Banasura Dam
Surrounded by the Banasura Hills, and built across the Karamanthodu River, it is India's largest earthen dam. The scenic beauty of the dam's reservoir dotted with numerous islands and the stark remnants of trees that existed before the water level rose draws large number of tourists. Guests could also opt to embark on treks in the surrounding forests and hills. Speed boat cruises and horse riding are provided. More adventurous guests could also experience the thrills of a zip-line here.
Kuruva Island
An uninhabited island on the River Kabini with only the sounds of the surrounding evergreen forest and the flow of water for company, it is also home to numerous species of orchids and medicinal plants. Guests will also find exploratory walks in the forest rejuvenating, where numerous species of endemic and migratory birds and animals live. Besides walks in the forest and bird watching, try river rafting on a bamboo raft, nature photography, try the local food comprising for most part fresh catch of fish from the river.
Tholpeti Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is a bio-diversity showcase of the treasures of nature that the Western Ghats have to offer. Spread over 300 sq.km, the jeep safaris that take guests through the forest at different times in the day are a big draw with visitors who could get to view a fascinating range of flora and fauna besides endemic and migratory avian species. Visitors will for most part spot herds of foraging elephants, leopards, tigers, bison, reptiles, butterflies and amphibians like the Malabar Gliding Frog amidst teak and mahogany tress.
Thirunelli Temple
Surround by mountains and dense forests, Thirunell is an ancient temple dedicated to the Hindu deity Vishnu situated at the base of the Brahmagiri Hill near the border with Karnataka. Thirunelli is also among the most important shrines in Hinduism’s Vaishnavite tradition. It is also considered an auspicious site by the faithful to perform one’s last rites, immersing ashes in the stream that flows past the temple.
Kandy Glass Bridge
Seemingly suspended in midair with just a glass platform beneath one's feet with a gorgeous panorama of lush forests and soaring mountain peaks below and stretching to the horizon is an adrenaline rush beyond compare.
Soochipara Waterfalls
Breathtakingly beautiful, the waterfalls descend over 200 metres to form a swirling pool of cool water. Wrapped in deciduous and evergreen forests visitors could trek to the spot through the forest and then swim in the pool. The more adventurous visitors could try their hand climbing the rocks on both sides of the falling cascade of water or else enjoy a quiet picnic on a ledge.
Edakkal Caves
A cave complex consisting of two natural caves on a hill near what many historians believe was the site of an ancient trade route that connected the Western Ghats to the ports of Malabar. The interior of the caves displays rock paintings that are dated to 6000 BC, from the time of the Neolithic Age. A visit to the caves will delight history buffs.
Chembra Peak Trekking
Situated amidst soaring peaks and valleys carpeted with forests and tea plantations, Chembra is the highest peak in Wayanad at 2100m above sea level. The Chembra peak trek organised by the forest department involves trails that pass through evergreen forests, past waterfalls to a placid heart shaped lake. On an overcast day the experience can be surreal, like literally walking through clouds, seemingly isolated from the surroundings.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Spread over 345 acres the sanctuary is a vital bio-diversity link between the forests in the neighbouring states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu connecting the Bandipura and Mudumalai parks. The Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is home to elephants, bison, deer, leopards, monkeys, tigers, bears, reptiles, peacocks and other exotic birds, medicinal herbs and is biogeographically a valuable natural environment resource in peninsular India.
