Wayanad Experiences & Activities

Things to Do in Wayanad

Wayanad offers a rare blend of active outdoor adventure, wildlife encounters, ancient heritage, and peaceful moments surrounded by mist-covered hills. Here are the most rewarding experiences to plan during your stay.

01

Mountain Trekking & Sunrise Ridge Hikes

Hike to the legendary heart-shaped lake on Chembra Peak (under Forest Department supervision) or climb the monolithic peak of Kurumbalakkotta before dawn to watch the 360-degree sunrise above a sea of clouds.

02

Wildlife & Forest Jeep Safaris

Embark on official open-jeep forest department safaris into Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary or Tholpetty Sanctuary, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, for sightings of wild elephant herds, Indian bison (gaur), spotted deer, and hornbills.

03

Waterfall Walks & Forest Stream Hikes

Descend through forested trails to the three-tiered cascade of Soochipara Waterfalls, admire the gentle stream and bamboo banks of Kanthanpara, or view the dramatic gorge drops of Meenmutty.

04

Lakeside Boating & Bamboo River Rafting

Rent pedal boats amidst floating lilies at Pookode Lake, take exhilarating speedboats across the island-dotted Banasura Sagar reservoir, or navigate the braided river streams of Kuruva Island on traditional bamboo rafts.

05

Ancient Rock Art & Heritage Exploration

Climb the steps of Ambukuthi Mala to inspect Stone Age petroglyphs at Edakkal Caves, examine ancient hero stones (Veerakkallu) at the Wayanad Heritage Museum, or visit the historic 30-pillar Thirunelly Temple in the Brahmagiri forest.

06

Canopy Adventures & Skywalks

Traverse the wild rainforests of 900 Kandi (Thollayiram Kandi) on rugged 4x4 jeep tracks and step out onto suspended glass skybridges with breathtaking panoramic drops into the green canopy below.

07

Indigenous Culture & Living Heritage

Visit En Ooru Tribal Heritage Village near Pookode to discover traditional architecture built from mud and thatch, taste authentic indigenous tribal dishes, and purchase organic forest produce and bamboo crafts directly from local artisans.

08

Tea & Coffee Plantation Walks

Wander along emerald tea garden paths in Meppadi and Vythiri, learn about the cultivation of Robusta coffee and Malabar black pepper, and experience the slow, restorative pace of plantation living in the high hills.

09

Scenic Mountain Ghat Drives

Drive the winding curves of the Thamarassery Churam pass to Lakkidi Viewpoint, or take the quiet, shaded forest road leading up through Brahmagiri to Thirunelly, surrounded by towering teak and bamboo groves.

Responsible Eco-Tourism

Travel Mindfully Across the Hills

Wayanad is home to delicate ecosystems, ancient indigenous communities, and wildlife corridors. Practicing responsible travel ensures these landscapes remain protected.

Zero Plastic Tolerance

Forest reserves, waterfalls and peaks enforce strict plastic checks. Always carry reusable bottles and pack out all wrappers and waste.

Respect Forest Safety

Adhere to forest department regulations, stay on designated trails, and never venture into untamed river currents or closed forest areas.

Support Local Artisans

Purchase forest honey, spices, and bamboo crafts directly from tribal cooperative societies and local producers.

Your Base in Wayanad

Pair Your Activities With a Restorative Stay

After a day spent trekking summits, cruising lakes, and spotting elephants, return to the quiet luxury and attentive care of Penta Mountz retreats.

Montana Wild hillside stay illuminated at twilight in Wayanad mist Wayanad, Kerala

Montana Wild

A nature-oriented hospitality experience in Wayanad, offering guests a setting to disconnect from the everyday and embrace the character of the hills.

Grand Wish Wayanad accommodation setting and hills Wayanad, Kerala

Grand Wish

A welcoming stay in the landscapes of Wayanad, created for guests looking to slow down, reconnect and experience the destination at their own pace.

Misty Ridge Resort illuminated swimming pool at night in Vythiri Wayanad Wayanad, Kerala

Misty Ridge

A peaceful Wayanad retreat where the landscape becomes part of the stay, designed around comfort, calm and the feeling of getting away.

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