The vast stretches of mist - capped mountains green meadows of valleys, white water springs, blue water lakes and wild forest fabricate the splendid natural beauty of Wayanad. Taking advantage of this natural endowments, recreational facilities in Wayanad can be widened very much.
Pookot Lake Tourist Resort
This lake is located 3 kilometers from the Vythiri town. The lake is one of the most visited tourist places in Wayanad district of Kerala. Pookode Lake is a very vast natural lake which is surrounded by mountains and forests with thick bushes and tall trees, giving the whole atmosphere a calm and spiritual feel. Another unique aspect of this lake is its shape, which resembles the map of India. Boating facilities can be arranged in the Pookode Lake. There is also a fresh water aquarium that has wide varieties of fishes that are managed by the Fisheries Department; a Children’s Park and a spices and handicrafts shopping centre, arranged by DTPC.
Sentinal Rock Water Fall
Also known as Soochipara (needle rock) Fall, the Sentinel Rock Waterfalls is located at Soochipara near Meppadi which is at a distance of 22 kilometers south of Kalpetta. This is a three tired waterfall, at a height of 200 meters, is surrounded by Decidious, Evergreen and Montane forests. The rock waterfalls offer a breath taking views of some of the best tea estates in Wayanad. It is an ideal place for white water rafting, swimming, bathing, rock climbing etc. the tree top huts at Soochipara gives you a unique view of the valleys of the Western Ghats. The pool below the waterfall is good for taking a quick dip.
Kanthan Para Water Fall
Though smaller than the Soochipara waterfalls, the Kanthanpara waterfalls is a must visit location in Wayanad. This is located 8 kilometers from Meppadi and 12 kilometers from Kalpetta.
The Kanthanpara waterfall has a height of about 30 meters in two steps, giving it a feel of two waterfalls. If you wish to spend some quality time with your family or friends, this waterfalls forms the ideal picnic spot. The lush surroundings of the waterfalls makes it a great spot for camping, trekking and swimming.
Kuruva Dweep
The 950 acre protected river delta of Kuruva Dweep, is located in the Kabini River at Wayanad, Kerala. This island is the only one in Kerala that is surrounded with naturally purified water source.
One can get a sight of many rare species of birds, orchids and herbs, as the region has these in plentiful. The island is surrounded by streams and river which can be accessed by rafts or the fiber boats run by the Kerala Tourism Department. Due to the presence of elephants and other animals, entry pass to this island has been made mandatory prior to the visit.
Banasura Dam
Impounding the Karamanathodu tributary of Kabini River, the Banasura Dam supports the Kakkayam Hydro Electric power project. It is located 15 kilometers north west of Kalpetta town. This dam is named after Banasura, who is the son of Mahabali, a respected king of Kerala. The dam’s reservoir has a set of islands that was formed when the surrounding areas was submerged by the reservoir. With the Banasura hills in the backdrop, the islands are given the title of Asia’s Largest Earthen Resort by BBC. Speed and pedal boats are two options through which one can explore this area.
Pazhassi Tourist Resort
A memorial of the great Veera Pazhassi Raja, constructed by the DTPC, the Pazhassi Tomb is located at a park at the Kabani river side. This is located 1 kilometer south of Mananthavady. Pazhassi Raja is known for being the brave warrior who organized guerilla warfare against the British East India Company.
The Pulpally Cave where he took refugee until being captured by the British has a small structure that houses a collection of memorabilia belonging to him.
Lakkidi Ghat Pass
The gateway of Wayanad, Lakkidi is located on the top of the windy turns of the Thamaraserry ghat pass. The travel through the nine hairpin curves from Adivaram to Lakkidi, is a once in a lifetime experience. This road to Lakkidi is set at an elevation of 700 meters above sea level. Lakkidi has emerged as one of the popular destination for tourists. At the Lakkidi view point, one can get amazing views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Sights of thick forests, gorges, streams and plantations greet the visitors at Lakkidi.