Wayanad – The Green Paradise of Kerala
The Western Ghats have the most scenic belt, and it’s a perfect place to go in winters. Well, I’m not talking about Kashmir, Himachal or Sikkim, but this is down south and up North in Kerala. We are talking about the green and luscious Wayanad. It’s in the north of Kerala, hence it is great to visit this place. It offers pleasant temperature, marvellous and excellent visibility. It has some great forest routes one can explore. Spice gardens and viewpoints are incredibly scenic.
It has some breathtaking natural beauty and misty hills. The dense forests are so green that if you take a walk along it you will feel refreshed and full of fresh air. Several spice plantations like tea, coffee and cardamom, which are pure and organic. You can definitely have that in your kitchen boxes.
You will also stop by some stunning waterfalls. The wildlife sanctuaries are a must-visit. It also has a lot of history to explore with its architectural sites. It also offers a wide range of adventure and tranquil escapes. It also gives space to wildlife sanctuaries. Its biodiversity gives a lot of opportunities for trekking. The beautiful water bodies and backwaters give a chance for boating and houseboat stay experiences.
You can also interact with indigenous tribes. Organic products like honey are pure to pick. Woven and authentic handlooms are some great pieces of work you can purchase. It’s also known as the Green Paradise of Kerala. The shades of green and plentiness of rich flora and fauna.
If you love spending time taking in the fresh air and pondering the view of nature, then you should visit Chembra Peak. It’s at a great height and is also the highest point in Wayanad. Many trekkers visit here as it gives them a chance to explore the landscapes and panoramic views. You can believe it if I tell you there’s a natural heart lake right in the middle. It’s called the Hridaya Saras.
The Heart Lake is on top at the peak itself. The trek route is very popular as you walk through the tea plantations. You can literally smell the tea bruising. Strolling through the dense forests is such a mindful experience.
Well, did you know Wayanad has India’s largest earth dam called the Banasura Sagar Dam. It is Asia’s second largest, formed by rocks and boulders. You can enjoy boating, stunning views and trekking in the Banasura Hills.
Pookode Lake is a natural freshwater lake nestling right in the middle of the forest. It is also a children’s play area, making it a popular tourist place to go.
Lakkidi is a viewpoint in Wayanad. It has some lush valley greens and misty hills. There is also an amazing Thamarassey Ghat pass that is a popular gateway to the district. It’s a favourite spot for some photography. You can experience sunrise and sunset, but yes, there are some safety precautions for visitors along the highways.
Kuruvadweep is an uninhabited 950-acre river delta on the Kabini River. It has some dense and rich biodiversity with rare birds, orchids and herbs. Serene backwaters, Bamboo rafting is a must-do experience of a lifetime.
Eddakkal Caves are a prehistoric rock formation famous for its stone carvings related to the Indus Valley civilisations from the early years of 600 BCE. They have natural clefts and boulders.
You can visit the natural pool, which comes directly from 200 meters Soochipara falls. It makes the bottom cool and crystal clear. Take a dip and rejuvenate in nature’s lap. Meenmutty falls only after you trek through a dense and challenging jungle. It does need professional mountaineering safety requirements to summit to the top and enjoy the view.
Wayanand Wildlife Sanctuary is the World’s largest recorded population of Asian Elephants and Tigers. You can also visit the Jain Temple, which is a 13th century built architecture. The Phantom Rock is also a skull-shaped natural rock. Pazhassi Raja Tomb is a memorial to the great warrior Pazhassi Raja. You should also visit The Bamboo Factory to see how bamboos are processed and crafted. Temples are a must-visit when in Kerala, so you can explore the ancient temple Thirunelli.
When in Kerala, seafood is a must try specially for fish, prawn and squid lovers. The rich Malabar biryani, traditionally made Appam with stew, Puttu, spicy pork dishes and Parippu vada. It has a lot of local spices, coconut, but yes, with rice and some rich curries. You should definitely not miss the Sadya full meal, which is scrumptious for sure. If you want to shop till you drop, then pick spices, tea, coffee, great artistic bamboo work, wood, and potteries.Handlooms, sarees, lungis and antiques.
Meet Elephants and See Tigers at Wayanad- How to reach here.
You can take NH275 and NH 766, that’s the Bangalore Mysore and Bandipur National Park route. Gates are closed on this national park from 9 pm to 6 am, so better keep track of that. You can also fly to Calicut (Kozhikode) or Kannur. Also, you can reach Mysore or Bangalore airport for the same. You can also travel by train to Calicut and also use KSRTC buses. Well, the train, Bus, and car drive will definitely give you a great experience of the dense forest.
