8 Reasons to make wayanad your Next Backpacking

wayanad

Introduction

Nestled amidst the Western Ghats Mountains, Wayanad is one of the magnificent hill stations of Kerala. Wayanad is beautiful with mist-clad mountains, intense forests, and fertile green plantations. The forests here are cosmic landmasses for animals to enjoy their natural dwelling.

The first thing one should know about Wayanad is that it is spotless in its simple yet stunning hilly landscape. Brimming with fragrant tea estates, green meadows, mist, rich valleys, and evergreen forests, in fact, Wayanad undoubtedly contributes to justify Kerala’s title, God’s Own Country.

From Deodars to tea plantations, and waterfalls to rivulets, Wayanad has a variety of natural elements that adds its beauty. And in the tangled jungles and green landscape of Wayanad reside many wild animals like elephants, bison, bears, and even leopards.

Moreover, for those who are planning to go to Wayanad, be prepared to witness some of the most dramatic sunrises and sunsets in life. And as the night takes over, let the dreamer in us take the front seat, for the place gifts its beholders with a sky full of stars! you can book a Bangalore to Wayanad tour package.

The reasons that make Wayanad the best place for backpacking are as follows:

1. The Chembra Peak Trek 

This trek is a 14 km long trek, which takes a total of 6 hrs to travel. to complete, and takes it through the magical grasslands and forests of the Western Ghats. We’ll also come across two lakes, one of which is the incredible heart-shaped Love Lake of Kerala. And when we reach atop, we could spot the towns of Kalpetta & Vythiri in the breathtaking view that we could enjoy.

This trek requires a permit, which can be availed when we reach the entrance gate. The charge is approx. INR 50 per person, along with an additional minimal fee for cameras. Keep in mind that Chembra Peak is a no-plastic zone. So, being responsible for our waste is a must here!

Note: Trekkers are not allowed to begin the trek after 2 pm, so make sure to reach early on. Try trekking early in the morning for the best experience. The entries are open at 7 am.

2. Explore the rich history of the Edakkal Caves

Two mesmerizing natural caves are at 1200 m, the Edakkal Caves are one of the most fascinating places to visit in Wayanad. Having pictorial scripts that go way back to the Neolithic Prehistorian civilization, this place is thus one of its kind. Make sure to see it for its rare carvings, as we brush the surface of the rich history that this place holds.

3. Relish an incredible sunset at the Banasura Sagar Dam

A must-visit place in Wayanad is the Banasura Sagar Dam. This is also the second-largest earthen dam in Asia. Enjoy a mesmerizing sunset while rowing in the calm waters, ending the evening on a blissful note.

4. Trek through the wilderness of Meenmutty Falls

If someone is up for an adventurous hike, then head to Meenmutty Falls. With its longest drop of 1000 ft, the waters gush endlessly here. The water flow gets a little too heavy during the rains, so watch the step when close to it.

5. Try hands at rock climbing at the Soochipara Falls

The Soochipara Waterfall is a delight to the eye which is a  3-tier waterfall in the middle of the evergreen deciduous forests. This is also known as Sentinel Rock Falls. The cliff-face of the falls is also used for rock climbing, so one can give that a shot if weather permits.

6. Row in the Pookode Lake

The Pookode Lake is the highest-altitude freshwater lake in Kerala and offers calming vibes. Indulge in Kayaking or boating, as tourists spot beautiful flowers blooming all around them.

7. Walk through the eternal farms of the Chembra Tea Estate

An endless sea of coffee and tea plantations is the Chembra Estate, which is located right at the base of the Chembra Peak.

8. Go for the incredible Thusharagiri Trek

Although this place is not close to Wayanad, this trek finds a special mention in Wayanad. From rainbow waterfalls and pools, and log bridges to copious greenery, this trek offers enough to overwhelm any backpacker. To go for this trek, first head 50km south of Wayanad towards Kozhikode. The base of the trek is located right by the Kozhikode-Ooty Highway.

Approximately 170 species of butterflies, 45 species of mammals, over 330 species of birds, over 55 species of reptiles and amphibians, and a diversity of other flora and fauna have been recorded in Wayanad. This famous town is popular for its wildlife and its spice plantations. Wayanad is also a part of a forest reserve, located on the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Because of its wild green coverage, it offers great panoramic beauty along with the experience of seeing wildlife.

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