In the north east of Kerala on the beautiful Western Ghats at an altitude ranging from 700 to 2100 meters lies an extremely beautiful hill station called “Wayanad or Wayanad district”. This district is also known as “Mayakshetra”. This region is renowned for its rich biodiversity that include towering peaks, lush green forests etc. This hill station also possesses a variety of flowers that add to its charm. Apart from its natural beauty this district is also rich in history with a deep rooted culture to go along with it. The climate in Wayanad being pleasant a majority of the time is also a major reason why this district is a popular tourist hotspot. So if you are a true nature lover then “Wayanad district” is definitely a destination that you must visit.
Read More: 5 ENCHANTING HILL STATIONS IN KERALA
How to get there?
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By train:
The closest railway station to Wayanad is in Kozhikode. The Kozhikode Railway Station receives frequent trains from major cities in the country like Bangalore, Trivandrum, Kochi, Chennai etc. Taxi services are available from the Kozhikode Railway Station to Wayanad.
By road:
There are number of bus services available from cities as Mangalore, Kochi, Trivandrumetc to Wayanad. A number of deluxe bus services are also available from cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Kozhikode etc. Chennai and Bangalore are starting points that are located in close proximity to Wayanad.
a. How to reach Wayanad from Chennai: The shortest route to reach Wayanad from Chennai is via Mumbai Hwy as depicted in the map above. Alternatively, click on the Google Maps link here to view on Google Maps.
b. How to reach Wayanad from Bangalore: The fastest route from Bangalore to Wayanad is via NH766 and Mysore Rd and the route map is depicted above. Alternatively, click on the Google Maps link here to view on Google Maps.
By flight:
The nearest airport to Wayanad is in Kozhikode. The Karipur International Airport Kozhikode is well connected to many major cities in the country and receives frequent flights from cities like Mumbai Delhi, Chennai etc. Taxis services to Wayanad are available at the Kozhikode airport.
Climate and the best time to visit Wayanad Hills
“Pleasant” is the best way to describe the climate of Wayanad. The summer which begins in March and ends in May is usually pleasant and breezy with the temperature rising to up to 36 degrees. The monsoon season that begins in June and ends in October is humid with the South-West and North-East winds bringing rainfall. While the winters from December to February are usually cold with temperature dropping to below 10 degrees. The best time to visit Wayanad is from October to May.
Things to do
Edakkal Caves: This cave has several figures of human and animals engraved on its walls which belong to the pre-historic period. One has to trek for about one and half hour to gain access to the gateway of these caves.
Kuruva Island: It is a splendid picnic spot, located on the tributaries of Kabani River. It is home to some rare species of orchids, herbs, and birds. Nature is always at its best here displaying breathtaking scenery perfect for unwinding oneself.
Soochippara Waterfalls: It is also known as the Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, which offers a perfect site for indulging in water rafting, swimming, and various other kinds of activities. There are some amazing tree top huts here that offer magnificent views of the Western Ghats.
Pookot Lake: A charming site where the water is crystal clear and the woods surrounding the lake are simply beautiful. There are facilities for a boat ride on the lake for the visitors. There are other interesting spots nearby that include a children’s park, an aquarium, and a small emporium that sell spices and handicraft items.
Chembra Peak: The highest peak in Wayanad district, the Chembra Peak is very popular among the trekkers and mountain climbers. The top of the peak offers breath taking view of the surroundings. There is also a gorgeous mountain lake on the top.
Neelimala View Point: This lovely spot offers great views of the Meenmutty falls along with the surrounding valley. One has to trek to reach this point.
Meenmutty Falls: Water rushes down from a towering height of 300 meters and is the most popular waterfall in the entire Wayanad district.
Thirunelly Temple: This temple is 3000 years old and is dedicated to lord Vishnu. A bridge from the Papanashini stream connects the temple. The sacred pond of Panchatheertha is located in close proximity to the temple.
Other places of tourist interest in close proximity to Wayanad areKalpetta, Mananthavady, Lakkidi, Kabini, Bandipur National Park, and Mudumalai.
Accommodation – Hotels, Resorts and Home Stays in and around Wayanad :
Click on the link here to check out the places to stay near Wayanad, Kerala on Google Maps.
Also Read: TOP 10 HILL STATIONS IN THE WESTERN GHATS