Wayanad
Regarded as one of the most scenic natural location in Kerala, Wayanad is nestled amidst Western Ghats at an altitude of 700-211 mt above sea level. The name Wayanad is derived from malayalam word Vayalnadu which means ‘a land of paddy fields’. Wayanad was formed in 1980 by carving out arts of Kannur and Kozhikode districts. The distirct comprises of Mananthavady, Vythiri and Sulthan Bathery region. The panoramic regions is bounded in the north by Coorg district of Karnataka, Calicut and Kannur district on the west and Malappuram district on the south.
A nature lover’s deligt, alsmost 60% of Wayanad comprised of rolling mist clad hills and thick, virgin forestation. The beauty of Wayanad has to be seen to be believed- a paradise for nature photography, it springs forth one pleasant surprise after another. The district is known for its sprawling tea, coffee, rubber, cardamom and spice plantations covering its landscape under a blanket of green. A special mention must be made about Wayanad’s black pepper, the aroma and quality of which is world famous.
Wayandad is also an ancient historical town with the caves at Ampukuthimala from New stone age existing as a testimony to its past. Possessing a rich history, the region has witnessed changing of hands, take overs and shifting of dynasities on numerous occassions. Initially ruled by the Vedar Rajas, the district later fell in the hands of Mysore invasions and Pazhaasi Rajas, the latter was involved in fierce battle against the british colonial rule who went on to rule the region for about 2 centuries.
Regarded as the district with the hightest populatio of aborigins in Kerala, certain parts of Wayanad are inhabited by Adivasis(tribals) sects like Kurumas, Paniyas, Kurichyas, Adiyars, and Kattunaikans. Wayanad has managed to preserve the vibrant tribal folks like Kooliattom and Vattakkali. Exciting trekking routes, wildlife encounters and plantations visits are some of Wayanad’s popular attractions. Another advantage is that visiotors to Wayanad may easily access popular tourist destinaitons located nearby including Ooty, Bangalore, Mysore and Coorg.
Wayanad (Places to see)
• Meenmutty Water Fall
• Thirunelly Temple
• Edakkal Caves
• Kuruva Island
• Muthanga Wild Life Sanctuary
Climate & Best time to Visit
One of the chief characteristic of Wayanad is its pleasat seasaon during most of the year. The minimum temperature is around 18 degrees whereas the maximum is around 29 degrees. The region experiences heavy rainfall during South-west monsoon season prior to which humidity level may reach upto 95 %.
Summers: March to May
Winters: December to February
South west monsoon: June to September
North east monsoon: October- November
The hill station may be visited any time of the year except during the South-west monsoons.
Wayanad(How to Reach)
By Air: Calicut at about 105 km has the nearest international airport.
By Rail: Caliciut railway station at 105 km is the nearest one.
By Road: Kozhikode (75 km), Mysore(140 km), Ooty (125 km) are the nearest towns well connected by a network of road and highways.
