Places to visit in Wayanad (2025) – Top tourist spots, must-see attractions and local travel guide
Planning a trip to Wayanad and confused about where to start? This is a local, no-fluff guide to the best places to visit in Wayanad. Instead of a random list, you’ll find handpicked spots with quick facts, how to reach, local tips, safety notes and suggested 2–3 day itineraries.
Whether you’re coming for a short weekend or a relaxed family holiday, this guide covers 16 must-visit Wayanad tourist places – waterfalls, peaks, forests, lakes, viewpoints and a few quieter off-beat corners that locals actually recommend.
Quick navigation – places to visit in Wayanad
- About Wayanad (district snapshot)
- How to plan your Wayanad trip
- Top 16 places to visit in Wayanad (with maps)
- Suggested 2–3 day Wayanad itineraries
- Wayanad travel FAQs
About Wayanad – quick facts for travellers
Wayanad is Kerala’s 12th district (formed on 1 November 1980) with Kalpetta as its headquarters. Set in the lush Western Ghats, it borders both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The lifeline river is Kabini (Kabani); forests cover roughly 38% of the district’s 2,131 km². Coffee, cardamom, pepper and tea estates sit side-by-side with hills, valleys, tribal hamlets, lakes and ancient rock art sites like Edakkal.
| Wayanad district – at a glance | |
|---|---|
| State | Kerala, India |
| District HQ | Kalpetta |
| Total Area | ~2,131 km² |
| Forest Cover | ~38% |
| Major River | Kabini (Kabani) |
| Borders | Karnataka & Tamil Nadu |
| Main Trip Themes | Wildlife, trekking, waterfalls, viewpoints, lakes, heritage & tribal culture |
| Type of traveller | Best places to visit in Wayanad |
|---|---|
| First-time visitor | Chembra Peak, Pookode Lake, Soochipara Falls, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam |
| Family trip | Pookode Lake, Karlad Lake, Thamarassery Ghat viewpoints, Muthanga / Tholpetty safari |
| Adventure / trekking | Chembra Peak, Banasura Peak, Aranamala, Kurumbalakota, Pakshipathalam |
| Off-beat & nature | 900 Kandi, Kuruva Island, Muneeswaram Kunnu, interior village drives |
How to plan your Wayanad trip (best time, routes & safety)
Best time to visit Wayanad
| Season | Months | What to expect | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Nov – Feb | Pleasant days, cool nights, clear views | Trekking, safaris, sightseeing, photography |
| Summer | Mar – May | Warm days, clearer skies in mornings/evenings | Sunrise/sunset viewpoints, lakes, short hikes |
| Monsoon | Jun – Sep | Heavy rain, lush greenery, slippery trails | Waterfalls (with care), green drives, slow travel. Note: Spots like Kuruva Island often close in peak monsoon. |
How to reach Wayanad (road, train & flight)
| City | Distance to Kalpetta (approx.) | Typical Route |
|---|---|---|
| Kozhikode (Calicut) | ~75 km | NH766 via Thamarassery Ghat (Lakkidi) |
| Mysuru | ~130 km | Via Gundlupet – Muthanga |
| Bengaluru | ~280 km | Via Mysuru – Gundlupet – Muthanga |
| Kochi | ~260 km | Via Thrissur – Kozhikode – Thamarassery |
Safety & local etiquette in Wayanad tourist places
- Leeches: In forested or monsoon trails (like 900 Kandi or deep treks), carry salt or lemon. Don’t yank leeches off.
- Wildlife hours: Exit deep forest areas before sunset. Stay on marked trails and follow your guide’s instructions.
- Permits & guides: Many treks and sanctuaries require Forest Department permission and compulsory guides.
- Footwear & gear: Trails get slippery in rain; use proper shoes, carry rain protection and drinking water.
- Respect locals: Dress modestly near villages/temples, avoid loud music, and do not litter.
Top 16 places to visit in Wayanad (with local notes & maps)
Below is a practical list of places to visit in Wayanad in 2025. Use it like a mini-guide while planning your route. Distances are approximate from Kalpetta town, the central hub.
| Place | Main type | Approx. distance from Kalpetta | Trip style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 900 Kandi | Off-beat forest / viewpoint | ~20 km | Jeep/bike, short treks |
| Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary | Safari / forest | ~60 km | Morning/evening safari |
| Banasura Sagar Dam & Peak | Dam / trek / viewpoints | ~25 km | Half-day outing |
| Edakkal Caves | Heritage / hike | ~25 km | Half-day trip |
| Pookode Lake | Lake / family | ~15 km | Easy, 2–3 hours |
| Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary | Safari / forest | ~50 km | Morning/evening safari |
| Soochipara Falls | Waterfall | ~22 km | Half-day, families & trekkers |
| Kurumbalakota | Sunrise viewpoint | ~30 km | Early morning hike/jeep |
1) 900 Kandi (Nine Hundred Kandi) – off-beat forest place to visit in Wayanad
If you love dense jungle tracks, birdsong and off-beat viewpoints, 900 Kandi should be high on your list of places to visit in Wayanad. From Chundale on the Meppadi–Chooralmala–Soochipara route (after the ‘Kalladi’ makham), take the narrow tar road. The last stretch is part concrete, part rough – better for bikes or 4×4 jeeps.
- Experience: Small waterfalls, thick forest on both sides, occasional glass bridge experiences and a giant rock viewpoint with sweeping valley views.
- Local tip: Check your ankles for leeches in monsoon; carry salt or lemon. Turn back before sunset as wildlife movement increases.
- Distance: ~20 km from Kalpetta.
2) Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary – classic safari place to visit in Wayanad
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary forms part of the larger Bandipur–Mudumalai–Wayanad landscape (~2500 km² across three states). Expect herds of elephants, deer, gaur (Indian bison) and rich birdlife. Big cats are present but sightings are rare and seasonal.
Tree-hut stays and simple homestays are available in nearby villages like Chunda. Safaris are conducted in fixed morning and evening slots – reach early in peak season for tickets.
3) Banasura Sagar Dam & Banasura Peak – scenic viewpoint place to visit in Wayanad
Banasuramala, second only to Chembra in Wayanad, rises to about 6670 ft (≈ 2033 m). The trail passes through medicinal herbs, streams and grasslands with views towards Manikkunnu, Chembra, Thariyodumala, Sugandhagiri and the Brahmagiri range.
The Banasura Sagar Dam below is one of the most photographed places to visit in Wayanad, with speed boats, walkways and soft-adventure options.
| Trekking package (Varampetta FCC) | Duration | Group size | Approx. fee (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Trek | ~3 hours | Up to 10 | 750 |
| Medium Trek | ~5 hours | Up to 10 | 1200 |
| Full Trek | Long, summit focused | Up to 5 | 1500 |
Viewpoint: From the summit, Banasura Sagar looks like a tiny blue pool far below on clear-sky mornings.
4) Edakkal Caves – historic place to visit in Wayanad
Two massive boulders create a “stone-between-stones” chamber on Ambukuthi hill (~4000 ft). The site preserves rock engravings – humans, animals, wheels – some attributed to late Stone Age traditions. A short but fairly steep, stepped hike leads up; go early for cooler weather and thinner crowds.
5) Pookode (Pookot) Lake – easy family place to visit in Wayanad
Pookode is an easy, family-friendly place to visit in Wayanad. There’s a walkway around the 13-acre lake (max depth ~6.5 m), shaded by forest trees. Pedal boating is popular with kids. The lake sits ~3 km south of Vythiri, about 2 km from the Lakkidi ghat gateway.
6) Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary – northern safari circuit
Tholpetty Range lies ~20 km east of Mananthavady on the Kodagu road. Safaris here feel slightly wilder and less crowded than Muthanga on some days, and are popular with visitors coming from Coorg/Kodagu side.
| Entry | Safari timings | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Indians: ~INR 115 | Foreigners: ~INR 300 (subject to change) | Morning 7:00–10:00 | Evening 15:00–17:00 | Reach early, especially on weekends and holidays. |
7) Soochipara (Sentinel Rock) Falls – famous Wayanad waterfall
Water here drops from ~100–300 ft across tiers into a pool where confident swimmers can dip when conditions are calm (always check local advice). The approach involves a stepped walk through trees. Rock faces around Soochipara and the distant Western Ghats panoramas make it a must-add to your Wayanad sightseeing list.
8) Aranamala Peak – scenic hill trek place to visit in Wayanad
Reach Aranamala from Meppadi via the Chooranmala road (turn off at Kalladi). Expect steep grass slopes, meadows like green carpets and rocky outcrops. Cardamom orchards scent the path; some stretches are protected by electric fencing because of wildlife presence. Crystal-clear hill streams pop up along the way.
9) Kuruva (Kuruvadweep) Island – river island experience
One of the signature places to visit in Wayanad, Kuruva offers bamboo groves, quiet backwaters and good bird activity on calm days. Monsoon closures are common due to rising river levels – always check current status before starting.
Distances: From Kalpetta ~40 km, Sultan Bathery ~34 km, Mananthavady ~17 km.
10) Pakshipathalam (Bird Sanctuary Trek) – hardcore birding place to visit in Wayanad
This is a 7 km forest trek that requires Forest Department permission and authorised guides. Massive boulder caves at the northern end of Brahmagiri host bats and birds; tradition says ascetics once used one of the caves. It lies close to the Karnataka border and suits reasonably fit trekkers.
11) Thamarassery (Lakkidi) Ghat Pass – iconic gateway place to visit in Wayanad
Climbing from the Kozhikode plains to Lakkidi (~700 m above sea level), this scenic ghat road offers sweeping valley views and dense roadside forest. Local legend remembers Karinthandan, the tribal guide associated with the pass’s discovery story. There are multiple roadside viewpoints where you can safely pull over for photos.
12) Chembra Peak – most popular trekking place to visit in Wayanad
Near Meppadi, Chembra Peak requires Forest Office permission and an authorised guide. The trek reveals the photogenic heart-shaped lake and, in some seasons, Neelakurinji blooms (once in 12 years). Start early; slots often sell out on weekends and public holidays.
13) Meenmutty Falls (Wayanad) – powerful three-tier waterfall
Located about 29 km south of Kalpetta near Vaduvanchal/Neelimala, Meenmutty is a favourite with adventure lovers. Separate approaches lead to each tier, with varying effort levels. Along with Soochipara and Kanthanpara, Meenmutty contributes to the Chaliyar river system.
Best time: November to May, when flow is strong but generally manageable. During heavy rain, access may be restricted for safety – always follow local instructions.
14) Muneeswaram Kunnu – quiet hill viewpoint in Wayanad
Muneeswaram Kunnu is ideal if you like less crowded places to visit in Wayanad. It’s a gentle outing for sunrise or sunset, with open hill views and slow-paced countryside life around you. Combine it with nearby villages or small tea shops for a relaxed half-day.
15) Kurumbalakota – sunrise hill and cloud-sea views
Kurumbalakota is known for sunrise views over sea-like clouds on lucky days. Depending on your vehicle and current road condition, you may combine a jeep section with a short hike. Carry a light jacket; mornings can be pleasantly cold and breezy.
16) Karlad Lake – calm lake with soft adventure
Karlad Lake is a good add-on to a Banasura or Thariyod circuit. On many days you’ll find activities like zipline, kayaking or simple boating (subject to availability and weather). Even without activities, it’s a peaceful spot for families and couples.
Suggested 2–3 day itineraries – places to visit in Wayanad
Use these sample plans as a starting point and adjust based on where you stay (Kalpetta, Vythiri, Sultan Bathery or Mananthavady).
| Day | North Wayanad loop – wildlife & rivers | South Wayanad loop – peaks & waterfalls |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive via Thamarassery Ghat → Pookode Lake → Lakkidi viewpoints | Chembra Peak (early morning) → Soochipara Falls → 900 Kandi (before sunset) |
| Day 2 | Tholpetty Safari (AM) → Pakshipathalam trek (permit) → Mananthavady town | Meenmutty Falls → Banasura Sagar Dam → Karlad Lake |
| Day 3 | Muthanga Safari (AM) → Edakkal Caves → Sultan Bathery town | Kurumbalakota or Muneeswaram sunrise → Kuruva Island (if open) |
Note on prices & permits: Trek/safari fees, jeeps and opening rules change seasonally. Always confirm with the respective Forest Office or official counters on the day of visit.
Wayanad FAQs – common questions about places to visit in Wayanad
Is Wayanad good for a family trip?
Yes. Lakes like Pookode and Karlad, viewpoints at Lakkidi, easy waterfalls such as Soochipara and wildlife safaris in Muthanga/Tholpetty make Wayanad very family-friendly.
Which are the best off-beat places to visit in Wayanad?
900 Kandi, Kattukunnu and Aranamala feel wilder and less crowded than the usual circuit. Visit in daylight, wear proper shoes and keep enough fuel and water.
Can I swim at waterfalls in Wayanad?
Only where locals/guards clearly say it is safe – for example the pool below Soochipara in calm flow. Water levels and currents change quickly, so follow signage.
When does Kuruva Island stay closed?
Usually during peak monsoon months when the Kabini river runs high. Always check current status (Forest Dept. or local stay) on the day you plan to visit.
Do I need a guide for places to visit in Wayanad?
Guides are required or strongly recommended for protected treks and sanctuaries like Chembra, Banasura, Pakshipathalam and all official safaris. They improve both safety and the experience.
Final tips for enjoying the best places to visit in Wayanad
- Start treks early; clouds build by noon and trek slots can be limited.
- Carry some cash for small entry, parking and tea shops in rural stretches.
- Respect wildlife and local communities – no littering, no loud music, no feeding animals.
- In monsoon, expect slower drives and occasional closures; keep your plans flexible.
- Save this guide offline or bookmark it so you can quickly check routes and places during your Wayanad trip.
Enjoy Wayanad! Use the Quick Navigation menu to jump between top places to visit in Wayanad, itineraries and local FAQs any time.
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