📍 Kerala, India
Kerala · 7 destinations & hidden spots
Padinjarathara, Wayanad district
The largest earthen dam in India and the second largest in Asia, constructed across the Karamanathodu tributary of the Kabini River. A group of scenic small islands dot the reservoir waters against the majestic backdrop of the Banasura Hills, with speedboating and zipline rides.
Near Meppadi, Wayanad district
The highest peak in Wayanad district, towering at 6,890 feet (2,100 m) above sea level. An exhilarating guided forest trek passes through rolling tea estates and mist-covered grasslands to reach 'Hridaya Saras', a naturally formed heart-shaped lake that never dries up.
Ambukuthi Mala, Nenmeni, near Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad
Not technically caves but a massive cleft rock shelter on Ambukuthi Mala where a giant boulder is wedged between two rock faces. Houses remarkable Neolithic rock engravings (petroglyphs) dating between 6,000 BCE and 1,000 BCE depicting human figures, animals, symbols, and ancient wheeled carts.
Hidden Gem
Mananthavady, Wayanad district
A protected 950-acre delta comprising an archipelago of densely wooded, uninhabited islands on the Kabini River. Fringed by bamboo bridges, pristine stream walks, and native evergreen flora, it is accessed via unique eco-friendly bamboo raft crossings.
Vythiri, Wayanad district
A charming natural freshwater lake situated at an altitude of 770 metres in the Western Ghats, uniquely shaped like India's geographical map. Surrounded by evergreen tropical forests and mist-clad hills, featuring blue water lilies, pedal boats, a freshwater aquarium, and a scenic perimeter walkway.
Vellarimala, near Meppadi, Wayanad district
A spectacular three-tiered waterfall cascading 650 feet down into a large natural pool surrounded by dense deciduous and evergreen forests. A 2-kilometre downhill paved walk through tea estates leads to the thunderous falls and natural splash pools.
Hidden Gem
Thirunelli, Brahmagiri Hills, Wayanad district
An enigmatic 1,000-year-old stone temple dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu, nestled in a valley surrounded by the towering mist-clad Brahmagiri hills and dense wilderness. The sacred mountain stream Papanasini ('destroyer of sins') flows nearby over medicinal mountain herbs.
