Wayanad

Wayanad is nestled among the western ghats, It is one of the loveliest hill stations of Kerala. This lush green paradise, located at a distance of about 76 km. from the seashores of Kozhikkode, lies at a height of 700 to 21000 m. above the sea level, on the north eastern part of the state. The name, Wayanad, is believed to have been derived from the word, Vayalnadu, meaning the land of paddy fields. Wayanadu is famous for crops like pepper, cardamom, coffee, tea, spices and other condiments. Most of the reserve forests in the state are in this district. A large percentage of the population in this region is tribals. Wayanad is one of the few districts in Kerala that has been able to retain its pristine nature. Hidden away in the hills of this land are some of the oldest tribes, as yet untouched by civilization. And the very first prehistoric engravings in Kerala discovered in the foothills of Edakkal and around Ambukuthimala bear testimony to a pre-historic culture dating back to the Mesolithic Age. Strikingly scenic, it is known for its sub-tropical savannahs, picturesque hill stations, sprawling spice plantations, luxuriant forests and rich cultural traditions. A holistic confluence of wilderness, history and culture, Wayanad is located on the southern tip of the magnificent Deccan plateau.

Its geographical position is peculiar and unique. The difference in altitudes of each locality within the district presents a variation of climatic conditions. Nature has blessed this part of the country beautifully with mist-clad mountains and sylvan valleys. The idyllic nature of Wayanad, its nearness to Udagamandalam (Ootty) and Mysore offer tremendous tourist potentialities.

Visitors are impressed by the extensive paddy fields of the district. Agriculture in Wayanad is equally divided between paddy and plantation crops, except coconut. The hills, which are deep, blue in bright sunlight and mist-covered most of the time, juxtaposes with the green of these paddy fields. This infact, is a splendid spectacle.