Wayanad Hill Station

Wayanad at a height of 700 to 2100 metres above the sea level is a hilly area and has the largest concentration of tribals in the state of Kerala. The road going up from Kozhikode to the Wayanad plateau is easily one with the best views.

The area has the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, established for the conservation of the biological heritage of the region. In addition to the sanctuary, Boy's Town in Wayanad has a herbal garden, a nature care centre and a sericulture unit. The Indo-Danish project for the promotion of herbal gardening is based at Boy's Town.

One of the main attractions in Mananthavady, a short distance from Wayanad is the tomb of the lion of Kerala, Veera Pazhassi Raja, who organised the Mapilla uprising against the British East India Company. Nearby is the Pulpally cave, where Pazhassi hid till he was captured by the British.

On the slopes of Vellarimala is the Glass Temple of Kottamunda, a Jain temple. The unique feature of the temple are the mirrors on the walls which reflect the images of icons in the temple's sanctum sanctorum. Up in the hills is the Thirunelly Temple, a marvel of architecture. There are 30 granite columns around the shrine. Next to the temple is the Papanasini river with its clear waters.

The other picturesque spot in Wayanad are the two Edakkal Caves on Ambukutty Mala near Ambalavayal. Inside the caves, one can see the New Stone Age pictorial writings on the walls. To reach the caves, however, a short trek has to be undertaken. The Chembra Peak is the highest peak in Wayanad and good for trekking. While in Wayanad, you must visit Lakkidi, at a height of 700 m above sea level. The place has meandering streams and green forests and is a hill station with pleasureable winding roads.

The Pookat Lake at Wayanad is a natural freshwater lake. Close by is a freshwater aquarium with a large variety of fish. There is a children's park, shopping centre and boating facilities available.

Places of Interest :-

Pookot Lake
This natural lake surrounded by hills and meadows provides an excellent picnic spot or opportunity for a relaxing boat ride or fishing expedition. (4km - ½ hr drive) .

Soojipara Falls
These waterfalls are an endless natural splendour amidst dark and deep woods. (38kms - 1½hr).

Kuruva Islands
950 acres of evergreen forest surrounded by the Kabini River, this uninhabited island is full of orchids, rare species of birds and herbs. (70km - 3½ hr drive).

Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
The main attraction is with no doubt the elephant rides through the jungle. This sanctuary allows you to have a peek into the natural lives of all the wild animals within the area. (55kms - 2hr drive).

Thirunelli Temple
The temple is on the banks of the beautiful Papanasi River. It is believed that people can wash out their sins by immersing themselves here in the water. (80kms - 3hr drive)
Chembra Peak

The highest peak in Wayanad at 2100mts above sea level, this spot provides a breathtaking view of the entire valley and also has a path for trekking enthusiasts. (27kms - 1½ hr drive).

Chain Tree
Even today, a chain still hangs from a Banyan tree to mark the spot where a British Colonialist murdered an Adivasi tribesman (and thus, the name). (9kms - 20mins drive) Edakkal Caves 1000mts above sea level, this ancient natural cave exhibits ancient carvings, paintings and inscriptions dating back to the stone ages. (53 kms - 1½ hr drive).

Lakkidi
Picturesque hills, cascading streams and dense vegetation makes Lakkidi one of the greatest attractions of Wayanad and is one of the highest points at 700mts above sea level and only a short distance from Vythiri. (10km - ½ hr drive)