Wayanad Travel Guide: 5 Places to Visit in Kerala's Western Ghats
Wayanad's forests, peaks and lakes sit across a wider area than Kerala's coast, so most visitors plan a slower multi-day loop by road rather than a single-day dash.
Chembra Peak
Wayanad's highest peak is best known for the heart-shaped Heart Lake partway up the trekking trail, which requires forest department permission and a guide.
Edakkal Caves
These caves hold petroglyphs believed to date back thousands of years and are reached by a steep but short climb near Ambukuthi Hill.
Banasura Sagar Dam
One of the largest earthen dams in India, Banasura Sagar offers boating and hill views and is a popular half-day stop.
Soochipara Falls
A three-tiered waterfall reached by a short forest walk, Soochipara allows swimming in a designated pool area depending on seasonal water levels.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Part of the larger Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, this sanctuary offers jeep safaris with chances to spot elephants, deer and, less commonly, tigers.
Best time to visit and getting around
October to May avoids the heaviest monsoon rain while keeping the hills green from the previous season. Sights are spread across the district's forested hills, so a bike or scooter rental suits the winding Western Ghat roads better than trying to cover them on foot.
Planning to ride there?
Compare current bike and scooter listings before you book.