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Wayanad is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful districts in Kerala, an absolute treasure of natural wonders and cultural heritages. From ancient Edakkal Caves and prehistoric rock carvings to mighty Chembra Peak and rich Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, there are numerous places to visit near Wayanad. Lying on the Western Ghats, Wayanad contains lush green landscapes with rolling hills and a rich biodiversity.From its adventure activities to its tribal culture and beauty, Wayanad is a must-visit for people who want an experience amidst the Western Ghats.
10 Places To Visit Near Wayanad
Wayanad is a place that represents vivid history, beautiful culture, and amazing natural beauty. Some of the best places to visit near Wayanad are:
1. Edakkal Caves
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
Not far from Wayanad, about 25 km from the town of Sulthan Bathery, lies the Edakkal Caves. These caves are one of the major man-made treasures, containing some of the most interesting prehistoric rock carvings and pictorial writings in peninsular India, dating back to 6000-3000 BCE of the Neolithic and Mesolithic ages. The carvings represent human figures, many animals, and geometric patterns that give a pretty good idea of what life would have been like for those who lived here. The caves are one of the country’s most important archaeological sites and highlight Wayanad’s rich cultural heritage.
Distance From Wayanad: 17 km
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Wayanad
2. Chembra Peak
Photo: M. arunprasad / Wikimedia Commons
Chembra Peak, located at an altitude of 2,100 metres, is the highest peak in Wayanad district and one of the favourite attractions near Wayanad for trekkers. It has simply marvellous views from the peak, undulating lush green landscapes. Within the heart-shaped Chembra Lake, it occupies a place among the wonders of nature. This area forms a part of Chembra Peak, including a visit to the nearby Asia’s biggest earth dam, the Banasura Sagar Dam.
Distance From Wayanad: 34.8 km
3. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Outlander07 / Wikimedia Commons
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is extended over a huge area within Kerala’s Wayanad, Calicut, and Kannur districts. This sanctuary comprises a varied assortment of flora and fauna, including the endangered Asiatic elephant, Bengal tiger, and Indian leopard. Besides, jeep safaris or guided nature walks offer an exciting opportunity for visitors to see these animals in their habitat. In addition to this, the sanctuary has a rich birdlife with more than 300 species documented, thus becoming a of all ardent birdwatchers’ eyes.
Distance From Wayanad: 30.7 km
Suggested Read: Theme Parks In Wayanad
4. Kuruva Island
Photo: Challiyan / Wikimedia Commons
Kuruva Island, situated right in the middle of the Kabini River, is a tranquil and scenic spot close to Wayanad. The uninhabited island is accessible only by boat. This, in turn, provides a singular opportunity to experience the serenity of nature. Walking through the lush forests is a breeze, with bamboo bridges crossing over them and opportunities to chance upon a host of flora and fauna, including some rare bird species. The place has also retained bamboo crafts as part of the tradition, showcased by the local tribal communities.
Distance From Wayanad: 29.4 km
5. Pookode Lake
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
Pookode Lake, a freshwater lake amidst undulating hills and dense forests, is 15 km from Kalpetta, the district headquarters of Wayanad. The lake is an ideal destination for boating, fishing, and picnicking, and a must-have on your itinerary of places to see near Wayanad. Different types of fish and migratory birds can be found in the lake. Near to this lake lies the Pookode Lake Aquarium, which shows the wide range of aquatic life available in the area.
Distance From Wayanad: 25.8 km
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Wayanad
6. Banasura Sagar Dam
Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons
The Banasura Sagar Dam is considered to be Asia’s largest earth dam and is an engineering marvel. Constructed during the 1970s, this dam formed a serene reservoir with beautiful views one would love to watch, especially during the golden hour. Here, one can take a ride by boat on the lake, visit the nearby Banasura Hill Trek, and go to the Banasura Sagar Interpretation Centre, which tells all about the history and construction of the dam. The area surrounding the dam is also used as a site for adventure sports like rock climbing and rappelling.
Distance From Wayanad: 27.6 km
7. Thirunelli Temple
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in the northeastern part of Wayanad, the Thirunelli Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Its significant tourist attractions near Wayanad and a beautiful reflection of the culture of Kerala. Being known for its architectural beauty, intricate carvings, and lush surroundings, it has the Papanasini River and the Brahmagiri Hills. Here, as one of the main pilgrimage centres, visitors can delve into the history of the temple, engage themselves in the religious rites, and bask in the tranquil atmosphere.
Distance From Wayanad: 44.2 km
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Wayanad
8. Meenmutty Falls
Photo: Shubhammaurya94 / Wikimedia Commons
These are triple-deck falls, and the entire view comprises one of the jaw-dropping sights of nature within Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. These falls plunge down 300 metres in lush green forest, surrounded by lush green forests, offering a serene and picnic-spotted setting. One can trek through the sanctuary to the base of falls where they could enjoy the refreshing mist and melodious sound of the cascading water. Meenmutty Falls is one of the main destinations for nature and adventure lovers.
Distance From Wayanad: 43 km
9. Soochipara Falls
Photo: Arunkumar003prpc / Wikimedia Commons
The Soochipara Falls are known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, a magnificent three-tiered waterfall in Wayanad’s Vellarimala region. The waterfalls are 200 metres tall, completely surrounded by towering cliffs and dense forests in every direction. Visitors can witness the static beauty of the falls, bathe in the pools at the foot, and do some climbing in the nearby vicinity, thus spending a full day out. Soochipara Falls can become a hot destination for Adventure Martial Arts and Retreats with calm time in the lap of nature.
Distance From Wayanad: 35.6 km
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kerala
10. Tholpetty Wildlife Range
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Tholpetty Wildlife Range, being a part of the northern part of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, is not a place to be missed by wildlife enthusiasts. Majorly known for its healthy population of elephants, tigers, and leopards, this range also comprises variances of birds. Exciting jeep safaris through nature would give the visitors glimpses of these majestic animals in their original habitat. More than 300 species of birds are recorded within the sanctuary. The scenic beauty of the Tholpetty range, with lush green forests and rolling hills, adds to its appeal.
Distance From Wayanad: 42.8 km
The places to visit near Wayanad offer a diverse tapestry of experiences for every type of traveller. These nearby destinations complement Wayanad’s own attractions, providing visitors with a richer, more comprehensive exploration of North Kerala’s beauty and charm. Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Wayanad and its surroundings? Let TripXL be your guide to this enchanting corner of Kerala.
Cover Photo: Nitin Pai / Wikimedia Commons
