Exploring the wonders of Wayanad: 8 attractions to enjoy during the monsoon season

Wayanad is a peaceful district tucked away in the Western Ghats of Kerala, and it turns into a lush paradise during the rains. The rains bring vibrant life to this place, making it an ideal place for both nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. From cascading waterfalls to misty mountains, Wayanad has many things to offer that come alive with the monsoon showers.

Here are our top 8 suggestions for must-visit attractions in Wayanad

1. Meenmutty Waterfalls: A majestic cascade

Meenmutty Waterfalls, which is among the most amazing cascades to be seen in Wayanad, is a sight to behold during the rainy season. Its name "Meenmutty," which literally means where fish are blocked, denotes its huge force, therefore making it difficult for fish to swim upstream. This waterfall, which is a three-tiered fall, is located approximately 12 hours drive away from The Hosteller Wayand and falls from over 300 metres, thus creating an awesome spectacle.

How to get there

It’s possible to reach Meenmutty Waterfalls by trekking through thick forests, which becomes even more thrilling during the monsoons. Lush greenery, bird songs, and the sound of falling raindrops create an unforgettable experience for hikers.

When to go

The peak season for visiting Meenmutty Waterfalls runs between June and September, when there are heavy showers in this area due to southwest monsoon release times. At that time, you can see waterfalls in full flow, surrounded by green scenery, as far as your eyes can see.

Tips for visitors

• Trekking shoes should be firm due to the slippery trail.
• Carry along rain gear with mosquito repellent lotion.
• Do not walk too close to the fall because of strong currents.

Meenmutty Waterfalls(Credits: Kerala Tourism)

2. Chembra Peak: The heart-shaped lake trek

Chembra Peak stands as one of the highest mountains in Wayanad, offering numerous hiking opportunities in the form of peaks. The highlight of this trek is a heart-shaped lake that never dries up, as believed by many people. During monsoons, the entire area becomes engulfed in fog, and the path to it gets covered with wildflowers. And it is around 3 hours drive from your nearest hostel.

Hiking experience

The hike to Chembra Peak is moderately difficult; however, it takes about 3–4 hours to climb up to the summit. During monsoon season, this trail turns slippery and the visibility drops, making it both thrilling and challenging.

Scenic views

From here, trekkers get a stunning view of surrounding valleys and hills when they reach a heart-shaped lake. This lake has greenery around it, which makes it appear more attractive, especially because of the mist and raindrops falling on its surface.

Tips for trekkers

• To go trekking at Edakkal Caves, obtain the necessary permissions from the Meppadi Forest Office.
• For a safe trekking experience, hire a local guide.
• Carry enough water and food since nothing will be available all the time.

Chembra Peak(Credits: Canva)

3. Edakkal Caves: Ancient rock carvings

Edakkal caves are situated 1.5 hours away from The Hosteller Wayanad, and they are famous for their ancient rock carvings dating back to the Neolithic period. These natural caves have been in existence for over 7,000 years, showing early human life in an interesting way. During monsoons, there are green hills enveloping the area, thereby adding charm to these caverns.

Exploring the caves

Ambukuthi Hill leading into some of these caves requires visitors to first climb them on foot. For about 45 minutes of walking, you can enjoy monsoonal showers during your trip. Cool, humid weather along with lushes everywhere else just heightens the feeling one gets when seeing those old engravings.

Historical significance

Caves that have rock paintings with human and animal figures, tools, and symbols. Such carvings are evidence of the cultural and artistic successes of our forefathers and provide a point of view on life during the prehistoric period.

Tips for visitors

• Put on comfortable attire as well as shoes appropriate for hiking.
• Take along a torch to enable you to see well what is being scribbled inside the caves.
• Do not touch or disfigure the carvings out of respect for their historical significance.

Edakkal Caves(Credits: Kerala Tourism)

4. Banasura Sagar Dam: A marvel of engineering

Wayanad is a major tourist attraction because it has the Banasura Sagar Dam, which is the largest earthen dam in India and is around 1 hour away from the hostel. The dam holds back Karamana Thodu, which is a tributary to the Kabini River, and creates an extensive reservoir surrounded by the Banasura hills. This reservoir fills up during the monsoon, and the hills turn into a green carpet.

Activities at the Dam

The serenity of this water body gives visitors a chance to have a boat ride that can be enjoyed during rains, as they are assured of clouded hills with cascading falls. Similarly, trekking and nature walks can be done by adventure seekers around there.

Scenic beauty

When you reach the top of this dam, one side is full of water, while on the other side, you will see undulating hills as far as your eyes can see. During monsoons, it’s even more beautiful for those who love photography, just because everything looks neat.

Tips for visitors

• Be there early in the morning so that you can avoid many people being around.
• Carry an umbrella or raincoat since the weather here keeps changing.
• Eat at local food stalls instead of fancy hotels, especially if you want to sample authentic Kerala dishes.

Banasura Sagar Dam(Credits: Wayanad Tourism)

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: A biodiversity hotspot

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the reserves under the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, is a paradise for wildlife lovers. This sanctuary is spread over an area of 344 sq km and inhabits various species of plants and animals. And is around 2 hours away from the hostel.

Wildlife safari

One can undertake a wildlife safari through this sanctuary in order to explore whatever lies therein. In thick forests as well as open grasslands, the forest department also takes you on a safari to see elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and numerous bird types.

Bird watching

There are more than 200 species of birds in this sanctuary, which makes it a haven for ornithologists. This time of year is good to spot migratory birds and admire the attractive dresses put on by these colourful birds.

Tips for visitors

• To avoid frustration, book your trip early enough.
• Wear dull colours so as not to scare away animals when going through the park.
• When inside, follow what the rangers say since they know that area better.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary(Credits: Canva)

Kuruva Island: A riverine paradise

Kuruvadweep, or Kuruva Island, consists of several clusters of islands formed within the Kabini River. The deserted island covers an area exceeding 950 acres, and it contains many endemic plants and animals. The monsoon brings heavy rains that submerge the islands with lush cover, making it a lovely place for those who like nature.

Exploring the island

Walking around this island means crossing small streams and passing through thick forests. These include rare breeds of butterflies, birds, orchids, etc.; thus, they can be called a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Bamboo rafting

One special experience on Kuruva Island is bamboo rafting, where locals ferry you through calm water in the Kabini River, giving you peace and tranquillity as well.

Tips for visitors

• Wear waterproof shoes, as you will need to wade through water.
• Carry a picnic basket and enjoy a meal amidst nature.
• Avoid visiting during heavy rainfall, as the island might be closed for safety reasons.

Kuruva Island(Credits: Wayanad Tourism)

7. Soochipara Falls: An architectural stunner of three parts

Vellarimala is home to Soochipara Falls, also called Sentinel Rock Waterfalls. This is a three-tiered waterfall that settles inside a region of dense forests and rocky cliffs, making it an ideal place for rock climbing and trekking. The falls are in full flow during the monsoon, which makes this one of the most beautiful sights to see and is 1 hour away from your hostel.

The waterfall experience

Soochipara Falls can only be reached through a short walk through tea plantations and forests. The sound of falling water, the moist coolness of the air around, and the green vegetation make this journey all worthwhile. The pool by these falls can conveniently give anyone a nice swim.

Adventure activities

On this site, there are cliffs surrounding those who want to try rock climbing as an adventure sport. During monsoons, when rocks become slippery, there is an additional thrill added because the water will come down with force.

Tips for visitors

• Wear proper trekking clothes and bring a change of clothing.
• Be careful when climbing on wet rocks or in anything that could slip you off.
• To avoid crowds coming in later in the day, it’s better to visit early in the morning.

Soochipara Falls(Credits: Wayanad Tourism)

8. Thirunelli Temple: A spiritual retreat

Brahmagiri Hills hosts the Thirunelli Temple, which is believed to be a thousand-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple sits amidst thick forests and hills, making it a calm place for meditation or devotion. In monsoon times, mist shrouds both the shrine and its surroundings, giving it an etheric charm. And is around 2 hours away from the hostel.

Temple experience

It features very intricate carvings apart from having been built over 1000 years ago; there’s also a holy tank coined Papasini located here within it whose silt gets removed every 12 years. The sense that comes with raindrops on your shoulder along with a view of green mountains is heightened during the monsoon season.

Trek to Brahmagiri Hills

A trek to the Brahmagiri Hills is a must for adventure lovers. The path from the temple leads through thick forests and offers breathtaking views of the valley below. The rains during the monsoon make this trek more difficult and worthwhile.

Tips for visitors

• Dress modestly because it is a religious place.
• Have an umbrella or raincoat with you to protect yourself from rain.
• Take part in the temple rituals for distinctive cultural involvement.

Thirunelli Temple(Credits: Wayanad Tourism)

Book your accommodation at The Hosteller Wayanad to experience comfortable stays!

The monsoon in Wayanad is magical—a fascinating mix of natural beauty, thrills, and cultural diversity. After that, one can go to Meenmutty Waterfalls, Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kuruva Island, Soochipara Falls, and Thirunelli Temple.

If you want a little comfort with friendly people around you after spending time at these places, then The Hosteller Wayanad is the place to be.

Built right at the centre of Kalpetta town in Kerala State is the serene yet vibrant eco-friendly retreat, The Hosteller Wayanad. It is an exceptional setting, built using local materials and inspired by tribal culture, that offers exclusive private bedrooms as well as interactive shared spaces for travellers like me who want to experience something different.

Located just a few minutes from Pookode Lake, The Hosteller Wayanad welcomes visitors to bond with other tourists, unwind in nature, and discover more about the unique nature of Wayanad District.