Nestled in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is the least populous district in Kerala and is known for its mist-laden mountains, lush forests and green paddy fields stretching up to the horizon. With an altitude ranging from 700 to 2100 m, the climate of Wayanad is pleasant throughout the year.
With a large part of the district covered by forests, Wayanad is home to some endangered species of animals and nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts can visit the numerous sanctuaries here. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, the second largest in Kerala was established in 1973. Typical of the Western Ghats, the landscape of the sanctuary is mountainous and temperatures range between 17-21 degrees centigrade. The nearest airport and railway station is in Kozhikode (Calicut) from where regular buses ply to the sanctuary.
Agriculture is the main means of economy here. Coffee, tea, cocoa, pepper, plantain and vanilla are the main crops grown here. Besides these, the most important crop in the district is rice.
Various evidences like edicts and caves at Ampukuthimala point to the fact that the Wayanad region existed since the beginning of the new age civilization. However, careless deforestation poses a serious threat to the land.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN WAYANAD
Rooms in Wayanad remain booked between the months of February and April due to several festivals in temples and churches. The Tree House stay at the nearby f Vythiri offers comfortable accommodation in the lap of nature. There are several other cottages and resorts in the region. Some of these come with amazing views of the surrounding area.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN WAYANAD
Restaurants attached to hotels and resorts are good options to eat. These are mostly multi-cuisine places offering various vegetarian and non-vegetarian options and remain open till 11 pm. Try the local Kerala cuisine that includes items like rice, rasam, sambhar, avvial, pal payasam etc. There are a few cafes and eateries located on the highways offering quick snacks, tea and coffee.
BEST TIME TO VISIT WAYANAD
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Wayanad is as given below. The best time to visit Wayanad is also specified.
