Wayanad - A wondrous weekend getaway!

Tripoto
3rd Apr 2015
Photo of Wayanad - A wondrous weekend getaway! by Nikita Mathur

Wayanad is a verdant gift of God to the great state of Kerala. It lies very close to Karnataka border, making it a popular getaway for people from Bangalore.

Photo of Wayanad - A wondrous weekend getaway! 1/2 by Nikita Mathur

How to get there?

The most fun-filled way to get there is by road. It is at a distance of approximately 350 kms. and takes around 7 - 7.5 hours. the roads are good and the journey gets scenic as we move towards Wayanad.

Photo of Wayanad - A wondrous weekend getaway! 2/2 by Nikita Mathur

Also, something to bear in mind is that the route goes through the Bandipur National park and hence, to protect the wildlife, the roads are closed from 9 P.M. to 6 A.M. Hence, it is important to plan accordingly.

Day 1
Photo of Bandipur National Park, Bandipur, Karnataka, India by Nikita Mathur

We booked a cab and thoroughly enjoyed our ride. Cabs might have to stop at the border for State permit as well.

When to visit?

Though, it is said that Wayanad has a salubrious weather, I would suggest you visist around October to February. We went in April and found it quite hot.

Where to stay?

Wayanad has gained popularity as a weekend destination in the recent years, which has given rise to variety of staying options.

You will find comfortable resorts to budget hotel to unique homestays and treehouses. Opt for the kind of place you like.

What to do?

1) Climb up to the Edakkal Caves

These are not technically caves. They are formed by the splitting of rocks. The carving inside, is a proof of pre-historic settlement. The climb is a little tiring but it is worth the effort.

Day 2
Photo of Edakkal Caves, Nenmeni, Kerala, India by Nikita Mathur
Photo of Edakkal Caves, Nenmeni, Kerala, India by Nikita Mathur
Photo of Edakkal Caves, Nenmeni, Kerala, India by Nikita Mathur

2) Enjoy the Soochipara Waterfalls

Also known as sentinel rock waterfall, is surrounded by dense green forests and is a delight in the monsoon season.

Image - google.com

Photo of Wayanad - A wondrous weekend getaway! by Nikita Mathur

Once people reach the parking area, they have to pass through a security check at the entrance where they make sure you don't carry any plastic. It takes 10-15 minutes walk to the waterfalls and water flow is less during summer, which makes it easy to reach the rocks where water falls. unfortunately for us, April was not a good time.

3) Boating at the Pookode lake

Pookode is a natural freshwater lake nestling amid evergreen forests and mountain slopes.The lake has the shape of India's map.The lake has abundance of blue lotus, blue water lillies and fresh water fishes.

Photo of Pookode Lake, Pookode, Kerala by Nikita Mathur

There is boating available here, a few eateries for some snacking & fish massage is also done here.

Photo of Pookode Lake, Pookode, Kerala by Nikita Mathur

4) Visit the Banasura Sagar Dam

It is the largest earthen dam in India and the second largest in Asia and a starting point for hikes into the surrounding mountains like the Banasura hill.

Day 3
Photo of Banasura Sagar Dam, Padinjarathara, Kerala by Nikita Mathur
Photo of Banasura Sagar Dam, Padinjarathara, Kerala by Nikita Mathur

5) Climb the Chembra peak

It is the tallest summit of Wayanad. It has become a popular destination among hikers. We were a group of all ages and physical capability, so we had to forgo of this activity but maybe next time!