Perched at an altitude of 2100 m, Wayanad is a fabulous hill station in Kerala located in the Western Ghats on the borders of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. It is one of the most picturesque hill stations in Kerala, and among the top places to visit near Bangalore. Blessed with verdant green surroundings, scenic views, exotic wildlife, stunning waterfalls, rich history & tantalizing aroma of fresh spices, Wayanad attracts millions of tourists from all around the world as part of Kerala tour packages. However, there are still several unexplored places in Wayanad that make for an idyllic vacation amidst the green corridors of nature.
Here is the list of some stunning unexplored places in Wayanad.
Kuruvadweep
Also known as Kuruva Dweep, Kuruva Island is a cluster of three islands formed by the delta in the River Kabini. Spread over 950 acres of uninhabited area, it is developed as an eco-tourism project and is one of the popular places to visit in Wayanad. These islands are densely populated with rich flora and fauna. Rare species of birds, orchids, and herbs are the main attraction of the island apart from its breathtaking natural beauty. The main Kuruva Island contains two small freshwater lakes. Visitors can get onto the island via bamboo rafts and walk deep into the island to discover rare species of birds, orchids, flowers, and trees.
Also Read : Splendid Places that can be Visited along with Wayanad
Phantom Rock, Ambalavayal
About 20 km from Kalpetta, Phantom Rock is one of the least explored tourist places in Wayanad. It is a natural metamorphic rock formation resembling a human skull and hence the name Phantom Rock. Stands at a height of 2600 feet above sea level at Ambalavayal, Phantom Rock, locally known as Cheengeri Mala, it is an archaeological wonder that can be hardly spotted anywhere else in the world. The landscape here is picturesque and surrounded by beautiful greenery that offers a surreal respite from the crowds and noise as part of Wayanad tour packages. Besides, this place is an exciting spot for trekkers and hikers offering some amazing opportunities for photography.
Must Read : Best Hill Stations near Bangalore
Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Meppadi
If you are looking forward to avoiding mainstream tourist spots in Wayanad, then Kanthampara Falls is one tourist place you must visit as part of Wayanad packages. Kanthanpara is a quaint little waterfall situated near Meppadi town in the Wayanad district of Kerala. It drops down from a height of about 100 feet and is widely acknowledged for its secluded and serene vibe. It is one of the scenic waterfalls in Kerala and among the must-include places in Wayanad packages. The tea gardens on both sides elevate the beauty of the waterfall and provide an excellent spot for soft trekking. This place is a perfect blend of adventure and tourism as the forest department providing bird-watching trips for enthusiasts and a two-hour riverside trek on the banks of the Kanthanpara River for adventure tourists. It is also a paradise for bird watchers as the area is close to the Meppadi Forest range which is home to different species of birds, especially Malabar gray hornbill, Common flame back woodpecker, White-cheeked barbet, and White-throated Kingfisher.
Must Visit : Waterfalls in & around Wayanad
Jain Temple Ruins, Panamaram
It is a lesser-known fact for many travelers that Wayanad was once vastly populated by Jains, who migrated from Karnataka during the 12th century. However, they vanished without a trace a couple of centuries ago. There are two Jain temples in Panamaram called Vishnugudi, and Janardhanagudi, and were the only surviving remnants of lost history. Amidst coffee plantations and right on the sides of a highway lies the architectural relics of Vishnugudi, one of the oldest in India, and among the popular places of heritage in Kerala. Though severely damaged, the temple is an excellent example of a stone sculpting tradition. Some of the heavily carved black and grey walls are still standing and some pieces of the carved granites are laying around. The carvings on the stones depict both Vaishnava and Jain beliefs. The Tirthankara statue inside the temple is missing. The second Jain temple is situated a little ahead in the direction of Nadavayal from the first one and is quite small. The Sanctorum and the cubical ‘Ardha Mantapa’ are intact.
Book Here : Kerala Cab Packages
Pazhassi Raja Tomb
Located in Mananthavady, Pazhassi Raja’s Tomb is another least explored place in the pristine hill station of Wayanad, among the must-include places in the Kerala tour. It is the memorial of the ‘Lion of Kerala’ Veera Pazhassi Raja, a descendant of the Kottayam Royal family. The tomb marks the point where he was cremated after being shot by the British. He was the one who reportedly began the revolt against the East India Company in the region. There is also a museum located nearby where one can see the sword which is believed to have been used by Pazhassi Raja. Today, the place is a popular picnic spot replete with majestic trees and also offers wonderful views of the surrounding valleys of Wayanad. It is one of the best places to visit in Wayanad.
Also Read : Top Reasons to Visit Wayanad