Located at an elevation of 2600 feet above the sea level and covering an area of just 150 sq. km, the scenic town of Vythiri is a well-liked tourist attraction in Kerala having received the identity of a unique hill station for itself. Situated in the Wayanad district in the sylvan Northern High Ranges of Kerala, the place is a relaxed, stimulating and pollution free tranquil destination for all those on look out for some tranquility .
Vythiri, encircled by the lofty Western Ghats , is a mountainous region of mystifying loveliness found in the Wayanad district of Kerala. This attention-grabbing place allures tourists for its fog- shrouded towering peaks, emerald shrubbery, bountiful spice and
rubber plantations, tea and coffee estates, evergreen rain forests with varied plant and animal life, fascinating white bubbly cascades, luminous stream and idealistic dwelling at tree-top houses and resorts.
If you are a nature aficionado or a daring vacationer, Vythiri would be an idyllic plodding place for you. This place has a prominent wildlife sanctuary. Located far from the hustle and bustle of the city, Vythiri revitalizes your psyche and mind.
Location
This charismatic rock-strewn ground is elevated 1300m above the sea level, just over the Thamarassery Ghat and lies in the northern Wayanad district.
Best Time To Visit
The rains of Kerala augment the prettiness of the Western Ghats . So visit Vythiri during the rainy season during May to September.
Flora And Fauna
As Vythiri accommodates the Evergreen Rain Forests, it is wealthy in wildlife characteristic of evergreen forests. The abundance of flora and fauna which can be found amid the scenery is typified by its immense bio-diversity. As you stroll through the woods following its natural trails, which
leads you to delightful magnificent spots, view positions with stunning views of the vale below. You will be astounded by breathtaking native plants which appear with every stride you take. Trees of the wild kind like rose-wood, anjili (Artocarpus), mullumurikku (Erthrina), several species of caussia and many other varieties are still conserved here and there, to give shade to the coffee plants. The soil and climate of Wayanad are apposite for horticulture on a commercial basis. Wild animals like Nilgiri langur, thrush and Malabar squirrel frequent the branches of the trees. The small watercourses maintain a broad range of wildlife including colorful insects and birds.
Things To See And Do :
Tree Houses
One of the attractive tourist attractions is the tree- house. Little lodgings made of wood are suspended at the top of the trees of tropical rain forests above 90 ft from the ground. The Houses are made of Eco-friendly materials and is designed with ethnic materials using local craftsmen, local materials and native methods used by the early inhabitants. They do not use electricity and as an alternative has an arrangement of solar energy, gober gas from cow dung and lamps with kerosene. All said and
done t he tree house structure is very fundamental, but represents ‘jungle living’ with the sky for a ceiling and immaculate hills for neighbours. But the extravagant view from the tall tree house makes it all worthwhile.
Edakkal Caves
These caves form a part of the Ambukuthi Hills, located about 10 kms from Sultan Bathery, in Wayanad district of Kerala. A gigantic fissure in the rock resulted in the creation of these caves with scenic beauty. The Edakkal Caves in Wayanad are splendid creations of nature. The word 'Edakkal' itself means 'a stone in between'. The composition of these caves is beyond doubt astonishing as a big rock balances itself on two comparatively smaller rocks, thus forming the truly fascinating Edakkal Caves of Kerala. These caves are a very admired tourist attraction of Wayanad. The cave has two levels inside that can be entered through an entrance that is merely 5 feet in height.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary, set up in1973 is adjacent to the sheltered area network of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka on the northeast and Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu on the southeast. Rich in bio diversity, the sanctuary is well- preserved and an integral a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve of Kerala. This sanctuary is haunt to varied forms of wildlife and trees. The sanctuary is rich in flora and fauna. The administration lays stress on methodical protection with due concern for the universal existence of the tribals and others who live in and around
the forest.
Elephants, spotted deer, Bison, tiger, cheetah, wild bear etc. can be spotted here. Elephant rides are arranged by the Forest department.
Chembra Peak
The Chembra is the highest peak in Wayanad with an altitude of 2100 m above sea level and is near Meppady town. This place is a darling with the trekking-enthusiasts . The hills, rocks and valleys, which contribute to the very unique character of Wayanad, provide a lot of venture tourism. Trekking to the Chembra peak is a perilous hiking attempt. Trekking to the top of the peak takes almost a day. Tourists can also stay one or two days at the top of the peak in transitory camps. District Tourism Promotion Council provides guides, sleeping bags, canvases, huts and trekking equipments on rent. The picturesque splendor of Wayanad, which is noticeable from the top of Chembra, is very thrilling.
Pookot Lake
This fresh water lake lies amidst the forests and is located about 30 km from Vythiri. One can enjoy boating and visit the children’s park, spice emporium and a fresh water aquarium . It is a natural fresh water lake, brimmed with evergreen mountains. The weather here is exciting; the picturesque beauty, mesmerizing and the nature unblemished. Boating facilities also are available. Spices and handicraft items are also arranged for sale here. The lake has an area of 8.5ha.and the maximum water depth is 6.5mtrs.This lake lies three kms south of Vythiri.
Lakkidi Hills
These hills stand 700 m above sea level and are to be found near Vythiri. You can also enjoy trekking and nature trails over here. One of the highest locations in Wayanad, Lakkidi also commands charming landscape. It is about 58 kms north east of Kozhikode and five kms south of Vythiri. Lakkidi, the gateway of Wayanad, lies atop Thamarassery.
The haughty mountain peaks, the rippling stream, copious vegetation and the bird's eye view of the profound valley on the south, with its twisting roads, are awesome. The 12 kms long expedition from Adivaram to Lakkidi through the ghats road with nine hairpin bends amidst deep forests, is a mesmerizing experience.
Connectivity
Nearest Airport – Calicut International Airport is located 85 kms away. The adjacent town is Kozhikode , buses are also available.
TOP HOTELS IN WAYANAD
VYTHIRI RESORT
Vythiri Resort. At the heart of a picturesque Wynad district on the Nilgiri hills in South India. 2600 ft above sea level. Miles away from the dust, grime and din. A magical, romantic getaway tucked away in a lush tropical rainforest. The glorious sunrise never fails to bring out the shy poet in you.
Embraced by a lush rainforest, blue ginger Wayanad Resorts, is one of Kerala’s much talked about eco-resort. The rock faces of the Western Ghats tower above green valleys and the vibrant landscape teems with vibrant flora and fauna.
A Green Gates Hotel is ideally located on a hillock in Kalpetta, the district headquarters of Wayanad. An exquisite hotel with all comforts befitting a luxury hotel.
