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Wayanad was formed on November 1 , 1980 as the 12th district, carved out of Kozhikode and Kannur districts. The etymology of the word Wayanad is Vayal (paddy) Naad (land) that is the 'Land of Paddy Fields'. There are many indigenous tribal settlements in this area. It is located on the majestic Western Ghats with altitudes ranging from 700 to 2100 Metres above mean sea level. It offers a natural scenic beauty with rich natural resources and offer several opportunities for adventure tourism. There are a number of hills, rocks and valleys which make the very unique character of Wayanad and provides and meets the demand for adventure tourism. Wayanad offers an unspoilt expanse of virgin rain forests in the Western Ghats in northeastern Kerala.

Places to Visit

Chembra Peak

Chembra peak is the highest peak in Wayanad situated at 2100 ms above sea level. It is located 14 kms west of Kalpetta. Tourists can engage in trekking to the top of this peak which takes almost a day. The beauty of Wayanad is visible from the top of Chembra peak and is very challenging and thrilling. The water in the lake at the top of the hill never dries up even in the peak of summer.

Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

This wildlife sanctuary is also known as the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary is unique for the colours of the forest which changes with the season. This sanctuary is spread over 344 sq km and is about 16 km east of Sulthan Bathery. Elephants, spotted deer, gaur, sambar, sloth bear and many varieties of birds and reptiles can also be seen here.

Pookot Lake

Pookot Lake is located about 13 kms from Kalpetta. It is the most beautiful tourist spot in the whole of Wayanad. The lake is nestled in between the mountains that surround it. Boating in the Pookot Lake is a memorable experience. Tall trees and dense forests line along the pathway around the lake. There is also a freshwater aquarium with a large variety of fish in it.

Pakshipathalam

Pakshipathalam in Bramha Giri hills at Thirunelly is a challenging tourist spot. It is located 7 kms north-east of Thirunelly temple and is situated 1740 m above mean sea level. To reach Pakshipathalam one has to cover 17 kms through wild forest. The deep rock caves formed among the thick blocks of rocks at the northern top end of the Brahmagiri is the abode of various birds and wild beasts. To go to 'Pakshipathalam' special permission has to be obtained from forest department.

Edakkal Caves

Edakkal caves in the Ambukuthi Hills in north Kerala is considered to be one of the earliest centres of human habitation. Inside the cave there are ancient stone scripts, pictorial wall inscriptions of human and animal figures with peculiar headdresses, the swastik form, symbols and cave drawings of human figures, wheels, bows, knives, trees and so on. The caves, which are found around 10 kms from Sultan Bathery are two natural rock formations that are believed to have been formed by a large split in a huge rock.