Tourist Attraction in and around Wayanad, Kerala, India

Wayanad’s unique geographical features lendbirds, orchids and herbs are the sovereigns of this
a peculiar charm and a delightful challenge tosupernal kingdom.The nearest town is
trekkers and nature freaks. Its fascinatingMananthavady and only 17 km.
scenery and wonderful climate creates anPhantom Rock
unforgettable experience. Apart from the
breathtaking scenery, its long history offersLocated close to Ambalavayal town, Phantom
visitors the opportunity to explore a range ofRock; named so because of it’s skull head
interesting spots.The various places of touristic,shape, is locally called Cheengeri Mala. The
ecological, religious, and historic importance in theimmediate surroundings offer excellent photo
district are,opportunities.
Edakkal CavesThirunelli Temple
An interesting trek up the Ambukuthi Hill nearThe temple is on the banks of the beautiful
Ambalavayal town takes you to the fascinatingPapanasi River. It is believed that people can wash
neolithic cave site of Edakkal. Etchings found onout their sins by immersing themselves here in
the walls of these caves have drawn the seriousthe water. (80kms – 3hr drive)
attention of archaeologists and historiansChembra Peak
worldwide.
With at least three distinct sets of petroglyphs,The highest peak in Wayanad at 2100mts above
the earliest thought to date back over 5000sea level, this spot provides a breathtaking view
years, it is assumed that the Edakkal caves hadof the entire valley and also has a path for
been inhabited at various stages in history.trekking enthusiasts. (27kms – 1½ hr drive)
An interesting attraction close by is a telescopeChain Tree
installed by the DTPC a few feet from the caves
that offers a panoramic view of the surroundingEven today, a chain still hangs from a Banyan
country.tree to mark the spot where a British Colonialist
Edakkal Caves 1000mts above sea level, thismurdered an Adivasi tribesman (and thus, the
ancient natural cave exhibits ancient carvings,name)
paintings and inscriptions dating back to the stoneWildlife Sanctuaries
ages.
Pookode LakeWayanad abounds in wildlife sanctuaries. Elephants,
spotted deer, sloth bear, samba and gaur are just
Set in a beautiful valley and surrounded bysome of the species you can spot. The distances
evergreen forests and wooded hills, Pookote isof the various sanctuaries from the resort are as
one of Wayanad’s top visitor draws. Thisfollows:
natural lake near Lakkidi is just a short distanceMuthanga – 55kms
off the National Highway 212. It has beenNagarhole – 70kms
developed as a recreational centre having boatingBandipur – 75kms
facilities, children’s park, shop for souvenirsMuthumala – 100kms
and spices, and a fresh water aquarium. RepleteTholpatti – 70kms
with a café and restaurant, this is a goodPakshipathalam
setting for day outings with family.
Kanthanpara FallsLocated deep within the forest in the Brahmagiri
Relatively smaller than Sentinal Rock, and ratherhills at an altitude of more than 1700 mtrs,
less frequented, Kanthanpara and it’sPakshipathalam is a formation of large boulders,
surroundings are nonetheless very pleasant. Ansome as tall as two storey buildings.
easy hike away from the main road, it’sThe deep caves found here are home to a wide
perfect for picnics.variety of birds, animals and distinctive species of
Kuruva Islandsplants.
The journey involves an arduous 7 km. trek
Kuruvadweep is a unique and fragile 950 acrethrough thick forest commencing at Thirunelli.
protected river delta system on the Kabini(Special permission required from DFO- North
River.The island is uninhabited. Rare species ofWayanad at Mananthavady).