The Edakkal Caves located in the remote town of Ambukutty Mala are a fascinating site. These caves are known for their ancient rock art and inscriptions that date back to the Indus Valley civilization. The caves consist of three chambers that are accessible through narrow passages. Once you reach the caves, the climb up to the site is steep but worth it for the incredible views of the surrounding mountains. A visit to these caves takes around 3 hours but it's best to go early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Chembra Peak is the highest peak in Wayanad and is located near Meppadi town. The hike up the peak is around 4.5 km and takes around 3-4 hours to complete. It is recommended to hire a guide as the steep trail can be difficult to navigate. The summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trek is not for the faint-hearted, but it is worth the effort.
The Banasura Sagar Dam is located near the town of Kalpetta. It is the largest earth dam in India and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Visitors can go boating on the reservoir or take a trek up to the nearby hills. There is also a small park nearby where you can enjoy a picnic. This scenic spot is perfect for nature-lovers.
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can take a jeep safari to explore the sanctuary and spot animals like elephants, tigers and leopards. There are also nature trails for trekking and bird watching. The sanctuary is closed during the monsoon season from June to August.
If you have more time, you can visit the Soochippara Falls or the Karapuzha Dam. If you have less time, you can skip the Chembra Peak trek and visit the Meenmutty Falls instead. Keep in mind that the roads in Wayanad can be winding and narrow, so it's best to hire a car or driver for your trip.