Wayanad
About this place
The lush hill-station district neighbouring Kozhikode — the region's classic weekend getaway, reached via the scenic Thamarassery Churam, with peaks, waterfalls, caves, lakes and plantations.
The Classic Getaway from Calicut
Wayanad, the green highland district bordering Kozhikode, is the most popular weekend escape from the city. The drive itself — up the misty hairpin bends of Thamarassery Churam — sets the tone for a cool, scenic retreat among tea, coffee and spice plantations.
What to Explore
Highlights include Chembra Peak (with its heart-shaped lake) and other treks, Soochipara and Meenmutty waterfalls, the ancient Edakkal Caves with prehistoric carvings, Banasura Sagar Dam, Pookode Lake, and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Muthanga/Tholpetty) for spotting elephants and more.
Good to Know
About 70–85 km from Kozhikode (roughly a 2.5–3 hour drive via the ghat). It's best enjoyed as an overnight or weekend trip, with plenty of resorts and homestays. The cool weather makes it pleasant much of the year; monsoon is lush but roads can be slippery.
Travel info
Distance
~70–85 km east (2.5–3 hr via Thamarassery Churam)
Type
Hill-station district — weekend getaway
Must-See
Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Falls, Banasura Dam, Pookode Lake
Best For
Overnight/weekend trips, nature & trekking