About Wayanad
Area: 2132 Sq. Km. Population:
671,195 Altitude: 700-1200 m above sea level
Wayanad is one of the districts in Kerala that has
been able to retain its pristine nature. Hidden away
in the hills of this land are some of the oldest tribes
of people, who are yet untouched by the fast pace of
civilization. Wayanad is known for its lovely mist clad
hill stations, sprawling spice plantations, luxuriant
forests and rich cultural traditions. The leading tourist
centres of South India like Ootty, Mysore, Coorg, Kozhikode
and Kannur are around this hill station.
Pakshipathalam: This place can be
accessed only be trekking. Rare species of birds can
be sighted from the watch tower of this bird sanctuary.
Chembra Peak: At 2100 m above mean
sea level. Chembra is the highest peak in Wayanad and
is an ideal area for trekking.
Lakkidi: Lakkidi, the gateway to Wayanad,
is situated 700 m above mean sea level, at the crest
of the Thamarasseri Ghat pass. Lofty peaks, gurgling
streams and luxuriant forests add magic to the journey
up the winding roads ti this hill station.
Pookot Lake: This perennial fresh
water lake, nestled among wooded hills, is the only
one of its kind in Kerala. Boating facilities, a children's
park, a handicrafts and spices emporium and a fresh
water aquarium are among the tourist facilities available
here. The lake is 3 Km south of Vythiri Resorts.
Wild Life Sanctuaries:
Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuaries: This sanctuary in Karnataka
State extends over an area of 634.39 Sq. Km. The park
houses diverse species of plant and animal life. It
is about 40 Km from Mananthavady. Visiting hours are
6 am to 8 am and 3 pm to 5.30 pm.
Begur Wildlife Sanctuary: 20 Km from
Mananthavady has a wide variety of animals.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: 15 km
from Sultan Battery. Contiguous with the protected area
network of Nagerhole National Park and Bandipur. Tiger
Reserve, Karnataka in the northeast and Mudumalai in
the southeast, and falls under Project Elephant. The
345 Sq. Km. Muthanga Sanctuary is rich in fauna and
flora. It is second largest in the state. Elephants
roam freely here and tigers are sighted frequently.
Various species of deer, monkeys, birds and so on are
also found here. Trees and plants growing here are typical
of the South Indian moist deciduous forests and West
Coast semi evergreen forests. Best season to visit is
June to October.
Bansura Project, Padinjarathara: A
mini hydel project with the largest earth dam in India
and the second largest in Asia is being built here.
A sprawling sanctuary and park with ever flowering trees
are major tourist attractions. 25 Km northeast of Kalpetta.
Mananthavady Kuruvadweep: this 950
acre, uninhabited island on the eastward bound Kabani
river is an ideal picnic spot. The wooded stretch of
land is home to rare species of birds, orchids and herbs.
Thirunelly Temple: Surrounded by Kambamala.
Karimala and Varadiga, the Thirunelly temple is a marvel
of temple architecture. The shrine is shielded with
30 granite. The crystal clear waters of the Papanasini
river running downhill adds to the enchantment of the
place.
Pazhassi Tomb: Memorial of the Lion
of Kerala - Veera Pazhassi Raja, who organized the guerilla
pattern of waterfare against the British East India
Company.
Sultan Battery Edakkal Caves: The
two caves are located at a height of 1000 m on Ambukutty
Mala near Ambalavayal. The New Stone Age pictorial writings
on the walls of these natural caves at Edakkal are evidence
of the civilisation that existed in these regions in
prehistoric times. The caves can be accessed only by
a 1 Km trekking trail from Edakkal. Morning hours are
the best time to visit the caves. Entry is permitted
only upto 5:00 pm.
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