The Hill District of Kerala: 14 Places In Wayanad For Thrill Seekers

Wayanad is all about mesmerising views, and there is nothing better than Chembra Peak to kickstart your panoramic journey. It is the highest mountain peak in the Wayanad hill range, and you get stellar views of Wayanad, Nilgiri, and Malappuram. The place also acts as a popular weekend getaway for locals. As you trek to Chembra Peak, you will also spot various small waterfalls on your way, which is a great experience for anyone who loves trekking and hiking. Plus, do look out for a heart-shaped lake that is said to never dry up.

Timings: 7 AM - 5 PM

Price: Starting at INR 20 and the trekking charges start at INR 750 

A three-tiered waterfall located almost a thousand feet off the ground, Meenmutty waterfalls are considered to be the top sight to see in Kerala. You will have to do a mild two-kilometre trek to reach your destination, and we promise that each step you take will be absolutely worth it. The waterfalls are a true sight to behold, carving a delightful memory that will stay with you for years to come. 

Timings: 9 AM - 5:30 PM

Price: Starting at INR 30

If you have watched Elephant Whisperers, then you know that Kerala houses some of the most spectacular wildlife, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is the epitome of that. It houses a wide array of fauna, which includes tigers, elephants, langurs, leopards, jungle cats, wild dogs, and deer. You can also opt for activities like elephant rides, bird-watching tours and jeep safari.

Timings: 7 AM - 5 PM

Price: Starting at INR 10 (there's an additional fee for cameras)

For history buffs who want to expand their knowledge base, Edakkal Caves are perfect. Featuring prehistoric inscriptions and wall carvings dating back all the way to Neolithic settlements, it has become a favourite spot among people. To reach there you have to do a short 90 minute trek, which is an adventure in itself. 

Timings: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Price: Starting at INR 20

Regarded as the largest earthen dam in India and the second largest in all of Asia, Banasura Sagar Dam is a sight to behold that fascinates nature lovers. The dam is surrounded by an abundance of lush vegetation, making it an ideal location for photographers. Activities like boating, camel riding, and hiking are available nearby, but if you want to relax then there are some really amazing spas in the area as well.

Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM

Price: Starting at INR 10

We guarantee that this will be one of your favourite experiences of your Kerala trip! Soochipara Falls is situated around 35 kilometres away from the town and is such an ethereal site that is impossible to forget. With flowing clear water and lush evergreen forests all around, it makes a great place for a picnic with friends and family. Plus, there are many treks and trails that you can go hiking on, all adjacent to the waterfalls.

Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM

Price: Free

This viewpoint is absolutely surreal, and all praise will fall short of describing its beauty. Its a treat for the eyes as well as the mind that will leave you fully rejuvenated. It's also called the Gateway of Wayanad and is loved by visitors because of its picturesque views. People say that, though the beautiful views make all the difference, the journey up to the point is magical as well.

Timings: Open 24 hours

Price: Free

A very popular spot among trekkers, Neelimala View Point offers magnificent views. The area is surrounded by verdant valleys and beautiful landscapes. Once you reach the top, you can even spot Meenmutty Falls. If you are someone who likes nature, then you're bound to love this experience.

Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM

Price: Free (jeeps are available at an additional fee of INR 500)

Built in the Vijayanagar style of architecture, this Jain temple represents a strong presence of Jains in the state of Kerala. Originally built in the 13th century, this temple was also used to store ammunition for Tipu Sultan. Presently, it represents a holy site for the Jain community, and members of the community especially come here to visit on Mahavir Jayanti. The beautiful carvings in the inner section are a treat to watch, even more so for someone who is interested in architecture.

Timings: 8 AM - 12 PM, 2 PM - 6 PM

Price: Free

Spread across a massive area, Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is a wondrous experience for people of all age groups. While it's perfect for sightseeing, it's also frequented by ornithologists from all over the world for bird watching, as you can spot some rare species here. To make the experience even more thrilling, go for the three hour trek that will take you through beautiful streams and is fit for beginners.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Price: Starting at INR 50

For some good old boating fun at a hill station, you can't miss out on Pookode Lake in your itinerary. A popular sight-seeing place, the pristine waters are surrounded by a thick, lush forest of western ghats that is sprawled over 8.5 hectares of area. You'll spot many handicraft shops near the lake for shopping, and there's a children's park adjacent to keep the kids busy. 

Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM 

Price: Starting at INR 10, Boating starts at INR 100 for two people

Located amidst the Kabini River, Kuruva Island offers the most breathtaking views and gorgeous surroundings. If you want to get lost in nature and enjoy some me time, then this is the ultimate experience. They've got everything, from bamboo bridges to rafting, for you to explore.

Timings: 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Price: Starting at INR 80

Wayanad Heritage Museum is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala and is perfect to mix things up with all the sightseeing. It'll take you back in time with artefacts and records from Sulthan Bathery and Ambalavayal. You'll learn about the communities and old tribes of Kerala and see how they have evolved over time.

Timings: 9 AM - 5:30 PM

Price: Starting at INR 20

A holy site for Hindus, Thirnelli Temple houses Lord Vishnu as its central deity and is visited by hundreds of people from all across India. The architecture of the temple is reminiscent of traditional Keralan architecture.

Timings: 5:30 AM - 12 PM, 5 PM - 8 PM

Price: Free