Table of Contents
| 1 | Introduction – Why Wayanad Is Kerala’s Most Enchanting Destination |
| 2 | Tourist Attractions in Wayanad: Complete Overview |
| 3 | Chembra Peak – The Crown of Wayanad |
| 4 | Edakkal Caves – A Portal to Prehistoric Kerala |
| 5 | Banasura Sagar Dam – Asia’s Largest Earthen Dam |
| 6 | Soochipara (Sentinel Rock) Waterfalls |
| 7 | Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary |
| 8 | Pookode Lake |
| 9 | Phantom Rock (Pakshipathalam) |
| 10 | Meenmutty Waterfalls |
| 11 | Thirunelli Temple |
| 12 | Karapuzha Dam |
| 13 | Kuruva Island |
| 14 | Lakkidi – The Gateway Viewpoint |
| 15 | Bamboo Forest & Tribal Heritage Villages |
| 16 | Best Time to Visit Wayanad |
| 17 | How to Reach Wayanad |
| 18 | Food, Shopping & Travel Tips |
| 19 | Suggested Itinerary (3 Days) |
| 20 | Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) |
| 21 | Conclusion |
1. Introduction – Why Wayanad Is Kerala’s Most Enchanting Destination
The tourist attractions in Wayanad are a rare gift — ancient caves, thundering waterfalls, mist-cloaked peaks, and forests so dense and green that they feel like another world entirely. Nestled in the northern highlands of Kerala at altitudes ranging from 700 to 2,100 metres above sea level, Wayanad is a district where nature has been extraordinarily generous.
Whether you are a trekking enthusiast chasing summits, a history lover drawn to prehistoric rock art, a wildlife photographer seeking leopards in the mist, or a couple looking for a romantic highland escape, the tourist attractions in Wayanad promise experiences that linger long after you leave.
This comprehensive 2025 guide covers 13 of the most spectacular tourist attractions in Wayanad — with entry fees, timings, travel tips, best seasons, and a complete 3-day itinerary. If you love wildlife, also explore the tourist attractions in Thekkady just a few hours south for an unforgettable jungle and lake experience. Read on, and let Wayanad surprise you at every turn.
2. Tourist Attractions in Wayanad: Your Complete Guide at a Glance
Before we dive deep, here is a quick-reference list of all the tourist attractions in Wayanad featured in this guide:
- Chembra Peak – Wayanad’s highest peak with a heart-shaped lake
- Edakkal Caves – Prehistoric rock engravings from 8,000 years ago
- Banasura Sagar Dam – Asia’s largest earthen dam, spectacular scenery
- Soochipara Waterfalls – Thundering three-tiered waterfall with a swimming pool
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary – Elephants, leopards, tigers in pristine forest
- Pookode Lake – Serene freshwater lake surrounded by evergreen forest
- Phantom Rock (Pakshipathalam) – Cave trek and rare bird sanctuary
- Meenmutty Waterfalls – Kerala’s tallest accessible waterfall at 300 metres
- Thirunelli Temple – Ancient Vishnu temple in deep jungle setting
- Karapuzha Dam – Peaceful reservoir and picnic destination
- Kuruva Island – Uninhabited river island with exotic flora and fauna
- Lakkidi Viewpoint – The misty gateway pass into Wayanad
- Bamboo Forest & Tribal Heritage Villages – Cultural and eco-tourism experiences
Together, these tourist attractions in Wayanad form one of the most diverse and rewarding travel itineraries in all of Kerala. Let us explore each one in full detail.
3. Chembra Peak – The Crown Jewel of Tourist Attractions in Wayanad
Standing at 2,100 metres above sea level, Chembra Peak is the highest point in Wayanad — and undoubtedly the most thrilling of all the tourist attractions in Wayanad. The trek to its summit is famous across South India for one breathtaking reason: a heart-shaped lake that never dries up, tucked into the mountain approximately halfway up the trail.
The 8-km round-trip trek takes trekkers through shola forests, grassy plateaus, and steep ridgelines with panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills and neighbouring Tamil Nadu. Local guides from the Forest Department accompany every group, ensuring both safety and an enriching natural commentary along the way.
On clear days, the summit offers a 360-degree view that stretches across three states. Sunrise and early morning treks are particularly magical — the valleys below fill with silver mist while the peak catches the first golden light of dawn.
Chembra Peak Quick Reference
| Location | Near Meppadi, 8 km from Kalpetta, Wayanad |
| Altitude | 2,100 metres above sea level |
| Trek Distance | ~8 km round trip (3–4 hours) |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May (avoid monsoon — trail closed June–August) |
| Entry / Permit Fee | ₹100 per person + ₹100 guide fee (mandatory) |
| Start Point | Meppadi Forest Station (permits issued here) |
| Ideal Duration | Half day (4–5 hours including permit formalities) |
| Difficulty | Moderate — suitable for reasonably fit adults |
Tips for Trekking Chembra Peak
- Reach Meppadi Forest Station by 7:00 AM — permits are limited and fill up fast.
- Carry at least 2 litres of water per person; no water sources on the trail.
- Wear sturdy trekking shoes with ankle support — the trail can be slippery.
- Bring a light jacket or windbreaker; temperatures drop sharply near the summit.
- Do not litter on the trail — the Forest Department enforces eco-guidelines strictly.
- Photography is allowed; the heart-shaped lake makes for stunning images.
4. Edakkal Caves – A Portal to Prehistoric Kerala Among Tourist Attractions in Wayanad
No list of tourist attractions in Wayanad is complete without the extraordinary Edakkal Caves. Located on the slopes of Ambukuthi Hills at an elevation of 1,200 metres, these natural rock formations contain some of India’s most significant prehistoric rock engravings, dating back over 8,000 years to the Neolithic period.
The caves are essentially two massive natural fissures in a rocky hillside, accessible via a short but steep 1-km trek from the parking area. The walls and ceilings inside bear intricate carvings of human figures, animals, symbols, and tools — silent testimonies to civilisations that flourished here millennia before recorded history.
The Archaeological Survey of India has documented over 108 engravings at the site, making Edakkal one of the most important prehistoric art sites in South Asia. For history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and curious travellers of all ages, this is one of the most intellectually rewarding tourist attractions in Wayanad.
| Location | Ambukuthi Hills, 25 km from Kalpetta |
| Altitude | 1,200 metres above sea level |
| Age of Engravings | Estimated 6,000–8,000 years old |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May |
| Entry Fee | ₹30 (Indians), ₹100 (foreign nationals), ₹10 (children) |
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (closed Mondays) |
| Trek to Cave | ~1 km one way; moderate steepness |
| Ideal Duration | 2 to 3 hours |
- Wear rubber-soled shoes — the rocky path can be slippery.
- Hiring a local guide inside enhances the experience greatly.
- Visit on weekdays to avoid school group crowds.
- Photography is permitted but flash use is restricted inside the caves.
5. Banasura Sagar Dam – Asia’s Largest Earthen Dam
Banasura Sagar Dam is one of the most visually spectacular tourist attractions in Wayanad. Built across the Karamanathodu tributary of the Kabini River, this dam is Asia’s largest earthen dam — and its setting is simply extraordinary. A cluster of small islands emerges from the reservoir during the dry season, surrounded by forested hills and mountain reflections that shimmer on the water’s surface.
The Dam offers a relaxed sightseeing experience ideal for families, couples, and photography enthusiasts. Motorboat rides around the island clusters are available and highly recommended. The surrounding area also offers trekking trails and a children’s adventure park, making it a multi-activity destination among the tourist attractions in Wayanad.
| Location | Padinjarathara, 21 km from Kalpetta |
| Dam Type | Asia’s largest earthen dam |
| Key Activity | Motorboat rides, island viewpoints, trekking |
| Entry Fee | ₹20 per person; Boat ride: ₹200–₹400 per person |
| Best Time to Visit | October to February (islands visible post-monsoon) |
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Ideal Duration | 2 to 3 hours |
6. Soochipara Waterfalls – The Most Thrilling of Tourist Attractions in Wayanad
Soochipara Waterfalls — also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls — is a three-tiered cascade that drops dramatically over 200 metres through dense jungle into a natural rock pool below. It is one of the most exhilarating tourist attractions in Wayanad, drawing trekkers, swimmers, and adventure seekers year-round.
The 2-km trek from the road to the falls winds through thick rainforest, crossing streams and passing towering trees that filter the sunlight into golden beams. The pool at the base is safe for swimming during the non-monsoon months and is enormously popular with families and young travellers. The sheer force of the falls creates a permanent mist that keeps the surrounding rocks cool and mossy.
| Location | Vellarimala, Meppadi, 22 km from Kalpetta |
| Height | ~200 metres (three tiers) |
| Trek Distance | 2 km from entry gate (each way) |
| Best Time to Visit | September to May |
| Entry Fee | ₹30 per person; Life jacket: ₹50 (mandatory for swimming) |
| Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Ideal Duration | 3 to 4 hours |
- Swimming is permitted only with a mandatory life jacket (provided at the entry gate).
- Avoid visiting during heavy monsoon — current becomes dangerously strong.
- Wear waterproof sandals or aqua shoes for the rocky pool area.
- Carry extra clothes in a waterproof bag — you will almost certainly get wet.
7. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary – Wild Heart of Tourist Attractions in Wayanad
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary forms a critical corridor of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve — one of the largest protected forest systems in Asia. Spread across 344 sq km of moist deciduous and evergreen forests, the sanctuary is home to Indian elephants, tigers, leopards, wild dogs (dholes), sloth bears, spotted deer, gaur, king cobras, and over 200 bird species.
The sanctuary is divided into two ranges: Tholpetty in the north and Muthanga in the south-east. Both offer guided jeep safaris that venture into the forest at dawn and dusk, when wildlife activity is highest. Tholpetty is particularly well-regarded for elephant sightings, while Muthanga offers excellent opportunities to spot large herds of gaur and spotted deer.
Among all the tourist attractions in Wayanad, this sanctuary is the most likely to reward a patient, observant traveller with truly extraordinary wildlife encounters.
| Tholpetty Range | 25 km from Mananthavady — best for elephant sightings |
| Muthanga Range | 16 km from Sultan Bathery — best for gaur and deer |
| Safari Type | Jeep safari (Forest Dept vehicle, 6 persons max) |
| Safari Timings | 6:30 AM–8:30 AM and 3:30 PM–5:30 PM |
| Entry Fee | ₹150 per person (Indian) + ₹200 jeep charge |
| Best Time | October to April |
| Booking | Advance online booking recommended |
| Ideal Duration | Half day per range |
- Book jeep safaris at least 3–5 days in advance during peak season.
- Wear muted tones — avoid bright colours near wildlife.
- Carry binoculars and a telephoto lens camera for wildlife photography.
- Stay silent during the safari — noise reduces wildlife activity.
8. Pookode Lake – A Serene Gem Among Tourist Attractions in Wayanad
Pookode Lake is a naturally formed freshwater lake situated at 770 metres above sea level, entirely surrounded by tropical evergreen forest. It is one of the most peaceful and photogenic tourist attractions in Wayanad — a place where the stillness of the water mirrors the sky and the surrounding trees in perfect symmetry.
The Kerala Forest Development Corporation manages the lake and its surroundings, offering pedal boating and rowing boat rides across its tranquil 13-acre surface. A children’s park, aquarium, and deer park are located within the complex, making Pookode an excellent choice for families. The walking path around the lake takes about 30 minutes and passes through some genuinely lovely forest scenery.
| Location | On the Ooty–Kozhikode Highway, 15 km from Kalpetta |
| Altitude | 770 metres above sea level |
| Activities | Boating, walking trails, aquarium, children’s park |
| Entry Fee | ₹20 per person; Boating: ₹60–₹120 per person |
| Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (closed Tuesdays) |
| Ideal Duration | 1.5 to 2 hours |
9. Pakshipathalam (Phantom Rock) – A Bold Adventure Among Tourist Attractions in Wayanad
Pakshipathalam, known colloquially as Phantom Rock or Cave Rock, is one of the most thrilling and challenging tourist attractions in Wayanad. Tucked inside the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary near Thirunelli, it is a massive cave complex and bird sanctuary accessible only via a strenuous 7-km jungle trek through dense, primeval forest.
The caves are home to rare bird species including the elusive Malabar hornbill, jungle owlet, and various species of bats. The trek itself passes through thick bamboo groves, across rocky streams, and through sections of pristine rainforest that feel entirely untouched by human activity. This is a destination for serious trekkers and birdwatchers — not a casual half-day excursion.
| Location | Brahmagiri Hills, near Thirunelli, North Wayanad |
| Trek Distance | 7 km one way (6–8 hours return) |
| Permit | Required from Thirunelli Forest Range Office |
| Guide | Mandatory — available at Thirunelli range office |
| Best Time to Visit | October to February |
| Difficulty Level | Strenuous — experienced trekkers recommended |
| Ideal Duration | Full day |
10. Meenmutty Waterfalls – Kerala’s Tallest Accessible Waterfall
Meenmutty Waterfalls cascades 300 metres in three magnificent tiers through dense Wayanad forest, making it one of the tallest accessible waterfalls in Kerala. It is among the most dramatically beautiful tourist attractions in Wayanad, yet far fewer visitors make the effort to reach it compared to Soochipara — which means a more private, unspoiled experience for those who do.
The trek to Meenmutty covers approximately 2 km through the forest from the road, passing through thick undergrowth and rocky streambeds. The final approach opens suddenly onto a breathtaking view of the falls plunging into a deep gorge below. The mist at the base is perpetually cooling, and the sound of the water is thunderous even from a distance.
| Location | Near Vythiri, 29 km from Kalpetta |
| Height | 300 metres (three stages) |
| Trek Distance | 2 km from road to falls |
| Best Time to Visit | September to January |
| Entry Fee | Nominal forest entry fee (₹20–₹30) |
| Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Ideal Duration | 2.5 to 3 hours |
11. Thirunelli Temple – The Most Sacred of Tourist Attractions in Wayanad
Thirunelli Temple is one of the oldest and most revered Hindu temples in Kerala, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Located 32 km north of Mananthavady, at the foot of the Brahmagiri hills, it is often described as the ‘Kashi of the South’ — a place of immense spiritual significance where devotees perform rituals for their ancestors.
The temple itself dates back over 3,000 years, with granite pillars that are believed to be among the oldest surviving stone structures in Kerala. It is surrounded by dense forest and streams, and the journey to reach it — through misty mountain roads and tea estate landscapes — is itself a deeply meditative experience. Among all the tourist attractions in Wayanad, Thirunelli stands apart for its spiritual gravity and historical weight.
| Location | Thirunelli Village, 32 km from Mananthavady |
| Deity | Lord Vishnu (Maha Vishnu) |
| Temple Hours | 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free (donation-based) |
| Dress Code | Traditional attire required — no shorts or sleeveless clothing |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March (festival season: November–January) |
| Ideal Duration | 1.5 to 2 hours |
12. Kuruva Island – Nature’s Hidden Sanctuary Among Tourist Attractions in Wayanad
Kuruva Island — or Kuruva Dweep — is a cluster of uninhabited river islands spanning 950 acres in the middle of the Kabini River, entirely covered with rare bamboo, ferns, orchids, and dense tropical vegetation. It is one of the most ecologically unique tourist attractions in Wayanad, protected as a biodiversity hotspot by the Forest Department.
Access is by traditional bamboo raft across the river, which is itself a delightful adventure. Once on the island, visitors walk along Forest Department-marked trails through a landscape of extraordinary botanical richness. Rare bird species including hornbills, kingfishers, and river terns are regularly spotted. No motorised vehicles are permitted on the island, preserving its pristine character.
| Location | Kuruva, Kalpetta Taluk, 17 km from Mananthavady |
| Island Size | 950 acres of protected river island ecosystem |
| Access | Bamboo raft ride across the Kabini River |
| Entry Fee | ₹50 per person + ₹20 raft fee |
| Best Time to Visit | June to May (closed during heavy monsoon flooding) |
| Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Ideal Duration | 2 to 3 hours |
13. Lakkidi Viewpoint – The Misty Gateway to Wayanad
Lakkidi is the mountain pass that marks the entry point into Wayanad from the Kozhikode (Calicut) side, and it is one of the most photographed tourist attractions in Wayanad. At 700 metres above sea level, the Thamarassery Ghat Road — with its 11 hairpin bends — offers a dramatic transition from the coastal lowlands to the highland forests of Wayanad.
The viewpoint at Lakkidi provides sweeping views of the Malabar plains below and the forest-covered hills above. During the monsoon, this stretch is perpetually shrouded in mist and feels otherworldly. A famous chain tree stands at Lakkidi — a large tree wrapped in chains, associated with a local legend that is still told today.
| Location | Lakkidi, on NH 766, 5 km from Vythiri |
| Elevation | 700 metres above sea level |
| Best Time to Visit | June–August (mist & rain) or October–December (clear views) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Ideal Duration | 30–45 minutes |
| Note | Do not stop on hairpin bends — use designated viewpoint area |
14. Bamboo Forest & Tribal Heritage Villages
Wayanad is home to one of the largest tribal populations in Kerala, with communities including the Paniya, Kurichiya, Adivasi, and Kattunayakan tribes. Their villages, traditions, and crafts represent a living cultural heritage that is increasingly becoming an eco-tourism experience among the tourist attractions in Wayanad.
Several organisations offer guided visits to tribal hamlets where guests can observe traditional pottery, bamboo weaving, honey harvesting, and herbal medicine practices. Wayanad’s bamboo forests are equally extraordinary — dense groves of bamboo line many forest roads and river banks, creating corridors of sound and shadow that are unlike anything else in Kerala.
- Guided tribal village tours: approx ₹500–₹1,500 per person (includes lunch)
- Bamboo forest walks available near Kuruva and Muthanga areas
- Look for locally made tribal jewellery, honey, and bamboo crafts in Kalpetta market
15. Best Time to Visit Tourist Attractions in Wayanad
Wayanad is a year-round destination, but each season offers a very different experience. Here is how to choose:
October to February (Peak Season): Clear skies, cool temperatures (12°C to 22°C), all treks and attractions fully open, and maximum wildlife activity. This is the ideal season for families, couples, photographers, and first-time visitors.
March to May (Pre-Monsoon): Slightly warmer but still comfortable. Chembra Peak and Edakkal Caves are excellent during this time. Tea and coffee estates are especially fragrant during harvest season, making plantation walks particularly rewarding.
June to September (Monsoon Season): Wayanad transforms into a lush, mist-covered emerald landscape. Waterfalls surge at peak volume and the forests feel dramatically alive. However, Chembra and Pakshipathalam treks are usually closed, and some forest roads can become challenging. Best suited for experienced travellers who enjoy rain-drenched scenery.
For the best balance of open attractions, clear conditions, and pleasant weather, October through February remains the most recommended window. Combine Wayanad with the tourist attractions in Munnar for a complete Kerala highlands itinerary filled with tea gardens, mountain viewpoints, and cool-climate escapes.mfortable weather, plan your visit to tourist attractions in Wayanad between October and February.
16. How to Reach Wayanad
By Air
The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode), approximately 100 km from Kalpetta. Taxis and cabs are available for direct transfers. From Cochin International Airport (260 km), the drive takes around 5–6 hours via NH 544. Fly into Kochi and explore the attractions in Kochi for a day before driving to Wayanad, especially if you prefer a relaxed Kerala itinerary that blends coastal charm with highland landscapes..
By Train
The nearest railway station is Kozhikode (Calicut) at approximately 100 km. From Kozhikode, KSRTC deluxe buses and private cabs operate regularly to Kalpetta and Sultan Bathery. The Kozhikode–Kalpetta road is one of Kerala’s most scenic mountain drives.
By Road
Wayanad is well connected by road from Kozhikode (100 km), Mysore (120 km), Bangalore (280 km), Kochi (250 km), and Ooty (130 km). The Thamarassery Ghat Road from Kozhikode — with its 11 hairpin bends — is a scenic highlight in itself. KSRTC runs regular buses from Kozhikode to Kalpetta.
17. Local Food, Shopping & First-Timer Travel Tips
Food You Must Try in Wayanad
- Bamboo Rice Puttu — a rare local delicacy made from bamboo rice, earthy and unique
- Kadala Curry with Appam — a Kerala breakfast classic perfected in Wayanad homestays
- Wild Boar Curry — a tribal speciality, found in select local restaurants
- Wayanad Honey — raw, forest-harvested honey sold directly by tribal communities
- Cardamom Tea — brewed with freshly crushed Wayanad cardamom; intensely aromatic
- Jackfruit Chips and Halwa — a signature Wayanad sweet snack
Shopping in Wayanad
- Fresh spices — cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, cloves from plantation stores
- Wayanad coffee and tea from estate outlets around Kalpetta and Vythiri
- Tribal handicrafts — bamboo baskets, cane furniture, handwoven textiles
- Organic honey, herbal oils, and forest-harvested products
- Tribal jewellery — traditional silver and bead ornaments from Kalpetta market
Essential First-Timer Travel Tips
- Carry original government-issued photo ID for all forest trek permits.
- Book Chembra Peak permits early — they are limited to ~50 groups per day.
- Keep cash available; UPI and card connectivity can be unreliable in remote areas.
- All forest treks require a paid guide — budget for this in your trip costs.
- Temperatures can drop to 8–12°C at night in December and January; pack warm layers.
- Carry a reusable water bottle; plastic usage is restricted in many forest areas.
- Book accommodations at least 2 weeks ahead during October–February peak season.
18. Suggested 3-Day Itinerary: Tourist Attractions in Wayanad
Day 1 – Peaks, Caves & Ancient History
- 7:00 AM – Chembra Peak Trek (start from Meppadi Forest Station)
- 12:30 PM – Return, freshen up, lunch at Kalpetta
- 3:00 PM – Edakkal Caves (allow 2.5 hours including trek and exploration)
- 6:00 PM – Lakkidi Viewpoint sunset stop
- 7:30 PM – Dinner and check-in at Vythiri or Kalpetta resort
Day 2 – Wildlife, Waterfalls & Dams
- 6:30 AM – Tholpetty or Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary jeep safari
- 10:00 AM – Banasura Sagar Dam with boat ride
- 1:00 PM – Lunch near Padinjarathara
- 2:30 PM – Soochipara Waterfalls (trek + swimming pool)
- 6:00 PM – Return, dinner and rest
Day 3 – Lakes, Islands & Culture
- 8:00 AM – Pookode Lake (boating + walking trail)
- 10:30 AM – Kuruva Island (bamboo raft + island walk)
- 1:30 PM – Lunch at Mananthavady
- 3:00 PM – Thirunelli Temple visit
- 5:00 PM – Tribal village eco-tour or Kalpetta market shopping
- 7:00 PM – Farewell dinner with Wayanad coffee and bamboo rice dessert
19. Frequently Asked Questions – Tourist Attractions in Wayanad
Q1. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Wayanad?
The must-visit tourist attractions in Wayanad include Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Soochipara Waterfalls, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Pookode Lake, Kuruva Island, Meenmutty Waterfalls, and Thirunelli Temple. Each offers a distinct experience, from wildlife and trekking to history and spirituality.
Q2. How many days are enough to cover tourist attractions in Wayanad?
Three to four days are ideal for comfortably covering the top tourist attractions in Wayanad. A 3-day itinerary allows you to experience the key trekking, wildlife, waterfall, and cultural sites. If you prefer a relaxed pace — especially for trekking and birdwatching — extend your stay to 4 or 5 days.
Q3. What is the best time to visit tourist attractions in Wayanad?
October to February is the best time to visit tourist attractions in Wayanad. The weather is cool and pleasant, all trekking trails are open, wildlife is active, and the skies are clear. Monsoon (June–September) is spectacular for waterfalls and greenery but closes some treks and forest roads.
Q4. Is Wayanad good for a honeymoon trip?
Absolutely. The tourist attractions in Wayanad create one of Kerala’s most romantic settings. Couples can enjoy misty mountain treks, private bamboo raft rides on Kuruva Island, sunrise views from Chembra Peak, intimate plantation homestays, and serene boating at Pookode Lake. The cool climate and lush scenery add to the romantic atmosphere year-round.
Q5. Is Chembra Peak suitable for beginners?
Chembra Peak is rated moderate in difficulty and is suitable for reasonably fit first-timers with basic preparation. The trail is 8 km round trip and takes 3–4 hours. A mandatory guide from the Forest Department accompanies all groups. Wear sturdy trekking shoes and carry sufficient water. Avoid the trek during monsoon as trails close from June to August.
Q6. How far is Wayanad from Kozhikode?
Wayanad (Kalpetta) is approximately 100 km from Kozhikode (Calicut) by road. The drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours via the Thamarassery Ghat Road, which is one of the most scenic mountain drives in Kerala, featuring 11 hairpin bends through lush forest scenery.
Q7. Are there entry fees for tourist attractions in Wayanad?
Yes, most major tourist attractions in Wayanad have nominal entry fees. Chembra Peak: ₹100 per person + guide fee. Edakkal Caves: ₹30 (Indian adults). Soochipara Waterfalls: ₹30. Pookode Lake: ₹20. Wildlife sanctuary jeep safari: ₹150–₹200. Viewpoints like Lakkidi are generally free. Carry cash as digital payment may not be accepted at all entry points.
Q8. Is Wayanad safe for solo travellers and women?
Yes, Wayanad is widely considered safe for solo travellers including women. The district has a strong eco-tourism and homestay culture, with friendly and hospitable locals. However, for forest treks and remote areas, always travel with a registered guide, avoid unfamiliar jungle paths after dark, and inform your accommodation of your daily plans.
20. Conclusion – Discover the Magic of Tourist Attractions in Wayanad
The tourist attractions in Wayanad are a testament to the extraordinary richness of Kerala’s Western Ghat highlands. From the prehistoric wonder of Edakkal Caves to the heart-shaped lake on Chembra Peak, from Asia’s largest earthen dam to the uninhabited paradise of Kuruva Island — Wayanad rewards every type of traveller with experiences that feel genuinely rare.
What makes the tourist attractions in Wayanad truly special is not just their individual beauty, but the way they connect — through ancient forest roads, mist-covered valleys, and the quiet generosity of a land that has never lost its wildness. Here, the boundary between nature and culture blurs completely.
Whether you are chasing a summit at sunrise, listening to a waterfall roar from 300 metres above, watching an elephant move silently through the dawn mist, or sitting in the 3,000-year-old shadow of Thirunelli Temple — Wayanad will leave its mark on you long after you return home.
Ready to explore the tourist attractions in Wayanad? Start planning your customised Kerala tour packages today and craft a journey that seamlessly connects Wayanad’s misty peaks with the backwaters, wildlife sanctuaries, and tea-covered hills that define God’s Own Country.
