Best Wayanad Photography Spots: Complete Photographer’s Guide to Capturing the Beauty of Wayanad
Wayanad is a treasure for every photographer — a land of misty mountains, vibrant forests, hidden waterfalls, and tranquil lakes. From the wild landscapes of Muthanga to the calm reflections of Karapuzha, every frame tells a story. This guide takes you through the best Wayanad photography spots — from wildlife and birding to portrait and landscape locations, with timings, entry fees, and insider tips for stunning photos.
Quick Navigation
- Why Wayanad Is a Photographer’s Dream
- How to Plan Your Wayanad Photo Trip
- 🦌 Wildlife Photography in Wayanad
- 🐦 Bird Photography in Wayanad
- 💍 Event & Portrait Photography
- 🌄 Landscape Photography
- 🧭 Essential Photography Info
- 📊 Timings, Tickets & Contact Tables
- 🚗 Sample 2-Day Photography Itinerary
- ❓ FAQs
- Share Your Shots
Why Wayanad Is a Photographer’s Dream
- Diverse subjects in a small radius: Wildlife, rainforests, tea estates, lakes, dams, hilltops, and rivers within 30–60 minutes of each other.
- Year-round moods: Misty monsoons (June–September), golden winters (October–January), and clear summer skies (February–May).
- Soft light windows: Hills + water bodies create reliable golden hours, dreamy fog, and reflection frames.
How to Plan Your Wayanad Photo Trip
- Best months: October–May for clear skies; June–September for moody, misty frames (carry rain gear).
- Light: 6–9 AM and 4–6 PM. Keep mid-day for scouting or interiors.
- Pacing: Cluster nearby spots (e.g., Vythiri–Pookode–Chembra or Padinjarathara–Banasura–Karlad) to reduce travel.
- Permits: Forest entries (Muthanga, Tholpetty, Pakshipathalam, Chembra). Carry ID and respect limits.
- Drones: DGCA rules apply. Avoid protected areas; take written permissions where required.
🦌 Wildlife Photography in Wayanad
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Located about 15 km from Sulthan Bathery on Mysore Road, Muthanga is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Its dense rainforests and dry deciduous areas make it one of the best locations for Wayanad wildlife photography. Elephants, deer, jungle cats, and monkeys are commonly seen.
| Timing | 7 AM – 10 AM, 3 PM – 5 PM |
|---|---|
| Entry | ₹20 Adults | ₹10 Children | ₹110 Foreigners |
| Camera Fee | ₹25 Still | ₹150 Video |
| Jeep Safari | ₹300 per trip |
Pro tips: Use a 400–600mm lens; switch to silent shutter; keep ISO ready at 1600–3200 under canopy shade; focus on eyes and behavior, not just the animal.
Contact: 09188 407547, 085476 03486
Address: Bathery–Puthupally Road, Panavally, Wayanad 673592
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
Located 24 km from Mananthavady, Tholpetty’s open forests are ideal for capturing elephants, deer, and tigers in natural light. The sanctuary is quieter and great for photographers who love morning mist and animal movement.
| Timing | 7 AM – 10 AM, 3 PM – 5 PM |
|---|---|
| Entry | ₹115 Adults | ₹40 Children | ₹300 Foreigners |
| Jeep Safari | ₹720 per trip |
Settings starter: 1/1000s, f/5.6, Auto ISO; switch to back-button focus with AF-C for moving subjects.
Contact: +91 79075 43321
Address: Tholpetty, Wayanad 670646
Begur Wildlife Sanctuary
Located near the Kerala–Karnataka border, Begur is a peaceful wildlife zone that offers raw forest experiences. Ideal for photographers who prefer quiet frames and natural jungle tones.
Field note: Hire local guides from nearby villages for private jeep safaris and wildlife tracking. Keep distance, cut engine, wait for moments.
🐦 Bird Photography in Wayanad
Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary
Located 7 km from Thirunelli Temple, this high-altitude bird paradise in Brahmagiri Hills is perfect for early-morning photography. Expect fog layers and calls of species like the Malabar whistling thrush and black eagle.
| Entry Fee | ₹50 Indians | ₹200 Foreigners |
|---|---|
| Best Time | 6 AM – 10 AM |
Lens & technique: 300–600mm; keep shutter at 1/1600s for flight; use perch-watching and patient listening.
Contact: 098470 30110
Address: Pakshipathalam, Brahmagiri Hills, Thirunelli, Wayanad
Panamaram Heronry (Kottillam Panamaram)
Located ~2 km from Panamaram town, this is one of Kerala’s largest heron nesting areas. Over 40 heron species including purple herons, egrets, and night herons can be seen during early mornings.
Best Time: November to May (dry season for clear skies). Keep distance; avoid nesting disturbance.
Kuruva Island (Kuruvadweep)
Located on the Kabini River, this lush island cluster is ideal for reflection shots, macro bird images, and serene water scenes. It’s one of the most photogenic Wayanad photography destinations for both beginners and professionals.
| Entry | ₹220 Indians | ₹440 Foreigners | ₹100 Students |
|---|---|
| Camera Fee | ₹59 |
Contact: 04935 293791
Address: Kuruvadweep, Wayanad 670646
Pookode Lake
This freshwater lake near Vythiri is surrounded by green slopes. Perfect for capturing reflections, calm waters, and early morning mist frames. A good spot for minimalistic compositions and travel portraits.
| Entry | ₹40 Adults | ₹30 Children |
|---|---|
| Camera Fee | ₹50 Still | ₹300 Video |
| Kayaking | ₹200 |
Contact: 098470 30110
Address: Kunnathidavaka, Vythiri, Wayanad 673576
💍 Event & Portrait Photography in Wayanad
Nellarachal
Just 7 km from Ambalavayal, this peaceful village is surrounded by the waters of Karapuzha Reservoir. It’s a dream spot for pre-wedding shoots in Wayanad, maternity sessions, and lifestyle portraits.
Best Time: 6–10 AM for soft backlight and fog over water; neutral outfits complement blues/greens.
Karlad Lake
Karlad Lake near Thariyod is calm, clean, and ideal for couple shoots and reflection photography. The shore allows wide compositions during sunset.
Entry: ₹30 per person
Activities: Ziplining, Kayaking (charges vary)
Mayiladipara
This beautiful hilltop glows during sunrise and sunset. Its panoramic backdrop is perfect for silhouettes and drone-style perspectives (follow DGCA rules).
Muneeswaram Kunnu
Muneeswaram Kunnu is a scenic elevation offering misty views of valleys and hills. Great for creative portraits with fog and low-angle golden rays.
🌄 Landscape Photography in Wayanad
Chembra Peak
The highest peak in Wayanad is a must-visit for landscape photographers. The heart-shaped lake near the summit is iconic for Wayanad photography. Trek open 7 AM – 5 PM (passes required).
Shooting note: Wide angle 14–24mm/16–35mm; carry ND/soft GND; start before sunrise to beat haze.
900 Kandi (Meppadi)
Famous for its glass bridge and misty valleys, 900 Kandi is perfect for drone and adventure photography. Morning light streaming through the trees creates magical shafts.
Banasura Sagar Dam
India’s largest earthen dam is known for its vast expanse and mountain backdrop. Ideal for sunset, reflections, and long-exposure shots.
| Entry Fee | ₹40 Adults | ₹20 Children |
|---|---|
| Camera Fee | ₹20 |
| Activities | Speed boat ₹1000 (5 pax) | Coracle ₹450 couple | Zipline ₹300 | Shuttle ₹15–25 | Parking ₹10 |
Contact: 04936 273460
Address: Banasura Sagar Dam, Padinjarathara, Wayanad 673575
Karapuzha Dam
Peaceful and serene, Karapuzha Dam is a favorite for foggy frames and sunrise reflections.
| Entry | ₹30 Adults | ₹10 Children |
|---|---|
| Camera Fee | ₹50 Still | ₹200 Video |
Aranamala Peak
Near Meppadi, Aranamala Peak offers layered sunrise vistas — carry a 70–200mm for compressing ridges into golden stacks.
Thamarassery Ghat View Point
Perfect for long-exposure night shots and light trails. The winding ghat roads and valley mist make this a top Wayanad landscape photography location.
Kurumbalakotta Hill
360° views of Chembra, Banasura, and Brahmagiri ranges. Arrive 45–60 minutes before sunrise for the best color shift and cloud drama.
🧭 Essential Photography Info
- Best Season: October to May (clear skies); June–September (moody monsoon).
- Best Lighting: 6–9 AM, 4–6 PM.
- Required Permits: Forest areas (Chembra, Pakshipathalam, Muthanga/Tholpetty). Carry ID.
- Drones: DGCA permission required; avoid wildlife zones and crowds.
- Recommended Gear:
- Wildlife: 200–600mm Telephoto (or 100–400mm + 1.4x TC)
- Landscape: 14–24/16–35mm + ND (6–10 stop) + soft GND
- Portrait: 35/50/85mm primes; reflector; CPL near water
- Safety: Rain protection, waterproof bags, leech socks in monsoon, plenty of water and snacks.
📊 Photography Timings, Tickets & Useful Tables
| Location | Best Time | Entry Fee | Camera Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muthanga | 7–10 AM / 3–5 PM | ₹20 | ₹25 |
| Tholpetty | 7–10 AM / 3–5 PM | ₹115 | – |
| Kuruva Island | 7–10 AM | ₹220 | ₹59 |
| Chembra Peak | 6–9 AM | Varies | – |
| Banasura Sagar | 4–6 PM | ₹40 | ₹20 |
Location Clusters (Minimise Travel)
| Cluster | Spots | Session | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vythiri – Meppadi | Pookode Lake, Chembra Peak, 900 Kandi, Aranamala | AM for mist; PM for silhouettes | Great for landscapes & couples |
| Padinjarathara – Thariyod | Banasura Sagar, Karlad Lake, Kurumbalakotta | Sunrise at Kurumbalakotta; Sunset at Banasura | Use ND filters for water |
| Bathery – Panamaram | Muthanga, Nellarachal, Karapuzha, Panamaram Heronry | AM wildlife, PM portraits/reflections | Keep long lens + 50/85mm |
| Mananthavady – Thirunelli | Tholpetty, Pakshipathalam, Thirunelli | AM birding, golden forest light | Carry snacks & water |
Recommended Lenses & Settings
| Genre | Lenses | Baseline Settings | Field Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wildlife | 100–400 / 200–600mm | 1/1000s, f/5.6–f/6.3, Auto ISO | AF-C, back-button focus, burst mode |
| Birds | 300–600mm | 1/1600s, f/6.3, Auto ISO | Expose for highlights; use perches |
| Landscapes | 14–24 / 16–35mm | ISO 100, f/8–f/11, tripod | ND/soft GND; arrive early |
| Portraits | 35/50/85mm | 1/250s, f/1.8–f/2.8, ISO 100–400 | Use reflectors; shoot backlit |
Permits & Key Contacts
| Spot | Permit/Entry | Contact | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muthanga | Entry + Jeep | 09188 407547 / 085476 03486 | Carry ID; follow ranger instructions |
| Tholpetty | Entry + Jeep | +91 79075 43321 | Quieter; softer light |
| Pakshipathalam | Forest entry | 098470 30110 | Trek; start pre-dawn |
| Banasura Sagar | Entry + Camera fee | 04936 273460 | Sunset reflections |
| Kuruvadweep | Entry + Camera | 04935 293791 | Carry CPL; watch water glare |
🚗 Sample 2-Day Wayanad Photography Itinerary
Day 1 — Vythiri & Meppadi (Landscapes + Lakes)
- Sunrise: Chembra Peak (start early, soft GND filters)
- Mid-morning: Pookode Lake reflections & minimalism
- Golden Hour: 900 Kandi forest light shafts
- Blue Hour: Aranamala ridgeline layers
Day 2 — Wildlife & Water (Action + Portraits)
- Sunrise: Muthanga or Tholpetty safari
- Late morning: Nellarachal (lifestyle/pre-wedding frames)
- Evening: Banasura Sagar sunset long exposures
- Night: Thamarassery Ghat light trails (if conditions allow)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wayanad safe for solo photographers?
Yes. Stick to marked trails, respect forest rules, and avoid isolated areas at night. For wildlife zones, always go with official safaris or certified guides.
Can I use a drone in Wayanad?
Drones require DGCA permissions and are prohibited in protected areas and crowded public spaces. Always check local rules and get written consent where needed.
What’s the best month for mist and dramatic skies?
October–January offers misty mornings and clear, colorful sunsets. Monsoon (June–September) gives dramatic clouds and lush greens but needs rain protection.
What lenses should I carry if I want to travel light?
A 24–105mm for general travel, a fast 50mm for portraits, and a 100–400mm if wildlife is on your list.
Do I need permits for every hill or lake?
No. Only designated forest/trek areas (Chembra, Pakshipathalam, wildlife sanctuaries) need permits/entry. Lakes/dams usually have basic tickets and camera fees.
💬 Conclusion & Share Your Shots
Wayanad isn’t just a destination — it’s a living canvas where every sunrise, forest, and waterfall tells a story. From Muthanga’s wild trails to Banasura’s glowing sunsets, every frame reflects the heart of Kerala’s hill country. Share your Wayanad photography with our community at Wayanadn.com — tag your images with #WayanadPhotography and inspire the next traveler.
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