Trip to the Indian State of Kerala is acknowledged for its eco-tourism which includes beautiful backwater journey, lush green forests, sleepy terrains, kalarippayattu, savouring delicious South Indian cuisines and learning about its unique culture & traditions. There are many destinations which are popular in Kerala such as Munnar, Thekkady etc.. but one region which drew the attention of many voyagers is Wayanad.
In this indiaimagine blog, we will talk about every attractive corner of Wayanad which need to be explored by every couple for their honeymoon prospective and solo travellers who love exploring new destinations. Let’s Begin –
Wayanad: The Land of Paddy Fields in Kerala
Wayanad is situated in the northeastern region of Kerala and is known as the headquarter of Kalpetta town. It is Kerala’s only district which shares its border with both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. This district is appreciated for its untouched hills, beautiful forests which are 3000 years old, sloppy paddy fields, misty mountains and soothing ambience throughout the year. What else you expect for a perfect holiday vacation and romantic getaway when you are at Kerala?
Wayanad is the ultimate destination to escape the scorching heat of North India. Often referred to as India’s spice garden, Wayanad is settled out with many tourist places and vast orchards of various spices and these orchards of distinct spices give this place with distinctive aroma making it more alluring.
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Places to See at Wayanad
Let’s take a look at the major point of interests where you can hang out with your loved ones at Wayanad.
Chembra Peak
For a weekend getaway at Wayanad, you can pay a visit to the famous Chembra Peak. It is the highest hill in Wayanad. This peak is totally known for alluring hills, rocks and valleys which contribute tourism for visitors in Wayanad. You can also stay one or two days at the top of the peak in camps and enjoying trekking peak. The scenic beauty of Wayanad, which is visible from the top of Chembra, is very exciting.
You have to climb high as this peak is located around 2,100m above sea level on the southern piece of Wayanad. Trekking is one of the most favoured activities here. It is a great opportunity for you to soak up in the greenery of this region while you visit this destination.
Edakkal Cave
These breathtaking caves are located around 3 km from Ambalavayal, Kalpetta. The Edakkal cave in the Ambukuthy mountain is not a cave in the real sense. It is a gap made by a corner of rock splitting off from the main body due to natural causes. The reality behind this large cave is that a massive rock, weighing many tons, has dropped over a large part of it into a roof thus making makes this cave point of attraction for the beholders.
The rock wall contains some interesting carvings representing human and animal figures, and objects and symbols of human use. These carvings speak of a prehistoric highly civilized people and inspire the archaeologists and historians to rewrite the entire history of Wayanad and Kerala.
Kuruva Island
The Kuruva island is the perfect amalgam of the natural panorama and flora and fauna spread in a land of 950 acres. Throughout the island, you will notice evergreen forest on the tributaries of east flowing river Kabani. This scene makes this place an ideal destination for family liveliness and enjoyment and couple romance far away from the disturbances of city life.
Rare species of birds, orchids and herbs are the sovereigns of this supernal kingdom. It provides a different ambience and thus making it an ideal choice for tourism. There are bridges made of bamboo trees and many plants which we have not even heard of. Natural lovers and adventure enthusiasts will find Kuruva Island the most suitable space for spending quality time with their beloved ones or even alone.
Muthanga Wild Life Sanctuary
Muthanga is located very near to the Karnataka border and it is renowned as the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Wayanad. Wild forests covering an area of 345 km² forms the Muthanga wildlife sanctuary. This Wildlife sanctuary is the biggest abode of wild animals in Malabar. This sanctuary is a part of the Nilgiri Bioreserve along with Nagarhole and Bandipur area of Karnataka. You can have an appealing view with plenty of experiences as this sanctuary has been declared a Project Elephant site.
You can also enjoy the elephant rides at this wildlife sanctuary which is organised here by the forest department. You can spot these animals roaming around freely if you drive along the road. Numerous animals you can spot here include Indian Bison, Tigers, Elephants, Deer, Panthers, Civet Cats, Monkey, Wild dogs and Bears. The sanctuary attracts photographers and wildlife enthusiasts with its natural environment and its wildlife.
Pookode Lake
It is a natural lake with evergreen mountains brimmed with fresh water. The environment is salty here, the elegance of the landscape is hypnotic and nature is pristine. Here are a greenhouse and an aquarium. There are also boating facilities available. The lake, accessible via motorway, is a perfect place for an excursion with loved ones and their friends.
Besides the natural view, people have lots of fun on boats, ride around and see the freshwater aquarium. You can also buy spices and handicraft items from the nearby shops located at the lake.
Banasura Sagar Dam
One of the major tourist places to visit in Wayanad is Banasura Sagar Dam that encloses the famous Karamanathodu tributary of river Kabini River. In Kalpetta, this dam is considered to be the largest earth dam in India and the second largest in Asia. It is part of the Indian Banasura Sagar Project which consists of a dam and a project for the canal.
Ideally, the dam is located in the foothills of the hills of Banasura, named after ‘Banasura,’ the son of King Mahabali, Kerala’s famous ruler. ‘Banasura‘ is said to have undertaken severe penance on the top of the hills. The dam is surrounded by beautiful nature, with plenty of trekking options and similar adventure activities. Thousands of visitors come up to the dam to admire its majesty and for taking snaps.
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Thirunelli Temple
Nestled amidst mountains and forests, the ancient riverside temple of Thirunelli is a fine specimen of classical Kerala Temple Architecture. The temple is dedicated by Brahma to Vishnu in the form of Chaturbhuja. Often mentioned to as Dakshina Kasi, this temple draws pilgrims from all over, primarily for ancestral rites. A short walk from Thirunely temple is the clear mountain spring known as Papanasini.
A ritual dip here is believed to wash away all the sins. The temple, surrounded by beautiful hills and forests, is located 32 km away from Mananthavady. The temple is also known as Sahyamala Kshetram and Kashi of South.
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary is located towards the northern zone of Wayanad districts. At this sanctuary, you will observe a rich diversity of flora which you can view through a jeep ride. During your safari trip, you will spot numerous animals and bird species in their natural habitat.
The forests constitute various forest types like the tropical moist dry deciduous, Plantations of teak, eucalyptus, silver oak and rosewood cover about one-third of the sanctuary. Frequent sightings of elephant herds, deers, big cats, panthers, tigers, langurs, bonnet macaques, bison, sambar deer, Malabar squirrels, bears and the rare Slender Loris have all been reported in these forests.
Soochipara Falls
Soochipara Falls is a three-tiered waterfall situated at the Wayanad district of Vellarimala. These falls are encircled by forests of deciduous, evergreen and montane and considered one of the best waterfalls. The drive from Meppadi to Sentinel Rock Waterfalls offers visitors scenic views over some of Wayanad’s best tea estates. These falls are also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls.
This enchanting waterfall is 200 meters high, which also offers a cliff face which is ideal for climbing rock. Often, because a wide pool is created by the water falling from the waterfall, one can enjoy swimming and bathing inside.
There are many more attractions which you can visit here with your friends and family members. So concluding here, but Wayanad is a must-visit destination for everyone especially if you are an Indian citizen. Share your travel experiences with us and let us know what you like the most in Wayanad.
Till then keep reading blogs at indiaimagine!!
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