Wayanad is one of the prime destinations of India that’s located in the tourism hub- of Kerala. It is a petite hill station that has become a hub for honeymooners and other travelers in a short time span. The hill station is not only blessed with rich natural beauty but a lot of other things as well like deep and strong history, the establishment of modern civilization and so much more. What makes it more of a convincing place to visit is the greenery around the valley. Being a hill station it has more than mountains to offer- it has a dense forest. The diverse category of tourists visits here every year and the number of people visiting here keeps increasing over time.
If you are planning on visiting a destination that is amusing and has a lot of wonderful things to do- then do consider visiting here at Wayanad. We have listed down some of the top-notch things to do while you visit this beautiful hill station in South India.
Here are the top things to do in Wayanad in 2024:
1. Edakkal Caves: Visit a Secluded cave with ancient petroglyphs
If you want to understand the actual civilization changes and prehistoric past then Edakkal Caves are the best place where you should head. It is believed that these caves are more than 8000 years old and they have proof indicating the existence of pre-historic settlements in the region.
The scientists and archaeological survey teams that have studied these caves believe they are not actually caves but huge boulders. If you closely look at every wall you will see that there are different carvings done that represent and speak for the past.
2. Jeep Safari at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is another place to visit during your trip and taking a jeep safari inside the park can make your trip better. Also known as Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary- the park is known to be the second-largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala.
Most trees that you find here are deciduous teak forests. While on your jeep safari, you can encounter wild animals and many birds across the park. If you are lucky, you might just get the chance to see rare species of birds like white-rumped vultures.
3. Dip & Bath in Soochipara Waterfalls
Ah! A refreshing and retreating trip is always on cards when you visit Kerala. While you visit here, make sure not to miss out on the Soochipara Waterfalls.
Yes, you heard that right! This is one of those places where you will get more than just a refreshing time. It remains calm and peaceful while you visit here but don’t forget that the Soochipara Waterfalls is more than just an excursion place. It offers some amazing views of the surroundings.
4. Banasura Sagar Dam – largest dam in India
Banasura Sagar Dam is amongst the highest capacity dams in India. It is located in the Wayanad District itself approximately 21 km from the Kalpetta.
A lot of people visit here to see the huge dam which is also known to be the powerhouse of the district. Banasura Sagar Dam is also popular amongst travelers because it is known to be the largest dam in India.
5. Enjoy boating at Pookode Lake
You can also enjoy boating at Pookode Lake too. Usually, the place is bustling with couples, honeymooners, as well as family people.
This is a freshwater lake and you can see a lot of fish and marine life here. Taking a boat ride at the aquarium is completely mind-blowing. You can take the amazing activity in Kunnathidavaka between 9 am and 5 pm.
6. Visiting Kanthanpara Waterfalls
Undoubtedly, Wayanad is one of the best places to visit in Kerala and a lot of people make their trip here throughout the year. The green beauty, tea plantations, coffee plantations, wildlife, flora, waterfalls, and landscape of Wayanad keeps the visitors mesmerised throughout the trip.
And when you visit the enchanting Kanthapura Waterfalls; things go to an all-new level of beauty. It is located approximately 22 km from Kalpetta. And it is considered to be one of the best places to visit in this hill station. It is a highly adorable and photographic attraction at the place and even locals visit here too often to enjoy a picnic with the family.
7. Swim in the shallow water of Banasura Hill
Banasura Hills is one of the best places to visit in Wayanad. It is a keen interest for nature lovers as well as adventure junkies. Owing to the locations, it won’t be wrong to say that it offers some of the best adventure things to do in Wayanad. And one amongst them is going for a swim in the shallow water of the foothills. There is a portion of the lake where you can enjoy boating with your family too.
What makes it so much more interesting is the trekking or hiking trails. The hill area is a wonderland for people offering enchanting vistas to all. It is a paradise that will treat your eyes as well as your mind.
8. Take the experience of trekking
Visiting Wayanad and not exploring the entire place on foot is surely going to be a bummer for you. The picturesque locations and viewpoints of the Western Ghats make it a great place to visit. While you plan on visiting this place there is so much to enjoy. Those who are planning their trip to this paradise in “God’s Own Country” will have a chance of indulging in this amazing and adrenaline-rushing activity. And if you share a bond with your partner that’s adventurous; this is surely one of the best things to do in Wayanad with couples. Here are a few trails that you can explore.
| Edakkal Caves Trek | Brahmagiri Peak Trek |
| Meenmutty Waterfalls Trek | Thusharagiri Waterfalls Trek |
| Neelimala Viewpoint Trek | Chembra Peak Trek |
| Pakshipathalam Trek | Banasura Hill Trek |
9. Visiting the Kuruva Island
Kuruva Island is an attraction that can’t be missed while visiting Wayanad. It is a peaceful and refreshing place where that has extensive flora and fauna to offer. This place is just like a rejuvenating place for visitors. It is a group of small islands that are uninhabited and only some of them are places where people visit. Certain things you wish to know while visiting here are listed below.
| Location | 58 km from Kalpetta |
| Diversity at the island | Approximately 950 acres of area thriving with bamboo groves, evergreen forest, and multiple other flora and fauna. |
| Some top activities to enjoy here |
|
| Visiting timings | 9:30 am to 3:30 pm (except for national holidays and monsoon) |
| Entry Fee |
|
| Best time to visit | October to February |
| Important information |
|
10. Going for a Farm Tour
There are many things to do in Wayanad that you will get to enjoy. And some of them are quite calming or soothing for people. And one of the unique things to do in Wayanad is to go on farm tours. Even in this, there are several features or types of tours that are offered. One thing that you can’t deny about it is that you get a chance to connect with nature. Some places also offer traditional farming practices that give you an insight into how things were during the older days.
Conclusion
People usually think of Wayanad as a go-to hill station but what they actually forget is that this place is more than that. It has the relics of civilizations, cool weather, winding roads, greenery all around and so much more than that. While you visit here, make sure you do all the above-given things at least. There are a lot of other things too but these can give you a great time around.
See Also: Things to do in Ooty | Things to do in Coorg
