for couples to visit in Wayanad?
Neelimala Viewpoint, Meenmutty Waterfalls, and Thirunelli Temple are some of the best places for couples to visit in Wayanad. Also, if you are looking for comfortable accommodation amidst nature, Vythiri Village is one of the best places to stay in Wayanad.