Wayanad, a little piece of paradise nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, is a land of breathtaking natural beauty and serene landscapes. This enchanting destination offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Let's embark on a journey through Wayanad's lush hills and verdant valleys.

About Wayanad

Tucked away in the lush Western Ghats of Kerala, India, lies Wayanad, a captivating district that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage. This enchanting destination has earned its reputation as "God's Own Country," and visiting Wayanad will quickly reveal why.

This unspoiled gem is a perfect blend of lush green landscapes, misty mountains, pristine rivers, and rich wildlife. If you're seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Wayanad is a destination that promises tranquility and adventure in equal measure.

The mesmerising beauty of Wayanad

What is the Best Time to Visit Wayanad?

The best time to visit Wayanad largely depends on your preferences for weather and activities. Wayanad experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year:

Winter (October to February)

Best for Weather: This is the peak tourist season in Wayanad due to its cool and dry climate. The days are comfortably warm, and the nights can be cool, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Tourist Attractions: Winter is perfect for exploring wildlife sanctuaries, trekking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Wayanad.

Festivals: November and December are festive months with celebrations like Christmas and New Year's Eve.

Monsoon (June to September)

Best for Lush Greenery: If you love the lush, vibrant green landscapes, the monsoon season is the time to visit. Wayanad receives heavy rainfall during this period, so be prepared for wet conditions.

Tourist Attractions: Waterfalls like Meenmutty and Soochipara are at their majestic best during the monsoon. The landscapes are incredibly picturesque.

Trekking and Ayurveda: If you're interested in Ayurvedic treatments or rainforest trekking, this is the season to experience it.

Summer (March to May)

Best for Adventure Sports: While it can get quite warm during the day, this season is ideal for adventure activities. The temperatures are moderate, and the nights are cooler.

Tourist Attractions: Explore tea and coffee plantations, enjoy wildlife safaris, and visit attractions like the Banasura Sagar Dam.

Local Festivals: You might have the chance to experience local festivals like Vishu in April.

Wayanad vibe in Monsoon

How to Reach Wayanad?

Reaching Wayanad is relatively easy thanks to its well-connected transportation options. Here's how to reach Wayanad:

By Air

The nearest airport to Wayanad is the Calicut International Airport, also known as Karipur Airport (CCJ). It's approximately 95 kilometers (about 59 miles) away from Wayanad. After arriving at the airport, you can choose various transportation options to reach Wayanad, including hiring a taxi, taking a pre-booked cab, or using public transportation.

By Train

The closest railway station to Wayanad is Kozhikode Railway Station (CLT), which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Kozhikode, you can reach Wayanad by road. It's approximately a 3 to 4-hour drive, depending on your exact destination within Wayanad. You can hire a taxi or use bus services.

By Road

Wayanad is accessible by road, and you can reach it from nearby major cities. It's well-connected by bus services from nearby cities, including Kozhikode, Bangalore, and Mysore. There are government-run and private bus services that operate regular routes to various destinations within Wayanad. You can check the bus schedules and book tickets in advance if needed. Or you can book a private vehicle or drive through via your own car.

The Highway condition is very good from Bengaluru to Wayanad

Where to Stay in Wayanad?

Wayanad offers a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts, cozy homestays, or budget-friendly guesthouses, Wayanad has something for everyone.

We stayed at a resort named Vistara by the lake resort. This is one of the best resorts in Wayanad nestled on the Karapuzha Lake Waterfront, close to the Ambalavayal village. This resort offered us the magical experience of the Karapuzha Lake and its precincts. 

With incredible views, private balconies, spectacular gardens, and recreational areas, Vistara by the Lake is the ultimate destination to spend your perfect holiday. The leisure time that we spent here was absolutely unforgettable.

Vistara By The Lake Resort in Wayanad

What are the Things To Do in Wayanad?

Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, nature lover, or cultural explorer, Wayanad has something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Wayanad:

1. Wildlife Safari:

Explore the rich biodiversity of Wayanad by going on a wildlife safari. Visit Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary or Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary to spot elephants, tigers, deer, and a variety of bird species.

2. Trekking:

Wayanad is a paradise for trekkers. Embark on adventures like the Chembra Peak trek, Banasura Hill trek, and the Neelimala trek, which offer breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.

3. Edakkal Caves:

Discover the fascinating Edakkal Caves, known for their ancient petroglyphs (rock engravings). The hike to the caves is an adventure in itself.

4. Tea and Coffee Plantations:

Take guided tours of the lush tea and coffee plantations in Wayanad. Learn about the cultivation process and savor freshly brewed tea or coffee.

5. Banasura Sagar Dam:

Visit the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India. Enjoy boating on the reservoir and take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

6. Lush Greenery of Monsoons:

If you're a fan of lush green landscapes, visit during the monsoon season. Wayanad comes alive with vibrant greenery, and waterfalls like Meenmutty and Soochipara are at their majestic best.

7. Cultural Exploration:

Interact with the local tribes, including the Paniyas and Kurichiyas, to understand their rich cultural heritage.

Visit the Thirunelli Temple, an ancient pilgrimage site known for its architecture and spirituality.

8. Treehouse Stays:

Stay in a treehouse accommodation in Vythiri for a unique and immersive experience in the rainforest.

9. Cycling:

Wayanad's picturesque roads are perfect for cycling enthusiasts. Rent a bicycle and explore the serene countryside.

10. Visit Local Markets:

Explore the local markets and buy traditional handicrafts and spices, including pepper, cardamom, and coffee.

11. Relax by Waterfalls:

Enjoy the natural beauty of Wayanad by visiting the numerous waterfalls, including Soochipara Falls, Meenmutty Falls, and Chethalayam Falls.

12. Culinary Exploration:

Savor traditional Kerala dishes like appam, stew, and Kerala fish curry at local eateries and restaurants.

13. Ayurvedic Treatments:

Experience rejuvenation with Ayurvedic treatments and massages offered at various resorts and spas.

What are the Places to Visit in Wayanad in 3 Days?

Day 1: Reach Wayanad -> Take a Rest in the Resort -> Take a leisurely walk around the motel.

Day 2: Suchipara Waterfall -> Lunch at 1980 Cafe -> Back to Resort

Day 3: Banasura Sagar Dam -> Lunch at Wilton Restaurant -> Back to Resort

Day 1 Itinerary

Reach Wayanad

We started our journey very early at around 4.30-5 AM. This time, we were accompanied by two of our friends who are a couple. 

As expected we reached exactly on time at our destination at around 1 PM. We took enough breaks on our way. We had our breakfast at Mysore Highway. Then we witnessed the amazing farm of beautiful Sunflowers, there also we took a halt and took some marvelous photographs. 

We crossed the exquisite patch of the Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary on our way. The beauty of this patch was just amazing. We even witnessed a group of Elephants in fact the proper families of Elephant.  However, this was more than our expectations. 

With our son, now he has become more notorious, and our friends, the long journey came to an end very soon and we had an amazing time while driving to Wayanad.

We spotted an elephant on our way to Wayanad in Bandipur National Park

Take a Rest in the Resort

We booked one of the best resorts in Wayanad, the Vistara by the lake resort.

It was time to finally take some rest in that cushiony bed with the marvelous view directly from our rooms. We had our lunch in the resort and took a short nap to boost ourselves from the long journey and early morning wakefulness. 

Take a leisurely walk around the resort

After taking short naps, we revived ourselves by noticing ourselves surrounded by greenery and hills. On the top of amazing views, there was continuous rain, which just added magnificence all around. 

Hence we couldn't step out of the resort. So we thought why not take a stall at the amazing resort and spend our evening with hot tea.

Stunning lake views from the resort

Day 2 Itinerary

Suchipara waterfall

Soochipara Waterfall, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfall, is a stunning natural attraction located in Wayanad, Kerala, India. It's one of the most popular waterfalls in the region and is known for its breathtaking beauty and accessibility.

Soochipara Waterfall is situated in Vellarimala, near Meppadi, which is about 22 kilometers (approximately 13.7 miles) from Kalpetta, the district headquarters of Wayanad.

The journey to the waterfall involves a moderate trek through the forest, which is an adventure in itself. The trail takes you through diverse flora and fauna, making it a great experience for nature enthusiasts.

Soochipara Waterfall is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those who appreciate the beauty of Kerala's natural landscapes. Its accessibility and scenic beauty make it a popular spot for tourists exploring Wayanad.

Since it was raining continuously even on the 2nd day of our trip, we couldn't manage to visit this beautiful waterfall.

Lunch at 1980 Cafe

If you're in Kerala, indulging in the local cuisine is a must-do activity. That's why we decided to have lunch at 1980 Cafe, one of the most famous cafes in Wayanad known for its authentic Kerala food. The food was delicious, and it's definitely worth trying. The cafe's interior, ambiance, and music choices will transport you back in time - to the year 1980, to be precise.

One of the best restaurants to experience the authentic Kerala Cuisine

Back to Resort

After enjoying a delicious lunch, we returned to our resort amidst heavy rainfall. I had to change many of our plans due to the rain, but we enjoyed the lazy trip.

Day 3 Itinerary

Banasura Sagar Dam

The last day of our trip was quite interesting as the sky was clear and we finally got the chance to cover Asia's 2nd largest Dam, Banasura Sagar Dam. 

Banasura Sagar Dam, located in Wayanad, Kerala, India, is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in the region. This dam, built on the Kabini River, is a vital part of Kerala's irrigation system and a beautiful destination for travelers.

The entire area around the dam is enveloped in the natural beauty of the Western Ghats. Visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, lush greenery, and the crystal-clear waters of the reservoir.

Activities in Banasura Sagar Dam:

Boating: Boating on the Banasura Sagar Reservoir is a popular activity. You can choose from paddle boats and speedboats to explore the tranquil waters while enjoying the scenic surroundings.

Trekking: Nearby attractions like Banasura Hill offer trekking opportunities, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Western Ghats up close.

Picnicking: The shores of the reservoir are perfect for picnics and relaxing. Many families visit the dam for a day of fun and relaxation.

Photography: The dam and its surroundings provide incredible opportunities for photography, especially during the sunset when the landscape is bathed in warm hues.

Captured the scenic view of Banasura Dam

Lunch at Wilton Restaurant:

After we visited Banasura Dam, we were famished and decided to grab lunch at Wilton Restaurant. The Restaurant was good and the food was even more good. Not only was the food, but the service offered was also promising. 

Mouth Watering Kerala Parotta and Chicken Curry

Back to Resort:

Once we had finished a delicious meal, we headed back to our resort to unwind and relax. As this was our last night in the resort, we spent quality time with friends and had wonderful and memorable moments.

Tips for visiting Wayanad?

Our stay in Wayanad and our three-day trip were unforgettable. We just enjoyed our relaxing trip. The only thing that I would like to add at the end is, that Wayanad is not about covering places, it's all about the feel, the experience, the venture, and the memories. So try to book a pleasant stay for yourself whenever you plan your trip.

I hope you like reading about my trip to Wayanad. And this helped you to plan your trip as well. 

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