Top Wayanad Tourist Places with Map & Family Travel Guide

Wayanad, nestled in the lush Western Ghats of Kerala, is a perfect escape for nature lovers, families, and adventure seekers. With misty hills, cascading waterfalls, ancient caves, and wildlife sanctuaries, Wayanad offers something for everyone. This blog will include a complete Wayanad tourist places map, handpicked family-friendly destinations, and a detailed guide to Kalpetta and Mananthavady tourist places.

Wayanad Tourist Places Map Overview

✅ Use Google Maps or Kerala Tourism’s official site for an interactive Wayanad tourist places map to plan your travel route easily.

Top 10 Famous Tourist Places in Wayanad for Family

Below are some of the best Wayanad tourist places for family trips. We’ve included attractions from Kalpetta, Mananthavady, and other key regions in Wayanad.

1. Pookode Lake (Kalpetta)

Main Highlights:

• A freshwater lake surrounded by forests
• Boating, fish spa, and children’s park

Details: Located near Kalpetta, this serene lake is ideal for boating and picnics. The surrounding area has a handicrafts shop, an aquarium, and a play zone for kids.

Best Time to Visit: October to May

Tips:

• Visit in the morning to avoid crowds
• Pedal boats are safe for kids

2. Banasura Sagar Dam (Kalpetta)

Main Highlights:

• The largest earth dam in India
• Speed boating, zip-lining, and a nature park

Details: This dam offers scenic views, adventure activities, and a perfect picnic spot. Surrounded by Banasura hills, it’s a visual treat.

Best Time to Visit: September to February

Tips:

• Carry sun protection gear
• Adventure sports are paid for separately

3. Edakkal Caves (Sulthan Bathery)

Main Highlights:

• Prehistoric rock engravings
• Trekking trail through Ambukutty hills

Details: These caves are over 6,000 years old and have ancient carvings. The trek to the cave offers panoramic views of Wayanad.

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Tips:

• Not suitable for infants or the elderly
• Wear proper shoes for trekking

4. Soochipara Falls (Meppadi)

Main Highlights:

• Three-tiered waterfall
• Surrounded by tea estates

Details: Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, it’s a great place for a refreshing dip. A short forest trek takes you to the base.

Best Time to Visit: July to January

Tips:

• Avoid the monsoon due to slippery paths
• Carry an extra pair of clothes

5. Chembra Peak (Meppadi)

Main Highlights:

• Heart-shaped lake
• The highest peak in Wayanad

Details: This is one of the most adventurous tourist places in Wayanad. The trek to the top takes 3–4 hours and offers stunning views.

Best Time to Visit: September to March

Tips:

• Prior permission is required
• Trek is moderate to difficult

6. Thirunelli Temple (Mananthavady)

Main Highlights:

• 1,000+ year-old temple
• Set in the Brahmagiri hills

Details: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this is one of the most sacred Mananthavady tourist places. The serene setting enhances the spiritual experience.

Best Time to Visit: All year round

Tips:

• Wear traditional attire
• Combine with a visit to the nearby Papanasini River

7. Pakshipathalam (Mananthavady)

Main Highlights:

• Deep caves and exotic birdwatching
• 7 km trek through the forest

Details: This is a paradise for bird watchers and trekkers. You can spot rare species and enjoy untouched nature.

Best Time to Visit: October to February

Tips:

• Trekking pass required
• Carry water and snacks

8. Kuruva Island (Near Mananthavady)

Main Highlights:

• 950-acre river delta island
• Bamboo rafting, eco-tourism

Details: A perfect place for a peaceful family outing amidst thick forests and river streams. The island is home to rare flora and fauna.

Best Time to Visit: November to April

Tips:

• Entry is regulated; go early
• Avoid plastic items

9. Jain Temple (Sulthan Bathery)

Main Highlights:

• 13th-century Jain architecture
• Historical and religious importance

Details: Built in the Vijayanagara style, this temple is a lesser-known gem and a must-visit for culture lovers.

Best Time to Visit: October to February

Tips:

• No entry fee
• Visit early morning for the best light

10. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Muthanga)

Main Highlights:

• Elephant sightings, deer, tigers
• Jeep safari in the dense jungle

Details: Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, this sanctuary is perfect for wildlife photography and family adventure.

Best Time to Visit: October to May

Tips:

• Book safari slots early
• No feeding or teasing animals

Kalpetta Tourist Places

Kalpetta, the district headquarters of Wayanad, serves as a central hub for many tourist destinations. Key places include:

• Pookode Lake
• Banasura Sagar Dam
• Puliyarmala Jain Temple
• Wayanad Heritage Museum

✅ Kalpetta is ideal for families looking for scenic yet accessible places in Wayanad.

Mananthavady Tourist Places

Mananthavady is known for its green hills and spiritual significance. Famous Mananthavady tourist places include:

• Thirunelli Temple
• Pakshipathalam Trek
• Kuruva Island
• Brahmagiri Hills View Point

🚗 Mananthavady also serves as a good base for exploring north Wayanad.

Travel Tips for Visiting Wayanad

• Transport: Rent a car or bike to explore Wayanad at your own pace.
• Stay: Kalpetta, Meppadi, and Mananthavady have good resorts and homestays.
• Food: Try Kerala Sadya, Malabar Parotta, and Bamboo Rice.
• Safety: Always carry ID cards; follow eco-tourism rules.

Activity Table: Best Wayanad Tourist Places for Family

Wayanad is more than just a destination—it’s an experience. Whether you’re traveling with kids, parents, or a group of friends, this Wayanad tourist places map and family travel guide helps you discover the best attractions with all the information you need. Don’t forget your camera—Wayanad is as photogenic as it is peaceful!

📌 Bookmark this blog before you pack your bags for Wayanad!