Explore the Best of Wayanad in July & August

Summers are synonymous with North India. Families, friends and travellers all flock to the cooler, chiller and snowy regions of India, and justifiably so. The northern region not only houses some of the best places to visit in India for vacation but also is home to transcendent landscapes and enigmatic views. Now, moreso with the scorching heatwave. But why only crowd the North, when you can beat the heat elsewhere, i.e. the south. 

Relatively less popular during the summers, the southern region of India stunningly boasts a myriad of beautiful experiences and landscapes. The tourist destinations here promise a blissful holiday. One of the many hill stations in the South that guarantee pleasant temperatures is Wayanad, Kerala. 

Whilst the entirety of Kerala witnesses the heat like the rest of India, Wayanad is a soothing breath of fresh air, literally. It boasts sprawling tea estates, a rich history, breathtaking treks and gorgeous panoramas. Brimming with wildlife sanctuaries and forested hills, Wayanad is almost paradise-like. Wayanad tourism is best known for its sightseeing, verdant tea plantations and pristine waters. 

Here’s a guide to the best of Wayanad that you must explore this summer.

How to reach Wayanad by Flight, Road or Train?

Wayanad is fairly well connected, and you can easily access this city via train, flight or even by road. 

Nearest Airport to Wayanad – The nearest airport to Wayanad is Karipur Airport, which lies 64 km. away. Book your flights to Calicut and embark on a road trip from there! 

Nearest Train Station to Wayanad –  The nearest train station to Wayanad is Karipur Railway Station, which is approximately 84 km. away from the city. There are ample taxis and buses available to Wayanad. 

If you are in the mood for some adventure, you can also opt for a road trip. The winding roads to Wayanad are scenic. Take your private vehicle or hire a taxi. There are KSRTC buses to Wayanad as well.

5 things to do in Wayanad

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

The western ghats boast Wayand’s famed tourist attraction, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. The vast verdure expanse of 344 sq. ft. is also known as the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary. Open throughout the year, the most recommended time to visit this sanctuary is during the summers! The heat is known to bring out the animals to the water bodies, hence animal sightings are frequent. Although each season poses different features and promises unique experiences. Whilst monsoons ensure few sights of animals, winters are ideal for birding. 

Boasting a vast variety of flora and fauna, it is home to vultures, four-horned antelope, elephants, and deers to name a few. Whilst in the sanctuary itself, travellers can indulge in an array of activities, including a bird-watching tour, jeep safari, or even an elephant ride. It is highly suggested to channel the wanderlust in you and explore this sanctuary on foot as well. However, remember to be geared up! 

Tea Estates

Kerala is famed for its organic, fragrant tea estates that spread across hills. And Wayanad being of the best tourist places to visit in Kerala, Wayanad and tea estates are almost synonymous, as it is enveloped in a blanket of tea estates. The tea estates and plantation areas are majorly run by primitive tribals, that not only the travellers a glimpse into the tea culture but also into their local culture and processes. 

There are several tea estates in Wayanad, each offering a distinct experience to take home. Whilst some offer tea-tasting tours, others guide you through the plantations and allow you to pluck tea leaves. To gain more insight into the whole tea estate scene, your itinerary must include the Tea Museum. 

Boating in Pookode Lake

Complementing Wayanad’s mesmerizing views is this gentle lake, one of the best places to visit in Wayanad, especially during the summers. The lake is beautifully nestled amidst the western ghats and the dense jungles. Animal spottings, although rare, are not unheard of. Its soothing aura coupled with boating attracts flocks of tourists every year. 

However, a fascinating fact about this lake is that the shape itself takes after the map of India. Painting a pretty picture, travellers can journey through the lake in their boats with the sweet chirping of birds makes for an ideal soundscape.

Neelimala View Point

All photographers, this is for you! Swathed in the dense verdure of the western ghats lies this tourist attraction. One of the most famous attractions of Wayanad, Neelimala View Point is where the clouds and fog intersperse and become one. Overlooking otherworldly views, Neelimala Hills offers picturesque landscapes of the Meenmutty Waterfalls and the city itself. The trek to the viewpoint is serene and scenic, whilst the view from atop is almost unreal. 

Chembra Peak

On the lookout for something more thrilling and adventurous? A trek to Chembra Peak might just be the answer. Situated at a staggering elevation of 6,900 ft. The astounding panorama atop is nothing but paradisaical. Savour the unending views of Kozhikode and the unending greenery. The trek to the peak is approximately 3 hours, and requires a special permission pass from the local authorities in lieu of the conservation of local wildlife, however, the logistics are all worth it. Make sure to make your way to the heart-shaped lake on the way, that never dries! 

Stays in Wayanad

Our curated collection of experiential homes extends far and wide, and Wayanad is no exception. Each home unfolds a novel experience, each villa promises a unique blend of amenities, and each cottage emanates an unmatchable vibe. Take a look at our handpicked selection of stays to spend your holiday in, whilst in and around this blissful city.

Novera Wayanad

Beautifully done up, overlooking spectacular landscapes, Novera is a quaint home nestled in Wayanad. The manicured lawns overlook the soaring peaks and the pristine lake. The indoor spaces are a seamless mix of a soothing palette and brown furnishings. The one of a kind Sri Lankan architecture certainly adds a soothing charm to the home. Each nook is adorned with plush seating arrangements. Whilst the outdoors offer bliss and solitude. 

No. of bedrooms – 3 

Ideal for – 14 guests 

Key features of this home – 

• Absolutely stunning views of the hills and the valleys 
• Tastefully done interiors with modern furnishings 
• Unique Sri Lankan architecture 
• Manicured gardens with a gazebo 

Toya Toya, Kozhikode

Thatched roofs, traditional wooden furnishings and distinct decor, Toya Toya has it all. A sanctuary in itself, the home is swathed in lush greenery and lies in proximity to the famed Ayurvedic massages. Relax and enjoy a de-stressing soak in the jacuzzi, and savour the refreshing breeze whilst here. 

No. of bedrooms – 3 

Ideal for – 9 guests 

Key Features of this home – 

• Mesmerizing views of the Wayanad Hills 
• Traditional house with modern aesthetic 
• Cosy indoor spaces featuring wooden furnishings 
• Private jacuzzi 
• Striking facade 

Wayanad boasts a host of experiences, ideal for beating the sweltering summers. Are you booking your getaway yet?