Northern Kerala · 700–2100 m altitude
Thick rainforests, 3,000-year-old prehistoric caves with rock art, thundering waterfalls, a heart-shaped trekking lake and a vibrant tribal culture make Wayanad one of Kerala's most diverse, adventurous and culturally rich destinations.
Free quote · Reply within 2 hours
About Wayanad
Wayanad is Kerala's most northerly and least-explored hill district — a vast plateau of dense rainforests, coffee and cardamom estates, and ancient tribal settlements between 700 and 2,100 metres above sea level. Unlike Munnar's tea garden prettiness, Wayanad is wilder, more dramatic and more culturally layered.
The district's crown jewel is the Edakkal Caves — twin natural caves containing prehistoric rock engravings dating back 3,000–6,000 years, discovered in 1894 by British civil servant Fred Fawcett. These pictographs of humans, animals and symbols are among the oldest evidence of human settlement in Kerala. The climb to the caves involves natural rock passages and a spectacular hilltop view.
The Chembra Peak trek (2,100 m) is famous for the heart-shaped lake near the summit — said to never dry up even in summer. The thundering Soochipara Falls and towering Meenmutty Falls (the largest in Wayanad) cascade through the forest, while the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary offers elephant and gaur spotting by jeep safari.
Must-Do Experiences
Ancient caves, heart-shaped lakes, roaring waterfalls and wild elephants — Wayanad packs an extraordinary variety into one district.
Two natural caves on Ambukuthi Hill containing prehistoric rock engravings 3,000–6,000 years old — depicting humans, animals and symbols in a style unique to Kerala. A challenging but rewarding climb through natural rock fissures leads to one of South India's most extraordinary archaeological sites.
Soochipara (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls) is a 3-tiered cascade through the rainforest — a short trek leads to a natural pool at the base perfect for a swim. Meenmutty Falls (300 m, one of Kerala's largest) requires a 2 km forest trek — the sight of the three-tiered fall through the shola forest is unforgettable.
Wayanad's most famous trek — a 7 km climb to Kerala's highest peak at 2,100 m. Midway, the legendary heart-shaped lake (a natural formation in the mountain) is believed to never dry up. The summit offers panoramic views of three states — Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Trek permit required.
Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Muthanga offers jeep safaris through dense deciduous forests. Regular sightings include wild elephants, gaur (Indian bison), sambar deer, spotted deer, and wild boar. The sanctuary connects to Nagarhole (Karnataka) and Bandipur (Karnataka) — one of India's largest continuous wildlife corridors.
Photo Gallery
Ancient caves, emerald forests, roaring waterfalls — every frame is a painting.
Day-by-Day Plan
A perfectly paced 4-day forest and adventure escape through Wayanad's greatest landscapes.
Pickup from Calicut Airport (80 km, ~2 hrs) or Kochi (270 km, ~6 hrs). Arrive Wayanad — check in to jungle resort or treehouse. Evening visit to Banasura Sagar Dam — India's largest earthen dam with stunning reservoir views and the Banasura hills rising behind it. Sunset at Pookode Lake — a natural freshwater lake surrounded by forest with a small island and boating facility. Overnight Wayanad.
Early morning visit to Edakkal Caves on Ambukuthi Hill — climb through natural rock corridors to the cave with 3,000-year-old pictographs. Stunning views from the hilltop. Afternoon drive to Soochipara Waterfalls (Sentinel Rock) — a 2 km forest trek leads to the 3-tier cascade with a natural swimming pool at the base. Optional detour to Meenmutty Falls (300 m — one of Kerala's tallest) via a 2 km jungle path. Overnight Wayanad.
Full-day Chembra Peak trek (7 km up, 7 km return, ~6–7 hours total). Start at Muppainad base with a forest department guide (permit required). The trail ascends through shola grasslands and forests — midway, the famous heart-shaped lake that never dries up. Summit at 2,100 m offers breathtaking views across Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Return by afternoon. Overnight at resort with well-earned rest.
Morning Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary jeep safari (6:30 AM) — the best time for elephant and bison sightings in the forest. Visit a Kurichiya/Paniya tribal village — one of Wayanad's most culturally rich experiences, with a local guide explaining the tribe's unique traditions, forest knowledge and traditional medicine. Depart for Calicut/Kochi with forest-scented memories and a bag full of Wayanad coffee and honey.
Transparent Pricing
Travel Tips
October to May is ideal — waterfalls are full post-monsoon (Oct–Dec), skies are clear (Jan–Mar) and trekking conditions are best (Nov–May). Chembra Peak trek permit is available October–May only. June–September monsoon brings leeches and slippery trails — only for experienced trekkers.
The Chembra Peak trek is a moderate 7 km ascent — requires reasonable fitness. Wear proper trekking shoes (not sandals), carry 2 litres of water and a light snack. Start by 7 AM to be back before dark. The forest dept guide is mandatory — book your permit 2 days in advance from the Muppainad Range Office.
Wayanad has some of India's best treehouse accommodation — staying in a treehouse 40–50 feet above the ground in a coffee estate or rainforest is a magical experience unique to this region. Book Jungle Retreat, Tree House Hideaway or similar properties for an unforgettable night in the canopy.
Wayanad produces some of India's finest Arabica coffee — grown at altitude in the shade of native trees. Buy fresh roasted beans directly from estates or the Kalpetta market. The mild, fruity Wayanad Arabica is a world away from commercial blends and makes the best souvenir of the district.
Traveller Stories
The Chembra Peak summit view was worth every step — three states visible from the top, the heart-shaped lake halfway up shimmering in the morning mist. Hire Himachal Cab arranged the permit, guide and transport flawlessly. Our driver knew every trail, every shortcut. Best Kerala trip ever!
The Edakkal Caves blew my mind — standing inside a narrow rock crevice looking at drawings made 5,000 years ago was indescribable. Soochipara Falls afterwards was a perfect contrast. Hire Himachal Cab's timing was perfect — we had the caves nearly to ourselves before the crowds arrived!
Staying in a treehouse in Wayanad was the most magical night of our family holiday — my kids were completely awestruck. Muthanga jeep safari the next morning saw wild elephants from 30 metres. Hire Himachal Cab organised every detail perfectly. Wayanad is a hidden gem!
Common Questions
Free Consultation
Fill the form and receive a fully customised Wayanad adventure package — guaranteed within 2 hours.
Call our Kerala team directly:
+91- 6230261947Book your Wayanad adventure with Hire Himachal Cab — trek permits, safari bookings, treehouse stays — all arranged.
⚡ Chembra trek permits are limited — book 2 days ahead during peak season!