Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Wayanad, one of Kerala’s crown jewels, has an array of breathtaking hill stations that captivate nature lovers, trekking enthusiasts, and tranquillity seekers. Nestled in the Western Ghats, the hill stations in Wayanad boast lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and misty mountains. The cascading waterfalls, sprawling spice and coffee plantations with rich tribal heritage prove Wayanad to be a haven for nature lovers. You will find some of the best enchanting trekking trails in the Wayanad hills, with astonishing views of the surrounding mountains.
10 Hill Stations In Wayanad
The hill stations in Wayanad offer a blend of adventure, nature, beauty, and tranquillity. Here are the best hill stations that should be on your list:
1. Banasura Hill
Photo: Seena Vinay / Wikimedia Commons
Banasura Hill is the second-tallest mountain in Wayanad (next to Chembra Peak), at 2000 m above sea level. For an enchanting trek, take the route from Vellamunda village to reach this spot and go through Pulinjal. You should be ready for the trek once you get to the thunderous waterfall Meenmutty. Gear yourself up for a three-hour climb to the peak, but in the end, you will be rewarded with scenic and panoramic views.
Major Attractions: Meenmutty falls, Banasura Sagar dam, Kabini river
Best Time To Visit: September to January
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (CCJ)
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Kerala
2. Kurumbalakotta Kurishu Mala
Photo: Gowthaman k.a / Wikimedia Commons
Among the best hill stations in Wayanad, Kurumbalakotta Kurishu Mala is 20 km west of Kalpetta. It is a monolith hill rock (the largest single upright stone block shaped into a monument). The journey towards the hilltop will give you the adrenaline boost you need. You can view the entire Wayanad plateau after climbing this hill. To watch one of the best sunrises of your lifetime, reach the spot before 5-5.30 AM.
Major Attractions: Banasura Sagar dam, Karalad lake, Panamaram Jain temple
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
3. Pakshipathalam
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Ardent trek lovers will enjoy Pakshipathalam as it is one of the most scenic ways to reach Wayanad. The watch tower at the top of the hills provides an exceptional view of some rare bird species unbothered by humanity. You can walk through the flora and fauna to reach the mountain at 1740 m above sea level. If you want a touch of spirituality, visit the caves nearby that were believed to be inhabited by great saints of olden times. Obtain permission from the Forest Department, North Wayanad, for the 3-hour trek (one-way), and treks are generally not allowed from February to May.
Major Attractions: Thirunelli Temple, Pazhassi Raja’s Tomb, Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, Kuruva Dweep
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (CCJ)
Suggested Read: Keralamkundu Waterfalls
4. Chembra Peak
Photo: Ravi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons
Trekkers love Chembra Peak as it is the highest peak in Wayanad. Your reward for climbing the best hill station in Wayanad is the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. Climbing Chembra Peak is one of the most sought-after treks in Wayanad. From Meppady, you can reach Chembra Peak by foot. Tourists can hire guides and trekking equipment from Chembra Peak VSS, an agency under the South Wayanad Forest Development.
Major Attractions: Hridaya Saras
Best Time To Visit: September to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
5. Lakkidi
Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons
Lakkidi is called the gateway to Wayanad. Located at 700 m above sea level at Thamarassery Ghat’s crest, the magical journey to this hill station is unforgettable. Within 5 km of Lakkidi, you can find a fantastic sightseeing point and Pookode Lake. Vythiri town is also very close to Lakkidi. It is home to several endangered species like Indian shag, lion-tailed macaque, pond heron, etc. It was known as a secret route for Wayanad Adivasis during the British era. Also, visit the haunted Chain Tree, which has several mythological stories attached to it.
Major Attractions: Pookode Lake, Chain Tree
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Suggested Read: Beaches Near Trivandrum
6. Vythiri
Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons
Vythiri in Wayanad is known for its spice plantations and enchanting forests. Just 8 km from Vythiri, there is Karalad Lake, which offers boating and angling activities. This green paradise is one of the loveliest hills in Wayanad. The luxuriant greenery and unpolluted hill station are a haven for tourists looking to enjoy and relax amidst nature. The evergreen rain forests are home to a rich variety of wildlife like Malabar squirrel, Nilgiri Langur, etc.
Major Attractions: Pookode Lake, Chembra Peak, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Soochipara waterfalls
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 2–3 days
7. Edakkal Caves
Photo: Avadhesh Bhoot / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
Edakkal Caves are at a majestic 1,200 feet above sea level. They are known to be among the oldest and first human settlements, as evidenced by the drawings and engravings. This prehistoric rock shelter naturally formed as one boulder wedged between two bigger ones. The name Edakkal caves translates to a stone in between two. After a trek through the Ambukuthi hills, you can reach Edakkal caves and marvel at the beauty of ancient human knowledge.
Major Attractions: Ancient Petroglyphs
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kochi
8. Muneeswaran Hills
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Muneeswaran Hills is located near Talaphuzha and comes under the Begur forest range. On a trip here after trekking, tourists will be invited to the Lord Muneesearan temple at the top. The arduous climb will be rewarded with a mesmerising view of the scenery from the hilltop. It is an ideal place for adventure tourists. The tea and coffee plantations and dense vegetation are responsible for the nickname Vagamon of Wayanad.
Major Attractions: Muneeswaran temple
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
9. Ooty
Photo: Hemant meena / Wikimedia Commons
Ooty, the most famous hill station in the Nilgiri Hills, is one of the favourite vacation spots in Tamil Nadu. The picturesque landscapes, cool climate, and enchanting tea gardens give it the name “The Queen of the Hills’. Initially, it was a tribal land of Toda and Badagas, and the establishment of tea estates improved the natural beauty and economy of the district. The peak season here is in summer when a massive flock of tourists visit this hill station to unwind and relax.
Major Attractions: Ooty Lake, botanical gardens, Doddabetta Peak, Nilgiri mountain railways, tea plantations
Best Time to Visit: October to June
Ideal Trip Duration: 2–3 days
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (CJB)
Suggested Read: zoos in Kerala
10. Thollayiram Kandi or 900 Kandi
Photo: RAJEEVrk246 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Inside the lush green paradise of Wayanad, Thollayiram Kandi, or 900 Kandi, is a less explored spot where adventure meets serenity. The canopy of clouds and towering trees along the hills make it an enchanting place for trekkers. After your adventurous journey, you see a breathtaking pristine patch of land. Take the off-road trip through the woods, glancing upon glorious waterfalls. The glass bridge offers the best skywalk in Kerala.
Major Attractions: Glass bridge, Dense forests
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 1–2 days
The hill stations in Wayanad offer a unique experience and panoramic views with each trekking path. Escape the hustle and bustle of your city life and enjoy a peaceful ambiance whilst in nature. Book your enchanting holiday here through Trip XL, pack your bags, lace up your trekking shoes, and get ready to be mesmerised by the stunning views of Wayanad.
Cover Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
