Lakes & Dams
Serene waterscapes perfect for boating and family picnics.
Karlad Lake
A quiet, less crowded alternative to Pookode Lake. Karlad Lake is a beautiful natural freshwater lake offering a peaceful environment. It has recently been developed into an adventure hub featuring a zip-line across the lake, kayaking, and rock climbing.
Karapuzha Dam
One of the largest earth dams in India. The reservoir is known for its beautiful landscaping, gardens, and recently added adventure park featuring a massive zipline that crosses over the water.
Pookode Lake
A scenic freshwater lake uniquely shaped like India's map, nestled among evergreen forests. Enjoy pedal boating, walk along the paved path surrounding the lake, or visit the freshwater aquarium.
Banasura Sagar Dam
The largest earth dam in India and the second largest in Asia. The dam's reservoir is dotted with small islands and sits beautifully against the backdrop of the Banasura hills. Speed boating here is thrilling.
History & Heritage
Ancient caves, temples, and museums showcasing Wayanad's rich past.
Pallikkunnu Church
A famous Latin Catholic church built in 1908 by a French priest, Fr. Jefreno. Known for its beautiful architecture and the annual festival that attracts devotees of all faiths.
Varambetta Mosque
One of the oldest mosques in Wayanad, dating back about 300 years. It stands as a symbol of the region's historical trade and religious harmony.
En Ooru Tribal Heritage Village
En Ooru is Kerala's first tribal heritage village, established to preserve and showcase the unique traditions, art, and lifestyle of Wayanad's indigenous communities. Located atop a scenic hill in Pookode, visitors can explore traditional tribal huts, witness live art demonstrations, and sample authentic tribal cuisine at the village cafe.
Wayanad Heritage Museum
Located in Ambalavayal, this is one of the best archaeological museums in Kerala. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts dating back to the 2nd century, including ancient weaponry, tribal artifacts, and stone carvings.
Jain Temple, Sulthan Bathery
Built in the 13th century, this beautifully carved stone temple has served as a shrine, a center of commercial trade, and eventually as an ammunition battery by Tipu Sultan's army.
Edakkal Caves
Famous for its ancient petroglyphs dating back over 8,000 years. Reaching the caves requires a steep but rewarding 1km trek up Ambukuthi Hill.
Pazhassi Raja Tomb
The memorial of the 'Lion of Kerala', Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja, who fought against the British East India Company. Located in Mananthavady, it features a small museum housing historic memorabilia.
Thirunelli Temple
An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, hidden deep within the Brahmagiri hills. Known as the 'Kashi of the South', the scenic drive through the dense forest to reach here is an experience in itself.
Adventure & Trekking
Scale peaks, cross glass bridges, and experience breathtaking valley views.
Banasura Hill Trek
One of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Wayanad. The steep climb takes you through dense Shola forests to the summit, offering panoramic views of the Banasura Sagar Dam below.
Chembra Peak & Heart Lake
The highest peak in Wayanad (2,100m). The trek takes you through tea plantations and dense forests to the famous heart-shaped lake (Hridayasarasu) which is said to have never dried up.
900 Kandi Glass Bridge
A thrilling adventure destination hidden inside the forest. Requires a rugged off-road Jeep ride to reach the top where you can walk across a spectacular glass bridge suspended high above the valley canopy.
Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary
Located deep in the Brahmagiri hills near Thirunelli, this requires a demanding 7km trek. It is a haven for rare species of birds and features deep rock caves where sages once meditated.
Wildlife & Nature
Safaris, deep forests, and river islands rich in biodiversity.
The Bamboo Factory (Uravu)
Located in Thrikkaipetta, Uravu is an indigenous science and technology NGO. Watch artisans skillfully craft everything from lampshades to furniture out of bamboo and purchase unique eco-friendly souvenirs.
Muthanga Bamboo Forests
Vast stretches of towering bamboo groves lining the highway towards Muthanga. It offers excellent photography opportunities and a high chance of spotting wild elephants crossing the road.
Kuruva Island (Kuruvadweep)
A protected river delta on the Kabini River comprising 950 acres of dense, evergreen forest. Access the island via traditional bamboo rafts and enjoy peaceful walks crossing small streams over wooden bridges.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Contiguous with Bandipur and Mudumalai, this sanctuary is rich in biodiversity. Take a guided Jeep Safari deep into the forest for a high chance to spot wild elephants, deer, bison, and occasionally tigers.
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
Located towards the northern side of Wayanad bordering Nagarhole. Known for denser vegetation and distinct wildlife spotting compared to Muthanga, including leopards and sloth bears.
Waterfalls
Spectacular cascades hidden deep inside the western ghats.
Meenmutty Waterfalls
The largest and most spectacular waterfall in Wayanad, dropping from a height of 300 meters in three distinct tiers. Reaching it requires an adventurous 2km trek through the jungle.
Kanthanpara Waterfalls
A smaller, incredibly picturesque waterfall surrounded by tea gardens. Unlike Meenmutty or Soochipara, it requires very little trekking, making it perfect for families with children and elderly members.
Soochipara Waterfalls (Sentinel Rock)
A massive three-tiered waterfall surrounded by deciduous and evergreen forests. A downhill trek through rocky terrain takes you to a large pool at the base where you can enjoy a refreshing swim.
Viewpoints & Leisure
Scenic spots, unique rock formations, and cultural experiences.
Krishnagiri Cricket Stadium
One of the most scenic cricket stadiums in India, surrounded by the beautiful Wayanad hills. It hosts domestic first-class matches and offers a brilliant view from its sloped grass seating.
En Ooru Tribal Heritage Village
A beautiful initiative showcasing the rich heritage of Wayanad's tribal communities. Features traditional tribal huts, a tribal market for handicrafts, and an authentic cafeteria serving ethnic food.
Chain Tree, Lakkidi
A large Ficus tree bound by a heavy iron chain. Local legend says a British engineer killed a tribal youth (Karinthandan) who guided him through the hills, and the youth's restless spirit is chained to this tree.
Lakkidi View Point
Known as the gateway to Wayanad, situated at the crest of the Thamarassery Ghat pass. Offers breathtaking bird's eye views of the deep valley and the winding hairpin bends below. Very misty in the mornings and evenings.
Phantom Rock
A naturally formed archaeological wonder near Ambalavayal. It is a skull-shaped rock formation balancing precariously on a small boulder, standing tall amidst picturesque surroundings.
Ripon Tea Factory
Built by the British in the 18th century, this functioning tea factory allows visitors to witness the entire CTC tea manufacturing process. You can taste fresh tea and buy factory-fresh blends directly.
Neelimala View Point
Offers a magnificent view of the Meenmutty waterfalls cascading down the valley. Reaching the viewpoint requires a moderate uphill trek through coffee plantations and ginger fields.