16 Best Things To Do In Wayanad, Kerala

1. Indulge in a tranquil boat ride in Kuruva Island

Kuruva Island, set in Wayanad district, is a verdant paradise sprawled across 950 acres (384 hectares) on the Kabini River. This secluded haven boasts a diverse tapestry of flora and fauna. Wander along its bamboo-framed pathways, catching glimpses of exotic birds and vibrant orchids. You can also indulge in a tranquil boat ride facilitated by Kerala Tourism through the gentle streams. However, this beautiful destination is not open during monsoon months for visitors.

Located just a short distance from Mananthavady, Kuruva Island promises a captivating nature-filled escape.

Kuruva Island

2. Embark on adventurous treks at this hidden gem of Kalladi Forest

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Tucked away in Wayanad, you’ll find the tranquil retreat of Kalladi Forest, brimming with lush biodiversity. Unlike the Cardamom Forest, Kalladi seamlessly blends unspoiled rainforests with tea plantations. This rich green landscape provides a sanctuary for several species and vibrant butterflies, making it an absolute must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

This trek, with its starting point at the Chembra Ranges, allows you to explore the rich woodland. Additionally, keep your cameras ready to take breathtaking pictures of the waterfalls and streams as you trek ahead. You can enjoy this trek in the monsoon as well, making this forest a paradise for nature and hiking aficionados.

Kalladi Forest

3. Be mesmerized with sweeping views of the Phantom Rock

Located in the beautiful village of Ambalavayal in the district of Wayanad in Kerala, Phantom Rock attracts tourists in huge numbers.

The natural metamorphic rock formation got its name from its resemblance with a human skull. Situated 18.9 km (11.74 mi) away from Kalpetta, the headquartered town of Wayanad, the majestic rock rests itself at a height of 2600 ft (792.48 m) above sea level. Not too far away from other tourist attractions such as Cheengeri Mala and the Edakkal Caves, this pile of rock makes for a magnificently beautiful sight.

Phantom Rock

Address: J6P3+JV6, Ambalavayal Bypass Rd, Kumbaleri, Kerala 673591

Website: Phantom Rock

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 30 INR (0.37 USD)

4. Take a boat ride on the lake along the Banasura Sagar Dam

The district of Wayanad boasts of the country’s largest earthen dam and the second largest in Asia, Banasura Sagar Dam, which was constructed in 1979. It runs across the Karamanathodu tributary of the Kabani River. Named after the son of Mahabali and the Asura king, Banasura, the dam is one of the best things to do for couples in Wayanad for its panoramic views and boat trips on the lake. Hikers flock to the site because it offers a great base for trekking and overnight camping.

When it rains incessantly, the dam’s reservoir gives birth to small islands. The vast expanse of the lake water marked with tiny islands in the backdrop of the dam’s massive stones and boulders creates a spectacular sight.

Banasura Sagar Dam

Address: Padinjarathara, Kerala, 673575

Website: Banasura Sagar Dam

Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 40 INR (0.49 USD) for adults; 20 INR (0.25 USD) for children

5. Enjoy surreal views of the mountains from Lakkidi View Point

You will be surrounded by the surreal beauty of bountiful nature when you stop by Lakkidi View Point, one of the most famous places to visit in Wayanad. Situated at the pinnacle of the Thamarassery ghat pass, Lakkidi rests 2296 ft (699.82 m) above sea level. Tourists also visit the nearby town of Vythiri for its scenic beauty.

You can trek up to the vantage point while enjoying sublime views of the rolling hills, gorges, and valleys all around you. Known also as a popular hill station, Lakkidi attracts tourists from all over the globe who put up at the beautiful resorts, hotels, and plantation stays built around it.

Lakkidi View Point

Address: G269+VHF, Kozhikode-Mysore-Kollegal Highway, Lakkidi, Kerala 673576

Website: Lakkidi View Point

Opening hours: open 24 hours

Price: Free

6. Have a rush of adrenaline on the skywalk at 900 Kandi

If you would like to add a dose of adventure to your already exciting trip in Wayanad, you must visit 900 Kandi located in the village of Meppadi. ‘Thollayiram’ translates to 900 and Kandi means ‘a patch of land’ in colloquial language. This 900 acres (364.22 hectares) of spotless and unadulterated greenery charms its visitors with roads that run through the lush and dense forests of Wayanad.

After an adventurous ride through the lofty trees, enchanting waterfalls, and gorgeous swamps, you will reach a glass bridge that offers a magical skywalk. In what you call a truly one-of-a-kind experience, you will feel like you are walking over nature’s carpet of blue skies and green hills.

900 Kandi

Address: Thollayiram Road, Meppadi, Kerala 673577

Website: 900 Kandi

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (glass bridge)

Price: 100 INR (1.23 USD)

8. Learn the local way of life at Karinthandan Temple

At this temple, there’s a tree associated with a local legend, Karinthandan, and a viewpoint nearby. Learn the history of the local people at this temple by taking guided tours during designated hours. Relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in a hotel at this holy and historic place. See the grey langur monkeys play and jump from tree to tree and capture fun memories through pictures and videos.

Karinthandan Temple

Address: NH766, Lakkidi, Kunnathidavaka, Kerala 673576, India

Opening hours: Open 24 hours

9. Indulge in thrilling recreational activities

For unique ambiance and lots of recreational activities in Kerala, visit E3 Theme Parks in Wayanad. Take a tour of the aviary that is home to an abundance of colorful and exotic birds. Enjoy acrobatic shows at the park’s open auditorium. Learn about dinosaurs in the Dinosaur Zone. Take a thrilling zipline tour and enjoy a full view of the park at an elevated level. Challenge your body muscles by engaging in rock climbing and boat riding. Eat scrumptious meals like rice and beef fry at the food joints in the park. Test your shooting skills in the paintball game for a terrific adrenaline rush. Don’t forget to visit the pet zoo, which is perhaps the first of its kind in the country. Here, you can feed and play with the domesticated animals.

E3 Theme Parks

Address: T. P. V/195 - B Vanjode Post, Vellamunda, Via, Neelome, Kerala 670731, India

Website: E3 Theme Parks

Opening hours: 9:30am - 5:30pm (daily)

10. Marvel at the spectacular Soochipara Waterfalls

In this most picturesque location, capture the beautiful Soochipara Waterfalls by either taking a picture or a video. Dive with friends and family at these refreshing waterfalls and have a good time. You will have to trek to the falls and once you reach there, you can engage in recreational activities like swimming, bathing, and more. The waterfall is a treat for the eyes and the camera lens as the milky stream of water gushes down the rocky cliffs and lush greenery. It is a beautiful sight, indeed.

Soochipara Waterfalls

Address: Vellarimala, Kerala 673577, India

11. Learn the nuances of tea making at Wayanad Tea Museum

For tea lovers, this is a must-visit spot in Wayanad. Learn the history of tea in India and how it is made at this museum. Take a tea tasting tour of the museum. You sample different varieties of tea at the museum’s different floors. See breathtaking tea plantations in the backyard and experience how it’s cultivated. See old machinery and artifacts that were used in tea making in the ancient days. Try out their varieties of tea like masala and ice tea at restaurants near the museum.

Wayanad Tea Museum

Address: Pozhuthana, Achoor Estate Road, Achoor, Kerala 673575, India

Website: Wayanad Tea Museum

Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)

12. Get sporty at Wayanad Adventure Camp

Indulge in adventure activities at this thrilling camp. Take a nature walk around the camp, enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful scenery. Take part in an adrenaline-filled zipline tour across this adventure camp in Wayanad. Go on a boat ride around the lake and soak in the natural beauty. Cook and light bonfires at night and enjoy camping uniquely in Wayanad. Take an adventurous trek along the beautiful trails in the park, or indulge in rock climbing at the camp’s steep hills.

Wayanad Adventure Camp

Address: Wayanad, Kerala 673575, India

Website: Wayanad Adventure Camp

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

13. Explore Edakkal Caves

Travel back in time at the Edakkal Caves. It houses ancient writings and carvings, thus showing the signs of human settlement in the area. Some of the rock carvings are said to be 8,000 years old. Here, you can indulge in rock climbing and enjoy breathtaking views from the hilltop. Feeling peckish? There are eateries and stalls near the caves, where you enjoy delicious Indian delicacies along with Indian tea and coffee.

Edakkal Caves

Address: Nenmeni, Kerala 673595, India

Website: Edakkal Caves

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 8:30am - 4pm (closed on Mon)

14. Go boating at Pookode Lake

Pookode Lake is a popular tourist destination in Wayanad, Kerala. In this freshwater lake, engage in paddle boating and exercise your muscles as you enjoy cool weather. Spend time with family or friends and capture the lake’s beautiful scenery. Take a bicycle ride around the lake, while cycling off-road and get amazed by the lush green surroundings. See and feed fish at the lake’s fish spa. Enjoy wildlife by seeing birds, flies and wild animals like monkeys. Indulge in a food tour and sample the local food like sweetcorn and masala fries.

15. Hike the Chirapullu Peak

Enjoy the cool atmosphere as you ascend the Chirapullu Peak. The trek is easy and can be attempted by anyone. Once you reach the summit of the peak, you can enjoy the panoramic views of Wayanad. Near the peak is Banasura hills that is known for its lush green vegetation and stunning views of the mountains.

Chirapullu Peak

Address: Wayanad, Kerala 670731, India

16. Learn about Wayanad's history at Wayanad Heritage Museum

Wayanad Heritage Museum is home to ancient artifacts, machines and sculptures. See old writings, weapons, coins, and old sculptures of god/goddesses of early inhabitants of the area that have been well preserved. Learn Wayanad’s history by taking a guided tour of the museum. Eat local food like Puttu and Fish Molee in food joints near the museum. Learn the types of soils in Wayanad that favor farming of crops like tea.

Wayanad Heritage Museum

Address: Govt Hospital Road, Ambalavayal, Kerala 673593, India

Opening hours: 9am - 5:30pm (daily)

The captivating Wayanad

You don’t have to restrict yourself to one location when visiting Wayanad, Kerala. Get out of your comfort zone and explore other magical destinations. Don’t just listen to other people narrate about exciting experiences in Wayanad, visit and see for yourself.