Wayanad is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Here are some of the popular tourist places in Wayanad: 

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the northeastern part of the Indian state of Kerala. The sanctuary covers an area of about 344 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The sanctuary was established in 1973 and is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The sanctuary is home to several species of animals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, langurs, macaques, wild boars, and various species of birds and reptiles. The sanctuary is also home to several endangered species, including the Indian pangolin, the slender loris, and the Malabar giant squirrel. 

The sanctuary is characterized by its dense forests, which are dominated by teak, eucalyptus, rosewood, and bamboo trees. The sanctuary also has several streams and waterfalls that are fed by the rivers that originate in the surrounding hills. 

The sanctuary offers several activities for visitors, including wildlife safaris, trekking, and camping. The best time to visit the sanctuary is between October and May when the weather is pleasant and the wildlife sightings are more frequent. The sanctuary also has several watchtowers and viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. 

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife and nature. The sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of the natural world and to learn about the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect it. 

Chembra Peak: Chembra Peak is the highest peak in Wayanad district of Kerala, India, located at an altitude of 2,100 meters above sea level. The peak is part of the Western Ghats and is a popular trekking destination among adventure enthusiasts. 

The trek to the top of Chembra Peak is a challenging one, but it offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trek starts from the base camp, which is located about 7 kilometers from Meppady. The trek takes around 3-4 hours to reach the top of the peak, and it involves hiking through dense forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain. 

One of the main attractions of Chembra Peak is a heart-shaped lake located at about halfway up the trek. The lake is believed to have formed due to a meteorite impact and is a popular spot for photography and picnicking. 

To trek to the peak, visitors need to obtain permission from the forest department, and they are required to be accompanied by a guide. The trek is not recommended for those with heart or respiratory problems, and it is best to avoid the trek during the monsoon season, as the trails can become slippery and dangerous. 

Chembra Peak is a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The trek to the peak offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of the Western Ghats and to challenge oneself physically and mentally. 

Edakkal Caves: Edakkal Caves are a group of two natural caves located in the Ambukuthi Hills in Wayanad district of Kerala, India. These caves are famous for their prehistoric rock art, which is believed to date back to the Neolithic era. The caves are situated at an altitude of about 1,200 meters above sea level and offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. 

The Edakkal Caves are believed to have been formed due to the action of natural forces such as weathering and erosion. The caves are situated on top of a hill and can be reached by climbing a flight of stone steps. The caves are open to the public, and visitors can explore the interiors of the caves, which are adorned with ancient rock paintings and carvings. 

The rock art in the Edakkal Caves consists of geometric symbols, human and animal figures, and various other designs. The paintings are believed to be around 8,000 years old and are considered to be one of the earliest forms of human expression in the Indian subcontinent. 

Visitors to the Edakkal Caves can also enjoy trekking and hiking in the surrounding hills and forests. The trek to the caves is a challenging one, but it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The best time to visit the Edakkal Caves is between November and May, when the weather is pleasant and the trails are less slippery. 

Edakkal Caves are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, archaeology, and art. The caves offer a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region and to witness the artistic skills of our prehistoric ancestors. 

Banasura Sagar Dam: Banasura Sagar Dam is the largest earthen dam in India, located in the Wayanad district of Kerala. The dam is built across the Banasura Sagar River and is surrounded by lush green forests, rolling hills, and scenic valleys. The dam is named after the mythological character Banasura, who is believed to have been a devotee of Lord Shiva. 

The dam is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty and recreational activities. The dam offers several opportunities for visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape, including boating, trekking, and camping. The dam is surrounded by a picturesque reservoir that stretches over a distance of 9 kilometers and is dotted with several small islands. 

One of the main attractions of Banasura Sagar Dam is the breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and valleys from the top of the dam. The dam also has several viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The dam is also surrounded by several hiking trails that lead to the nearby hills and forests. 

Visitors to the dam can also enjoy a range of water-based activities, including speed boating, pedal boating, and row boating. The dam is a popular spot for picnicking and is often crowded with families and groups of friends enjoying a day out in the midst of nature. 

Banasura Sagar Dam is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Wayanad. The dam offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the region and to indulge in a range of recreational activities. Whether you are a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast, the Banasura Sagar Dam is sure to leave you spellbound. 

Pookode Lake: Pookode Lake is a natural freshwater lake located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and rolling hills, and it is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and recreational activities. 

The lake is situated at an altitude of about 770 meters above sea level and covers an area of around 8.5 hectares. The lake is fed by several small streams and is surrounded by thick vegetation, making it a haven for a wide variety of plant and animal species. 

One of the main attractions of Pookode Lake is the boating experience that it offers. Visitors can enjoy a range of boating activities, including pedal boating and row boating, and can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing, and visitors can rent fishing gear to try their hand at catching the fish that inhabit the lake. 

The lake is surrounded by a walking trail that offers visitors a chance to explore the surrounding forests and enjoy the serene beauty of the region. The trail is dotted with several viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. 

Pookode Lake is also home to a freshwater aquarium, which houses a range of fish species found in the lake. The aquarium is a popular attraction among children and families. 

Pookode Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Wayanad. The lake offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the region and to indulge in a range of recreational activities. Whether you are a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast, Pookode Lake is sure to leave you mesmerized. 

Thirunelli Temple: Thirunelli Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. The temple is situated amidst the lush green forests of the Brahmagiri Hills, at an altitude of about 900 meters above sea level. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to have been built over 1000 years ago. 

One of the main attractions of the temple is its architecture. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture, with a square-shaped sanctum sanctorum and a roof made of copper sheets. The temple is surrounded by a beautiful courtyard and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. 

The temple is surrounded by a serene natural landscape and is believed to be situated at the confluence of three sacred rivers - the Papanasini, the Kalindi, and the Sarawathi. The temple is also surrounded by several hills, including the Brahmagiri Hills and the Narinirangimala. 

One of the main rituals of the temple is the Thirunelli Festival, which is celebrated annually in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August-September). During the festival, thousands of devotees visit the temple to offer prayers and to take a dip in the nearby Papanasini River, which is believed to have the power to wash away sins. 

Thirunelli Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Wayanad. The temple offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region and to experience the serene natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Whether you are a religious person or a history enthusiast, Thirunelli Temple is sure to leave you spellbound. 

Wayanad Heritage Museum: Wayanad Heritage Museum is a museum located in Ambalavayal, in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. The museum is situated in the heart of the town and is dedicated to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. 

The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that depict the history, art, and culture of Wayanad. The exhibits include items such as ancient coins, tribal artifacts, traditional costumes, weapons, and agricultural tools. There are also exhibits that showcase the traditional way of life in the region, including a replica of a tribal hut and an exhibit on the traditional cultivation methods of the region. 

One of the main attractions of the museum is the display of the Edakkal Caves artifacts. The Edakkal Caves are a set of prehistoric caves located in the Wayanad district, and the museum houses a collection of artifacts that were discovered during excavations of the caves. The artifacts include ancient pottery, stone tools, and jewelry. 

The museum also has a section dedicated to the history of the Wayanad district. The section includes exhibits on the region's colonial past, including artifacts from the British and Dutch periods. 

Wayanad Heritage Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history, art, and culture of the Wayanad region. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region and to learn about the traditional way of life in the area. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a cultural explorer, Wayanad Heritage Museum is sure to leave you fascinated. 

Overall, Wayanad is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, wildlife, and culture. The region offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers.