10 Interesting and Unknown Facts About Wayanad

Wayanad is an exotic mix of all things touristy, from mountains, lakes, waterfalls, sanctuaries and viewpoints to ancient ruins, pilgrim centres, and tea plantations. Wayanad, a renowned tourist destination in Kerala, is a gorgeous green countryside with enough to see and do. However, there are many interesting and unknown facts about Wayanad that not a lot of people know of.

Let’s explore the 10 interesting and unknown facts about Wayanad:

Origin of name

Wayanad is known as Kerala's lush paradise. The name Wayanad was made by combining the terms 'Vayal' and 'Nadu.' Which translates to paddy field land. As the name implies, the enchanting beauty of paddy fields draws more visitors to this location.

Wayanad district covers around 2000 square kilometres and is located between 700 and 2100 metres above sea level. It is a lovely location where travellers can satisfy their trekking aspirations.

Wayanad and Its Neighbouring States

The lush paradise of Wayanad is tucked among the Western Ghats mountains, forming the greener part of Kerala's border world. This lush hill town, located 76 kilometres from Kozhikode's seashores, is brimming with plantations, forests, and wildlife. The Wayanad hills, which are connected to Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu and Bandipur in Karnataka, constitute a huge landmass where wild animals can roam freely in their natural habitat.

Tribes in Wayanad   

Wayanad, one of the most popular sites to visit near Kozhikode, is home to Kerala's largest Adivasi population. Local tribals dwell both in and around the sanctuary's woodland areas. Paniyas, Kurumas, Kattunaikkans, Adiyans, Ooralis, and Kurichiyas are some of the scheduled Adivasis who live in these woodlands. The Kerala Forest Department emphasises scientific conservation while taking into account the general way of life of the tribals and those who live in and around Wayanad, a prominent hill station near Bangalore. Inside the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, 17 anti-poaching stations have been constructed to deter poachers from hunting in the wild for recreational or commercial purposes.

No Coastal Area or Railways

Even though Kerala's southern state has a lengthy coastline, Wayanad is located away from it. Kerala's coastline runs along its western border, with Wayanad on its eastern border.

Wayanad is also unique in that it is not connected to the rest of Kerala by train. Isn't it fascinating? Although Indian Railways operates one of the world's largest rail networks, Wayanad lacks a train network. The terrain is most likely a forest reserve area, which is intended for wildlife. The nearest railway station is 110 kilometres away at Kozhikode.

The Only Earth Dam in India

The Banasura Sagar Dam is located near Kalpetta, Wayanad, spanning the Karamanathodu River, which is a branch of the Kabini River. What you didn’t know among the interesting and unknown facts about Wayanad is that Banasura Sagar Dam is India's largest earth dam, as well as Asia's second-largest dam. The dam also houses India's first solar power plant. The dam is located in the Banasura Hills' foothills. The dam was named after 'Banasura,' the son of the mythical King Mahabali's great leader. These hills are also the Western Ghats' third largest mountain.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the Nilgiri Biosphere, is noted for its diverse biodiversity. In the year 2012, the Western Ghats, Nilgiri sub-cluster, which includes the sanctuary, was declared a UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve was the first biosphere reserve in India to be designated by UNESCO as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve was formed with the express purpose of preserving the region's biological heritage. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park, Mukurthi National Park, and Silent Valley are among the Reserve's other wildlife parks.

Wildlife sanctuaries galore

Wildlife sanctuaries surround Wayanad on three sides, including legends like Bandipur, Muthanga, and Nagarhole. These contiguous woods cover 11000 square kilometres and are home to a quarter of India's tigers, Asia's largest population of Asian elephants, and a plethora of indigenous flora and wildlife. Jeep safaris are available in Muthanga and Tholpetty, but sightings are few. 

Spice Garden of India

Since ancient times, Wayanad has been renowned for its spices. Wayanadan pepper (sometimes known as Wayanadan BOLT) is a highly aromatic and exceptionally hot pepper that is in high demand worldwide. Cardamom is another locally grown spice.

Ooty of Kerala

Wayanad is often referred to as Kerala's Ooty because of its pleasant climate and picturesque scenery. It is oftentimes better than Ooty in many aspects.

Only Luv Kush Temple

Pulpally in Wayanad is home to Kerala's only Luv Kush Temple. It is believed that Sita Devi used to live in the temple known as 'Sita Lava Kusha Temple.'

Additionally, sites such as Thirunelli Temple, Karinthandan Temple, Old Jain Temple, and many others are excellent examples of ancient architecture and religious beliefs. All of these interesting and unknown facts about Wayanad come together to form an incredible tapestry that will enhance both your photo album and your life album.