Welcome to Wayanad, a mesmerizing destination nestled amidst the verdant landscapes of Kerala, India. While Wayanad itself is a haven of natural beauty and cultural richness, the surrounding region offers a plethora of enchanting places to explore. If you’re looking to venture beyond Wayanad and discover nearby destinations, you’re in for a treat. In this blog post, I’ll take you through the top 12 places to visit near Wayanad, ensuring you make the most of your trip and unravel the hidden gems of the region. So, let’s embark on this journey of exploration and discovery! If you have chosen Wayanad for a weekend trip as one of the best places to visit near Bangalore, this post will help you.
Best Places to Visit Near Wayanad:
1. Kuruva Island:
Located on the Kabini River, Kuruva Island is a serene paradise that captivates visitors with its lush greenery and tranquil ambience. This uninhabited island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering walking trails, bamboo rafting, and opportunities to spot rare birds and butterflies.
In addition to being one of the best places to visit near Wayanad, this island will let you lose yourself in the serenity of its untouched beauty.
2. Nagarhole National Park:
Just a short distance from Wayanad lies Nagarhole National Park, a wildlife lover’s paradise. So, it is one of the best places to visit near Wayanad. At this spot, you can embark on an exhilarating safari and witness the rich biodiversity of this tiger reserve.
Spot majestic elephants, elusive tigers, leopards, and a plethora of other wildlife species. The park is a treat for nature enthusiasts and photographers. If you are looking for the best things to do in Wayanad with kids, you can take them to this sanctuary for them to enjoy.
3. Bandipur National Park:
Another gem near Wayanad is Bandipur National Park, renowned for its tiger and elephant population. Explore the dense forests, take a thrilling safari, and immerse yourself in the wilderness. The park also offers opportunities for birdwatching, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
In addition to organizing safari trips, this national park, which is one of the best places to visit near Wayanad also houses a restaurant, where you can finish your lunch while waiting for the safari ticket booking to start.
4. Ooty:
Venture a little further from Wayanad to the picturesque hill station of Ooty. Surrounded by the Nilgiri Mountains, Ooty is popular for its scenic landscapes, botanical gardens and tea plantations. If possible, book a ticket and travel on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, visit the beautiful Ooty Lake, and indulge in some shopping for locally made chocolates and tea.
You might have heard that Ooty is a hill station in Tamil Nadu. Even though it is located in a different state, it is one of the best places to visit near Wayanad. Ooty has many attractions to provide you with the best experience.
5. Coorg:
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a stunning destination filled with lush coffee plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Visit Abbey Falls, explore the charming town of Madikeri, and savour the aromatic coffee that the region is famous for.
In addition to being one of the best places to visit near Wayanad, Coorg is also one of the best places to visit near Bangalore. If you are a coffee-lover, the aroma of coffee surrounding this hill station will impress you without any doubt.
6. Mysore:
Embark on a cultural and historical journey to the city of Mysore, renowned for its magnificent palaces, vibrant markets, and rich heritage. Explore the grand Mysore Palace, witness the opulence of the Brindavan Gardens, and soak in the spiritual aura of the Chamundeshwari Temple. Don’t forget to indulge in the famous Mysore Pak, a delectable sweet treat.
Do not forget to head to Mysore if you are looking for the best places to visit near Wayanad. You can find the best hotels in Wayanad, where you can get back safely after exploring and completing certain things to do in Mysore.
7. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:
While you’re in Wayanad, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Sulthan Bathery. Witness the beauty of nature as you spot elephants, deer, bison, and various bird species. The sanctuary offers exciting jeep safaris, trekking trails, and a chance to reconnect with the wilderness.
You will accept that this is one of the best places to visit near Wayanad once you visit there. You might be thinking that this sanctuary is located right in Wayanad. However, you will have to travel for around 30 minutes from the city centre to reach this sanctuary. You can find the best restaurants in Wayanad near this sanctuary to finish your breakfast or lunch before or after exploring this sanctuary.
8. Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary:
Explore the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, situated on the northern side of Wayanad. Known for its rich biodiversity, this sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and a variety of bird species. Enjoy a thrilling wildlife safari and immerse yourself in the pristine surroundings.
If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you will love this place to be one of the best places to visit near Wayanad.
9. Thirunelli Temple:
Visit the ancient Thirunelli Temple, situated amidst the Brahmagiri Hills. This revered Hindu temple holds immense religious significance and is known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil ambience. Seek blessings and soak in the spiritual aura of this ancient shrine.
Are you looking for one of the best spiritual places to visit near Wayanad? If so, you should choose this religious spot.
10. Irupu Falls:
Located on the border of Karnataka and Kerala, Irupu Falls is a breathtaking cascade surrounded by lush green forests. The falls are believed to have religious significance and are visited by devotees during the festival of Shivratri. Take a dip in the refreshing waters and revel in the natural beauty of this enchanting spot.
So, be they nature-filled or spirituality-filled places to visit near Wayanad, you will get both these requirements met by these falls.
11. Brahmagiri Peak:
For avid trekkers and adventure enthusiasts, a trek to the Brahmagiri Peak is a must-do. Located at the border of Kerala and Karnataka, this peak offers a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience. The trek takes you through dense forests, grasslands, and rocky terrains, leading to breathtaking views from the summit.
If you are visiting Wayanad with your group of trekking-enthusiastic friends, all of you will accept that this peak is one of the best places to visit near Wayanad.
12. Silent Valley National Park:
A little farther from Wayanad lies the Silent Valley National Park, a pristine and untouched wilderness. Home to rare and endangered species, this national park is a paradise for nature lovers. Take a guided tour, explore the diverse flora and fauna, and embrace the tranquillity of this untouched gem.
Even though it is located around 75 km from Wayanad, you can choose this park as one of the best places to visit near Wayanad. During your 5-day Wayanad itinerary, you can make sure to visit this spot.
Conclusion:
Congratulations! You’ve just uncovered the top 12 places to visit near Wayanad, expanding your horizons and adding a touch of adventure to your trip. From serene islands to wildlife sanctuaries, and majestic waterfalls to cultural wonders, these destinations offer a wealth of experiences and breathtaking beauty. So, pack your bags, venture beyond Wayanad, and discover the hidden gems that await you in the surrounding region. Get ready for an extraordinary journey filled with unforgettable memories! If you wish to know how to reach Wayanad from your place, my guide on this can help you.
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