Wayanad is one of the top ten must visit hill stations in Kerala, perfect for a day trip with family or friends.  This hidden gem offers stunning scenery, wildlife spotting, and cultural experiences. Explore forests, mountains, and waterfalls. See animals at Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary. Hike Chembra Peak for amazing views. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or just some quality time with your loved ones, Wayanad has something for everyone. Learn about the local culture at temples and tribal villages. Enjoy delicious food and colorful festivals. Make lasting memories in Wayanad!

Planning Your One Day Trip to Wayanad

Planning your one-day trip to Wayanad can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. It’s crucial to identify the top places to visit in Wayanad in 1 day to make the most of your time. Begin your journey early to maximize your day, prioritizing popular tourist spots and family-friendly destinations. Consider arranging your schedule around the best times to visit each site and check local travel tips to enhance your travel experience. Whether you’re after nature, culture, or adventure, Wayanad offers a range of attractions that are perfect for a quick getaway.  

Also Check out : 7 Days Kerala Itinerary – Best Places to Visit to Kerala in 1 Week

Must-visit Places to Visit in Wayanad in 1 day

Chembra Peak, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Soochipura Falls, Pookode Lake, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Phantom Rock, Lakkidi View Point, Jain Temple and many more tourist places in Wayanad for one day trip. When planning a one-day trip to Wayanad, make sure to visit iconic tourist spots 

You can enjoy visiting the many pouring waterfalls, scenic lakes, and lofty hills. If you are an adventure freak, then you will surely love to trudge through the Phantom Rock, Lakkidi viewpoint, etc. to have a satisfying experience. Additionally, the region is also known for its diverse wildlife and lush green forests, making it a perfect destination for families and couples. Also, try out some local cuisine for the cultural and delicious taste during your visit.

The beauty of Wayanad is too much for just one day! There are so many tourist places to visit in Wayanad that it would be impossible to explore them all in just one day. Each place has its own special story and beauty. To really enjoy Wayanad, plan a longer trip to explore every beautiful destination.

1. Chembra Peak

Chembra Peak is one of the top forest trekking destinations in Kerala, offering a mix of stunning beauty and thrilling adventure. It stands tall at 2,100 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats. Trekkers will be delighted by the surprises along the trail in this green paradise. A heart-shaped lake adds charm to the journey towards the peak.

Upon reaching the top, breathtaking panoramic views await, providing a surreal experience. Chembra Peak is a must-visit for adventurers exploring Wayanad in two days.

Location: Near Meppadi town, 8 kilometers south of Kalpetta

Timings: Open from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm (trekkers must arrive before 2:00 pm)

Price: Trekking fee is Rs. 500 for Indians and Rs. 1000 for foreigners.

2. Pookode Lake

It’s a top honeymoon destination in Wayanad, boasting a natural freshwater lake surrounded by lush green forests and slopes. Pookode Lake is a must-see attraction for everyone, from solo travelers to adventure enthusiasts, families, and honeymooners, offering the pristine beauty of the lake.

How to Get There: The nearest airport is Calicut, about 65 km away. Regular taxis can get you here in an hour or two.

Must-visit places: Pakshipathalam, Kuruvadweep, and Chembra Peak

Couples’ activities: Attend the two-day annual festival of Sree Thirunelli Devaswom held in April, explore the Valliyoorkavu Festival, and visit the Freshwater Aquarium.

Timings: Open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Rs. 20 for adults and Rs. 10 for children.

3. Meenmutty Waterfalls

Meenmutty Waterfalls is a major attraction and one of the most scenic places to visit in Wayanad, located approximately 29 kilometers from Kalpetta. It’s surrounded by lush greenery, with a stunning waterfall nestled in the jungle. You can enjoy trekking here and marvel at the breathtaking waterfall.

How to Get There: It’s just an hour’s drive from Thiruvananthapuram airport. You can take a taxi or bus.

Activities: Trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, swimming, etc.

Must-visit Places: The forest and waterfall

4. Banasura Sagar Dam

Banasura Hill, possibly the tallest mountain in the Western Ghats of the Wayanad region, Kerala, India, is named after Banasura, a legendary figure from Indian mythology. It stands as one of the most significant peaks exceeding 2,000 meters between the Nilgiris and Himalayas, following Chembra Peak.

Location: Situated 21 km from Kalpetta.

Timings: Open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Price: Entry fee is Rs. 10 per person, and Rs. 450 for speed boating (up to 5 people)

5. Phantom Rock

Phantom Rock, also known as Cheengeri Mala, is a renowned spot unlike any other. It’s an archaeological marvel found nowhere else on Earth. The rock resembles the shape of a ghost’s skull, hence earning its name Phantom Rock worldwide.

How to get there: It’s located 2 km from Ambalavayal, 12 km from Sulthan Bathery, 25 km from Kalpetta, and 36 km from Mananthavady. The nearest bus station is Ambalavayal, just 2 km away.

Location: Phantom Rock Path, Kerala

Distance from Wayanad: The distance between the bus station and Phantom Rock is approximately 40 kilometers.

Must-visit attractions: The natural stone carvings and structure

6. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a vital part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, known for its diverse plant and animal life. Visitors can easily spot elephants, spotted deer, bison, tigers, cheetahs, and wild bears here. Among the places to visit in Wayanad within a 2-day timeframe, this sanctuary is a must-see.

Established in 1973, the sanctuary shares borders with the protected areas of Nagarhole and Bandipur in Karnataka (to the northeast) and Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu (to the southeast). For animal lovers and nature enthusiasts, the Forest Department organizes elephant rides, providing them with the opportunity to explore deep into the forest.

Location: Muthanga, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

Timings: 7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Price: Rs 10 for adults, Rs. 5 for children, and Rs. 100 for foreigners.

7. Edakkal Caves

Situated 1,200 meters above sea level on Ambukutty Mala, Edakkal Caves showcase nature’s architectural prowess and philosophy. The term ‘Edakkal’ translates to ‘a stone in between’. This tourist spot is renowned for its pictorial paintings dating back to roughly 6000 B.C., making it one of the top places to visit in Wayanad within a 2-day itinerary.

To reach this historic site, one must embark on a 45-minute trek through Ambukutty Mala, promising a rewarding experience. Did you know that Edakkal Caves are the only known location in India with Stone Age carvings? It’s indeed true.

This captivating site is particularly popular among Western travelers, who often make it a point to visit at least once.

Location: Nenmeni, Kerala 673595

Timings: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (closed every Monday)

Price: Rs. 20 per person, Rs. 40 for foreigners, and Rs. 70 for Jeep Shuttle.

8. Soochipara Waterfall

Soochipara Falls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, offers serene views amidst its surroundings. The water cascades from a height of 300 feet above sea level, creating a mesmerizing sight. The waterfall features a beautiful pool where visitors can enjoy bathing, swimming, and other recreational activities, making it a must-visit spot for a 2-day trip to Wayanad.

For adventure enthusiasts, Soochipara Falls is perfect for water rafting, surrounded by gentle green slopes and dense forests, providing a thrilling vacation experience. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a tiger while trekking in the area. Additionally, comfortable homestays and a tree-top hut offer a unique perspective of the surroundings.

Soochipara Falls is certain to leave a lasting impression on your Wayanad trip.

Location: Vellarimala, Kalpetta, Wayanad

Timings: Open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Price: No Entry Fee

9. Lakkidi View Point

Lakkidi Village is an ideal weekend getaway for families, especially those with children. Nestled amidst a valley surrounded by hills and rainforests, it offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers.

With its pleasant climate, towering mountains, and stunning vistas, Lakkidi Village can inspire anyone to become a poet in an instant. It’s a popular destination for tourists looking to immerse themselves in nature during a 2-day visit to Wayanad.

This enchanting place features a luxurious resort offering 30 independent cottages, ranging from royal to deluxe and executive, providing a “home away from home” experience. Notable amenities include an Ayurvedic Spa, swimming pool, bonfire, indoor games, and more. As a result, it attracts numerous family tourists and honeymooners during peak seasons.

Location: Lakkidi View Point is situated on the Kozhikode-Mysore-Kollegal Highway, Lakkidi, Kerala 673576.

Timings: Open 24 hours.

Price: No Entry Fee.

10. Jain Temple

Another must-visit attraction in Wayanad is the Jain Temple in Sulthan Bathery. Among the many Jain temples in Kerala, this temple holds significant importance, believed to have been constructed in the 13th century. Its architecture reflects the influence of the Vijayanagar Dynasty, which was prominent at that time.

What makes this temple even more fascinating is its varied history. Initially serving as a place of worship, it later became a hub for commercial trade and eventually transformed into the ammunition store or battery for Tipu Sultan’s army. Inside the sanctuary, visitors can find a square rock slab with a carving of Mahavir Jain, surrounded by an open verandah.

The main entrance features a raised platform made of rock, adorned with carved columns. The surrounding grounds are also paved with granite stones.

Location: Jain Temple, Sulthan Bathery, is situated on the Bangalore-Calicut Highway, Sultan Bathery, Kerala 673592.

Distance from Bangalore: The Jain Temple, Sulthan Bathery, is located approximately 267.4 kilometers away from Bangalore.

Is Wayanad good for a family trip?

Wayanad is a cool, green hill station located in the mountains of Western Ghats. It’s a peaceful location perfect for families and friends to relax and make memories that last together. Consider fresh air from the mountain, amazing views around every corner, and adventures. 

What are the best places to visit in Wayanad for Couples?

There are lots of romantic places in Wayanad that can fill you with happiness and an unforgettable experience. If you want a peaceful and romantic honeymoon in Wayanad, consider these tourist destinations. Chembra Peak with amazing views, Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Phantom Rock, Lakkidi View Point. 

Also Checkout: Tourist Places to Visit in Wayanad: 10 Best Tourist Attractions 

Which month is best for the Wayanad trip?

November to February is the best month to visit Wayanad. During the winter months, Wayanad transforms into a magical wonderland with its pleasant days and chilly nights. Wayanad in winter offers a truly immersive experience. So winter is the best time to visit Wayanad. 

For more travel tips and detailed guides, visit Visit to Kerala, your go-to source for everything Kerala.