Things to do in Wayanad
Discover the best attractions and experiences Wayanad has to offer
Historic Monuments
Wayanad's past unfolds in ancient caves, forts, and heritage sites perched in the hills.
Edakkal Caves
Ancient rock shelters with Neolithic petroglyphs, reached after a short hike.
Sulthan Bathery Fort
Ruins from the 18th century offering a glimpse into the region's colonial era.
Ambalavayal Heritage Museum
Museum showcasing traditional life, tools, and crafts of Wayanad's people.
Museums
Wayanad's museums showcase local history, archaeology, and culture.
Sultan Bathery Government Museum
Archaeological and natural history exhibits reflecting the region's heritage.
Ambalavayal Heritage Museum
Displays of rural life, costumes and cultural artifacts from the hills.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites reveal local faiths and architectural styles.
Thirunelli Temple
Ancient temple on Brahmagiri hills with deep spiritual heritage.
Puliyarmala Jain Temple
One of Kerala's notable Jain temples reflecting the region's diverse faiths.
National & Theme Parks
Natural beauty rules here with protected areas and riverine reserves.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
A vast protected area known for its wildlife and forest landscapes.
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
Forest sanctuary offering chances to spot elephants and other wildlife.
Kuruva Island (Kuruva Dweep)
A peaceful river delta on the Kabini with lush forest scenery.
Neighborhoods
Gateway towns and scenic settlements form Wayanad’s backbone.
Kalpetta
District capital and a convenient base for exploring the region.
Sultan Bathery
Historic town with temples, markets and access to hill roads.
Vythiri
Forest-framed town known for its lodges and hillside views.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the outdoors and simple experiences without a fee.
Lakkidi Viewpoint
A panoramic lookout over winding roads and valleys.
Spice Plantation Walk near Meppadi
Stroll through fragrant spice estates and learn about cultivation.
Chembra Peak Base Trek
Begin a scenic trek to the base of Chembra's famed peak.
Gastronomy
Savor Kerala and Malabar flavors in Wayanad's eateries.
Puttu with Kadala Curry
Steamed rice cakes served with black chickpeas curry, a Kerala staple.
Malabar Biryani
Fragrant, flavorful biryani from the Malabar coast.
Kappa & Fish Curry
Tapioca served with spicy fish curry, a regional favorite.
Nightlife
Evenings in Wayanad lean toward relaxed, cultural experiences.
Kathakali performance at a local center
Traditional dance-drama shows reflecting Kerala's culture.
Resort cultural evenings
Live music and folk performances at hillside retreats.
Evening markets and strolls in Kalpetta
Calm, local nighttime wander among shops and cafes.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and showcases add color to evenings.
Kalaripayattu demonstration
Traditional martial arts demonstrations and showcases.
Local film screenings at community venues
Occasional regional film showings in towns.
Cultural evenings at spice estates
Evening shows featuring rustic music and dance.
Sports
Adventure and sport-friendly landscapes abound.
Chembra Peak Trek
Popular hill trek with lush scenery and a heart-shaped lake en route.
Pookode Lake boating
Boating on a tranquil freshwater lake in a forest setting.
Edakkal Caves trek
A forest trail leading to the ancient cave complex.
Off the Track
Go beyond the obvious with intimate, local experiences.
Coffee plantation tour
Visit a hillside coffee estate and learn about processing.
Ambalavayal Heritage Village walk
Explore a recreated village space with traditional houses and crafts.
Kuruva Island nature walk
Gentle walks through the river delta’s forested edges.