Wayanad District, in the north-east of Kerala, India,
was formed on November 1, 1980 as the 12th district, carved out of Kozhikode
District and Kannur District. Though the etymology of the word Wayanad
is popularly known to be Vayal (paddy) Naad (land); 'Land of Paddy Fields',
the scholars disagree. The region was known as Mayakshetra (Maya's land)
in the earliest records. Mayakshetra evolved into Mayanad and finally
to Wayanad. There are many indigenous tribals in this area. It is set
high on the majestic Western Ghats with altitudes ranging from 700 to
2100 m.
Destinations
Pookode
Lake
Set in a beautiful valley and surrounded by evergreen forests and wooded
hills, Pookote is one of Wayanad’s top visitors draws. This natural lake
near Lakkidi is just a short distance off the National Highway 212. It has
been developed as a recreational centre having boating facilities, children’s
park, shop for souvenirs and spices, and a fresh water aquarium. Replete
with a café and restaurant, this is a good setting for day outings with
family.
Sulthan Bathery
Muthanga
Muthanga National Park is located 16 kilometers east of Sulthan Bathery.
It was set-aside as a sanctuary in 1973. Muthanga National Park boasts a
fine selection of wildlife and is an excellent specimen of Project Elephant.
Edakkal
Cave
EDAKKAL CAVES:(12km from SulthanBathery) Two caves are located at a height
of 1000 m on Ambukutty Mala near Ambalavayal.The New Stone Age pictorical
writings on the walls of these natural caves at Edakkal are evidence of
the civilisation that existed in these regions in prehistorical times. The
caves can be accessed only by a 1 km trekking trial from Edakkal.Morning
hours are the best time to visit the caves.Entry is permitted only up to
1700 hrs.
Kuruva
Island
Kuruva islands, 950 acres of evergreen forest on the tributaries of east
fllowing river Kabani along northeast border of Wayanad district. Several
migratory birds are also seen here. These islands present a unique eco system
which may be of great interest of nature lovers. The island is uninhabited.
Rare spicies of birds, orchids and herbs are the sovereigns of this supernal
kingdom
Valliyoor
Kavu Temple
The temple is dedicated to the mother goddess manifest in the three principal
forms of Vana Durga, Bhadrakali and Jala Durga.The two week long festival
in February/March is a major event attended by thousands of people.The temple
is 24 Kms. away from Kalpetta, 31 Kms. away from Sulthan Bathery and 5 Kms.
away from Mananthavady