Are you looking for a tourist destination where you can engage in a wide range of recreational activities and enjoy nature? Do you prefer recreational activities that challenge and teach you a thing or two? If yes, then Wayanad, Kerala, is a must-visit place and you will find numerous accommodation options here, from luxury resorts to cottages. This rural district in India is endowed with natural features like hills, lakes, caves, forests, and waterfalls, which makes it a great destination for staycations. It also has museums and workshops. No matter the age, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and learn here. Read on to find out about the 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)
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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)
7. Tour the extensive Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (from USD 362.0)
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary was founded in 1973 and covers an area of approximately 345 sq. km (214 sq. mi). You can take a jeep safari in the morning or in the afternoon and see birds like peacocks, and wild animals like deer, tigers, elephants, and Indian Bison. Trek through the sanctuary while exercising your muscles and enjoying the fresh air. Relax and enjoy the cool atmosphere of the freshwater waterfalls in the sanctuary. Camp and enjoy a bonfire at Wayanad’s tea gardens. Enjoy a bicycle ride up and down Wayanad’s jungle. Explore the museum and learn about the local history, while perusing the ancient collection of artifacts, machines, and art.
Wayanad 4 Days Tour
Duration: 4 days
8. Learn the local way of life at Karinthandan Temple
KARINTHANDAN temple of wayanad
Posted by Uday Wayanad on Sunday, 16 June 2013
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
Pic Of The Day - E3/120919 Zip across the air along the zipline. Just like a falcon darting across the sky. Feel the...
Posted by E3 Theme Parks on Monday, 16 September 2019
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
Posted by Aneesh K Vijayan on Sunday, 29 December 2019
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
Posted by Anita Hendrieka on Saturday, 27 February 2016
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
Posted by Manasa Retreat on Saturday, 13 January 2018
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.
Frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Wayanad, Kerala
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