Banasura Sagar Dam
Banasura Sagar’s reservoir and surrounding hills make it a popular stop for open views and photographs. Walk through the visitor area or choose a boat ride when available. Combine it with nearby Karlad Lake.
Explore Wayanad’s rock art, forest habitats and lakeside scenery. Visit Edakkal Caves, plan a permitted safari, or spend time around Banasura Sagar and Pookode Lake. Choose nearby stops to keep each day manageable.
Wayanad Highlights
Banasura Sagar’s reservoir and surrounding hills make it a popular stop for open views and photographs. Walk through the visitor area or choose a boat ride when available. Combine it with nearby Karlad Lake.
Wooded slopes surround this freshwater lake near Vythiri. Enjoy a relaxed lakeside outing or take a boat ride when operating. Pookode pairs well with Lakkidi Viewpoint on the southwestern side of Wayanad.
Karlad Lake combines waterside scenery with organised outdoor activities. Boating and ziplining may be available, making it a useful stop for groups who want a more active outing. Check current options and participation limits.
Also called Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, Soochipara is reached by a walk near Meppadi. The descent and return climb require some effort. Confirm access before visiting and follow restrictions around the waterfall and pool.
Muthanga is a southern section of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, east of Sulthan Bathery. Authorised safaris offer a chance to see forest habitat and animals such as deer, gaur and elephants. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
Tholpetty is the sanctuary’s northern safari area, convenient for stays near Mananthavady or Thirunelli. Confirm a safari slot before planning the day. A temple visit can fit around the timing if your route allows.
Chembra’s trekking route is known for grassland scenery and a heart-shaped lake. It suits visitors comfortable with uphill walking. Permits, guides and the allowed endpoint depend on current Forest Department rules.
Lakkidi overlooks forested slopes and the winding ghat road near Vythiri. Stop when visibility and parking conditions allow; mist can hide the view. Use designated stopping areas and combine the visit with Pookode Lake.
Edakkal’s rock shelters contain ancient engravings of figures and symbols. An uphill approach and steep steps lead to this distinctive heritage site near Ambalavayal. Start early and confirm opening days before travelling.
The museum at Ambalavayal brings together archaeological finds and objects connected with Wayanad’s past and local communities. It adds context to an Edakkal visit and provides a quieter stop between outdoor attractions.
Set near the Brahmagiri hills, Thirunelli is an important Vishnu temple with a forested setting. It remains an active place of worship. Check temple hours and follow the site’s dress and entry rules.
This compact stone monument preserves part of Wayanad’s Jain heritage. Its pillars and architecture reward a closer look. A short visit combines well with the heritage sights around Ambalavayal and Sulthan Bathery.

Your trip, your pace
Tell us whether you prefer lakes, heritage, wildlife or hill walks. Our travel experts can group nearby attractions, arrange transfers and build your sightseeing around your hotel, travel dates and pace.
Curated itineraries





Mumbai – Mangalore – Bekal – Wayanad – Kozhikode – Cochin – Thekkady – Kumarakom – Quilon – Varkala – Kovalam

Why IndianHoliday
Wayanad’s attractions are spread across the district. We help shape your trip around your hotel and interests so you spend more time exploring and less time retracing the same roads.
FAQs
Vythiri is a great choice for nature lovers, with scenic resorts, green hills, and peaceful surroundings. Kalpetta offers easy access to major attractions, while Sulthan Bathery is convenient for exploring heritage sites and wildlife.
October to February is the best time to visit Wayanad. The weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing, trekking, and wildlife experiences. March to May is also suitable, though afternoons can be warmer.
2 to 3 days are enough to check out Wayanad’s main attractions. If you are interested in nature walks, wildlife safaris, and relaxing resort stays without rushing, plan for about 4 days.
The top places to visit in Wayanad include Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Pookode Lake, Soochipara Waterfalls, Chembra Peak, Lakkidi Viewpoint, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Pack comfortable clothes, walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Make sure you have a raincoat or umbrella if you’re visiting during the monsoon season.