Best Places to Visit in Kalpetta

Here is the list of places to visit in Kalpetta:

Karapuzha Dam:

Karapuzha Dam is more than just a great structure; it’s a peaceful place for people who love nature. Riding boats on its clear waters is a favorite activity, letting you enjoy the beautiful views and the gentle sounds of nature. The boat rides take you through a lush green landscape, giving you a sense of peace that’s hard to find anywhere else. If you want to feel close to nature, Karapuzha Dam is the perfect place. Its beautiful surroundings invite you to explore the diverse landscape, where you might see different birds or even some local animals.

Entry Fee and Timings of Karapuzha Dam, Wayanad

To visit Karapuzha Dam, adults need to pay INR 30 each, and children pay INR 10 each. If you have a still camera, it’s INR 50, and for a video camera, it’s INR 200. The dam is open every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but entry closes at 4:30 PM. It’s best to arrive by 4:30 PM to make the most of your visit.

Kanthanpara Waterfalls:

Kanthanpara Waterfalls in Wayanad offers a serene escape from the noise of city life, where one can find peace among the trees and solace in the gentle flow of water. Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, it showcases Kerala’s raw beauty and invites visitors to immerse themselves in nature’s wonders. Activities here include sightseeing and photography to capture the breathtaking scenery, nature walks to explore the rich biodiversity, picnicking amidst the lush surroundings, and, depending on safety, swimming in the pool below the falls. It’s a tranquil haven for those seeking serenity and a deeper connection with nature.

Entry Fee and Timings of Kanthanpara Waterfalls:

To visit Kanthanpara Waterfalls, the entry fee is INR 40 per person. If you’re into bird watching, it costs INR 1000 for a group of 5 people, and for trekking, it’s INR 500 for 4 people. The waterfall is open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM every day, with the best time to explore being around 2-3 hours. It’s a picturesque destination offering various activities for visitors to enjoy amidst nature’s beauty.

Thirunelli Temple:

Nestled at the base of Brahmagiri hills, Thirunelli Temple is a charming and serene place dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It’s renowned in Wayanad for its simplicity and enchanting Kerala-style architecture. Often referred to as the “Kashi of the South,” this ancient temple holds significance as it’s believed that Lord Brahma placed the idol of Lord Vishnu here. Legend has it that the idol was discovered on an amla tree, known locally as nelli, giving the temple its name, Thirunelli.

Thirunelli Temple Wayanad Timings and Entry Fee:

Thirunelli Temple in Wayanad is open from 5:30 AM to 12 PM and 5:30 PM to 8 PM. It’s recommended to visit during winter, from November to February, for the best experience due to the pleasant weather. Exploring the temple grounds usually takes around 1-2 hours. The good news is that there’s no entry fee to visit Thirunelli Temple in Wayanad, making it accessible to all.

Chembra Peak:

Chembra Peak, situated amidst hills, tea plantations, and verdant valleys, stands as the tallest mountain in Wayanad, towering at 2100 meters above sea level. Protected by the forest department, this pristine location retains its natural beauty and offers an ideal setting for a tranquil nature walk. Visitors can enjoy stunning vistas of the region’s exotic flora and fauna from this picturesque spot. The forest department arranges treks to Chembra Peak, guiding adventurers through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and verdant landscapes to reach a heart-shaped lake, believed to have been bathed in by Goddess Sita and never to have dried up. Trekking amidst mist-covered views and tea plantations promises an unforgettable experience, with the chance to wander among the clouds on overcast days.

Chembra Peak Wayanad Timings and Entry Fee

Trekking at Chembra Peak in Wayanad starts at 7 AM, with treks available daily, weather permitting. The peak closes at 5 PM, and trekking permissions aren’t issued after 2 PM. The trekking fee is ₹750 for a group of up to 10 Indian nationals, with an additional ₹75 per extra person. For foreigners, the fee is ₹1500 for a group of 5, with ₹300 per extra person. There’s an entrance fee of ₹20 and a camera fee of ₹40 for Indian nationals, and ₹30 for entrance and ₹80 for the camera for foreign nationals. Students pay an entry fee of ₹15. Parking charges are ₹10 for 2-wheelers and ₹25 for 4-wheel vehicles.

Soochipara Waterfalls:

Soochipara Waterfalls, also known as Sentinel Rock Falls, is a stunning natural attraction nestled amidst the lush green forests near Wayanad. It’s a must-see spot for those wanting to fully appreciate the beauty of Wayanad’s nature. To reach the waterfall, visitors embark on an exciting downward trek, with steep hills providing an ideal setting for trekking and rock climbing adventures. The waterfall descends from about 200 meters, forming a refreshing natural pool below, inviting visitors to take a dip in its cool and clear waters. It’s a mesmerizing sight that captivates all who visit.

Soochipara Waterfalls Timings and Entry Fee

Soochipara Waterfalls in Wayanad is open all day and all year round, but it’s advisable to visit during daylight hours. The falls welcome visitors from 9 AM to 5 PM. The entry fee is ₹80 per person, with additional charges for cameras and parking.

Wayanad Heritage Museum:

The Wayanad Heritage Museum, also known as the Ambalavayal Heritage Museum, is a captivating journey through the history of Wayanad, showcasing the traditions and lifestyles of its indigenous communities. The museum highlights the rich heritage of Adivasi groups like the Kurichiyas, Paniyas, and Kurumbas, displaying traditional tribal artifacts such as weapons, jewelry, tools, and costumes. Additionally, visitors can explore archaeological finds like ancient pottery, stone carvings, and tools, offering insights into Wayanad’s historical significance.

Wayanad Heritage Museum Timings and Entry Fee

To visit the Wayanad Heritage Museum, adults pay an entry fee of INR 50 per person. If you have a still camera, there’s an additional fee of INR 50. The museum is open every day from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and it’s suggested to spend about 1 hour exploring its exhibits.

Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary:

Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, situated at 1740 meters above sea level, is renowned for its lush greenery and rich birdlife. It offers challenging trekking opportunities along steep slopes amidst virgin forests. As a haven for nature enthusiasts, it’s the prime destination for bird-watching in Kerala, with various rare and exotic bird species to be spotted. Exploring the sanctuary involves a long trek through dense forests, steep hills, waterfalls, and caves, with the watchtower providing a panoramic view of the forest and facilitating bird spotting.

Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary Timings and Entry Fee:

Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary welcomes visitors every day, but it’s essential to return to the entry point before sunrise as night camping isn’t permitted in the deep forests. The sanctuary is open from 6 AM to 6 PM. For entry, Indian nationals pay ₹50 per person, while foreign nationals pay ₹200 per person. Additional charges apply for hiring a forest guide.

Vaduvanchal:

Vaduvanchal is renowned for its coffee, vanilla, tea, and rubber plantations, making it an ideal destination for agricultural tourism. It’s a hotspot for trekking and outdoor activities like rock climbing, mountain biking, and fishing. Visitors can explore the area’s natural beauty through forest treks leading to attractions such as Meenmutty Falls and the skull-shaped rock formation at Cheengeri Mala. Chethalayam Falls offers another trekking route where trekkers can enjoy nature and spot birds. Other attractions include Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Neelima View Point, and Chembra Peak, making Vaduvanchal a diverse and appealing destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Pallikkunnu Church:

Pallikunnu Church, also known as Our Lady of Lourdes, is a sacred place that showcases the peaceful blend of faith and nature in Kerala. Upon arrival, the fragrance of wildflowers and the sounds of birdsong create a serene atmosphere, enhancing the spiritual journey. The church, with its pristine white facade and beautiful stained-glass windows, stands tall against the lush greenery of Wayanad. It serves as a symbol of faith and devotion, offering visitors a tranquil and uplifting experience amidst the natural beauty of God’s own country.

Entry to Pallikunnu Church is free for all visitors. The church is open every day from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, allowing ample time for exploration. It’s recommended to spend about 30 minutes to fully experience the serenity and beauty of this sacred place.