Among the beautiful and picturesque parts of Kerala in India is the Wayanad district, home to the lovely town of Mananthavady. It is famous for its quiet rivers, stunning nature and unfamiliar culture. Nature lovers and especially wildlife photographers prefer Mananthavady for holidays. Mananthavady is rich historically, too. The town has links with freedom fighter Pazhassi Raja, who fought bravely against colonial British powers. There are different places to visit in Mananthavady that help in experiencing a transition from the calmest and mythological part of Kerala to the exclusive part, brought by its natural beauty and history.
Best Places To Visit In Mananthavady
To plan a successful trip to Mananthavady, visit some additional places. Here is a curated list of places to visit in Mananthavady to make the journey worthwhile. It is a calm town in Kerala located in Wayanad. There are many things tourists interested in visiting historical places can do, like taking walks in nature, trekking, and visiting pilgrimages. The following are a few noteworthy locations to see within and around Mananthavady.
1. The Wildlife Sanctuary Of Wayanad
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Heritage Reserve. It has two sections: Tholpetty and Muthanga. These are two wonderful wildlife sanctuaries located in the Wayanad district. Wildlife includes elephants, leopards, deer, tigers, and other animals. Many types of birds are also frequently seen in this sanctuary. Seasonal vehicular tourism in the form of wildlife safaris can be undertaken.
Must Read: Banasura Island Resort
2. Temple Of Thirunelli
Often called the ‘Kashi of the South,’ Thirunelli Temple is an exceptional old-style temple of Lord Vishnu. Situated near the Brahmagiri hills, this Hindu temple displays a tranquil atmosphere and is surrounded by profuse trees. The temple is known for its traditional practices that have existed for several centuries and its ceremonial activities, as well as the river adjacent to the site known as Papanasini, where the faithful rituals to honour the locals’ forebears take place.
3. The Pakshipathalam
Pakshipathalam is yet another marvellous spot in the Brahmagiri Hills. It is a bird-lovers paradise with features like weird-shaped rocks, caves, tunnels, and many species of wild birds. It is also the best place for hiking.
Suggested Read: Temples In Wayanad
4. Raja Pazhassi Tomb
This was built to honour the great Pazhassi Raja, the great rebel leader of the region, who was known as the ‘Lion of Kerala. ‘ He led the war against the British East India Company in the latter half of the eighteenth century and early nineteenth century during guerrilla war. The tomb, located in one beautiful setting, gives information on the life and genealogy of this honourable statesman. Visitors can visit this exquisite place and see the exhibition of his lifetime and the region’s history.
5. Island Of Kuruva
Kuruva Island, also known as Kuruvadweep, consists of several smaller islands originating from the drainage of the Kabini River, covering a total area of 950 hectares. It is a tourism destination that is popular mainly for bamboo rafting as well as nature walking. Due to its wild and deserted character, it is a good spot for making the arrangements for a picnic and enjoying the tropical fauna and flora. There are a lot of unique bird species along with various flowers, such as the orchid and herbs, on the island – making it an aspect of environmental conservation.
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6. Sagar Dam In Banasura
Another dam of importance is the Banasura Sagar Dam. It is Asia’s 2nd biggest and India’s biggest earthen dam. Originating from the Karamanathodu, the Kabini is a tributary of the larger responsive and flows through Moyar. The Banasura Sagar Project deals mainly with the planning and construction of the dam, along with irrigation and lending support to the Kakkayam Hydroelectric Power Project. The gigantic area of the massive dam, along with Banasura Hill, provides an ideal ground for boating and trekking and even a delightful spot for leisure in the nearby local picnic spot.
7. The Phantom Rock
The formation of this is, in fact, an outcrop of a naturally occurring metamorphic rock formation, known broadly as “Cheengeri Mala”, which means Phantom Rock in local Tamil, is located 26 km away from Mananthavady. The structure of the rock, when viewed from an aerial perspective, resembles the structure of two human craniums. As the name suggests, it is a quite famous rock formation, also known for rock climbing, and it is the photographers’ beloved place.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Wayanad
8. Temple Of Valliyoorkavu
About 3 kilometres from Mananthavady is Shivamoga Temple, and one of the famous temples there is the ‘Valliyoorkavu Temple’ of goddess Durga. The main festival here is the Valliyoorkavu Utsavam, which begins in March yearly. This festival boasts folk arts, cultural programs, and a ritual ceremony and, therefore, has a faithful congregation of religious devotees and social tourists. The worship centre’s beautiful background and architecture and the shrine’s peacefulness make it even more relaxing.
Each location provides a distinctive experience reflecting Mananthavady’s rich cultural legacy and varied natural beauty. Regardless of your interest, every type of traveller can find something to enjoy in Mananthavady, whether it be wildlife, spirituality, history, or adventure.
Tips To Keep In Mind While Traveling To Mananthavady
Consider these tips if you want your vacation to Mananthavady to go smoothly and enjoyably. Here is how to make your vacation go smoothly and enthusiastically in Mananthavady:
- Prepare for the weather: Mananthavady has a tropical climate, so ‘light summer’ clothes or the Torba cotton material are best. Come prepared with an umbrella or a raincoat, especially if you will be visiting from June to September, as you will be experiencing the monsoon period.
- Animal Safety: The rules told by the staff or written on the signboards should always be adhered to, particularly the set down rules for the protected areas of wildlife regions. Do not feed the animals and watch them from a distance.
- Essentials for Trekking: To trek in a place like Pakshipathalam in the forest, one must bring a first aid box, fresh water, snacks like fruits and biscuits, and proper clothes for the trek.
- Cultural Sensitivity: To avoid a legal dispute with the extremely hospitable locals, it is wise to get used to the regional practices, particularly in the sacred shrines of Valliyoorkavu and Thirunelli. Another is to maintain temple etiquette, specifically what one should wear.
- Health-Guard Measures: It is advisable to carry insect repellant and/or any other medication that one may consider relevant for the journey. Carry water bottles, or buy them if needed.
- Try the local food, but ensure it is hygienic.
- Transport: Although public transportation is available, the best option is to rent a car if you want to visit far-flung places.
These tips will ensure that your trip to Mananthavady is safe and enjoyable.
Further Read: Resorts Near Wayanad
Now that you know about Mananthavady, you must plan your trip to Wayanad to see its historical landmarks and natural beauty for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Don’t miss these fantastic chances to visit Mananthavady and enjoy its breathtaking scenery and rich history! Plan your vacation there right away!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Mananthavady
Where is Mananthavady
Mananthavady is located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India.
When should I plan my visit to Mananthavady?
The ideal time to travel to Mananthavady is between October and May.
How do I move from here to Mananthavady?
From major cities, one can reach this place by road; or by air; Calicut International Airport is the nearest airport.
What has made Mananthavady famous?
The wildlife sanctuary, mesmerising natural beauty and its significance, and the history of Pazhassi Raja have made Mananthavadi notable.
Which are the tourist hotspots of Mananthavadi?
The best tourist hotspots include Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Pazhassi Raja Tomb.
Are hiking trips possible in Mananthavadi?
Yes, indeed, great trekking opportunities do exist at Pakshipathalam.
Where can one go to see some wildlife in Manathawadi?
One can see wildlife in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
What is the traditional cuisine of Mananthavady?
Traditional Keralan food, such as puttu, appam, and fish curry, are famous here.
Is the best location in Mananthavady to see birds?
Pakshipathalam is a well-known spot for seeing birds.
Does Mananthavady celebrate any cultural festivals?
major traditional festival occurs in March, during the Valliyoorkavu Temple festival.
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