Wayanad
Wayanad District, in the north-east of Kerala, India, was formed on November 1, 1980 as the 12th district, carved out of Kozhikode and Kannur districts. The etymology of the word Wayanad is Vayal (paddy) Naad (land); 'Land of Paddy Fields'. There are many indigenous tribals in this area. It is set lofty on the majestic Western Ghats with altitudes ranging from 700 to 2100 Metres above mean sea level.
In and Around Wayanad
Ambalavayal Heritage Museum:
Located12 km south of Sulthan Bathery The exhibits here include rare 2nd century artifacts such as clay sculptures, ancient hunting equipments like stone weapons, bows and arrows and other curios.
Chembra Peak:
Located amidst panoramic surroundings, the Chembra peak is at an altitude of 2,100m above sea level. An ideal spot for trekking, Chembra Peak is a very beautiful spot close to the Western Ghats. The Chembra Hills and the adjacent Meppadi hills are accessible from Kalpetta.
Kuruva Island:
Located 17 km east of Mananthavadi, the island stretches over 950 acres of evergreen forests on the banks of Themkabani River. The island is a storehouse of rare species of animals, birds, orchids and herbs.
Pakshipathalam:
7 km north east of Thirunelli, this picturesque bird watching center is located at a height of 1740 m above sea level. With its steep hills, virgin forests and rivulets, it is the habitat of a number of rare species of birds. It also offers challenging avenues for those interested in trekking.
Thirunelli Temple:
Located 30 km north west of Mananthavadi in the Wayanad district, Thirunelli Temple is known as the "Kashi of South". Tucked away in the Brahmagiri Hills, Thirunelli Temple is enclosed by the rippling River Papanasini.
Valliyoorkkavu Temple:
Located 3 km east of Mananthavadi Valliyoorkkavu temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is very popular among the tribal communities of the district. The ten-day annual festival, which takes place in April, is celebration time for the tribesmen.
Vythiri:
Vythiri is a picturesque place situated in the sylvan Northern High Ranges of Kerala in the Wayanad District. Vythiri is refreshing, pollution free and appealing.
How to Reach Wayanad
Air: The nearest airport to Wayanad district is at Kozhikode, 75 km from Kalpetta. Bangalore International Airport is 290 km from Kalpetta.
Rail: Nearest train station is at Kozhikode, 75 km from Kalpetta.
Road:
Route from Bangalore to Wayanad
The drive from Bangalore to Wayanad is 284km
Route from Calicut to Wayanad
The drive from Kannur to Wayanad is 75km
