Located at an altitude of 2100 meters above the sea level, Wayanad is one of the picturesque hill stations in Kerala. With the tantalizing aroma of fresh spices, rich wildlife, charismatic waterfalls, captivating caves, and luxurious resorts and homestays, Wayanad attracts millions of tourists from all around the world. It is a place of heavenly bliss where one can not only unwind from stress but also indulge in thrilling experiences. And these ten things to do in Wayanad, prove just that!
30 Best Things To Do In Wayanad
Wondering what to do in Wayanad with friends and family? Fret not. Have a look at all the amazing things one can do and adventure activities in Wayanad that can be enjoyed by families, solo, spouse, and friends. Choose the ones you like and include them in your Wayanad trip itinerary so that you do not miss out on all the fun that this city offers!
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: For Wildlife Lovers
- Banasura Sagar Dam: Visit Asia’s 2nd Largest Dam
- Kuruva Island: Enjoy Bamboo Rafting
- Edakkal Caves: Go Caving
- Neelimala View Point: For Breathtaking Sights
- Pookode Lake: Enjoy Boating
- Camping: When The Hills Summon You
- Thirunelli Temple: Gem Of Brahmagiri Hills
- Vythiri Village Resort Stay: In The Lap Of Nature
- Chembra Peak: A Thrilling Trek
- Ziplining: Fly In The Hills Of Kerala
- Cycling: Go Around Town
- Tree House Stay: A Splendid Experience
- Farm Tour: Experience Village Life
- Tea Estate Tour: Stroll Amidst Beautiful Gardens
- Soochipara Falls: Take A Dip
- Kabini River: Experience River Dipping
- Dhanagiri Home Stay: Live Like A Local
- Uravu: Learn The Art Of Bamboo Processing
- Kalladi Forest: Go On A Jungle Trek
- Walk Through Nature Trails: Take Full Natural Advantage
- Visit The E3 Theme Park: Have Lots Of Fun
- Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary: Discover Aviation Beauty
- Sahibkkunnu And Valley Of Clouds: Go For Trekking
- Hike To Kurisumala Peak: A Serene Getaway
- Wayanad Heritage Museum: Learn History
- Go For Shopping: A Cherished Activity
- Pozhuthana: A Beautiful Village
- Meenmutty Waterfalls: Perfect For Adventure Seekers And Nature Lovers
- Jain Temple: Marvel At The Temple
1. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: For Wildlife Lovers
One of the best things to do in Wayanad is to visit the famous Wildlife Sanctuary, which is one of the top Wayanad tourist attractions. Spread over an area of 344 sq kms, it is also known as Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary. An integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Sanctuary connects Nagarhole and Bandipur parks in Karnataka, and Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu. While elephant sightings along with glimpses of tigers, panthers, and peacocks, etc. are common, one can also embark on thrilling jungle safaris.
Location: Bathery- Puthupally Road, Sultan Bathery, Kerala 673592
Timings: 7:00 am – 10:00 am, 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
What’s special: Thrilling jungle safari ride
Must Read: Kerala Honeymoon Trip: Spending 5 Days In The Lap Of Nature
2. Banasura Sagar Dam: Visit Asia’s 2nd Largest Dam
Image Credit: Challiyan for Wikimedia Commons
Banasura Sagar Dam is considered to be the largest earthen dam in India and the second largest in Asia. Famous for thrilling trekking trails, pleasing boating experience, and picnic spots near the crystal waters of Banasura, the dam attracts tourists from far and wide. One can also visit the mini Hydel project near Banasura which is also one of the interesting things to do in Wayanad, in the state of Kerala.
Location: Wayanad, Kerala 673122
Timings: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
What’s special: Amazing trekking trails
3. Kuruva Island: Enjoy Bamboo Rafting
Image Credit: Vinayaraj for Wikimedia Commons
Spread over 950 acres of land, Kuruva Island comprises three scenic islands in the middle of Kabini River in Wayanad. Popular for bamboo rafting amidst scenic surroundings, it is one of the best things to do in Wayanad. The island offers you picturesque sights of bamboo bridges, and umpteen number of opportunities to spot rare species of trees, indulge in bird-watching, and explore this extraordinary paradise.
Location: Kuruvadweep, Kerala 673579
Timings: 9:00 am – 3:30 pm
What’s special: Bamboo rafting
Suggested Read: Thekkady In December: Best Ways To Explore Its Impeccable Beauty
4. Edakkal Caves: Go Caving
Image Credit: Ms Sarah Welch for Wikimedia Commons
Perched at a height of 1,200 meters on the Ambukuthi Hill, exploring the Edakkal Caves is one of the best things to do in Wayanad. Being one of the oldest sources of prehistoric inscriptions, the Edakkal Caves in reality are boulders that are unbelievably wedged between two massive stones that appear like caves. Measuring about 22 ft wide and 96 ft long, every surface is covered in carvings of pictorial paintings and ancient inscriptions which are a must-visit.
Location: Nenmeni, Kerala 673595
Timings: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, Monday closed
What’s special: Inside carvings
5. Neelimala View Point: For Breathtaking Sights
To experience the mystic views of the verdant mountains, clouds and stunning landscapes, Neelimala View Point is a must-visit place in Wayanad. Exciting and absolutely delightful, Neelimala View Point is one of the most outstanding places to visit in Wayanad and wonder at God’s creation. A picnic at this spot is surely one of the best Wayanad things to do.
Location: SH29, Kerala 673581
Timings: Always open
What’s special: Breathtaking views
Suggested Read: 7 Gorgeous Villas In Wayanad That Are High On Comfort And Not On Pocket
Planning your holiday in Kerala but confused about what to do? These Kerala travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
6. Pookode Lake: Enjoy Boating
Boating on the Pookode Lake has to be one of the fun things to do in Wayanad. A freshwater lake in Wayanad, it is known for a variety of fishes, blue lotuses, and widespread species of birds. Shaped like India’s map, boating on Pookode Lake is totally a fun activity for all. While pedal boats can be hired for boating, one can also visit the nearby freshwater aquarium, children’s park, and shop for handiwork and spices among other Wayanad activities.
Location: Kunnathidavaka, Kerala 673576
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
What’s special: Boating and freshwater aquarium
7. Camping: When The Hills Summon You
Camping in the mesmerizing hills of Kerala is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Wayanad. Apart from breathtaking camping spots, one can also indulge in exciting adventure activities in Wayanad like fishing, trekking, evenings full of music, and bonfire, and much more. With an exotic ambiance and all thing green, it is surely an experience of a lifetime.
Location: NA
Timings: NA
What’s special: Bonfire and chill vibes
Suggested Read: 8 Best Places To Visit Near Wayanad, Hidden In The Ghats Of Kerala
8. Thirunelli Temple: Gem Of Brahmagiri Hills
Image Credit: Vijayakumarblathur for Wikimedia Commons
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Thirunelli temple is an ancient religious site perched high on the Brahmagiri Hills in Wayanad. Known for being more than 3000 years old, it is believed that Lord Brahma built this temple and dedicated it to Lord Vishnu, Hanuman, Nagam, and Ganesh. Apart from that, the magnificent views from the hilltop make visiting this temple one of the must things to do in Wayanad, Kerala.
Location: Thirunelly Temple post, Mananthavady, Kerala 670646
Timings: 5:30 am – 12:00 pm, 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
What’s special: Magnificent views from hilltop
9. Vythiri Village Resort Stay: In The Lap Of Nature
Image Credit: Airin010 for Wikipedia
Vythiri Village Resort is an ideal luxury resort in the lap of Nature that one must experience at least once in a lifetime if they’re looking for the most relaxing activities to do in Wayanad. Designed with care, each room of this 5-star resort offers a spacious and comfortable stay in Wayanad. While you satiate your taste buds by dining in one of their three restaurants, do not miss out on indulging in their best Ayurveda massages. Serving as an ideal place in the heart of hills, it is definitely one of the best things to do in Wayanad.
Location: NH 212, PO, near VYTHIRI TOWN, Vythiri, Kerala 673576
Timings: Always open
What’s special: Ayurveda massages
Suggested Read: 10 Best Wayanad Hotels: Perfect Getaway For The Nature Lovers And Adventurists
10. Chembra Peak: A Thrilling Trek
Image Credit: Karkiabhijeet for Wikimedia Commons
Located at 6,900 ft, the Chembra Peak is one of the most sought after trekking destinations in Wayanad. After collecting the required authorization passes from the Meppadi Forest Department, one can trek atop the peak in about three hours and relish spectacular views of Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Nilgiri districts. And on the way, one can also explore the fascinating heart-shaped lake that never dries and also happens to be one of the best things to do in Wayanad.
Location: Wayanad, Kerala 673586
Timings: Always open
What’s special: Relish spectacular views
11. Ziplining: Fly In The Hills Of Kerala
If you are looking for some adventure activities in Wayanad, then ziplining over the rolling tea estates is one of the best experiences that Wayanad offers. It is also the longest and highest zipline in Wayanad. With a number of options in different settings available, one can also choose to zipline across Karlad lake. Both the places offer beautiful views and are quite thrilling, making ziplining one of the best adventure sports in Wayanad.
Location: NA
Timings: NA
What’s special: Beautiful views
Suggested Read: 12 Fascinating And Dreamy Wayanad Honeymoon Places Which Every Honeymooner Must Consider!
12. Cycling: Go Around Town
Another one of the top things to do in Wayanad is to hire a cycle and go around town cycling. Wayanad is a beautiful place and it can be well explored on a cycle. So, if you love nature and greenery, then get a cycle and set exploring. Cycling across tea plantations and lush green environs, would give you multiple spots to click amazing pictures and pleasant vibes. So, do not forget cycling among other Wayanad attractions.
Location: NA
Timings: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
What’s special: Click amazing pictures
13. Tree House Stay: A Splendid Experience
Wayanad offers a lot of unique experiences and one of these is staying in a tree house rather than hotels in Wayanad. Overlooking the verdant tea and coffee plantations, the views from the tree house are mesmerizing. There are different tree house options available in Wayanad and one can choose according to the facilities and price range. But these are one of the top and one should not miss out on this experience on a trip to Wayanad. It is also a great option to stay during your Wayanad honeymoon.
Location: NA
Timings: NA
What’s special: Breathtaking views from treehouse
Suggested Read: 6 Wayanad Guest Houses To Plan A Comfortable And Budget Friendly Stay
14. Farm Tour: Experience Village Life
On a trip to Wayanad, one can also experience the village life, which happens to be one of the top Wayanad attractions. One can take a farm tour and get acquainted with the crops and spices in South India. The bamboos, and rice paddies growing on mountains make for beautiful sights and the simplicity at the farms is quite a unique experience. So, plan a half day trip to a farm in Wayanad and get familiarized with the serenity and simplicity of this place. Experiencing the village life is one of the best adventure things to do in Wayanad in November considering the favorable climate of the region.
Location: NA
Timings: NA
What’s special: Beautiful sights and unique experience
15. Tea Estate Tour: Stroll Amidst Beautiful Gardens
If you’re wondering what to do in Wayanad with family or spouse, then a Tea Estate tour is the perfect answer for you. Imagine walking into a picture-perfect tea plantation and inhaling the sweet aroma of your favorite morning drink followed by a piping hot cup of masala tea! You’ll be getting that and more in a leisurely tea plantation visit in Wayanad. In fact, this district in Kerala is actually famous for producing some of the best blends of tea in the country and it’s the most ideal way to get acquainted with the popular tea culture of Wayanad.
Location: NA
Timings: NA
What’s special: Stroll amidst picture perfect plantation
Suggested Read: 7 Surreal Hill Stations Near Wayanad One Must Visit To Enjoy A Relaxing Vacation!
16. Soochipara Falls: Take A Dip
Image Credit: Gaurav Kapatia for Wikimedia Commons
Also called Sentinel Rock, the famous Soochipara Waterfall is among the best attractions in Wayanad and totally worth a visit. The pool that forms here at the base of the cascading waterfall is perfect for a quick plunge and is an ideal escape from the scorching heat of the city, especially if you are visiting Wayanad in summer. In fact, it is this very swim-worthy pool that makes this waterfall a standout amongst other appealing falls in the area. A dip in these cool and clear waters is surely one of the most refreshing Wayanad things to do.
Location: Vellarimala, Kerala 673577
Timings: 12:00 am – 12:00 pm
What’s special: Take a dip
17. Kabini River: Experience River Dipping
Image Credit: Vinodnellackal for Wikimedia Commons
You may find this to be one of the strangest things to do at Wayanad, but it’s actually a very delightful experience and has started attracting a lot of adventure-hungry travelers into the city. Located on the banks of the Kabini River, the Begur-Tholpetty Reserve Forest area is the perfect locale for you and your amigos to try this activity. You get to camp here overnight, sleep under a blanket of stars, and experience the joy of swimming in this sparkling and gushing stream in the morning! It’s the perfect way to beat the heat!
Location: NA
Timings: NA
What’s special: Overnight camping
Suggested Read: Wayanad In January: Your Handbook For A Vacation That Will Soothe Your Senses
18. Dhanagiri Home Stay: Live Like A Local
The best way to experience life like a local in Wayanad is to stay like one! Staying in a homestay not only lets you become a part of their day to day lives, but also gives you the chance to taste Keralite hospitality and feel at home. There are many top-notch homestays in Wayanad that are well-known for their warm and generous services and homely vibes and will let you be a part of various local Wayanad activities. The Dhanagiri Home Stay is one of them. It lets you stay amidst a beautiful coffee estate and offers amenities like coffee estate view restaurant, AC cottages, free WiFi, and much more.
Location: 4/127, Anoth Road, Pozuthana, Vythiri, Wayanad, Kerala 673575
Timings: Always open
What’s special: Warm hospitality
19. Uravu: Learn The Art Of Bamboo Processing
Image Credit: Trevershick for Wikimedia Commons
You must check out the bamboo factory at Uravu when you’re in Uravu. In addition to being one of the most offbeat activities to do in Wayanad, it’ll let you in on the local culture of this city and will tell you how smaller cities are working towards building a self-sufficient economy for the society. Situated in the Thiraikkaipetta settlement of Wayanad, this small processing unit considers bamboo to be the ‘green gold’ of the Indian economy which needs to be efficiently utilised. Their fun and knowledgeable bamboo rearing tour will teach you the arts and crafts of bamboo processing and give you a chance to buy rare bamboo products like spice boxes, lampshades, and rainmakers.
Location: NA
Timings: NA
What’s special: Learn the art of bamboo processing
Suggested Read: Why You Should Visit Kerala In Spring? Here Are The Beautiful Reasons That’ll Get You Going!
20. Kalladi Forest: Go On A Jungle Trek
Image Credit: Jaseem Hamza for Wikimedia Commons
The alluring Cardamom Forest in Wayanad offers one of the most adventure activities in Wayanad – jungle trekking! Relish the chance to hike through a picturesque set of tea gardens, woody rain forests, and spice estates of Wayanad, most of which is pristine, untouched, yet absolutely dreamy and refreshing! You’ll be passing through different types of terrains to keep the hike interesting, like deep thickets and high hillocks, and will meet varied forms of flora and fauna on the way. The hike commenced from the base of the Chembra Ranges and takes you through the beautiful Cardamom Forest.
Location: Wayanad, Kerala 673122
Timings: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
What’s special: Jungle trek
21. Walk Through Nature Trails: Take Full Natural Advantage
No doubt, Wayanad is a place full of natural splendor and so walking through the trails are one of the most soothing activities in the region. There are several trails, around water streams, waterfalls, farms and mountains. So, be sure to utilize the natural bandwidth provided by the serene town of Wayanad.
Location: NA
Timings: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
What’s special: Several beautiful trails to explore
Suggested Read: Thailand Vs Kerala: Which One Entices You More For The Next Trip?
22. Visit The E3 Theme Park: Have Lots Of Fun
Are you looking for instant adventure in Wayanad? Then make sure to visit the E3 Theme Park, a place that will make you remember your childhood. In fact, if you are visiting with families, then the theme park could be one of the best Wayanad tourist places. Offering an exciting package of adventure, the E3 theme park is a heaven within the heaven.
Location: T. P. V/195 – B Vanjode Post, Vellamunda, Via, Neelome, Kerala 670731
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
What’s special: Exciting adventure package
23. Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary: Discover Aviation Beauty
One of the best things to do in Wayanad would be to maximize the natural beauty exploration. To that regard, the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is a paradise. Watch the various species of birds flying, chirping and resting at the trees. Streams and steep hills make for most of the sanctuary while inviting you on several trails to enjoy the best of trekking in Kerala.
Location: Thirunelli Pakshipathalam Trek, Kurchi, Karnataka 571250
Timings: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
What’s special: Witness various species of birds
Suggested Read: 13 Weekend Getaways From Kerala That Are Worth The Views And Your Time
24. Sahibkkunnu And Valley Of Clouds: Go For Trekking
Trekking in Wayanad cannot be any more mesmerizing than visiting the two glorious mountains that offer a natural escapade for adventure activities. The Sahibkkunnu And Valley Of Clouds are those two pristine mountains that have some of the best trails that you can imagine as a trekker. Indulging in this activity is one of the best Wayand things to do on your trip.
Location: NA
Timings: NA
What’s special: Two pristine mountains offering best trails
25. Hike To Kurisumala Peak: A Serene Getaway
Image Credit: Shijan Kaakkara for Wikimedia Commons
Among all the hiking destinations in Kerala, there is something special about the Kurisumala peak. Otherwise known as the Spring Valley Mountain, it is a top notch destination for nature lovers and heaven for hikers. While you try to reach the pinnacle, you will be greeted by the immensely awesome views of the Periyar National Park. Do not forget to visit the church located at the top of the mountain.
Location: Wayanad, Kerala 673121
Timings: 4:00 am – 8:30 pm (church); peak is always open
What’s special: Awesome views of Periyar Park
Suggested Read: 8 Road Trips From Kerala For That Dreamy Sojourn
26. Wayanad Heritage Museum: Learn History
Image Credit: Vinayaraj for Wikimedia Commons
The Wayanad Heritage Museum is one of the largest and best archaeological museums in Kerala. The museum has a very rich collection of artifacts about the advanced civilizations that existed in the mountains of Wayanad. Some exhibits include hunting equipment, Megalithic age pottery, clay sculptures, etc. If you are a history scholar, then visiting the museum is one of the best things to do in Wayanad.
Location: Govt Hospital Road, Ambalavayal, Kerala 673593
Timings: 09:00 am – 06:00 pm
What’s special: Witness rich collection of artifacts
27. Go For Shopping: A Cherished Activity
Image Credit: sharonang for Pixabay
Here’s to something that is usually not on top of the list of things to do in Wayanad. And that is shopping! Shopping in Wayanad is a cherished activity where you can buy handicrafts, antiques and handlooms showcasing local culture. The age of modernity has also introduced the mall culture in Wayanad with the Focus mall, Trident Arcade and shopping complexes slowly increasing in Wayanad.
Location: NA
Timings: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
What’s special: Buy antiques showcasing local culture
Suggested Read: 20 Tranquil Hill Stations In Kerala For A Rejuvenating Experience Summer
28. Pozhuthana: A Beautiful Village
Image Credit: Outlander07 for Wikimedia Commons
Pozhuthana is a village in Wayanad that can be classified as another serene getaway for camping, picnics and hiking. Located on the banks of Pozhuthana river, the village also serves as an amazing spot for fishing and is also one of the top things to do in Wayanad with family. The sleepy village attracts mostly nature lovers, photographers and backpackers. Some of the top places to visit in the village are Karlad Lake, Hridaya Saras, Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary and much more.
Location: Wayanad, Kerala 673123
Timings: NA
What’s special: Amazing spot for fishing
29. Meenmutty Waterfalls: Perfect For Adventure Seekers And Nature Lovers
Image Credit: Shubhammaurya94 for Wikimedia Commons
Visiting Meenmutty Waterfalls is one of the best things to do in Wayanad Kerala. This breathtaking waterfall is one of the prime tourist attraction and attracts adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers in large numbers. The view of the three-tiered waterfall is simply mesmerizing and is best visited during monsoon.
Location: Wayanad Dist., Padinjarathara, Kerala 673122
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
What’s special: Amazing place for small trek
Suggested Read: Kerala In January: A Guide For A Memorable Vacation In This Southern State
30. Jain Temple: Marvel At The Temple
Image Credit: Joseph Lazer for Wikimedia Commons
Jain Temple in Wayanad is a nice and well-maintained temple. Built in the 3th century, it is one of the most important temples in the state of Kerala. It is made entirely of granite. The soothing and charming ambiance welcomes tourists as well as locals to visit the temple and spend some time in peace.
Location: Sultan Bathery, Wayanad, Kerala
Timings: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
What’s special: Rejuvenating ambiance
Further Read: 18 Best Honeymoon Resorts In Wayanad For An Exemplary Stay
Wayanad is a beautiful town to explore. With a wide range of activities, there is so much that one can do here. So what are you waiting for? Book an amazing trip to Kerala with TourTravelHotels and get to enjoy all these fun things to do in Wayanad on your next journey to God’s own country. Hurry!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Wayanad
How many days are enough for Wayanad?
3-4 days would suffice if you wish to see the best of Wayanad. During your vacay, you can visit most of the popular tourist spots and can also indulge in adventurous activities.
Is travelling to Wayanad during Covid safe?
Yes, you can visit Wayanad even during the Covid times but, make sure to get fully vaccinated before planning a trip here. Also, don’t forget to wear a mask and maintain social distancing whenever required.
What is the coolest place in Wayanad?
Here is a list of some of the coolest places in Wayanad:
1. Chembra Peak
2. Lakkidi View Point
3. Kuruvadweep
4. Edakkal Caves
5. Soochippara Falls
6. Meenmutty Falls
7. Banasura Hill
What is the best time to visit Wayanad?
The best time to pay a visit to Wayanad is during the months from October to May. The weather remains pleasant and extremely favourable for trekking, sightseeing, wildlife tours, and other activities.
What is Wayanad famous for?
Wayanad is a destination that has been immensely blessed by mother nature. This destination is famous for its hills, mountains, valleys, and trekking trails. Honeymooners, as well as families, can enjoy a vacay here.
What are some of the offbeat things to do in Wayanad?
When it comes to some of the best offbeat experiences in Wayanad, one can go trekking to Chembra Peak, explore the famous Edakkal Caves, and enjoy a refreshing excursion to the Soochipara waterfalls.
What are the best things to do in Wayanad at night?
Some of the best nightlife experiences in Wayanad include visiting the old school Jaithra Theatre or enjoy a modern one at the Aiswarya Theater. Travellers who want a fine dining and lounge experience can also visit the Kabini Bar & Restaurant.
What are the best things to do in Wayanad in the monsoon?
The monsoon in Wayanad is intense and beautiful. If a traveller wants to experience the magic of nature in its purest form, then they can visit places like Pookode Lake, Meenmutty Falls, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Muthanga), Banasura Sagar Dam, and Karapuzha Dam.
Which is the most beautiful place in Wayanad?
Wayanad has been tagged as one of the most beautiful places in the country. Some gorgeous places to visit in Wayanad are Chembrak Peal, Meenmutty Falls, Chethalayam Falls, Thirunelli Temple, and more.
What are some adventurous activities to do in Wayanad?
Some adventurous activities that travellers can enjoy in Wayanad are trekking, caving, hiking, bamboo rafting, and more.
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