Wayanad Tourism & Vacation, Place Profile, Places to Visit During Wayanad Trip (2024)
Located in the north-eastern part of Kerala, Wayanad is known for being home to serene valleys and trekking trails. Whether you want to experience the wilderness or catch Asiatic elephants in action, Wayanad will never disappoint you. The district came into existence in 1980 with carved out areas from two other districts i.e. Kozhikode and Kannur. Better known as the Green Paradise, Wayanad settles itself among the Western Ghat mountains. Adorning itself with forests, wildlife, and plantations, Wayanad attracts thousands of visitors every year from different parts of the country. Wayanad translates to ‘the land of paddy fields’. Interesting, isn’t it? Keep reading to know more about its history, climate, economy, people, and the places you can’t miss here.
History of Wayanad
Comprising of three towns i.e. Kalpetta, Manalthavady, and Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad is home to 8.17 lakhs people, according to the 2011 Census by the Government of India. Nestled amidst the high hills of the Western Ghats, this district is spread across 885.92 sq. km. of area. Before being formed in 1980, this district used to be ruled by Vedar Rajas and Pazhassi Raja of Kottayam Royal Dynasty once upon a time. Wayanad also survived the Mysorean invasion before being ruled by the Britishers. It is believed that the Adivasis played a significant role in helping the Pazhassi Raja fight against the Britishers.
Geographically speaking, Wayanad shares borders with Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kannur, and Malappuram. This district is also home to the only mirror temple (Vythiri) in the state of Kerala. Many historians believe that this district existed since the beginning of the New Age civilization which is evident from the caves of Ambukuthi Mala.
Wayanad Place Profile: – Climate, Economy, and People
- Climate: Wayanad is known for its pleasant weather throughout the year except for the summer which lasts from March to May. Places like Meppadi, Vythiri, and Lakkidi enjoy the highest rainfall in the district. The district enjoys an average rainfall of 2322 m.m. You can expect high-velocity winds during the south-west monsoon whereas the months of summer are known for the dry winds. The high altitude regions in the district experience cold weather throughout the year. Image Source
- Economy: The economy of Wayanad thrives on agriculture. Some of the widely cultivated crops are tea, cocoa, plantain, rice, coffee, coconut, cardamom, ginger, etc. Wayanad Jeerakasala rice and Wayanad Gandhakasala districts are known for producing different kinds of rice enriched with different properties. Many in the district meet both ends with the help of cattle farming. Wayanad is also home to thriving dairy industry. Image Source
- People: Being home to more than 20 destinations, Wayanad is visited by tourists from every corner of the country. Wayanad is home to different tribes such as Paniyas, Kurichiyans, and Uraali Kurumas. Having a population density of 990 per square mile, the district ranks 482nd in the country in terms of population. Wayanad is also home to Badagas who are present across 21 hamlets. Image Source
Must-Visit Places During Wayanad Trip
- Kuruva Island: Located approximately 17 km away from Manathavadi, Kuruva Island is known for being home to rare flora and fauna. This protected river delta consists of some islands. You must not miss the bridges made with bamboo trees here. You can also go for nature walks, rafting, or boating at Kuruva Island. Image Source
- Edakkal Caves: Popular for its cave art, the Edakkal Caves are believed to exist since 6000 B.C. If you are into historical caves, you should definitely visit this one. It might take up to 45 minutes for you to climb the hill. The cave consists of two chambers. While the lower chamber is 18 ft long, the upper chamber has a length of 96 ft. Image Source
- Chembra Peak: Located at a distance of 306.5 km, Chembra Peak is extremely popular among trekkers. Being the tallest peak in the district, Chembra is home to a heart moulded lake as well. You will be amazed to experience the lush greenery that surrounds the peak. If you are visiting Chembra Peak for a casual trek or natural life treks, you’ll need an authorization from the Forest Department. Image Source
- Meenmutty Waterfalls: Situated 29 km away from Kalpetta, Meenmutty Waterfalls is one of the most scenic destinations in Wayanad. This famous waterfall is a three-tiered waterfall that attracts tourists from all over the country. To reach the waterfalls, you need to trek for 2 km through thick jungles. Another nearby attraction that you can’t miss is the Banasurasagar Dam. Image Source
- Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in Kalpetta, Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the must-visit places in Wayanad. This sanctuary takes pride in being home to a wide variety of wildlife. Be prepared to see different animals like tigers, leopards, monkeys, bears, etc. in their natural habitats. Don’t miss the wildlife safari here. Image Source
6 Facts That You Wish You Knew About Wayanad
1. Proof of Existence Since the New Age Civilization: According to historians, the edicts and caves at Ambukuthi Mala testify the existence of the Wayanad region since the beginning of the New Age Civilization.
2. Shares Borders with Karnataka and Tamil Nadu: Did you know that Wayanad is the only district in Kerala to share borders with Tamil Nadu and Karnataka?
3. Land of Rice, Not Coffee: Despite being known for its coffee plantations, Wayanad is known for producing quality rice. The name of the district comes from Vayal Nadu which means land/field of rice. Image Source
4. Home to The Second Largest Earth Dam in Asia: You will be amazed to know that Wayanad is home to the Banasura Sagar, the largest earth dam in the country and the second-largest in Asia. The dam is located approximately 12 km away from Kalpetta. Image Source
5. Wayanadan BOLT: Ever heard of Wayanadan BOLT? It is nothing but Wayanadan pepper. Wayanad is known for producing a wide variety of spices. However, the pepper here is extremely aromatic and gives you an extra spicy flavor.
6. Surrounded by Wildlife Sanctuaries: Did you know Wayanad is surrounded by three wildlife sanctuaries i.e. Bandipur, Muthanga, and Nagarhole? Spread across 11000 sq km, these sanctuaries are home to Asian elephants, tigers, and a variety of flora and fauna. Image Source
That’s everything you always wanted to know about Wayanad. Filled with beautiful valleys and trekking trails, Wayanad provides you with the opportunity to rejuvenate yourself amidst picturesque mountains. Whether you always wanted to experience white water springs or blue water lakes, Wayanad is the best place to do so. Now you can enjoy your Wayanad trip even more with a customized itinerary especially made for you by thetoptours.com!