Wayanad – The perfect weekend hideaway

Submitted by aathura on Sat, 2006-12-09 20:58. Tourist_places
Keywords: Kerala,Tourist places, Wayanadu
ALL photos in this article are by the talented photographer Dhruvaraj S under a creative commons attribution license)



Kerala with its distinctive topographic features is one of the most sought after tourist destination. It is a terrain of immense natural beauty, from the imposing heights of the Western Ghats to the beaches/backwaters along the Arabian Sea.
Wayanad also called Vayal-Naadu, the city of paddy fields is situated in an elevated picturesque mountainous Deccan plateau in Western Ghats with lofty ridges interspersed with dense forest, tangled jungles and deep valleys. It is known for picturesque mist-clad hill stations, sprawling spice plantations, luxuriant forests and rich cultural traditions. Home to exotic legends, ancient ruins mysterious cave mountains, hidden treasures, jungle trails and wild life.

Wayanad has a powerful history. Relicts found in various parts of Wayanad speak of an important pre-historic era. The Rajahs of the Veda tribe ruled the land in ancient times thereafter it came under the rule of Pazhassi Rajah of Kottayam dynasty. Hyder Ali during his reign invaded Wayanad and bought it under his way. Tipu Sultan, son of Hyder Ali restored Wayanad back to the Kottayam dynasty. It went back to the reign of the British after the Sreerandapattam truce. This followed fierce encounter between the British and Pazhassi Rajah, because of which the king was driven into wilderness. He fought the British again using guerilla type of encounters. Wayanad fell into the hands of the British after the king was unable to defeat the British army. The Britishers opened the plateau for organized agriculture. Roads were laid across the plateau, which facilitated people from other areas to flow in and settle in the jungle regions

Hidden away in the hills of this land are some of the oldest tribes, as yet untouched by civilization. A large population of aborigine people consisting mainly of Paniyas, Adiyas, Kattunayakans, Kurichiyans and Uraali Kurumass tribes even today inhabits Wayanad. The jains from Karnataka came in 13th century, followed by the Nairs from Kottayam in the 14th century and latter the Muslims.

Wayanad lies at an altitude varying from 700 to 2100 meters above sea level. The distinct ecological and geographical features provide a unique charm and an enchanting challenge for nature lovers. The rocks, hills and valleys provide for exceptional adventure experience. Heres’ a look at some of the distinctive tourist destinations.

The spectacular Chembra is the highest peak in Wayanad lying at 2100 meters above sea level ideal for trekking. Climbing this peak is a challenging mountaineering endeavor. The scenic beauty of Wayanad, visible from the top is very exhilarating and provides exceptional photo opportunities. Camping on the peak overnight is an unforgettable experience

Neelimala viewpoint is an excellent venue for trekking with lots of stimulating trails. The summit of this hill affords a great view of the cascading Meenmutty falls and the beautiful valley in its foreground. Meenmutty is the largest and most spectacular waterfall in Wayanad.
Sentinal Rock Waterfalls is a very popular leisure destination and an ideal location for rock climbing. Kanthanpara falls and its surroundings are nonetheless very pleasant. An easy hide away.

Bansaru Sagar Dam is the largest earth dam in India. An interesting feature is a set of islands formed when the reservoir submerged the surrounding areas.

The glass temple of Kottamunda is located on the slopes of Vellarimala and is dedicated to Parshwanatha Swamy of the Jain faith. The mirrors inside the temple wall reflect images of the icons in the temple's sanctum.

Edakkal caves, a fascinating Neolithic cave site is assumed to be inhabited at various stages of history. Etchings found on the walls of these caves have drawn the serious attention of archeologists and historians worldwide. A telescope installed nearby offers a panoramic view of the surroundings

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary at Muthanga established in 1973 is contiguous to the protected area network of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka on the northeast and Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu on the southeast. Rich in bio-diversity, the sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which has been established with the specific objective of conserving the biological heritage of the region. The sanctuary is very rich in flora and fauna. The management lays emphasis on scientific conservation with due consideration for the general lifestyle of the tribal and others who live in and around the forest region. The vegetation is predominantly moist deciduous forest with small stretches of swamps, teak forests, bamboo and tall grass. Amidst such fertile and varied flora, this region hosts several rare herbs and medicinal plants.

Wayanad wildlife Sanctuary at Tholpetty is situated along the northern ridge of Wayanad. The wild life sanctuary has a bewildering variety of birds, butterflies and insects.

The perennial fresh water Pookot Lake, nestled among wooded hills, is a one of its kind in Kerala. Evergreen forests and rolling hills envelope the lake. It has been developed as a recreational center having boating facilities, children's park, fresh water aquarium etc.

A large Ficus tree, bound by a prominent chain is the source of a dramatic legend. It is said that a British Engineer, with the aid of a tribal guide discovered the difficult mountain terrain into Wayanad. Eager to take the credit for the discovery, the Engineer conveniently killed his guide, whose soul, according to the legend, constantly haunted subsequent travelers. It is believed that a priest chained the troublesome spirit onto this tree and hence name the Chain tree.

Pakshipathalam located deep within the forest at an altitude of more than 1700 meters is a formation of large boulders, some as tall as two storied buildings. The deep caves found here are home to a wide variety of birds, animals and distinctive species of plants.

Kuruvadweep, the calm and peaceful 950 acres of uninhabited, evergreen forest on the tributaries of east bound river Kabani is an ideal picnic spot, far away from the disturbances of city life. The wooded land is a home to rare species of birds, orchids and herbs.

The memorial of ‘The lion of Kerala’ – Veera Pazhassi Rajah’s tomb is situated at Mananthavady. The Pulpally cave where the Rajah took refuge until the British captured him. He was downed in a ferocious encounter that took place at Mavilanthode in the last days of 1805. Pazhassi's tomb marks the point where he was cremated. Pazhassi museum is located nearby where a sword, which is believed to be of Pazhassi's era is kept.

Wayanad Heritage Museum is home to an interesting collection of artifacts that shed light on the history, culture and heritage of Wayanad region. This is one of the best-maintained museums of Kerala's Malabar region. The museum has a fine collection of 14th - 16th century sculptures, tribal artifacts, which include weapons, hunting and fishing equipments, farming implements etc. There are various exhibits on display here, amongst which are sculptures and the figure of Nandi and other dieties, which were collected from parts of the region that date back to the 14th to the 16th centuries AD. A series of pictorial rock edicts referred to as Hero Stones, memorialize a bygone age of valiant warriors. There is a fine figure of the Goddess of fertility, Urvara, also displayed here. Remnants of Stone Age tools and pottery found within the cellars of Muniyara are also displayed here.

Phantom Rock named so because of its skull head shape is locally called Cheengeri Mala. It offers excellent photo opportunities.

Sunrise valley is a great place to watch the rising and setting sun amidst dramatic mountain scenery. It also offers a panoramic view of the valley beneath.

It is a quiet place where scenic beauty wild life and tradition matter, simplicity is a virtue and beauty still blossoms from the mountainous horizon and from the green glaze of alluring vegetation. This is Wayanad - the green paradise – a perfect get away from city hustle bustle for you and your family for an unforgettable experience.

Wayanad is truly an adventure waiting to be discovered!!!!

» add new comment | 763 reads