Wayanad district come into existence on first November 1980 by taking out certain areas from the Kozhikode and Kannur districts. It was the twelfth district in the north east zone of Kerala.
Location of Wayanad: It is bound in the east direction by the famous Nilgiris and Mysore. On the north it is surrounded by Coorg. In the south direction by Malappuram and on the west side it is surrounded by Kozhikode and Kannur.
Lesser known facts about Wayanad:
1. This place was once known as Mayakshetra centuries ago. Mayakshetra soon came to be known as Mayanad and later on as Wayanad. According to the legends its name actually implies ‘The land Of Paddy Fields’.
2. The famous Thirunelli Temple is an extremely old temple on the foot of Brahmagiri in Wayanad.
3. Kuruva Dweep is one of its kind and fragile delta system on the Kabini River.
4. The Kerala district is best known for its extensive wildlife viewing opportunities. It also provides one with excellent adventure sports opportunities like trekking as well as camping expeditions. There are several historical monuments that you can explore while here.
5. Wayanad is also known for its spices cultivation. Spices such as coffee, black pepper, turmeric, arecanut, rubber, vanilla, ginger, cocoa, tea are extensively cultivated here.
How to Reach:
Air: The closest airport is at Kozhikode in Calicut which is at a distance of approximately hundred kilometers from Wayanad. One can also reach this place from Cochin airport which is at a distance of three hundred kilometers, a bit far but accessible.
Rail: The closest railway station is at Calicut which is about hundred and ten kilometers away. Wayanad is well connected by several railway networks with frequent trains from plenty of cities.
Road: Wayanad is well accessible through road from several nearby cities as well as neighboring states.
Places to see in Wayanad:
1. Chembra Peak: This peak towering at a height of two thousand and hundred meters is the highest peak in the whole of Wayanad. This place is perfect for trekking and hiking opportunities. Climbing to the top of this peak is a challenging effort and takes about one full day. The panoramic beauty of Wayanad, seen from the top of this peak, is absolutely breathtaking. This place spells bliss for photographers. Camping on top of the peak is a an out of the world experience.
2. Neelimala: This is view point near Vaduvanchal. This place offers excellent trekking opportunity for trekkers with exciting trails. The top of the hill offers an amazing view of the Meenmutty falls and the breathtaking valley.
3. Meenmutty Falls: This is an intriguing two kilometer long jungle trek away from the chief Ooty Road. Meenmutty is the most dramatic and the largest waterfall in this place. The unique feature of this fall is that the water falls about three hundred meters over three step like stages.
4. Sentinal Rock Waterfalls: These falls are situated at a distance of twenty two kilometers towards the south of Kalpetta close to Chooralmala. These falls are also known as Soochippara and are quite popular amongst the tourists as well as the people staying there. This is also a three step waterfall falling from a height of two hundred meters. A must visit place!
We will discuss more tourist attractions in Wayanad in Part 2
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