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Karlad Lake in Wayanad, nestled in the heart, is a serene freshwater lake that acts as a great getaway to both adventure and relaxation. With lush forests and rolling hills as far as the eye can see, this little-known destination is perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The lake itself is about 7 acres in size, and you can boat, kayak and even zip-line across the pristine waters. Karlad, unlike its more famous counterpart, is relatively unexplored and hence a great place to visit for those who seek tranquillity in nature.
Quick Details About Karlad Lake In Wayanad
Location: Thariode, Wayanad, Kerala
Area: Around 7 acres
Altitude: 770 meters above sea level
Entry Fee: ₹30 per person (varies for activities)
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
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Karlad Lake is in Thariode village, 16 km from Kalpetta, the Wayanad district headquarters in Kerala. It is off Padinjarathara Road, leading to the Mananthavady-Kuttiady Road (SH 54), a significant road for traversing Wayanad. The lake is located next to Wayanad Adventure Camp and 3 km away from Banasura Sagar Dam.
How To Reach Karlad Lake In Wayanad
Photo: Mohamed images / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport (CCJ), approximately 85 km away. From there, you can book a taxi to Wayanad.
By Train: The nearest railhead is in Kozhikode, about 80 km away, or another option is Kainatty Junction, 78 km from the lake.
By Road: Wayanad is well connected by road. KSRTC buses and private Volvos ply regularly from Bangalore (280 km), Mysore (130 km) and Kochi (260 km). From Kalpetta, you can hire an auto or taxi to the lake.
Things To Do In Karlad Lake In Wayanad
Nature lovers and adventure seekers can enjoy paddling through the tranquil waters of Karlad Lake in Wayanad and many more activities:
1. Zip-lining
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One of the most exciting things to do in Wayanad is zip-lining at Karlad Lake. Spanning over 250 meters in length, the zipline provides a bird’s-eye view of the turquoise lake below and the verdant mountains surrounding it. This ride sends you soaring directly over the water, providing a visually spectacular experience. Best tried in the early morning, when mist makes the lake majestic and is a popular experience for beginners and adrenaline seekers.
2. Kayaking
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Karlad Lake allows single and tandem kayaking, which is great for solo travellers or couples who want a quiet getaway. The lake’s still waters make it possible to paddle smoothly, even for first-time kayakers. Karlad is less crowded compared to other lakes in Kerala, allowing for an uninterrupted kayaking session. Kayaking is best done at sunrise or sunset when the trees surrounding you are being reflected in the water.
3. Nature Trails And Bird Watching
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The surrounding area of Karlad Lake has dense forest trails, which lead you to the most untouched part of Wayanad. These are perfect trails for walks in the morning or evening, where glimpses of native flora and fauna can be witnessed. The woodpeckers, parakeets, and Indian rollers of the lake’s ecosystem make it a prime bird watching destination. Local guides can cost ₹300 to ₹500 per person and conduct eco-tours, explaining the biodiversity.
Places To Visit Near Karlad Lake In Wayanad
Visit the following places near Karlad Lake in Wayanad and explore a different side of Kerala.
1. Banasura Sagar Dam
Photo: Samadolfo / Wikimedia Commons
The largest earthen dam in India is also a wonder of modern engineering and nature. It is constructed across the Karamanathodu tributary of the Kabini River and serves an essential purpose in irrigation and hydroelectric projects. The large reservoir, created behind the dam, is dotted with minuscule islands, accessible on speedboats (₹800 for 5 people, 15 minutes). The dam is also the base for treks to Meenmutty Waterfalls and Banasura Hill for adventure seekers.
Distance From The Lake: 5 km
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
2. Pookode Lake
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
One of the few freshwater lakes near Karlad Lake in Wayanad, Pookode Lake is heart-shaped and also one of the most beautiful lakes in the region. Pedal boating (₹100 per person, for half an hour) or row boating (₹250 per boat for 4 people, for half an hour) is also available. It is packed with unique freshwater fish and bluewater lilies, which makes it an ecological hotspot. The paved path around the lake is great for a leisurely walk with sightings of Malabar giant squirrels and kingfishers.
Distance From The Lake: 25 km
Best Time To Visit: September to March
Entry Fee: ₹30 per adult, ₹10 per child
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
3. Chembra Peak
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Chembra Peak is the tallest peak in Wayanad and is considered an adventure trek at an altitude of 2,100 meters above sea level. The highlight of the trek is the Hridaya Saras, a heart-shaped natural lake that is said to never dry up, which you can encounter midway on the trek. This is a moderate trail, approximately 2-3 hours to the lake and 1-hour to the peak.
Distance From The Lake: 25 km
Best Time To Visit: November to April
Permit Fee: ₹750 per group of 10
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours (round trip)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult
4. Meenmutty Waterfalls
Photo: Rajeshkunnoth / Wikimedia Commons
Wayanad has one of the most beautiful three-tier waterfalls in its region, known as Meenmutty Waterfalls, which falls from a height of 300 meters. This is a bonus to a 1.5 km jungle trek that goes through thick forests and raises the visit to an exciting place. At the base of the falls, you can rest in a natural rock pool that’s shallow enough for a quick dip.
Distance From The Lake: 30 km
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person, ₹10 for parking
Trek Duration: 40 minutes (one way)
5. Edakkal Caves
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The Edakkal Caves are one of India’s most important prehistoric sites and are home to petroglyphs (rock carvings) dating back 8,000 years. The caves sit 1,200 meters above sea level, a 45-minute uphill hike through rocky terrain. Within, you can see ancient carvings of people and animals, including geometric forms thought to be left from the Neolithic and Mesolithic periods.The site is a pilgrimage destination for history and archaeology buffs.
Distance From The Lake: 30 km
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person, ₹20 for parking
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Where To Stay
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Banasura Hill Resort is an environmentally conscious property constructed with mud and bamboo. It has luxury cottages, an Ayurvedic spa and guided nature trails. Wayanad Silverwoods resort has private balconies, an infinity pool and great dining options. Verdure Wayanad is a mid-range eco-resort with comfortable cottages, situated in plantations and offers trekking, cycling, and bonfire nights. Hiliya Resort is a budget-friendly farmstay with organic farming and wildlife spotting. There are many family-run homestays in the area that provide local hospitality, home-cooked meals, and comfortable stays at reasonable prices.
Where To Eat
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Bamboo Hut Restaurant is a traditional-style eatery, serving Malabar biryani, fish curry, along with appam and stew. The Banasura Restaurant is a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves local delicacies from Kerala and organic food. Udupi Pure Veg Restaurant is a trusted name among vegetarian travellers, with South Indian breakfast items such as dosa and idli, as well as Kerala-style meals. Coffee Grove Restaurant is a cosy eatery specialising in freshly brewed Wayanad coffee, homemade cakes, and light snacks.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip:
From luxurious outings to economical trips, a trip to Karlad Lake can be customised to fit any budget. A budget traveller can spend around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per day, which includes a budget homestay, local transport and cheap meals. A mid-range trip involves ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 a day, with a 3-star resort booking included, along with private transport and adventure activities. Luxury travellers spend ₹12,000+ per day on a top-end resort, private transportation and fine dining.
Tips For Travellers:
- Bring comfortable walking shoes for nearby places, such as Edakkal Caves and Meenmutty Waterfalls, which require trekking on rough terrain.
- Karlad Lake is part of an eco-tourism project, so do not litter and follow the guidelines for boating and adventure activities.
- It is not recommended to visit in the monsoon.
Karlad Lake in Wayanad is an ideal peaceful escape while remaining close to popular tourist spots. With a variety of budget-friendly homestays and luxury resorts, local eateries and entertaining things to do, the lake makes a great weekend getaway or a long weekend in nature. Plan your trip with TripXL and feel an eventful experience and history of Wayanad for your next weekend getaway!
Cover Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
