{"id":342989,"date":"2023-03-23T14:27:54","date_gmt":"2021-12-27T11:30:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/traveltriangle.com\/blog\/?p=342989"},"modified":"2026-01-06T13:18:16","modified_gmt":"2026-01-06T07:48:16","slug":"wayanad-in-december","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/traveltriangle.com\/blog\/wayanad-in-december\/","title":{"rendered":"Wayanad in December: Hidden Wonders & Must-Visit Places in Kerala\u2019s Winter Gem"},"content":{"rendered":"

Spice plantations, wildlife sanctuaries, mysterious caves, and heritage museums? That\u2019s Wayanad in December for you. This highland district in Kerala is renowned for its diverse range of outdoor activities<\/span>,<\/span> including post-monsoon greenery, scenic viewpoints, and a rich tribal heritage.\u00a0 With December experiencing the most ideal winter weather (18\u00b0C to 28\u00b0C), the weather becomes most favourable for touring across the place. That\u2019s why hundreds of tourists plan a Wayanad 4-day itinerary and take away the most beautiful memories home.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Wayanad\u2019s post-monsoon greenery, seasonal blooms and special festivals are a bliss. The clear skies add to the scenic beauty, making it suitable for adventure seekers to go trekking and sightseeing without worrying about dreading slippery slopes. Families and elderly travellers can travel comfortably, as there is less panting due to the minimal humidity. So, no matter who you\u2019re travelling to Wayanad in December with, you are bound to have a great time.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This blog is designed to take you through all the best places to visit in Wayanad in December, the best time to visit along with the seasonal highlights and local food and culture of Wayanad. So, the next time you are drawing an itinerary, you know exactly what not to miss.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Quick Overview: Traveller Types & Top Picks<\/b><\/h2>\n

No matter who you are travelling with or for how long, we have a recommendation for each one of you. The list below will help you understand which places to visit in Wayanad are best suited for your travel type.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Traveller Type<\/strong><\/td>\nTop Pick In Wayanad in December<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Couples & Honeymooners<\/td>\nSoochipara Falls, Pookode Lake sunset cruise<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Family Vacationers<\/td>\nWayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Solo Adventurers<\/td>\nBanasura Hill Trek, Kurumbalakotta viewpoint<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nature Lovers<\/td>\nMeenmutty Waterfalls, Kuruva Island<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Culture Seekers<\/td>\nThirunelli Temple, Wayanad Heritage Museum<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n

Top 10 Places to Visit in Wayanad in December<\/b><\/h2>\n

Confused about the places to visit in Wayanad this winter season? From the Banasura Hills to the famous Edakkal Caves, this list comprises every beautiful place for an unforgettable trip.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Banasura Sagar Dam & Hill<\/b><\/h3>\n
\"The<\/div>\n

This is India\u2019s largest dam<\/a><\/span>,<\/span> famous for a variety of boating activities, including pedal boating and coracle rides.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Location & How to Reach<\/b>:<\/span> It is located near the <\/span>Banasura hills. The closest railway station to here is Kozhikode, within a 91 km radius. If you\u2019re taking a bus, Padinjarathara is only 3km away. The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, located 97km away.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Why It\u2019s Ideal in December:<\/b> Enjoy outdoor activities with no heavy rainfall. Go boating or trekking to Banasura Hill or to a picnic spot with your family, as the weather is most favourable then. There\u2019s also a small garden<\/span>,<\/span> where visitors can enjoy bumper car rides, horse riding<\/span>,<\/span> and ziplining.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Entry fee: <\/b>Entry charges vary by activity. It ranges anywhere between Rs. 40 per adult to Rs. 1,000 for 5 people going speed boating.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Tips:<\/b> Wear comfortable clothes and carry a bottle of water with you at all times.<\/span><\/p>\n

Unique Photo Opportunity:<\/b> The early morning misty mountain views are a stunning sight.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Edakkal Caves<\/b><\/h3>\n
\"The<\/div>\n

These caves<\/a> are renowned for their distinctive carvings, which date back to the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods. In fact, they are inscribed with the ancient Tamil and Brahmi scripts.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Location & How to Reach:<\/b> Located 44 minutes from Wayanad, the closest train station is Kozhikode, while Calicut International Airport is the nearest airport. You can get there by bus or a cab if you\u2019re already in Wayanad.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why It\u2019s Ideal in December:<\/b> The clear skies mean excellent visibility of the beauty around you. You can spot the prehistoric petroglyphs, which are 6,000+ years old if you are visiting Wayanad in December. Travellers can also go trekking inside the caves, where they must climb over 300+ steps to reach them. The cave paintings, too, are beautiful. So, when you go during December, you won\u2019t feel fatigued from indulging in these outdoor activities.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Entry fee:<\/b> \u20b950 for Indian tourists and \u20b960 for foreign tourists<\/span><\/p>\n

Tips: <\/b>Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated.<\/span><\/p>\n

Unique Photo Opportunity: <\/b>The lush forest<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Soochipara Waterfalls (Sentinel Rock)<\/b><\/h3>\n

\"An<\/b><\/p>\n

If you are fascinated by the Stone Age, this one is going to blow your mind. It attracts many historians and archaeologists, too.<\/p>\n

Location & How to Reach: <\/b>Nestled in Vellarimala, Wayanad district, Kerala, you can easily take a bus from Wayanad or Meppadi or a taxi to get here.<\/span>
<\/span>
<\/span>Why It\u2019s Ideal In December: <\/b>The three-tiered waterfall amidst evergreen forest looks most beautiful in December. It\u2019s also safer during this time as the flow is moderate with no dripping. For adventure lovers, rock climbing also becomes easier during this time, as there\u2019s no risk of slipping.<\/span>
<\/span>
<\/b>Entry Fee: <\/b>Rs. 150 per person<\/span><\/p>\n

Tips:<\/b> If you\u2019re going trekking or rock climbing, make sure you wear comfortable shoes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Unique Photo Opportunity:<\/b> The three-tiered waterfall\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Kuruva Island<\/b><\/h3>\n

\"An<\/span><\/p>\n

Famous for its biodiversity, Kuruva Island<\/a> is for all those who love bamboo rides, long walks and enjoying the views of its dense forest.<\/p>\n

Location & How to Reach:<\/b> The island is only 30km away from Wayanad. You can take a bus from Wayanad itself. In case you\u2019re travelling by air, Calicut International Airport is the closest. Those travelling in trains can take Kozhikode, as that\u2019s the closest.<\/span>
<\/span>
<\/span>Why It\u2019s Ideal In December: <\/b>The weather of Wayanad in December is most favourable for wooden boat rides and bamboo rafting. The best part is that it only opens during the post-monsoon season, which is why it attracts a myriad of tourists from mid-October onwards.<\/span>
<\/span>
<\/span>Entry Fee<\/b>: Rs. 220 for Indians, to Rs. 440 for foreigners.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tips:<\/b> Wear sturdy walking shoes and carry insect repellent just to be on the safe side.<\/span><\/p>\n

Unique Photo Opportunity:<\/b> The 950-acre river delta on the Kabini River<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Muthanga & Tholpetty Ranges)<\/b>
<\/b>File<\/b>:\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

\"An<\/span><\/p>\n

This wildlife sanctuary<\/a> is home to a variety of Asian Elephants and Tigers. People from around the globe come here to enjoy the amazing wildlife via jeep safari.<\/p>\n

Location & How to Reach:<\/b> Kozhikode International Airport is the nearest airport to Muthanga. In case you\u2019re taking a train, Kozhikode Railway Station is the closest.<\/span>
<\/span>
<\/span>Why It\u2019s Ideal in December: <\/b>Wildlife spotting is easier in the cool, dry weather, as more animals, such as elephants and leopards, are visible during this time.<\/span>
<\/span>
<\/span>Entry Fee: <\/b>Rs. 10 per child, while it\u2019s Rs. 20 for indian adults and Rs. 110 for foreigners.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tips: <\/b>Carry a camera along to capture the stunning beauty around you.<\/span><\/p>\n

Unique Photo Opportunity: <\/b>The various animals early morning in the jungle safari\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Pookode Lake<\/b><\/h3>\n

\"The<\/span><\/p>\n

This one is the highest-altitude Pookode lake<\/a>, offering stunning viewpoints, mesmerising lush greenery, and a myriad of offbeat activities, including boating, a children\u2019s park, and a fish spa.<\/p>\n

Location & How to Reach: <\/b>You can easily take a bus from Kochi, Bangalore, or Mysore, if you\u2019re already living there or taking a trip to these cities. For those travelling via train, Kozhikode is the nearest railway station, which is within a 100km radius. For those taking a flight, the closest airport is Kozhikode Calicut International Airport.<\/span>
<\/span>
<\/span>Why It\u2019s Ideal In December<\/b>: From peaceful boat rides, fish spa to romantic evening strolls, the weather\u2019s favourable for almost everything.<\/span><\/p>\n

Entry Fee:<\/b> Rs. 40 per adult to Rs. 30 per child (5-12 years of age).<\/span><\/p>\n

Tips: <\/b>Carry an umbrella to prevent drenching in rainfall (it is unpredictable sometimes).<\/span><\/p>\n

Unique Photo Opportunity:<\/b> The romantic views and lush greenery<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Meenmutty Waterfalls<\/b><\/h3>\n

\"An<\/b><\/p>\n

This is a three-tiered waterfall<\/a> amidst the beautiful Western Ghats. From rock climbing to trekking, there\u2019s a host of outdoor activities you can enjoy here.<\/p>\n

Location & How to Reach:<\/b> It is only 23 km away from Wayanad. You can easily take a bus from Kalpetta or a rental cab to get to the waterfall.<\/span>
<\/span>
<\/span>Why It\u2019s Ideal In December: <\/b>Whether you want to go trekking through the dense forest or go sightseeing, December is the safest and most suitable month to travel here.<\/span><\/p>\n

Entry Fee:<\/b> \u20b950 for adults and \u20b930 for children<\/span><\/p>\n

Tip:<\/b> Do not carry any plastic bottles or cans, as they are prohibited here. It is advisable to carry your own water bottle.<\/span><\/p>\n

Unique Photo Opportunity: <\/b>The dense forest\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

8. Thirunelli Temple<\/b><\/h3>\n

\"An<\/span><\/p>\n

This ancient temple<\/a> is Lord Vishnu\u2019s humble abode, featuring elephant sanctuaries, bamboo forests, and spectacular views.<\/p>\n

Location & How to Reach: <\/b>30 km from Mananthavady. You can easily take a bus or a rental cab to get here.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why It\u2019s Ideal In December:<\/b> The pleasant weather makes it easier to explore the Brahmagiri hills and their famous spiritual sunrise. It\u2019s also much more convenient to combine the trip to this temple with a short forest walk to the Papanasini river during this time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Entry Fee:<\/b> None<\/span><\/p>\n

Tip:<\/b> The temple has a strict dress code for both men and women. Both must be dressed in traditional Indian attire.<\/span><\/p>\n

Unique Photo Opportunity:<\/b> The 1,000-year-old temple in the Brahmagiri Hills<\/span><\/p>\n

9. Chain Tree & Lakkidi Viewpoint<\/b><\/h3>\n

\"An<\/b><\/p>\n

<\/b>This is a famous roadside attraction in Kerala, which is linked to a local legend. Rumour has it that the chain attached to this tree also grows with it, and the spirit of the tribal villagers resides in this tree.<\/p>\n

Location & How to Reach:<\/b> You can take a bus from Lakkidi and get off near Karinthandan Temple<\/span><\/p>\n

Why It\u2019s Ideal In December:<\/b> Becomes easier to go sightseeing during this time as the weather is cool and dry with clear skies.<\/span><\/p>\n

Entry Fee: <\/b>None<\/span><\/p>\n

Tips:<\/b> Since it is a cultural site, it is important to show respect. Please do not litter the place.<\/span><\/p>\n

Unique Photo Opportunity:<\/b> Panoramic views of the romantic viewpoints, foggy valleys and Kapetta.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

10. Wayanad Heritage Museum (Ambalavayal)<\/b><\/h3>\n

\"Image<\/b><\/p>\n

<\/b>If you are fascinated by archaeological museums<\/a>, this one is a must-visit. The carvings of the Adivasi communities are preserved here giving us a glimpse into their daily life and culture.<\/p>\n

Location & How to Reach:<\/b> Take a rental cab if you\u2019re travelling by road. You can hire an auto-rickshaw from Kalpetta for a nominal fee or simply book a bus from Calicut.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why It\u2019s Ideal In December:<\/b> The beauty comes to life in December, offering cooler mornings and a great time to explore the prehistoric relics here. You can also step out to learn about their tribal history or chill indoors when the weather is too chilly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Entry Fee<\/b>: Rs. 50 for adults<\/span><\/p>\n

Tips:<\/b> It\u2019s advisable to bring basic travel essentials, such as a water bottle and a camera bag, for a convenient outdoor experience.<\/span><\/p>\n

Unique Photo Opportunity: <\/b>The cultural richness preserved in Wayanad Heritage Museum.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Seasonal Highlights to Visit Wayanad in December<\/b><\/h2>\n
\"Bhagavathi Wayanad\u2019s local events are unmissable. From the Puthari festival, which is their harvest festival, to the festival of lights called Karthigai Deepam, there\u2019s so much to explore.<\/span><\/div>\n

1. Local Events & Festivals<\/b><\/h3>\n

Christmas in Wayanad: <\/b>Wayanad lights up like a Christmas tree during this festival. Locals host community feasts and <\/span>sing<\/span> hymns and carols as well. Cakes and traditional Kerala sweets are distributed among everyone during this time.<\/span>
<\/span>
<\/span>Thirunelli Vishnu Festival:<\/b> The temple is heavily decorated to celebrate Lord Vishnu. Beautiful traditional performances like Kathakali and Ottanthullal make it even more gorgeous.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Nature Watch<\/b><\/h3>\n

Blooming winter flora: <\/b>The wild mushrooms and coffee blossoms are a sight you can\u2019t miss. Fragrance fills the air, as it is also the flowering season.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Best time for birdwatching:<\/b> Due to the migration season, you can spot a variety of exotic birds in Wayanad in December, including Crimson-backed Sunbird and White-bellied Blue Flycatcher.<\/span><\/p>\n

Suggested Itineraries Based on Trip Length<\/b><\/h2>\n

Depending on the duration of your trip, we\u2019ve created a fun list of itineraries for you. Therefore, you can choose from <\/span>among<\/span> them according to your mood and budget.<\/span><\/p>\n

2-Day Escape<\/b><\/h3>\n