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Padinjarathara!

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Population

10,000

schedule

Best Time

September to May

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Kerala map South India 🗺️ Offbeat Rural Tourism Padinjarathara Wayanad Kerala South India Village Tribal Agriculture

Padinjarathara is a small village nestled in the Wayanad district of Kerala, near the Karnataka border. It offers a glimpse into rural life in South India, surrounded by lush forests and agricultural lands, with a significant tribal population.

Padinjarathara offers tranquility and a chance to experience authentic Kerala village life. However, it's remote, with limited tourist infrastructure and can be challenging to reach. If you seek peaceful nature and cultural immersion, this is a good choice, but those looking for modern amenities may be disappointed.

Reaching Padinjarathara involves a bus or taxi ride from major cities like Kozhikode or Mysore. Allocate at least 2-3 days to fully explore the area and its surroundings. Be prepared for a slower pace of life.

When To Visit

Best Time

September to May

20-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for exploring the outdoors. Occasional showers may occur, especially during the early part of this period.

Why Visit:

The weather is perfect for trekking, visiting dams, and experiencing village life. The monsoon season has ended, leaving the landscape lush and green. Festivals and cultural events are more common during this time. It's the best time for agriculture tourism as well.

Tip: This is peak tourist season, so expect slightly higher prices and more crowds at popular attractions. Booking accommodation in advance is recommended.

Shoulder Season

June

25-32 degrees C

The start of the monsoon season brings increased humidity and occasional heavy rainfall.

Why Visit:

The landscape is at its greenest, and waterfalls are at their fullest. You'll find fewer tourists and potentially lower prices. However, outdoor activities might be limited due to the rain.

Tip: Be prepared for disruptions to travel plans due to heavy rain. Some attractions might have restricted access.

Avoid

July to August

22-28 degrees C

Heavy monsoon rains and high humidity make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during these months due to incessant rainfall and potential flooding. Trekking routes become slippery and dangerous. Exploring the village becomes difficult due to waterlogged roads.

Note: Travel can be severely disrupted, and some attractions may be closed. This is the off-season, with minimal tourist activity.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Banasura Sagar Dam

⏱ 3-4 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Banasura Sagar Dam is the largest earthen dam in India and the second largest in Asia. It's built across the Karamanathodu River, a tributary of the K...

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Meenmutty Falls

⏱ 4-5 hours ₹50 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Meenmutty Falls is the largest waterfall in Wayanad district, cascading down from a height of about 300 meters in three tiers. The waterfall is surrou...

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Karlad Lake

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹400 (foreigners)

Karlad Lake is a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery, offering various adventure activities. It is a man-made lake, created for irrigation purpose...

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Edakkal Cave

⏱ 3-4 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Edakkal Cave is a prehistoric rock shelter containing ancient petroglyphs. The carvings are believed to be from the Neolithic and Mesolithic ages....

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Soochipara Falls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls)

⏱ 3-4 hours ₹50

Soochipara Falls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is a scenic waterfall cascading down from a height of about 200 meters. The falls are surrou...

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Pookode Lake

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹20

Pookode Lake is a freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery and forests. It's one of the most popular tourist spots in Wayanad....

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Things To Do

attractions

Trekking in Chembra Peak

⏱ 6-7 hours 💰 ₹750 per person (including guide and permit)

Trekking to the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trek ...

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attractions

Spice Plantation Tour

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹300-500 per person

A spice plantation tour allows you to learn about the cultivation of various spices like cardamom, pepper, and cloves. Y...

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attractions

Bamboo Rafting in Kuruva Island

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹900 per person

Bamboo rafting in Kuruva Island offers a unique way to explore the river and the surrounding forests. You'll be guided b...

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attractions

Visit a Tribal Village

⏱ 4-5 hours 💰 ₹500-800 per person (including guide and transportation)

Visiting a tribal village provides an opportunity to learn about the culture and traditions of the local tribal communit...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Theyyam Performance

2-3 hours | Free (donations welcome)

Theyyam is a ritualistic art form that combines dance, music, and elaborate costumes. It's a vibrant...

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celebration

Kathakali Performance

2-3 hours | ₹500-1000

Kathakali is a classical dance form known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and storytelling throu...

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celebration

Learn about Ayurveda

2-3 hours | ₹500-1500

Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine that focuses on holistic healing. Learn about th...

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celebration

Cooking Class

3-4 hours | ₹800-1200 per person

Learn to prepare traditional Kerala cuisine in a hands-on cooking class. Discover the secrets of usi...

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celebration

Visit a Tea Factory

2-3 hours | ₹100-200

Visit a tea factory to learn about the process of tea production, from plucking to packaging. Witnes...

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celebration

Participate in a Village Festival

Varies (1-3 days) | Free

Village festivals in Wayanad are vibrant celebrations of local culture and traditions. These festiva...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Kerala Sadya
Kerala Sadya

A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf (try at a local restaurant).

Puttu and Kadala Curry
Puttu and Kadala Curry

A steamed rice cake served with chickpea curry (available at most local eateries).

Appam with Stew
Appam with Stew

A fermented rice pancake served with vegetable or meat stew (try at a local restaurant).

Malabar Biryani
Malabar Biryani

A flavorful rice dish with meat or vegetables (available at restaurants in Kalpetta).

Where to Eat

1980's A Nostalgic Restaurant

1980's A Nostalgic Restaurant

₹₹

Multi-cuisine

📍 Kalpetta

Offers a nostalgic ambiance with a diverse menu. The Kerala dishes are highly recommended. It's a popular place among locals and tourists.

Kerala dishes

₹500-800 for two

Theeram Restaurant

Theeram Restaurant

₹₹₹

Seafood

📍 Kalpetta

Specializes in fresh seafood dishes with a focus on local flavors. The ambiance is pleasant and the service is excellent. It's a good option for seafood lovers.

Fresh seafood

₹800-1200 for two

Street Food Spots

Kalpetta Market

Kalpetta Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be cautious about hygiene. Try to eat at stalls that are popular among locals. Avoid eating anything that looks stale.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Padinjarathara

More restaurants & dishes from Padinjarathara

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Kalpetta

Kalpetta is the district headquarters and offers a wider range of accommodation and dining options. It's a good base for exploring Wayanad, but a bit far from Padinjarathara if you want quiet.

Best For: Travelers who prefer more amenities and connectivity.

Vythiri

Vythiri is known for its scenic beauty and luxury resorts. It's a good option for those seeking a relaxing and luxurious stay.

Best For: Luxury travelers and honeymooners.

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1500/night

Green Gates Hotel

📍 Kalpetta, 25km from Padinjarathara

Offers basic amenities and clean rooms. It's a good option for budget travelers.

₹800-1500/night

Hotel Le Montana

📍 Sulthan Bathery, 30km from Padinjarathara

Provides comfortable rooms and essential facilities. It is located in a peaceful environment.

₹1000-1800/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹2500-4000/night

Rainforest Resort

📍 Lakkidi, 40km from Padinjarathara

Offers comfortable cottages amidst lush greenery. It's a great option for nature lovers.

₹2500-4000/night

Wayanad Silverwoods Resort

📍 Vythiri, 45km from Padinjarathara

Provides well-appointed rooms and various recreational facilities. Offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.

₹3000-5000/night

Luxury

₹6000+/night

Windflower Resorts & Spa Vythiri

📍 Vythiri, 45km from Padinjarathara

Offers luxurious villas with private balconies and modern amenities. The spa provides rejuvenating treatments.

₹6000+/night

Vythiri Village

📍 Vythiri, 45km from Padinjarathara

Features elegant rooms, multiple dining options, and a swimming pool. It's a perfect place for a luxurious getaway.

₹7000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Calicut International Airport (CCJ), 95km from Padinjarathara

train

By Train

Stations:

Kozhikode (CLT)

Major railway station with trains from various parts of India. Located approximately 90km from Padinjarathara.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 30-35 hours (₹1500-3000)
  • From Mumbai: 20-24 hours (₹1200-2500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

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By Bus

Terminals:
  • Kalpetta Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Bangalore: 7-8 hours (₹800-1500)

Note: Trains more comfortable

Getting Around

local_taxi

Taxi

💰 ₹2000-3000 per day

Best for: Comfortable and convenient for covering longer distances.

Negotiate the price beforehand. Hire a reliable driver. Ensure the taxi has a valid permit.

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-100 for short distances

Best for: Short trips within Padinjarathara and nearby areas.

Bargain for the fare. Be aware of the traffic conditions. Avoid traveling during peak hours.

directions_bus

Bus

💰 ₹20-50 per trip

Best for: Budget travelers and those who want to experience local transport.

Buses can be crowded. Be prepared for a bumpy ride. Keep an eye on your belongings.

Practical Tips

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What To Wear

Wear light and comfortable clothing, especially during the summer months. Carry a light jacket for cooler evenings. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: ATMs are available in Kalpetta and Sulthan Bathery. Limited availability in Padinjarathara.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for smaller transactions. Cards are accepted at larger establishments.

Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases. Avoid drinking tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food that looks unhygienic. Be cautious of spicy food if you're not used to it.

Common Issues: Carry insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites. Pack any necessary medications. Consult a doctor before traveling if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage in Wayanad. Purchase a local SIM card at the airport or in Kalpetta.

WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and cafes in Kalpetta and Vythiri. Limited availability in Padinjarathara.

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Language & Tipping

Language: Malayalam is the local language. English is spoken by some people in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Malayalam phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100

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