Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Kalpetta is a beautiful town surrounded by greenery, rolling hills, and a number of waterfalls in the Wayanad district of the Indian state of Kerala. This place is perfect for nature lovers, adventure junkies, and peace-seekers. With a bevy of places to visit in Kalpetta that are immensely appealing, here you are going to have a remarkable vacation like never before. A popular tourist spot itself, Kalpetta is in close distance from other destinations too, making it a must-visit for you.
15 Places To Visit In Kalpetta
Have a look at the 15 must-visit places to visit in Kalpetta, which are bound to give you a memorable vacation.
1. Edakkal Caves
Photo: Sakthi Balan / Wikimedia Commons
The pictures in the Edakkal Caves are from 6000 B.C. More or less like a resume of prehistoric life and art, these enormous caves represent human and animal figures across many symbols in carvings spread across the caves. An added dimension of adventure characterises the trek to the caves since you have to tread rocky terrain. Besides the historical significance, the caves also provide you excellent views of the surrounding valleys and hills, soothing both a historian and nature lover in you.
Top Experiences: Ancient petroglyphs, trekking, panoramic view
Best Time To Visit: October – March
Suggested Read: Top Caves In Kerala
2. Chembra Peak
Photo: Apletters / Wikimedia Commons
Situated at an elevation of 2,100 meters above sea level, the Chembra Peak is, in fact, the highest peak in Wayanad. The climb to the top is relatively complex, although very rewarding, with the heart-shaped lake being one of the major tourist attractions in Kalpetta. It is also believed not to dry up at all. From this vantage point, you can view the panoramic beauty of the lush green valleys and hills below, thus making this a paradise for adventure seekers and nature photographers alike.
Top Experiences: Heart-shaped lake, trekking, scenic views
Best Time To Visit: September – February
3. Pookode Lake
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
A serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, Pookode Lake is a place with beauty that cannot be explained in words. The map-shaped lake, which resembles the shape of India’s outline, is an ideal place for boating, and it offers a tranquil environment for relaxation. Well-maintained pathways around the lake provide a perfect setting for a peaceful walk. This area has a freshwater aquarium and a children’s park beside the lake, making it one of the best places to visit in Kalpetta to enjoy picnic with a family.
Top Experiences: Boating, Freshwater Aquarium, scenic walks
Best Time To Visit: October – March
Suggested Read: Longest Lake In Kerala & Its Attractions
4. Soochipara Falls
Photo: Jenith / Wikimedia Commons
Situated right in the middle of dense forests, Soochipara Falls, or Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is a three-tiered waterfall of immense beauty. With a height of nearly 200 meters, the waterfall casts a misty and rejuvenating ambiance. The experience gets further enriched with the trek passing through tea plantations and greenery on its way to the falls. The splash pool at the base of the falls offers you thrill with a refreshing splash, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Kalpetta for adventure and relaxation.
Top Experiences: Waterfall, trek, bathing
Best Time To Visit: June – January
5. Banasura Sagar Dam
Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons
Banasura Sagar Dam is the largest earthen dam in India and was constructed on the Karamanathodu tributary of the Kabini River. Mountains surrounding this dam provide beautiful views and a calm ambiance. Here, you can spend time participating in speed boating across the reservoir of this dam and trekking in the hills nearby. The luxuriant greenery and serene water make it a perfect picnic spot for relaxing with family and friends. The scenic beauty combined with leisure activities renders it one of the must-visit tourist places in Kalpetta.
Top Experiences: Boating, trekking, picnic spot
Best Time To Visit: September – March
Suggested Read: Banasuramala Meenmutty Waterfalls
6. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Venkat Ragavan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which has a vast variety of flora and fauna, is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. This sanctuary contains two divisions, which are Tholpetty and Muthanga. Jeep safaris present exquisite opportunities for sighting elephants, tigers, leopards, and many species of birds. It is an animal and nature photographers’ paradise, as here you can see animals at close range in their natural surroundings. Multiple experiences backed by lush green surroundings and serene surroundings make it one of the best places to visit in Kalpetta.
Top Experiences: Wildlife safaris, bird watching, photography
Best Time To Visit: October – May
7. Meenmutty Falls
Photo: Vssekm / Wikimedia Commons
One of the largest waterfalls in Wayanad is Meenmutty Falls, where the water falls from 300 meters in three tiers. The pathways leading up to these falls are dense forests, and the trek could be challenging. But the sight of the mighty waterfall evens things out. The falls are less crowded, providing a more intimate experience with nature. It is surrounded by serene landscapes and refreshing water falling, making it a remarkable place to visit again and again.
Top Experiences: Waterfall, trekking, scenic views
Best Time To Visit: October – May
Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Kerala
8. Karapuzha Dam
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Karapuzha Dam is an earth dam on the Karapuzha River. The Dam area is well landscaped, and a picnic or simple relaxation preceded by a visit to this beautiful place will be truly refreshing. The view from the Reservoir—especially during sunrise and sunset—is breathtaking. You can sit beside the water in solitude and indulge in its serenity while watching nature’s beauty all around you. If you are travelling with family or a nature lover, this is the best place to enjoy a well-maintained courtyard and calm, noise-free ambiance.
Top Experiences: Scenic views, picnic spots, bird watching
Best Time To Visit: September – March
9. Thirunelli Temple
Photo: Rajesh Unuppally / Wikimedia Commons
Thirunelli Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, dates back to ancient times and is placed in the hills of Brahmagiri. The temple stands wrapped with mountains and forests, thereby enhancing the mystique. This shrine is over 1000 years old and a major pilgrimage center. The Papanasini River running nearby is also considered sacred. This place is a perfect destination for meditation and reflection, with a spiritual atmosphere and surroundings that offer serenity to pilgrims and tourists alike.
Top Experiences: Ancient Temple, spiritual ambiance, picturesque surroundings
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
Suggested Read: Top Kerala Temples That You Must Explore In God’s Own Country
10. Lakkidi View Point
Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons
Also called the ‘Gateway of Wayanad’, Lakkidi View Point offers magnificent views of the hills and the surrounding valleys. This viewpoint is at the top of the pass of the Thamarassery Ghat and commands panoramic views, more so during sunrise and sunset. Misty peaks and winding roads below this place fall on the favourite list of photographers and nature lovers. If you are seeking an ideal place to spend time lounging and relaxing, then choose a sojourn amidst the scenic surroundings of Lakkidi.
Top Experiences: Panoramic views, sunrise and sunset point, photography
Best Time To Visit: October – March
11. Kanthanpara Waterfalls
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
Kanthanpara Waterfalls is a lovely 30-metre-high fall, around 22 km from Kalpetta. Surrounded by greenery, it’s a peaceful spot perfect for a short trip. If you’re looking for tourist places near Kalpetta, this one is worth the visit. The journey is easy, as the waterfall is accessible through the main road. It’s a great place to relax, take photos, or enjoy a quiet walk. Ideal for nature lovers who want a quick escape into calm surroundings.
Top Experiences: Sightseeing of picturesque surroundings
Best Time To Visit: October – May
Suggested Read: Top Wayanad Waterfalls
12. Vaduvanchal
Photo: Prof tpms / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re looking for places to visit in Kalpetta, Kerala, make sure to head to Vaduvanchal at least once. Just 24 km from Kalpetta, this scenic spot is home to unique sights like Phantom Rock and Cheenigeri Mala. Cheenigeri Mala is especially known for its skull-shaped rock, a natural formation that catches every traveller’s eye. Located near Ambalavayal, it’s a great stop for those who love nature, photography, and a bit of offbeat adventure in Wayanad.
Top Experiences: Explore the Soochipara Waterfalls, Trek to Neelimala Viewpoint
Best Time To Visit: October – May
13. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Abhinavsharmamr / Wikimedia Commons
One of the must-see places to visit in Kalpetta Wayanad, this sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, shared with Bandipur and Nagarhole in Karnataka. Once declared a Project Elephant site, it offers a chance to spot elephants, deer, tigers, and Indian bison in their natural surroundings. The dense forest and hilly terrain of the Western Ghats make it perfect for wildlife lovers and photographers. A scenic drive through the area often reveals animals wandering freely near the roads.
Top Experiences: Wildlife safaris, Trekking, Bird watching, and Elephant encounters
Best Time To Visit: June – October
Suggested Read: Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
14. Neelimala View Point
Photo: BroKholi94 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you’re exploring tourist attractions in Kalpetta, don’t miss Neelimala View Point. It’s ideal for those who enjoy trekking and scenic beauty. The trail is a bit rough and uneven, but the views are worth the effort. From the top, you’ll spot Meenmutty Falls flowing through the valley, a truly stunning sight. The misty air, fresh smell of the hills, and the lush green slopes around make the experience unforgettable. It’s a peaceful escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Top Experiences: Explore nearby tea plantations, and experience adventure activities like rappelling down waterfalls
Best Time To Visit: January and May; September – December
15. Kuruva Island / Kuruvadweep
Photo: Challiyan / Wikimedia Commons
Kuruva Island is a peaceful river delta on the Kabini River and one of the top Kalpetta tourist places to visit. Surrounded by clean, flowing water, these small islands are home to thick forests with rare birds and animals. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and often visited by travellers exploring Wayanad. You can reach the island by raft or boat operated by Kerala Tourism. A forest department pass is needed before visiting, so plan ahead for a smooth trip.
Top Experiences: Bamboo rafting across the Kabini River to reach the island
Best Time To Visit: October – May
Suggested Read: Beautiful Islands In Kerala To Visit On Your Next Trip
From ancient caves to serene lakes, majestic waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries, there are several places to visit in Kalpetta that could give you the perfect blend of adventure, tranquility, and cultural richness. Whether trekking up a peak, discovering historic sites, or just relaxing beside a lake, your definition of a holiday will never disappoint you in Kalpetta. Plan a visit to Kalpetta with TripXL during the best seasons, and soak yourself in this beautiful town with natural beauty and heritage.
Cover Photo: Rineeshrv / Wikimedia Commons
