Tourist Attraction in and around Wayanad, Kerala, India
Edakkal CavesAn interesting trek up the Ambukuthi Hill near Ambalavayal town takes you to the fascinating neolithic cave site of Edakkal. Etchings found on the walls of these caves have drawn the serious attention of archaeologists and historians worldwide.
With at least three distinct sets of petroglyphs, the earliest thought to date back over 5000 years, it is assumed that the Edakkal caves had been inhabited at various stages in history.
An interesting attraction close by is a telescope installed by the DTPC a few feet from the caves that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding country.
Edakkal Caves 1000mts above sea level, this ancient natural cave exhibits ancient carvings, paintings and inscriptions dating back to the stone ages.
Pookode Lake
Set in a beautiful valley and surrounded by evergreen forests and wooded hills, Pookote is one of Wayanadò€™s top visitor draws. This natural lake near Lakkidi is just a short distance off the National Highway 212. It has been developed as a recreational centre having boating facilities, childrenò€™s park, shop for souvenirs and spices, and a fresh water aquarium. Replete with a cafÓ© and restaurant, this is a good setting for day outings with family.
Kanthanpara Falls Relatively smaller than Sentinal Rock, and rather less frequented, Kanthanpara and itò€™s surroundings are nonetheless very pleasant. An easy hike away from the main road, itò€™s perfect for picnics.
Kuruva Islands
Kuruvadweep is a unique and fragile 950 acre protected river delta system on the Kabini River.The island is uninhabited. Rare species of birds, orchids and herbs are the sovereigns of this supernal kingdom.The nearest town is Mananthavady and only 17 km.
Phantom Rock
Located close to Ambalavayal town, Phantom Rock; named so because of itò€™s skull head shape, is locally called Cheengeri Mala. The immediate surroundings offer excellent photo opportunities.
Thirunelli Temple
The temple is on the banks of the beautiful Papanasi River. It is believed that people can wash out their sins by immersing themselves here in the water. (80kms ò€“ 3hr drive)
Chembra Peak
The highest peak in Wayanad at 2100mts above sea level, this spot provides a breathtaking view of the entire valley and also has a path for trekking enthusiasts. (27kms ò€“ 1Ò½ hr drive)
Chain Tree
Even today, a chain still hangs from a Banyan tree to mark the spot where a British Colonialist murdered an Adivasi tribesman (and thus, the name)
Wildlife Sanctuaries
Wayanad abounds in wildlife sanctuaries. Elephants, spotted deer, sloth bear, samba and gaur are just some of the species you can spot. The distances of the various sanctuaries from the resort are as follows:
Muthanga ò€“ 55kms
Nagarhole ò€“ 70kms
Bandipur ò€“ 75kms
Muthumala ò€“ 100kms
Tholpatti ò€“ 70kms
Pakshipathalam
Located deep within the forest in the Brahmagiri hills at an altitude of more than 1700 mtrs, Pakshipathalam is a formation of large boulders, some as tall as two storey buildings.
The deep caves found here are home to a wide variety of birds, animals and distinctive species of plants.
The journey involves an arduous 7 km. trek through thick forest commencing at Thirunelli. (Special permission required from DFO- North Wayanad at Mananthavady).
Meenmutty Falls
Meenmutty Falls is located 29 km from Kalpetta. It is a three-tiered waterfall with a height of 300 metres. Meenmutty Falls, the largest and most spectacular waterfall in the Wayanad District, is a 2 km hike though the jungle from the main Ooty Road. It is Keralaò€™s second largest waterfall and the one most unspoiled in its natural setting. Each of its three tiers requires a separate hike through a moist, deciduous forest.The path is quiet dangerous and tiresome.but the waterfalls is worth it.
Soojipara Falls
Soochipara Falls is a three-tiered waterfall located 20 km from Kalpetta. Its height is 200 metres (656 feet). These waterfalls are an endless natural splendour amidst dark and deep woods.