Based at Thalapuzha, Wayanad
Some of India's most beautiful hill country — and you're right in the middle of it.
Wayanad sits high in the Western Ghats of northern Kerala, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve — one of the world's 18 biodiversity hotspots. This is coffee country, spice country, tea country. Dense shola forests give way to terraced hillsides carpeted in cardamom and pepper. Rivers cut through valleys lined with bamboo groves. The air genuinely smells different here.
The district is also deeply layered in history. Wayanad's indigenous Adivasi communities — the Kurichya, Kuruma and Paniya among others — have lived in these forests for millennia. Their heritage is woven into the landscape: in cave paintings older than the Egyptian pyramids, in temples that predate written records, in the rhythms of a place that still operates on its own unhurried clock.
Ichumma's Homestays is located at Thalapuzha, near Mananthavady — positioned with exceptional convenience for exploring the district's finest attractions. Banasura Sagar Dam, Kuruva Island and Thirunelli Temple are all within 30 km. Most other major sights are within a comfortable half-day drive. This guide covers everything worth visiting, with honest distances and practical tips.
25 KM
Nature
India's largest earthen dam, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Banasura Hills. The serene reservoir is perfect for morning walks along the bund, boating trips, and watching the mist roll off the water at dawn. The surrounding landscape is extraordinary — forested peaks reflected in still water, with almost no crowds if you arrive early.
30 KM
Nature
A protected uninhabited river delta island spread across 950 acres of dense shola forest on the Kabani River. The only way to reach it is by bamboo raft, and that short crossing is itself a joy. Inside, trails wind through tall trees draped with orchids and bromeliads, while rare birds call from the canopy above. Peaceful, fragrant, and utterly unlike anything else in Kerala.
One of Kerala's most sacred and atmospheric ancient temples, set inside a dense forest clearing near the Karnataka border. The approach road itself, winding through tall trees with occasional glimpses of mist-covered hills, is extraordinary. The temple complex — believed to be thousands of years old — carries a quiet spiritual gravity that stays with you long after you leave.
53 KM
Heritage
Natural fissure caves on Ambukuthi Mala containing petroglyphs and pictographs believed to date back more than 6,000 years — some of the oldest evidence of human habitation found in South India. The short but steep 1.5 km trek to the caves rewards you with sweeping panoramic views across the Wayanad valleys. A genuinely remarkable place, combining prehistory, nature and a proper walk.
Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Muthanga (Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary) section is among the best places in Kerala for elephant sightings. The forest also shelters gaur, spotted deer, leopards, wild dogs, sambar and over 200 species of birds. Jeep safaris run in the early morning when animal activity is highest — book your slot the day before through the forest department.
53 KM
Nature
Kerala's second largest irrigation dam sits across the Karapuzha River, creating a wide, peaceful reservoir with forested banks and distant hills. It's an excellent spot for a quiet afternoon drive — walk along the bund, watch the water birds, and take in a sunset that turns the whole reservoir gold. Families often set up picnics on the grassy banks on weekends.
60 KM
Nature
A natural freshwater lake nestled at about 770m altitude, entirely surrounded by subtropical forest. The forest department maintains well-kept walkways around the lake, a small aquarium and pedal boats on the water — making it one of Wayanad's most family-friendly destinations. The reflections of the tree line in the still water on a clear morning are genuinely beautiful.
64 KM
Adventure
Also called Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, this is one of Wayanad's most dramatic natural spectacles — a three-tiered cascade tumbling 200 feet through dense evergreen forest into a deep natural pool below. The 2 km trek through the forest to reach the falls is half the experience. Swimming is permitted in the pool. Rappelling and trekking activities are available nearby for those who want more adventure.
At 2,100 metres, Chembra is the highest peak in Wayanad and one of the most rewarding day treks in Kerala. The 5 km trail climbs through grasslands and shola forest, passing a famous heart-shaped lake near the summit that never dries up — a striking natural feature. The views from the top span three states: Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Permits are required and available at the forest checkpost.
Pick your starting city and we'll map out the perfect Wayanad getaway — with evenings spent at Ichumma's enjoying the pool, campfire and starlit skies.
A few things worth knowing before you set out to explore the district.
October to February brings clear skies and the most pleasant temperatures. Monsoon (June–September) is lush and dramatic, but some forest roads can be tricky. March to May is warm but still beautiful.
Most attractions are best reached by car. Auto-rickshaws are available in Mananthavady town for shorter trips. For a relaxed day out covering multiple sights, we recommend hiring a local driver — they often know the best detours and photo spots.
Light cotton or breathable clothes work well for most of the year. Pack a light rain jacket — Wayanad can surprise you. Sturdy closed footwear is essential for any trek. Bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and some cash for entry tickets and local eateries.
Wayanad is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Please carry all waste out with you, avoid single-use plastic, stay on marked trails at sanctuaries, and observe wildlife from a safe distance. These forests have been here for millions of years — let's keep them that way.
Your base in the heart of Wayanad
Ichumma's Homestays at Thalapuzha — the ideal starting point for everything this extraordinary district has to offer.
