A bio-diverse region spread across 2,132 square kilometers on the lofty Western Ghats ,Wayanad is one of the few districts in Kerala that has been able to retain its pristine nature.Hidden away in the hills of this land are some of the oldest tribes , as yet untouched by civilization. And the very first prehistoric engravings in Kerala discovered in the foot hills of Edakkal and around Ambukuthimala bear testimony to a prehistoric culture dating back to the Mesolithic Age.Stikinglyscenic , it is known for its sub-troppical savannahs, picturesque hill stations ,sprawling spice plantations , luxuriant forests and rich cultural traditions .A holistic confluence of wilderness,history and culture, Wayanad is located on the southern tip of the magnificent Deccan plateau.
Chembra Peak
(18km west of Kalpetta) At 2100m above mean sea level ,Chembra is the tallest peak in Wayanad and is an deal area for trekking .With prior permission from the Forest Department , one day treks and two day wildlife treks are possible.You can have group treks of up to ten people or hike on your own accompanied by a guide.
Kuruvadweep
(17 km east of Mananthavady, 145 km northwest of SulthanBathery)This 950 acre , uninhabited island on the eastward bound Kabani River is and ideal picnic spot.The wooded stretch of land is home to rare species of birds,orchids and herbs.
VYTHIRI
Lakkidi : (55km east of Kozhikode , 5km south of Vythiri).The gateway to Wayanad , Lakkidi is situated 700m above mean sea level ,at the crest of the ThamarasseriGhatPass.Lofty peaks, gurgling streams and luxuriant forests add magic to the journey up the winding roads to this hill station.
Pookot Lake
(15km away from Kalpetta) This perennial freshwater lake in Vythiri nesting among wooded hills is a popular picnic spot.Adjacent to the lake is a spice shop,a souvenir showroom and an aquarium.And for the kids ,there is a children’s park at the recreation centre here.
Karalad Lake
:(InThariode , 8 km from Vythiri)An unusually quiet retreat ,facilities for angling and boating as well as recreational park are provided here.The trek to this lake can also be quite exciting.
Begur Wildlife Sanctuary
(20km east of Mananthavady) This sanctuary has a wide variety of animals
BanasuraSagar Dam
Padinjarethara:(25 km northeast of Kalpetta)Considered to be the largest earth dam in India, as well as the second largest in Asia,this is a mini hydelproject.A sprawling sanctuary and park with ever flowering trees are major tourist attractions.Boating facilities in the dam and trekking trails leading from draw outdoor enthusiasits.
Edakkal Caves
(12 km from SulthanBathery.Open 0900-1700 hrs) Accessible only by a kilometer’s trek from Edakkal , the wallart found in these caves that have ben inhabited at various stage in history has caught the attention of archaeologists worldwide.You can see three distinct sets of petroglyphs, the earliest dating back to over 3000years.You will also come across the only cave restuarent in the country here .Morning hours are the best time to visit the caves.