Kerala never ceases to surprise you with the different shades and forms of beauty it offers. This time, it's Sulthan Bathery, a scenic town in the Wayanad district, that has caught our attention. Located near the border with Karnataka, this town once served as the military post of Tipu Sultan where he placed his artillery battery. That's how the place got the name Sulthan Bathery. A quiet and peaceful town, the pleasant weather here and the stunning historical sites are giving us major travel goals. If you're keen on backpacking and going to a new place, we say check out this guide on top places to see at Sulthan Bathery and bag some more adventures. In case you were wondering, October to March is the best time to visit and you can take a direct bus from Kozhikode or Mysore. Keep reading. You can thank us later.
Top Places To See At Sulthan Bathery - Wayanad's Hidden Gem
Bathery Jain Temple
One of the holiest Jainism sites across the country lies in Sulthan Bathery. Said to have been built in the 13th century, one can feel the mystique and grandeur this temple once exuded as soon as you walk in. Tipu Sultan set up his battery at this site, and that's how this town got its name. You can find beautiful images of Jain deities inscribed onto the walls. The temple is now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.
Edakkal Caves
A visit to this place is like going back in time. Situated 1,200 metres above sea level, Edakkal Caves are two natural rock formations believed to have been formed by a large split in a huge rock. Carvings of human figures, animals, tools and more dating back to stone-age can be found on the walls of the caves, making it a historically-celebrated site. Much wow! A 45-minute trek through the Ambukutty Mala is required to get to the caves. But it's totally worth it as you get to breathe in the aroma of fresh coffee beans and have a beautiful history lesson awaiting you on the other side.
Wayanad Heritage Museum
Located about 12 km from Sulthan Bathery, the Wayanad Heritage Museum is one of the largest and best archaeological museums in Kerala. One can find stone weapons, stone carvings, 14th to 16th-century sculptures, hunting equipment, clay sculptures, idols made of hard and soft rocks in the museum, some even dating back to the second century. There is also a multi-media theatre near the museum which offers a show for tourists.
Phantom Rock
Located close to Edakkal Caves, Phantom Rock is another popular tourist spot in Wayanad. It's a natural metamorphic rock formation resembling a human skull and that's why it's called the Phantom Rock. It stands at a height of 2600 feet above sea level and can be reached by trekking.
Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS)
A prominent institution in Wayanad district, RARS is involved in the research of agriculture in high ranges. But it's the nursery here that attracts a lot of visitors. Home to a massive collection of rare roses and ornamental plants, a visit here will have your Instagram feed thanking you.