What are the must-visit places in Wayanad?

Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Meenmutty Falls, and Kuruva Island are the top attractions in Wayanad.

Which is the best time to visit Wayanad?

October to May is ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and enjoying pleasant weather.

Wayanad Bucket List: What to See, Where to Go, and Must-Do Experiences

Wayanad, Kerala’s pristine hill district, continues to be a favorite among nature lovers, trekkers, and family vacationers. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for a deeper experience, here’s your updated 2025 bucket list featuring the most scenic, adventurous, and culturally rich destinations.

Historical Sites

Edakkal Caves

Tucked away in the Ambukuthi Hills of Wayanad, the Edakkal Caves are not typical caves but prehistoric rock shelters that date back to the Neolithic age. Famous for their ancient petroglyphs and carvings, these caves offer a rare glimpse into early human civilization. To reach the site, visitors must hike a steep trail rewarded with stunning views and an unforgettable journey through history etched in stone. A must-visit for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

Rock engravings dating back 6,000+ years
Located on Ambukuthi Hills
Moderate trek with scenic viewpoints
Archaeological importance

Heritage & Culture Stops

Wayanad is more than just lush greenery and misty mountains it’s a land rich in heritage and cultural depth. From ancient Jain temples and tribal villages to centuries-old churches and the majestic Wayanad Heritage Museum, every corner tells a story. Don’t miss sites like Edakkal Caves, showcasing Stone Age carvings, or Thirunelli Temple, a 3,000-year-old architectural marvel nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills. These cultural stops offer visitors a deeper connection to Kerala’s vibrant past and traditions, making every trip truly meaningful.

Thirunelli Temple: ancient Vishnu temple
Wayanad Heritage Museum: tribal relics and tools
Pazhassi Raja Tomb: memorial of Kerala’s warrior king

Natural Wonders

Chembra Peak & Heart-Shaped Lake

Chembra Peak, the highest point in Wayanad, is a must-visit for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts. Located near Meppadi, the trek to the summit offers stunning views of rolling tea estates, dense forests, and mist-covered valleys. The highlight of the trail is the iconic heart-shaped lake, believed to never dry up. This natural wonder has become a symbol of love and is a favorite spot for couples and photographers. The hike, while moderately challenging, rewards you with serene landscapes and an unforgettable view from the top.

Highest peak in Wayanad (~2,100m)
Famous for the naturally formed heart-shaped lake
Requires forest permit and guided trek
Best visited from October to February

Banasura Sagar Dam

Banasura Sagar Dam, Asia’s second-largest earth dam, is one of Wayanad’s most iconic attractions. Surrounded by lush greenery and misty hills, the dam offers breathtaking views and a tranquil escape into nature. Visitors can enjoy boating on the reservoir, explore the scenic walking trails, or simply relax by the waterfront. The dam’s location near Wayanad Silverwoods Resort makes it an ideal spot for sunrise and sunset photography, family picnics, and nature-filled adventures.

Largest earthen dam in India
Boating, speed boats & trekking trails
Surrounded by mist-covered hills
Ideal for family outings

Meenmutty Waterfalls

Journey into the heart of Wayanad to experience Meenmutty Waterfalls, a stunning three-tiered cascade plunging over 300 feet through dense jungle. Located just 29 km from Kalpetta and about 13 km from Wayanad Silverwoods, the trek to the falls is an adventure in itself offering lush forest trails, the sound of rushing water, and breathtaking viewpoints at each level. Unlike the often-crowded Edakkal Caves, Meenmutty offers a refreshing mix of lush scenery and pure adventure. Don’t forget sturdy shoes and a raincoat it gets misty!

Three-tiered waterfall over 900 ft
Access via forest trail
Best after monsoon (October–December)

Pookode Lake

Nestled amidst lush forests in Wayanad, Pookode Lake is a scenic gem shaped like an eye and surrounded by evergreen woodlands. Just a short drive from Wayanad Silverwoods, it offers a peaceful escape perfect for families, couples, and photographers. Visitors can enjoy pedal boating, a stroll along the nature trail, and relaxing by the lakeside café. The calm waters, colorful fish, and lush surroundings make Pookode Lake an essential stop for anyone exploring Wayanad’s natural beauty.

Boating in a freshwater lake
Surrounded by forest and blue lotus
Family-friendly with aquarium and shops

Phantom Rock

Located near Ambalavayal, Phantom Rock is a unique natural rock formation that strikingly resembles a human skull. Perched at about 2,600 feet above sea level, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and forests. A short trek leads to this eerie yet beautiful site, making it a favorite among photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers exploring Wayanad’s rich geological marvels.

Skull-shaped natural rock formation
Ideal for photo ops and trekking

Attamala Viewpoint

Attamala Viewpoint is a serene hilltop destination in Wayanad offering panoramic views of the Vellarimala range, lush tea estates, and misty valleys. Located near Soochipara Falls, it’s perfect for sunrise or sunset photography. Though the popular glass bridge is temporarily closed, the viewpoint itself remains open and accessible. Ideal for a peaceful escape into Wayanad’s natural beauty.

360-degree views of rolling tea plantation
Great for sunrise and sunset photography

Lakkidi Viewpoint & Chain Tree

Situated on the edge of Wayanad’s famed Lakkidi Ghat Pass, the Lakkidi Viewpoint offers breathtaking hilltop panoramas, especially when mist rolls in after a drizzle. Just beside it stands the legendary Chain Tree -a centuries-old ficus tree entrenched in folklore, where each link of its iron chain tells a tale of survival and legend.

Together, these attractions combine natural splendor with cultural intrigue, making Lakkidi a must-visit stop for scenic drives and storytelling walks in Wayanad.

Gateway to Wayanad with scenic vistas
Hairpin roads, misty valleys
Chain Tree linked to tribal legend

Wildlife and Adventure

Kuruva Island (Kuruvadweep)

Nestled within the Kabini River, Kuruva Island spans approximately 950 acres of lush, uninhabited forest. Accessible only by bamboo or fiber rafts, this pristine delta is home to rare flora like wild orchids and medicinal herbs and a rich variety of birdlife including hornbills and parrots

Cluster of river islets on Kabini River
Accessible via bamboo raft
Great for nature walks and birdwatching

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Muthanga & Tholpetty)

Located in the northern part of Kerala, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife lovers and nature seekers. Spread over 344 sq km, it is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and shares borders with the protected areas of Nagarhole and Bandipur in Karnataka, and Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu.

Elephants, gaurs, deer, leopards, peacocks
Safari rides available (early morning & evening)
Rich in biodiversity

900 Kandi & Glass Bridge

Nestled deep within Wayanad’s dense forests, 900 Kandi (Thollayiram Kandi) is a hidden paradise—spanning 900 acres of emerald greenery, misty hills, and off-road trails The highlight is South India’s first glass bridge, perched about 100 feet above the forest floor in the 900 Kandi Eco Park. Its transparent flooring offers a breathtaking view of valleys and treetops below—an adrenaline-pumping experience and a dream for nature enthusiasts and photographers

Hidden forest trails
Eco-adventure spot
Home to Kerala’s first glass skywalk

Other Experiences

Wayanad Tea Museum

Nestled just 8 km from Vythiri along the Banasura Sagar Dam route, the Wayanad Tea Museum is set within a century-old colonial tea factory built in 1911. It offers guided tours explaining the historic tea-making process—from leaf plucking to packing—along with tasting sessions of locally grown teas. Visitors can explore vintage machinery, photo exhibits, and enjoy a cup at the onsite tea bar before browsing the souvenir shop. Open daily from approximately 8 AM to 6 PM, with an entry fee of around ₹50 per adult, this museum provides both cultural insight and sensory delight.

Learn about the region’s tea heritage
Exhibits on processing, tasting, and plantation tools
Interactive experiences for all ages

Tribal Dance Performance

Immerse yourself in the vibrant heritage of Wayanad with a captivating tribal dance performance, showcasing the traditional art forms of local indigenous communities such as the Paniyas, Kurumas, and Adiyans. Performed by dancers adorned in colorful attire, natural ornaments, and traditional weapons, each dance narrates stories of ancient rituals, hunting traditions, and devotional practices.

These performances typically include rhythmic drum beats, chanting, and energetic movements—held around a bonfire or at cultural evenings near resorts and community centers. It’s a vivid, sensory-rich experience that not only entertains but also honors the cultural legacy of Wayanad’s tribal communities. Perfect for travelers seeking meaningful cultural immersion alongside their nature retreat.

Showcasing local tribal traditions and stories
Performed at cultural centers or by resorts on request
A unique look into indigenous Wayanad culture

Shopping in Wayanad

Explore Wayanad’s local markets for unique souvenirs like tribal handicrafts, spices, bamboo products, forest honey, and handwoven textiles—authentic treasures that reflect the region’s culture and natural richness

Handicrafts, spices, and bamboo products
Local markets and government emporiums
Great for souvenirs and authentic Kerala produce

Luxury Villa Resort Stay

Experience unparalleled comfort and seclusion with a luxury villa resort stay. Each villa offers spacious interiors, private plunge pools, elegant décor, and scenic views of Wayanad’s lush landscapes. Ideal for couples, families, and exclusive getaways, these villas combine personalized service, wellness amenities, and tasteful design ensuring a retreat that feels like your own private sanctuary amidst nature.

Scenic accommodations surrounded by nature
Private villas, infinity pools, and Ayurvedic spas
Top pick: Wayanad Silverwoods Luxury Lake View Resort

Stay Recommendation:

After ticking off your bucket list, unwind at Wayanad Silverwoods Luxury Lake View Resort. Overlooking Banasura Sagar Dam, this premium resort offers the perfect blend of comfort, nature, and hospitality for families, couples, and solo travelers.

The Local Sightseeing Packages in Wayanad page on Wayanad Silverwoods’ official website offers curated travel experiences for guests who wish to explore Wayanad’s top attractions with ease. From guided tours to iconic spots like Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Pookode Lake, to offbeat gems such as 900 Kandi and tribal villages, these packages are designed to blend convenience with cultural depth. Ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers, the resort ensures comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and personalized itineraries for a seamless and enriching Wayanad getaway.

Explore Wayanad’s Wonders: Top Places to Visit

The Places in Wayanad page at Wayanad Silverwoods is a curated guide to the region’s must-visit attractions ranging from iconic sites like Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, and Banasura Sagar Dam to offbeat gems such as Phantom Rock and 900 Kandi. Each destination is highlighted with brief descriptions, entry details, and suggested activities, making it easy for guests to plan day excursions. Whether you’re drawn to waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, or cultural landmarks, this resource offers an ideal snapshot of Wayanad’s diverse natural and heritage experiences.

Exploring Wayanad – A Curated Adventure Guide

The Exploring Wayanad page on Wayanad Silverwoods offers a thoughtfully organized overview of experiences tailored for guests eager to uncover the region’s essence. From exhilarating outdoor activities like trekking and boating to cultural pursuits such as tribal encounters and traditional cuisine tastings, the guide presents day-by-day suggestions with practical travel tips. Whether you’re seeking wellness, adventure, or immersive local life, this page delivers a well-rounded blueprint to help you fully embrace Wayanad’s natural beauty and cultural charm.

Private Pool Villas at Wayanad Silverwoods

The Discover Your Perfect Wayanad Villa Stay with Pool page showcases the resort’s luxurious lakefront villas, each featuring private plunge pools or jacuzzis with panoramic views of Banasura Sagar Dam. Designed for privacy, romance, and comfort, these villas include elegant interiors, dressing rooms, and intimate dining spaces. Shared amenities include a scenic infinity pool, spotless maintenance with twice-daily cleaning, lifeguard-supervised hours, and poolside changing facilities ideal for families and couples. Additional highlights include in-villa spa treatments, lakeside yoga, and expert-guided adventures to local attractions like Edakkal Caves and Muthanga Sanctuary.