 |
::: Wayanad - Land of Spicy Hills |
 |
Wayanad district
was formed on November 1, 1980 as the 12th district, carved out of Kozhikode district and Kannur district.
Though the word Wayanad is believed by some to have originated from Vayal (paddy) and Naad (land), 'Land of Paddy Fields'. The region was known as Mayakshetra (Maya's land) in the earliest records. Mayakshetra evolved into Mayanad and finally to Wayanad. There are many indigenous tribals in this area.
In ancient times the land was ruled by the Vedar Rajas. Later Wayanad came under the rule of Pazhassi Raja of Kurumbranadu Royal Dynasty of Kannur.
When the state of Kerala was formed in 1956, Wayanad was part of Kannur district. Later South Wayanad was added to Kozhikode district and then on November 1, 1980 North and South Wayanad joined together to form the present Wayanad district.This mountain district is in many ways the most picturesque in the state, with its rolling hills covered with tropical rainforest. Wayanad also contributes richly to its fortunes, thanks to the flourishing cultivation of many spices, as well as Tea, Coffee and Cocoa. Wayanad is situated at a height of 700 to 2100m above sea level on the majestic Western Ghats and is home to many species of animal and plant life. Temperatures range from 12 to 25 degrees centigrade. This district also has the added advantage of linking Kerala with the golden triangle of South India : Bangalore, Mysore and Ooty. |
|
Chembra Peak, Wayanad - At
2100m above sea level Chembra peak is the highest peak in Wayanad and is situated near Meppady town.
Trekking to the Chembra peak is a risky mountaineering endeavour. Trekking to the top of this peak takes almost a day. Tourists can also stay one or two days at the top of the peak in temporary camps.
At the top of the Chembra Peak, there is a lake in the shape of a heart called hredaya sarass , hardly touched by man. The scenic beauty of Wayanad, which is visible from the top of Chambra, is very exhilerating. |
|
Lakkidi, Wayanad -
One of the highest locations in Wayanad,
Lakkidi,
lies atop Thamarassery, a ghat pass at an elevation of 700 m. above mean sea level and is the gateway to Wayanad.
The lofty mountain peaks, the gurging stream, luxuriant vegetation and the bird's eye view of the deep valley on the south, are breath taking.
Its is 58 km north of Kozhikode and about 5 km from Vythiti and
12 kms long journey from Adivaram to Lakkidi through ghat road with nine hairpin bends amidst thick forests, is a enthralling experience.
|
|
Edakkal Cave, Wayanad -
About 25 km from Kalpetta are three pre-historic caves dating from around 8000 BC and are called Edakkal Caves. They
have been discovered at a height of 1000 mts on Ambukuthi Mala, the tallest mountain in Wayanad.
The cave murals found here are as old as 4000 years, and depict pictures of ancient tribal chieftains, elephants, queens and tools. A slightly less ancient script from the 3rd or 4th century BC is also seen in the caves which is impeccably maintained.
The Caves open for public viewing at 08:30 and close by 16:30.
|
Pookot Lake, Wayanad - It is a scenic lake in Wayanad district, Kerala, South India. The lake is surrounded by forests, and boating is allowed. The weather here is salacious; the scenic beauty, hypnotising and the nature, unspoiled. Pookot lake tourist resort in Vythiri is the most sought after tourist spot of Wayanad even though the recent commercial modernisations have removed some of its wilderness charms. There is also an aquarium and a green house around the lake. |
Muthanga WildLife Sanctuary, Wayanad - Located 16 km east of Sulthan Bathery is the Muthanga wild life sanctuary with wild forests covering an area of 345 sq.kms and the biggest abode of wild animals in Malabar. Elephant, spotted deer, bison, tiger, cheeta, wild bear, etc. are found in this sanctuary and
there are also quite a few wild birds in the sanctuary.
The forest Department has facilities for providing elephant rides to tourists, here. The sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is under the consideration of UNESCO
World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site |
|
Pazhassi Raja Tomb, Wayanad -
Pazhassi Tourist Resort at Mananthavady is a good picnic centre in north Wayanad. There is a good aquarium here. Coin-operated toys for children and boating facilities for tourists are available here. Pazhassi Raja, the Lion of Kerala, who organised guerilla type warfare against British East India Company, was cremated here in 1805.
|
|
Soochippara Waterfalls, Wayanad -
Here, one can find nature at its thundering best. Soochippara is a 3-tiered, powerful waterfall and the cliff face here is ideal for rock climbing.
The waterfalls at Soochippara near Meppadi is really a treasure of nature, yet to be discovered. The stretches of waterfalls ranging at places from 100 to 300 feet height is a treat to the eyes. The pool below, provides for water rafting, swimming, bathing,etc. The tree top huts at Soochippara give an unique view of the valleys of the Western Ghats and the glimmering shallow waters of the surrounding springs.
|
Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad -
Located 21 km from Kalpetta Banasura Dam is the largest earth dam in India and seconf largest dam in Asia. The topography here is such that many islands will be formed in the upstream of the dam when the dam is full. These islands with the background of the Banasura hill will provide a hypnotising sight to tourists. The islands with the Banasura hills in the background provide a spectacular view. |
|
