places to visit in wayanad

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Discover the fascinating Edakkal Caves, world-famous for their ancient rock engravings dating back to the Neolithic era. Located high on Ambukuthi Hills, a short trek rewards you with breathtaking views of the Wayanad plateau and a rare glimpse into human history.

​​Plan Your Visitl

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

​Weekly Holiday: Monday (Closed)

Upto 1920 Pax Per Day

​Entry Fee: Adult: ₹50

​Child: ₹30

​Photo Shoot: ₹1000

​Contact: 9446052134

A protected river delta on the Kabini River, Kuruva Island is a cluster of 999 acres of dense evergreen forest. It is a peaceful getaway where you can experience unique flora, fauna, and traditional bamboo rafting in crystal-clear water.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Entry is restricted Upto 488 pax per day; usually closed during monsoon)

​Best For: Bamboo rafting, nature walks, and bird watching.

​Entry Fee:  Adult: 220(Includes forest department fee)

​Bamboo Rafting: ₹400  (Upto 4 people, Extra 100)

​Photo Shoot: ₹1000

​Contact: 7593892956

A serene, natural freshwater lake nestled among evergreen forests. It is famous for its unique shape, which resembles the map of India, and the beautiful blue lotuses that bloom here.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

​Best For: Boating, family picnics, and visiting the aquarium.

​Entry Fee: 

Adult: ₹40

​Child: ₹30

​Boating: 

2 Seat Boat: ₹300

4 Seat Boat: ₹450

7 Seat Row Boat: ₹700

​Photo Shoot: ₹1000

​Contact: 

7593892951

As the largest earthen dam in India, this is a spectacular destination. The reservoir features many tiny islands, making it a photographer's paradise.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

​Best For: Speed boating, ziplining, and kayaking.

​Entry Fee:  Adult: ₹40

​Child: ₹20

​Speed Boating:  ₹1000 (for 5 people)

Pontoon Boating:  2000 (for 20 people)

Coracle Ride:  ₹600 (for  4 people)

Zipline:  ₹350(per person)

Van Service: ₹25 (Up & Down)

Online Booking:

https://www.keralahydeltourism.com/articles/view/Banasura-Sagar-Dam/1

Karlad Lake is the second-largest freshwater lake in Wayanad. While Pookode Lake is known for its serenity, Karlad Lake is famous for being an adventure tourism destination. It is the perfect spot for travelers who want to combine natural beauty with an adrenaline rush.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

​Best For: Ziplining (across the lake), Kayaking, Rock Climbing, and Zorbing.

​Entry Fee:  

Adult: ₹40

​Child: ₹30

​Activity Charges:  

Zipline: ₹400

​Boating: 

2 Seat Boat: ₹300

4 Seat Boat: ₹450

7 Seat Row Boat: ₹700

Bamboo Raft: ₹1000(for 10 people)

​Photo Shoot: ₹1000

​Contact: 

7593892952

​For those seeking a thrill without the heavy price tag of other major peaks, Cheengeri Rock Adventure Tourism is the place to be. Located near Ambalavayal, this spot is famous for its "semi-hard" trekking experience and breathtaking sunrise views. From the summit, you can see nearly 60% of Wayanad, including the stunning Karapuzha Dam reservoir.

​Plan Your Visit

​Trekking Timings: Morning: 5:00 AM – 10:00 AM (Best for Sunrise)

​Evening: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Best for Sunset)

​Entry Fee (Trekking):  

Adult: ₹80

​Child: ₹50

​Entry Fee (Leisure Zone):

​Adult: ₹30

​Child: ₹20

​Photo Shoot: ₹1000

​Contact: 

7593892954

Also known as Sentinel Rock Falls, this three-tiered waterfall is one of the most exciting spots in Wayanad. The trek down to the falls is refreshing and filled with scenic views.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Note: Usually closed March–June)

​Best For: Nature photography and trekking.

​Entry Fee: ₹80 – ₹150 (Varies by season)

​Camera: ₹50

Standing at 2,100 meters above sea level, Chembra Peak is the ultimate destination for trekkers in Wayanad. The highlight of the climb is the 'Hridayasarasu' or the Heart-Shaped Lake, which is believed to have never dried up. It offers a panoramic view of the entire Wayanad district and even parts of neighboring states.

​Plan Your Visit

​Trekking Timings: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Entry closes by noon)

​Best For: Adventure trekking, nature photography, and honeymooners.

​Important Note: Only a limited number of people (approx. 200) are allowed per day. Prior permission/booking is required.

​Entry Fee (for a group of 10): Approx. ₹750 – ₹1000 (Includes guide charges)

​Foreign Tourists: Approx. ₹1500 – ₹2000 (Includes guide)

​Camera: ₹50

Kanthanpara is a charming and relatively smaller waterfall, making it a perfect spot for families and those looking for a quiet escape. Surrounded by lush tea gardens and coffee plantations, the falls drop from a height of about 30 meters. It is easily accessible and offers a refreshing atmosphere away from the main tourist crowds.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00PM

​Best For: Family outings, nature photography, and a peaceful forest walk.

​Entry Fee: 

Adult: ₹40

​Child: ₹20

​Camera: ₹50

​Parking: Available near the entrance.

​Contact: 

7593892953

Experience the raw beauty of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary at Muthanga. As a designated Project Elephant site, it is the premier location in Kerala for spotting wild elephants and diverse flora and fauna.

​Safari Package Rates (Per Jeep):

​Indian Nationals: ₹2,410 (For up to 5 persons)

​Foreign Nationals: ₹4,500 (For up to 5 persons)

​Additional persons (up to 6 max): Extra charges apply at the counter.

​Daily Vehicle Limits:

To protect the natural habitat, the Forest Department limits entries to 60 Jeeps per day:

​Morning Session: 40 Jeeps

​Evening Session: 20 Jeeps

​Official Safari Timings:

​Morning: 07:00 AM – 10:00 AM

​Evening: 03:00 PM – 05:00 PM

​Note: Tickets are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend arriving at the counter 30 minutes before the session starts.

​Official Contact (Muthanga Office):

​Phone: +91 9947271015

​Location: Muthanga, near Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad.

​Located at the foothills of the majestic Banasura Hills, the Banasura Meenmutty Waterfalls is a three-tiered wonder. Unlike the larger waterfalls, this spot offers a more rugged, forest-trekking experience. It is the perfect place for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the sound of crashing water amidst dense greenery.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

​Best For: Nature lovers, trekkers, and photography.

​Pro Tip: This waterfall is located very close to the Banasura Sagar Dam, so you can easily visit both on the same morning!

​Entry Fees & Details

​Adult: ₹30

​Child: ₹20

​Contact: 04936 273430

If you are looking for a true wilderness experience, the Kattukunnu and Anachola trek is a hidden gem in Wayanad. Located near the Banasura Sagar Dam, this trek takes you through lush shola forests and sprawling grasslands. The view from the top of Kattukunnu is spectacular, offering a bird's-eye view of the reservoir and the surrounding peaks. It is a peaceful, untouched paradise for nature lovers.

Plan Your Visit

Timings: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Best to start early in the morning)

Best For: Hardcore trekkers, bird watchers, and nature photographers.

Pro Tip: You will need a guide and permission from the Forest Department. We recommend wearing good trekking shoes as the path can be slippery.

Entry Fees & Details

Trekking Fee: Approx. ₹1000 – ₹1500 (For a group of 5, including a forest guide).

​For travelers who want to escape the tourist crowds, Makkiyad Meenmutty Falls is the perfect destination. Located near Mananthavady, this waterfall is nestled deep within a forest setting. It offers a more private and peaceful experience compared to other falls in the district. The trek to the falls is relatively easy and rewards you with a beautiful multi-tiered cascade where you can truly connect with nature.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

​Best For: Solo travelers, couples, and offbeat explorers.

​Pro Tip: Since this spot is less commercialized, carry your own water and snacks, but please remember to bring your trash back with you!

​Entry Fees & Details

​Adult: ₹30

​Child: ₹20

​Parking: Available near the entrance.

​Location: Near Makkiyad, Vellamunda (Mananthavady region).

Experience the wilderness of North Wayanad at the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary is famous for its dense forest cover and frequent sightings of tigers, leopards, and bison.

​Safari Package Rates (Per Jeep):

​Indian Nationals: ₹2,410 (For up to 5 persons)

​Foreign Nationals: ₹4,500 (For up to 5 persons)

​Additional persons (up to 6 max): Extra charges apply at the counter.

​Daily Vehicle Limits:

To ensure a peaceful environment for the animals, entry is strictly limited to 60 Jeeps per day:

​Morning Session: 40 Jeeps

​Evening Session: 20 Jeeps

​Official Safari Timings:

​Morning: 07:00 AM – 10:00 AM

​Evening: 03:00 PM – 05:00 PM

​Note: Tickets are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. It is highly recommended to reach the counter early.

​Official Contact (Tholpetty Office):

​Phone: +91 4935 250853

​Location: Tholpetty, near Mananthavady (on the Kodagu road).

If you want to stand above the clouds, Muneeswaran Hills (Muneeswaran Kunnu) is the place to be. Located near Thalappuzha, Mananthavady, this spot offers one of the most breathtaking sunrise views in the Western Ghats. It is a favorite for those who love trekking and off-road driving. The sight of the mist rolling over the green valleys below makes it a true paradise for nature photographers and peace-seekers.

Plan Your Visit

Best Time: Early morning (before 6:30 AM) is the best time to experience the "sea of clouds."

Best For: Sunrise trekking, off-road driving, and hilltop camping.

Pro Tip: The road to the top is very steep and rugged. We recommend using a 4x4 Jeep or trekking up on foot. Avoid taking standard cars to the summit.

Fees & Details

Entry: Currently, there is no formal entry fee for the hill, but Jeep safari charges apply if you hire one.

Jeep Safari: Approx. ₹1200 – ₹1500 (Round trip from the base).

Location: Near Thalappuzha, Mananthavady.

En Ooru is a unique initiative located in Lakkidi that showcases the rich culture, traditions, and heritage of the tribal communities of Wayanad. Set against a stunning hilltop backdrop, this "charitable village" features traditional huts, an open-air theatre, and stalls selling authentic tribal products and spices. It is a must-visit to experience the soulful side of Kerala's indigenous history.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

​Best For: Cultural enthusiasts, families, and photographers.

​Pro Tip: Private vehicles are not allowed up to the village. You must park your vehicle at the base and take the official shuttle Jeep provided by the center.

​Entry Fees & Details

​Adult: ₹50

​Child (5-12 years): ₹20

​Shuttle Jeep Fee: ₹20 per person (approx.)

​Location: Pookode, Lakkidi (Near the Veterinary College).

Also known as the Ambalavayal Heritage Museum, the Wayanad Heritage Museum is one of the largest and best-maintained archaeological museums in Kerala. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts dating back to the 2nd century CE, including ancient weapons, stone carvings, clay sculptures, and tribal relics. This museum is a must-visit for anyone who wants to understand the deep-rooted history and tribal culture of the Wayanad plateau.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Open daily)

​Best For: History buffs, students, and families.

​Pro Tip: The museum is divided into four blocks—Veerasmruthi, Gothrasmruthi, Devasmruthi, and Jeevasmruthi. Make sure to visit the "Veerasmruthi" block to see the fascinating hero stones that tell stories of ancient warriors.

​Entry Fees & Details

​Adult: ₹30

​Child: 20

​Photo Shoot: ₹1000

​Location: Ambalavayal

Named for its natural skull-like shape, Phantom Rock (locally known as Cheengeri Mala) is a spectacular archaeological site. This giant metamorphic rock formation stands out against the lush green landscape of Ambalavayal. It is a popular spot for those looking for a quick stop to enjoy panoramic views and unique photo opportunities without a long trek.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

​Best For: Photography, quick sightseeing, and landscape views.

​Pro Tip: The area is great for a short walk. Combine this with a visit to the Wayanad Heritage Museum, which is just a few minutes away.

​Entry Fees & Details

​Entry Fee: Currently free (though some nearby private viewpoints may charge a small fee).

​Location: Ambalavayal

​Karapuzha Dam is one of the largest earth dams in India and has recently become a premier adventure tourism destination. With its beautifully landscaped gardens, children’s play area, and thrilling adventure activities, it is the perfect spot for a family day out. The view of the sunset over the reservoir is considered one of the best in Wayanad.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

​Best For: Families, adventure seekers, and sunset lovers.

​Activities: Ziplining, human slingshot, bungee trampoline, and a rose garden.

​Entry Fees & Details

​Adult: ₹30

​Child: ₹20

​Adventure Activities: Charges range from ₹100 to ₹500 depending on the ride.

​Location: Near Ambalavayal

The Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS) in Ambalavayal is more than just a research center; it is a massive, lush green farm that serves as a major attraction for nature lovers. Spread across a vast area, it features sprawling orchards of tropical fruits, a world-class nursery, and beautiful plant conservatory. It is the perfect place to learn about Wayanad’s diverse agriculture and buy high-quality seeds or saplings for your own garden.

​Plan Your Visit

​Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

​Best For: Nature walks, students, and garden enthusiasts.

​Pro Tip: Don't miss the Agricultural Museum and the plant nursery where you can buy exotic fruit plants and ornamental flowers at very reasonable prices.

​Entry Fees & Details

​Entry Fee: ₹20 (Approximate)

​Location: Ambalavayal Town (Main Road).

​Phone: 04936 260421

The Town Square is a beautifully maintained public park in the heart of Sulthan Bathery. Known as one of the cleanest urban spaces in Kerala, it features lush gardens, seating areas, and a safe playground for children. It is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere after a day of sightseeing.

​Plan Your Visit

​Best Time: Evening (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM) for the best lighting and cool weather.

​Duration: 30–45 minutes.

​Nearby: Walking distance to major shopping centers and local restaurants.

​Pro Tip: Visit during the festive season to see the park beautifully decorated with lights.

​Fees & Details

​Adult: ₹20

​Child: ₹10​Photo Shoot: ₹1000

​Timings: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM.

​Location: Centrally located near the KSRTC Bus Stand, Sulthan Bathery.

Located at Mavilanthodu near Pulpally, this museum marks the sacred spot where the "Lion of Kerala," Pazhassi Raja, attained martyrdom in 1805. Unlike the tomb in Mananthavady, this site is dedicated to the Raja’s final moments and his legendary guerrilla warfare.

​Fees & Details

​Adult: ₹30

​Child: ₹20

​Photo Shoot: ₹1000

​Timings:9:00 AM – 5:30 PM.

Location: Mavilanthodu, Pulpally (approx. 18 km from Sultan Bathery)

A serene riverside retreat located in the heart of Mananthavady. Situated on the banks of the Mananthavady River (a tributary of the Kabini), this park is the perfect spot for a relaxing break.

​Fees & Details

​Adult: ₹40

​Child: ₹30

​Photo Shoot: ₹1000

​Timings:9:00 AM – 7:00 PM.

Location: Mananthavady

​A site of great historical importance, the Pazhassi Tomb is the final resting place of the legendary "Lion of Kerala," Pazhassi Raja. This memorial is built on the exact spot where he was cremated with full military honors by the British in 1805.

​Fees & Details

​Adult: ₹20

​Child: ₹5

​Timings:9:00 AM –5:00 PM.

​Weekly Holiday: Monday (Closed)

Location: Mananthavady