Wayanad is one of Kerala’s most beloved destinations — a district of misty hills, dense forests, ancient caves, and rushing waterfalls. Whether you are driving up from Kozhikode, flying into Calicut, or taking the train to Mysore, Wayanad rewards every kind of traveller. Here are the 15 best places to visit in 2025.

1. Chembra Peak — The Highest Point in Wayanad

At 2100 metres, Chembra Peak is Wayanad’s tallest summit. The trek takes 4 to 5 hours round trip and passes through a heart-shaped lake about halfway up. The views from the top on a clear day are extraordinary. Trekking permits are required — book in advance through the forest department.

2. Edakkal Caves — Ancient History in the Hills

These natural rock caves contain petroglyphs (rock carvings) estimated to be between 6,000 and 8,000 years old. Some of the oldest human art found in South India is here. The caves are located on Ambukuthi Hills, reached by a short but steep trek.

3. Kanthapara Waterfall — Hidden Gem Near Meppadi

Located just minutes from Tikachi’s store in Meppadi, Kanthapara is a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by spice plantations. It is less crowded than Soochipara and offers a more peaceful, authentic experience. The route to Kanthapara passes directly through some of Wayanad’s best spice-growing territory.

4. Soochipara Falls — Wayanad’s Most Famous Waterfall

Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, Soochipara is a spectacular 200-foot drop surrounded by thick forest. It is reachable by a 2-kilometre trek from the parking area and is best visited between July and January when the flow is strongest.

5. Banasura Sagar Dam — Asia’s Largest Earthen Dam

The dam and reservoir create a stunning landscape of water, islands, and forested hills. Boating is available and the area around the dam is excellent for morning walks and photography. The Banasura Hill trek is also accessible from here.

6. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Spread across over 300 square kilometres, this sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, gaur, and hundreds of bird species. The Tholpetty and Muthanga ranges both offer jeep safaris. Morning safaris (6am to 9am) give the best wildlife sighting chances.

7. Pookode Lake — A Peaceful Natural Lake

A freshwater lake in the middle of natural forest, Pookode offers pedal boating, a small aquarium, and very pleasant walks along its banks. It is best visited early morning before the crowds arrive.

8. Meenmutty Falls — A Three-Tiered Cascade

One of the tallest waterfalls in Kerala at 300 metres, Meenmutty requires a 2 to 3 kilometre trek through forest. The path is moderately challenging but the falls are absolutely worth it. Go in monsoon or early winter for the best experience.

9. Thirunelli Temple — Ancient Temple in the Forest

One of the oldest temples in Kerala, Thirunelli is located in a remote valley surrounded by forest. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it has been a site of pilgrimage for over a thousand years. The journey to reach it — through mist and forest — is as memorable as the temple itself.

10. Lakkidi — Gateway to Wayanad and Viewpoint

The Lakkidi pass is the main gateway into Wayanad from the south and offers one of the most dramatic viewpoints in Kerala. On a clear day you can see the Nilgiri Hills in the distance. The road up through the ghats is also a highlight in itself.

11. Kuruvadweep — River Island Eco-Tourism

A group of uninhabited river islands formed by the Kabani river, Kuruvadweep covers about 950 acres of riverine forest. Bamboo rafting, bird watching, and nature walks are the main activities. Entry is restricted to protect the ecosystem — book permits in advance.

12. Muthanga Wildlife Range — Best for Elephant Sightings

The Muthanga range of Wayanad sanctuary has consistently high elephant sightings. The savannah-like landscape of this section is very different from the dense forest elsewhere in the district and makes for excellent wildlife photography.

13. Phantom Rock — Sunrise Viewpoint

A large rock formation near Kalpetta that offers a panoramic sunrise view over the hills and valleys of Wayanad. Best reached very early in the morning. Entry is free and the walk to the rock is easy.

14. Sultan Bathery — Town, Jain Temple and Market

The largest town in Wayanad, Sultan Bathery has a 13th-century Jain temple (Sulthan’s Battery), local markets, and is a great base for exploring the eastern part of the district. The weekly tribal market here is a unique cultural experience.

15. Meppadi and the Spice Plantations

Meppadi town and the surrounding area is the heart of Wayanad’s spice growing region. Pepper, cardamom, coffee, and tea estates spread across the hillsides. Stop at Tikachi on Wayanad Rippon Road in Meppadi to pick up fresh spices directly from the source — and to arrange guided plantation visits.

Plan Your Wayanad Trip with Mountain Mystery

Tikachi offers resort bookings and travel packages in Wayanad. Contact us at +91 94465 84471 or visit mytikachi.com to plan your visit.