Wayanad offers numerous opportunities for recreation, making it a perfect destination for families and leisure travellers.

• Pookode Lake: A beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by lush forests, it is perfect for boating and picnics. The area also has a children’s park and an aquarium.

• Banasura Sagar Dam: The second largest earthen dam in Asia, it offers picturesque views, options for speed boating and leisurely walks along the dam.

• Lakkidi View Point: It is one of the most scenic locations in Wayanad, Kerala at 700m above the sea level, offering breath-taking views of the Western Ghats and the lush green valleys below. The view point offers sweeping views of the winding roads, dense forests, and the valley below.

• There are plenty of private recreational tour activities like zip-line, bungee jump, rock climbing, sky-cycling and more.

For adventure enthusiasts, Wayanad provides a range of thrilling activities set against the backdrop of its rugged terrain.

• Chembra Peak: The highest peak in Wayanad, it offers an exhilarating trek that rewards you with stunning views and a heart-shaped lake at the summit.

• Edakkal Caves: A trek to these ancient caves is both challenging and rewarding. The caves are renowned for their prehistoric petroglyphs, some of which date back over 6,000 years.

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Adventure seekers can enjoy wildlife safaris here, where they might spot elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds.

Wayanad's rich history is reflected in its numerous historic sites and relics that offer a glimpse into the past.

• Edakkal Caves: Apart from their adventure appeal, these caves are significant historical sites with carvings that provide insights into ancient human settlements.

• Jain Temple: The temples represent the rich cultural heritage and history of Wayanad, showcasing the architectural brilliance and the deep-rooted presence of Jainism in the region. These temples are not only places of worship but also attract tourists interested in history, architecture, and spirituality.

• Wayanad Heritage Museum: Located in Ambalavayal, this museum houses artifacts and exhibits that detail the region’s history, including tribal relics, pottery, and weapons.

• Pazhassi Raja Tomb: This memorial commemorates Pazhassi Raja, the ‘Lion of Kerala’, who fought valiantly against British colonial forces. The tomb and the nearby museum provide deep insights into his life and times.

• En Ooru: Enn Ooru in Wayanad is a captivating initiative designed to offer visitors an immersive experience of the indigenous tribal lifestyle and culture in the region. Enn Ooru aims to provide visitors with a genuine and profound understanding of the tribal way of life, traditions and cultural heritage in Wayanad.

Wayanad is home to several ancient temples and religious sites that attract pilgrims from across the country.

• Thirunelli Temple: Often referred to as the ‘Kashi of South’, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is believed that a dip in the holy waters of the Papanasini river, which flows nearby, washes away all sins.

• Jain Temples: Wayanad is home to several ancient Jain temples dating back to the 13th century that reflect the region’s historical and cultural significance.Notable Jain temples in Wayanad are

  • Ananthanatha Swami Jain Temple Pulityarmala which has traditional architecture styles with intricate carvings and sculptures.

  • Sree Varadoor Digambara Jain Temple which is located near Sultan Bathery a significant place of worship for the Digambara sect of Jainism.

  • Sultan Bathery Jain Temple is believed to be constructed in the 13th century. It was used as an ammunition store by Tipu Sultan’s army, hence name “Sultan’s Battery.” Though the temple is built in typical Kerala style with granite stones. The temple’s structure reflects the strong influence of Jain architecture.

  • Kalpetta and Nadavayal are relatively newer temples compared to others still hold significant religious importance.

• Valliyoorkavu Temple: Located near Mananthavady, this temple is dedicated to the Goddess Durga and is famous for its annual festival celebrated with great fervour by tribal communities.

• Pallikunnu Church: Dedicated to the Lourdes Matha, Pallikkunnu Church was established in 1905 at the initiative of a French Missionary Fr. Jeffrine. An interesting aspect of this church is that it has several rituals and practices similar to those prevalent in Hindu temples. The annual two week “Perunnal” festival in early February draws large number of devotees from other parts of Kerala, as well as outside. The temple is 12 Kms away from Kalpetta.

• Varambetta Mosque: It is the oldest mosque in Wayanad (300 years old), situated 15 kms. south-east of Kalpetta, near Padinjarathara.