TOURIST PLACES IN SULTHAN BATHERI-WAYANAD | BEST OF WAYANADU | BEST TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN WAYANADU | SOUTH INDIA TOURISM

Sultan Bathery, also known as Sulthan's Battery lies approximately 25 kms. from Kalpetta. Associated with Hyder Ali and Tipu Sulthan, Sulthan's Bathery no longer has a fort. It is worth visiting for the Jain temple, which has some interesting stone carvings. Sulthan Bathery can be seen on a drive from Kalpetta to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Muthanga.

Edakkal caves

      12 kms from Sulthan Bathery. 3 caves are located at a height of 1000 mts on Ambukuthi mala near Ambalavayal. The new stone age pictorial writings on the walls of these natural caves at Edakkal are the evidence of the civilizations that existed in the regions in the pre-historic times. The caves can be accessed only by a 1Km trekking trail from Edakkal. Morning hours are the best time to visit these caves. Entry is permitted only upto 1700 hrs. An interesting trek up of the Ambukuthi Hill near Ambalavayal town takes you to this fascinating neolithic cave site. Etchings found on the walls of these caves have drawn the serious attention of archeologists and historians worldwide.

With at least three distinct sets of petroglyphs, the earliest thought to date back over 3000 years, it is assumed that the Edakkal caves had been inhabited at various stages in history.

Distances from: KPA-27 Km, SBY-12 Km, MDY-45 Km

Chethalayam Falls

        Chethalayam is one of Wayanad's smaller waterfalls. Its surroundings offer a number of vantage points for bird-watching. It is also popular with trekking enthusiasts.

Distances from: KPA-37 Km, SBY-12 Km, MDY-54 Km

Muniyaras
     Excavations at various points around the foot of the Ambukuthi Hill have unearthed a distinctive series of ancient burail vaults commonly called Muniyaras. Remnants of Stone Age tools and pottery found within these cellars are displayed at the Wayanad Heritage Museum.
Distances from: KPA-27 Km, SBY-11 Km, MDY-44 Km

Wayanad wild life sanctuary, Muthanga
           Established in 1973, the Wayanad wild life sanctuary is contiguous to the protected area network of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka on the north-east andMuthumalai of TamilNadu on south-east. Rich in bio-diversity, the sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which has been established with the specific objective of conserving the biological heritage of the region. The sanctuary is rich in flora and fauna. The management lays emphasis on scientific conservation with due consideration for the general life styles of tribals and others who live in and around the forest.
The vegetation is predominantly moist deciduous forest with small stretches of swamps, teak forests, bamboo and tall grass. Amidst such fertile and varied flora, this region hosts several rare herbs and medicinal plants.
With numerous watering holes Muthanga has a large population of pachyderms, and has been declared a Project Elephant site. Also Jungle Cats, Panthers, Civet Cat, Monkeys, Wild dogs, Deers, Spotted Bears, Bisons, Gaurs, Cheetah, Wild Bears, Peacock, Owls, Jungle fowls, Woodpeckers, Babblers, Cukoos etc.. can be seen here. The reserve is also home to a small population of Tigers. Elephant rides are arranged here by the forest department. C

Permitting authority:

Wildlife Warden, Wayanad Wildlife sanctuary, Sulthan Bathery. Ph: 04936 220454
Distances from: KPA-42 Km, SBY-17 Km, MDY-59 Km

Religious places

Jain Temple 

     Generally known as Tippu's Fort, this temple is situated in town which got its name from the historic fact that Tippu used this temple as his Battery (ammunition store) in the region. Hence the name "Sulthan's Battery". This temple is one of the most important amongst a series of ruins spread across the state of Kerala that testify to a period of a strong Jain presence in this region. Believed to have been built in the 13^th century, it served as a Hindu shrine, an important centre for commercial activity and eventually as a Battery.
Distances from: KPA-24 Km, SBY-1 Km, MDY-41 Km
    Apart from Sulthan Bathery temple, there are other significant Jain remnants in Wayanad. The temples atPunchavayal and Puthanangadi are the best known of these. With their beautifully carved pillars now partly ruined, and the area rather derelict, these sites exude a particular air of mystery.

Thrissilery Shiva Temple

      This stunning temple of rather perfect architectural proportions, is inextricably linked with the Vishnu temple at Thirunelly. It is believed that the performance of ancestral rites at Thirunelly remain unfinished unless followed by offerings at this temple. Within the premises there is also a shrine devoted to Jala Durga, believed to have been installed by no less than the legendary Parasurama.
Distances from: KPA-50Km, SBY-25 Km, MDY-41 Km

Seetha Lava Kusha Temple

      This is the only temple dedicated to Lava and Kusha, the sons of Lord Rama. Local legends connect this region with many important episodes from the Ramayana. As the favoured shrine of the Pazhassi Raja, this temple has traditionally permitted entry to devotees from all faiths.
Distances from: KPA-50Km, SBY-25 Km, MDY-41 Km

Manikavu Temple 

      This is the temple of Lord Shiva, near Choothupara, Meenangadi.  The Shivling, seen here is Swayambhoo and the speciality is that water is poured continuously over Shivling through a stream. The amount of water remains the same even in rainy season

TOURIST PLACES IN VYTHIRI-WAYANAD-KERALA | BEST OF WAYANADU | TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN WAYANADU | SOUTH INDIA TOURISM

Vythiri is a beautiful spot, 2600 ft. above sea level which can be seen on a drive from Calicut to Kalpetta.

Lakkidi

-The gateway of Wayanad, is situated 700 mts above the mean sea level, at the crust of Thamarassery Ghat pass. Lofty peaks, gurgling streams and luxurious forests add magic to the journey up the winding roads to this hill station

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Pookot lake

3 km south of Vythiri. The perennial fresh water lake, nestled among wooded hills, is a only one of its kind in Kerala. Set in a beautiful valley and surrounded by evergreen forests and wooded hills, Pookot is one of Wayanad's top visitor draws. This natural lake near Lakkidi is just a short distance off the NH-212. It has been developed as a recreational centre having boating facilities, children's park, fresh water aquarium etc. It is a good setting for day outings with family

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Distances from: KPA-15 Km, SBY-40 Km, MDY-50 Km

Chain Tree

-This large Ficus tree, bound by a prominent chain is an interesting excursion, approximately 15 kms. from Kalpetta. It is said that a British Engineer, with the aid of a tribal guide named Karinthandan, found the difficult mountain terrain into Wayanad. Eager to take the credit for the discovery, the Engineer conveniently killed his guide, whose soul, according to the legend, constantly haunted subsequent travelers. It is believed that a priest chained the troublesome spirit onto this tree and hence name the Chain tree.

Distances from: KPA-15 Km, SBY-40 Km, MDY-50 Km

TOURIST PLACES IN MANANTHAVADY-WAYANAD-KERALA | TOURIST SPOTS IN WAYANADU | SOUTH INDIA TOURISM | TOURIST ATTARACTIONS IN WAYANADU

                  Mananthavady lies 32 kms. from Kalpetta and has a historic church, which is interestingly designed in the traditional Kerala style, with gabled roofs. There are some interesting tombstones in the church grounds. Pazhassi Raja, the lion of Kerala, met his end at Mananthavady and his memorial is termed Pazhassi Tomb

Pakshipathalam

                       10 kms from Thirunelly and is situated 1740 mtr above the sea level. Rare species of birds can be sighted from the watch tower of this bird sanctuary. Pakshipathalam is a formation of large boulders, some as tall as two storeyed buildings. The deep caves found here are home to a wide variety of birds, animals and distinctive species of plants. The journey involves an arduous 7 km trek through thick forest commencing at Thirunelly.

Distances from: KPA-71 Km, SBY-78 Km, MDY-36 Km

Wayanad wildlife Sanctuary

                        This place Situated along the northern ridge of Wayanad (bordering Coorgdistrict of Karnataka), Tholpetty is much similar to Muthanga in terms of flora and fauna. The best season to visit both the sanctuaries is between November and May. The Wildlife Sanctuary,Tholpetty, near Mananthavady is contiguous with Nagarhole of Karnataka state. The park houses diverse species of plant and animal life

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Visiting time: 0600-0800 hrs and 1500-1730 hrs. Ph: 04935 240233

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Distances from: KPA-59 Km, SBY-66 Km, MDY-24 Km

Boys Town

           -15 kms north of Mananthavady. A herbal garden, nature care centre, sericulture unit, perma-culture centre etc. are situated here. A Jean park, the Indo-Danish project for promoting herbal gardening is also situated here.

Kuruva Island

          -17 kms east of Mananthavady, calm and peaceful. This 950 acres of uninhabited, evergreen forest on the tributaries of east flowing river Kabani is an ideal picnic spot, far away from the disturbances of city life. The wooded land is a home to rare species of birds, orchids and herbs. Occasionally, wild mammals can be observed by the riverside

Pazhassi Tomb

               -32 kms north east of Kalpetta. Pazhassi Raja, a scion of the Kottayam Royal family was one of the earliest to strike the banner of revolt against British overlordship in this part of India. He remained successful for a remarkably long period until finally the English brought in heavy reinforcements from Madras and Bombay.

The memorial of Veera Pazhassi Raja known as the Lion of Kerala- who organised guerilla warfare against British East India company is situated at Mananthavady. The Pulpally cave near by is where the Pazhassi took refuge until he was captured by the British. He was downed in a ferocious encounter that took place atMavilanthode in the last days of 1805. Pazhassi's tomb marks the point where he was cremated. Pazhassi museum is located nearby where a sword, which is believed to be of Pazhassi's era is kept.

Distances from: KPA-32 Km, SBY-37 Km, MDY-1 Km

Religious Places

Thirunelly temple-32 kms north east of Mananthavady and 66 kms from Kalpetta. Nestled amidst mountains and forests, this ancient riverside temple is a fine specimen of classical Kerala temple architecture. It is Known as Thekkan Kashi/Dakshina Kashi (Kasi of the South) and surrounded by Kambamala, Karimala and Varadiga. Legend is that this temple was dedicated by the Creator, Lord Brahma to propitiate the Preserver, Lord Vishnu. The idols is in the form of Chathurbhuja.
The Shrine is shielded with 30 granite columns and the ground is paved with huge square pieces of granite. The crystal clear water of the Papanashini river running downhill add to the enchantment of the place. This temple draws pilgrims from allover, primarily for ancestral rites.
A short walk from Thirunelli temple is the clear mountain spring known as Papanasini. A ritual dip here is believed to wash one away of all worldly sins. Pakshipathalam, an interesting trekking centre, is about 10 kms away from here.
Distances from: KPA-66 Km, SBY-71 Km, MDY-32 Km

Valliyoorkavu Bhagavathi Temple-8 kms east of Mananthavady. The temple is dedicated to the mother goddess manifest in the three principal forms of Vana Durga, Bhadrakali and Jala Durga.The two week long festival in February/March is a major event attended by thousands of people.
Distances from: KPA-24 Km, SBY-31 Km, MDY-5 Km

TOURIST PLACES IN KALPETA -WAYANAD-KERALA | TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN WAYANADU | KERALA TOURISM | SOUTH INDIA TOURISM

The district headquarters of Wayanad, is the only municipality in this hilly region. The town has hotels, bars, restaurants and shops, making it a convenient base to visit this place while at the same time enjoying these facilities.

Chembra peak
          At 2100 mts above mean sea level, Chembra is the highest peak in Wayanad and is ideal for trekking. Climbing this peak is a challenging mountaineering endeavour and would take a full dayThe scenic beauty of Wayanad, which is visible from the top of Chembra, is very exhilerating. The surrounding areas offer exceptional photo oppurtunities. Camping on the peak is an unforgettable experience. District Tourism Promotion Council provides guides, sleeping bags, canvases, huts and trekking implements on hire.
Distances from: Kalpetta (KPA)-14 Km, Sulthan Bathery (SBY)-42 Km, Mananthavady (MDY)-52 Km

Neelimala 

                    Closer to Vaduvanchal, Neelimala is an excellent venue fro trekking with lots of stimulating trails. The summit of this hill affords a great view of the cascading Meenmutty fallsand the beautiful valley in its foreground.

Distances from: KPA-27 Km, SBY-26 Km, MDY-62 Km

Meenmutty falls

                   An interesting 2 km jungle trek off the main Ooty road, Meenmutty is the largest and most spectacular waterfall in Wayanad. A unique feature is that water drops about 300 metres over three stages.

Distances from: KPA-37 Km, SBY-12 Km, MDY-54 Km

Sentinal Rock Waterfalls 

                                     This place is 22 kms south of Kalpetta near Chooralmala. Locally known as Soochippara and is a very popular leisure destination. This is a three step waterfall more than 200 mts in height. Framed by enchanting scenery. A must to see site! This region is ideal for rock climbing. Soochipara can be reached by a scenic 2 kms. nature walk and deer and other wildlife can be seen near the waterfront.

Distances from: KPA-22 Km, SBY-43 Km, MDY-58 Km

Kanthanpara waterfalls

-                      This place is 22 kms south east of Kalpetta and 8 kms east of Meppadi, a beautiful waterfall about 30 mts in height. Relatively smaller than Sentinel Rock falls, and rather less frequented Kanthanparaand its surroundings offer a very pleasant site. A easy hike away from the main road, its perfect for picnics.

Distances from: KPA-22 Km, SBY-23 Km, MDY-57 Km

Banasura sagar 

                    This place is 21 kms north east of Kalpetta. Situated at Padinjarathara. A mini hydel project with the largest earth dam in India and the second largest in Asia is being built here. The Banasura project precincts are an ideal starting point for treks to the Banasura Peak. A quaint feature is a series of islands that were formed when the reservoir submerged the surrounding areas.

Distances from: KPA-21 Km, SBY-47 Km, MDY-34 Km

Religious Places

Varambetta Mosque

15 kms southeast of Kalpetta, near Padinjarathara: dating back 300 years, this is the oldest mosque in Wayanad.

Jain Temple at Puliyarmala

4 kms north of Kalpetta. This old temple is dedicated to Ananthanatha Swami, one of the most revered Jain Saint.

Glass temple, Koottamundu

This temple is located on the slopes of Vellarimala and is dedicated to Parshwanatha Swami of the Jain faith. The mirrors inside the temple wall reflect images of the icons in the temple's sanctum sanctorum.
NB: Permission is restricted now a days.