Wayanad

Wayanad district lies between 700 to 2100 metres above sea level and is a predominant place in the tourist map of Kerala. Apart from archaeological and anthropological uniqueness Wayanand has genuine claims for an enviable position in tourism promotion.


Wayanad has the highest concentration of tribals in Kerala. They form 1/5 of the total population of the district. It is the seat of Kurichiyas the valiant warriors of late King Pazhassi Veera Kerala Varma Raja who engaged the mighty British Army in several battles. Their descendants are still expert archers. Tribals can be seen in their natural habitat in Wayanad. Reaping the benefits of modern education and social welfare schemes many of them have developed and became part of the main stream.

Lakkidi

Nestled among the hills Lakkidi which is the gateway to Wayanad has the highest annual rain fall in Kerala. With mist formation in the atmosphere almost throughout the year the place has further scope for developing into a tourist centre.

Edakkal Caves

The Edakkal caves, two caves in the Ambukuthy Mountain, contain several paintings and pictorial writings of the New Stone Age Civilization. The location is 3 Km away from Ambalavayal and 25 km from the district Headquarters, Kalpetta.

Thirunelli Temple

Thirunelli is referred as 'Kasi of the south'. It is located in the valley beneath Brahmagiri hill, 66 Km from Kalpetta. It is believed that Lord Brahma himself had installed the idol of Lord Vishnu the presiding deity of the temple.

The adjoining mountain spring called Papanasini is a major centre of pilgrimage. Papanasini means the destroyer of all sins. Thirunelli is a potential centre for eco tourism.

Glass Temple

The Glass Temple of Kottamunda, located 20 Km from Kalpetta, on the slope of Vellarimala, is a famous Jain family Temple in Wayanad. It is dedicated to Paraswanatha Swamy the third Thirthankara of the Jain faith. Icons of Parswanatha Swamy and this temple have thousand reflections in beautiful patterns on the mirrors placed on the inner side of the temple walls.

Pookkode Lake

Located between Lakkidi and Kalpetta Pookkode is a very attractive freshwater lake around 2000 metres above mean sea level. Contoured by lush green forests the lake has good prospects for boating facilities. It is one of the major centres of eco-tourism in Wayanad.