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Wayanad!

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Population

0.82 million

schedule

Best Time

October to May

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Time Needed

3-4 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Kerala map South India 🏔️ Adventure ⛰️ Mountains 🏔️ Hill Stations Nature & Wildlife Wayanad Kerala Hill Station South India Coffee Estates Trekking

Wayanad, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a picturesque hill district known for its lush greenery, coffee plantations, and rich tribal heritage. The region offers a refreshing escape with its misty mountains, cascading waterfalls, and ancient caves. Wayanad is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Wayanad offers stunning natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for relaxation and exploration. However, the roads can be winding and challenging to navigate. Also, during peak season, some attractions can get crowded. The limited public transport options may also be a drawback for some travelers.

Reaching Wayanad is best done via Calicut airport or railway station. Allow at least 3-4 days to explore the major attractions. Hiring a car or jeep is recommended for convenient travel within the district.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to May

20-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for sightseeing and trekking. The skies are clear, offering panoramic views of the landscape.

Why Visit:

This is the perfect time for outdoor activities like trekking, exploring waterfalls, and visiting wildlife sanctuaries. The weather is comfortable, and the landscapes are at their greenest. Avoid the monsoon season when roads can be treacherous.

Tip: Expect higher prices and more crowds, especially during peak holiday seasons. Booking accommodations and tours in advance is highly recommended.

Shoulder Season

September

22-28 degrees C

The monsoon starts to recede, leaving behind a lush green landscape. There may still be occasional showers, but the weather is generally pleasant.

Why Visit:

The landscape is rejuvenated after the monsoon, and the crowds are thinner than during peak season. You might find better deals on accommodations and tours.

Tip: Some waterfalls might be overflowing, making them less accessible. Check weather forecasts before planning outdoor activities.

Avoid

June to August

20-25 degrees C

Heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. Roads can be slippery and prone to landslides, making travel difficult and dangerous.

Why Avoid:

The heavy rain makes it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the region. Many attractions might be temporarily closed due to safety concerns.

Note: If you must travel during this time, be prepared for delays and disruptions. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for driving in wet conditions.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Edakkal Cave

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Edakkal Cave is a prehistoric rock shelter containing ancient petroglyphs. The carvings are believed to date back to the Neolithic period. It's a sign...

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Soochipara Falls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls)

⏱ 2 hours ₹50

Soochipara Falls is a stunning waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff. The water plunges into a pool below, creating a refreshing swimming spot. It's ...

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Chembra Peak

⏱ 4-5 hours ₹750 (Indians), ₹1500 (foreigners)

Chembra Peak is the highest peak in Wayanad, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trek to the top is challenging but rewarding. ...

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Pookode Lake

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹20

Pookode Lake is a scenic freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. It's a popular spot for boating and relaxing. The lake is home to various specie...

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Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹115 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, deer, and monkeys. You can take a jeep saf...

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Jain Temple, Sultan Bathery

⏱ 1 hour ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

An ancient Jain temple believed to have been built in the 13th century. It served as a battery (ammunition store) for Tipu Sultan's army in the 18th c...

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Kanthanpara Waterfalls

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹30

Kanthanpara Waterfalls is a smaller, less crowded waterfall compared to Soochipara. It's a good spot for a peaceful swim and enjoying the natural surr...

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Things To Do

attractions

Trekking to Chembra Peak

⏱ 4-5 hours 💰 ₹1500-2500 per person (including guide and permit)

A challenging trek to the highest peak in Wayanad, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Requires permis...

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attractions

Jeep Safari in Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹800-1500 per jeep

A jeep safari through the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, offering opportunities to spot elephants, tigers, deer, and other...

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attractions

Plantation Tour

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹500-1000 per person

Visit a coffee or spice plantation and learn about the cultivation process. Often includes a guided tour and tasting ses...

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attractions

Bamboo Rafting in Kuruva Island

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹1000-1500 per person

A unique experience of bamboo rafting through the streams of Kuruva Island. Explore the lush greenery and diverse flora ...

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Cultural Experiences

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Tribal Village Visit

3-4 hours | ₹800-1200

Experience the culture and traditions of the indigenous tribal communities of Wayanad. Learn about t...

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Theyyam Performance

2-3 hours | ₹500-1000

Witness a Theyyam performance, a traditional ritualistic art form of Kerala. Involves elaborate cost...

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celebration

Kathakali Performance

2-3 hours | ₹500-800

Experience Kathakali, a classical Indian dance form known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and st...

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celebration

Cooking Class

3-4 hours | ₹1000-1500

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

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celebration

Visit a local market

1-2 hours | Free

Experience the hustle and bustle of a local market. Observe local vendors selling fresh produce, spi...

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celebration

Attend a temple festival

Varies | Free

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a local temple festival. Observe the processions, music, dance ...

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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 (available at most Kerala restaurants)

Appam with Stew
Appam with Stew

a popular breakfast dish (try at local eateries)

Puttu and Kadala Curry
Puttu and Kadala Curry

another traditional breakfast option (available at local eateries)

Fish Curry
Fish Curry

prepared with local spices (try at seafood restaurants)

Bamboo Rice Payasam
Bamboo Rice Payasam

a sweet dessert made with bamboo rice (try at local sweet shops)

Kuzhimanthi
Kuzhimanthi

A popular dish in the Malabar region of Kerala. The rice is cooked with meat and spices.

Where to Eat

1980's A Nostalgic Restaurant

1980's A Nostalgic Restaurant

₹₹

Multi-cuisine

📍 Kalpetta

Offers a nostalgic ambiance and good food quality. A popular spot for both locals and tourists. Located in Kalpetta.

Kerala dishesseafood

₹600-800 for two

Green Gates Hotel Restaurant

Green Gates Hotel Restaurant

₹₹

Indian, Chinese

📍 Sultan Bathery

Offers a comfortable dining experience with a variety of options. Known for its good service and tasty food. Located in Sultan Bathery.

Biryanitandoori dishes

₹500-700 for two

Street Food Spots

Kalpetta Market

Kalpetta Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Try the local snacks and tea. Be mindful of hygiene and choose vendors with clean stalls.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Wayanad

More restaurants & dishes from Wayanad

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Kalpetta

The main town in Wayanad, offering a range of accommodation and dining options. A good base for exploring the region, but can be crowded.

Best For: First-time visitors

Vythiri

Known for its scenic beauty and resorts. Ideal for a relaxing getaway amidst nature. Can be more expensive than other areas.

Best For: Couples and families

Sultan Bathery

A historical town with budget-friendly accommodation. A good option for those interested in history and culture. Can be less lively than Kalpetta.

Best For: Budget travelers and history buffs

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1500/night

Hotel Green Gates

📍 Sultan Bathery

Simple and clean rooms with basic amenities. A good option for budget travelers.

₹800-1500/night

Wayanad Blooms

📍 Kalpetta

Offers comfortable stay at affordable prices. Located close to the city center.

₹700-1400/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹2500-4000/night

Coffee County Resort

📍 Vythiri

Offers comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere amidst coffee plantations. Features a swimming pool and restaurant.

₹2500-4000/night

Rainforest Resort

📍 Lakkidi

Surrounded by lush greenery and offers comfortable accommodation. Features a restaurant and activities like trekking.

₹2000-3500/night

Luxury

₹6000+/night

Windflower Resorts & Spa Vythiri

📍 Vythiri

Offers luxurious accommodation with stunning views. Features a spa, swimming pool, and multiple dining options.

₹6000+/night

Vythiri Village

📍 Vythiri

A luxurious resort offering a range of facilities and activities. Features a spa, swimming pool, and multiple dining options.

₹5000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

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

train

By Train

Stations:

Kozhikode (CLT)

Major railway station with connections to other cities. Located about 85km from Kalpetta.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 30-35 hours (₹1500-3000)
  • From Mumbai: 18-20 hours (₹1200-2500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Kalpetta Bus Stand
  • Sultan Bathery Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Bangalore: 7-8 hours (₹800-1500)
  • From Kochi: 5-6 hours (₹600-1200)

Note: Trains more comfortable for long distance

Getting Around

directions

Jeep

💰 ₹1500-3000 per day

Best for: Reaching remote attractions and navigating hilly terrain

Hire a jeep with a driver for convenient travel. Negotiate the price beforehand. Ensure the jeep is in good condition.

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-100 for short distances

Best for: Traveling within towns and nearby areas

Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Be aware of the traffic.

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Bus

💰 ₹20-50 per trip

Best for: Budget travel between towns

Buses can be crowded and infrequent. Check the schedules in advance.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear comfortable and lightweight clothing. Carry a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Wear sturdy shoes for trekking and outdoor activities.

payments

Money

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

ATMs: ATMs are available in major towns like Kalpetta and Sultan Bathery.

Cash vs Card: Cash is widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.

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

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or boiled water. Avoid drinking tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic stalls. Be cautious of spicy food if you are not used to it.

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

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good network coverage. SIM cards are available at the airport and in major towns. You'll need a passport and visa for purchase.

WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and resorts.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Malayalam phrases can be helpful.

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

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