A decision of traveling during COVID pandemic wasn't easy one. Even then, after spending months within a restricted physical and mental space, it had been a much-needed break which we all wished for.



Beyond Four Walls 

From stockpiling of hand sanitizers to masked up people in hotel counter, thermal screening while crossing interstate border, localized movement restrictions, downloading contact tracing app—ongoing pandemic has introduced many new entries to travel vocabulary. On top of everything, you would like to go through a maze of ever-changing govt guidelines and regulations before you FINALLY revive your dream of beaches, mountains, and monuments.

Yet we set our mind and destination to Wayanad—the land of mystique paddy fields—after many deliberations.



Land of Paddy Fields

Wayanad is an Indian district within the north-east of Kerala state. The name came from Wayal-Nad meaning “The Land of Paddy Fields” in English. “Imagine a land blessed by the golden hand of history, shrouded within the timeless mists of mystery, and flawlessly adorned in nature's everlasting splendor”—a very apt narrative about this enthralling place. On an early-October morning we started our journey from Bangalore to the present place over the hills and much beyond. 

a big part of our itinerary had been dedicated to seeking out out an appropriate accommodation. because of recommendations from a couple of my kind-hearted friends, we found Enteveedu as our home-away-from-home for next few days. On a rain-soaked afternoon, the homeowner cordially welcomed us to the present beautiful property. that's the start of an interesting journey for next few days.



Green-scape

Upon arrival, remainder of Day One, we spent in exploring the world on bicycles! The accommodation keeps several of these if you would like any—well maintained and of incredibly good quality. Pedalling through lush green paddy fields and treelined roads was a much-needed respite from a lifetime of mundane, confined months within four walls.



Reflecting Your Mind 

Banasura Sagar Dam was on our itinerary for Day Two. the most important earthen dam of India (second largest of Asia), Banasura Sagar Dam is made across the Karamanathodu River, a tributary of River Kabini. The dam is ideally placed within the foothills of Banasura hills, which got its name from 'Banasura', the son of King Mahabali, the famous ruler of Kerala. The adjacent natural park and available facilities there have made the place a tourism hotspot for adventure tourism.



Banasura Sagar Dam 

An early morning rise on next day would be ok to experience Edakkal Caves with sufficient time in hand. Footprints on the sand of times, Edakkal Caves are Neolithic rock shelters of pre-historic era at the altitude of 1200 ft. from sea-level. These caves are among the oldest human settlements ever discovered. Inside the caves are pictorial drawings and engravings that indicate the presence of it as a person's habitat. The cave paintings are remarkable in their sheer scale and complexity albeit their mysterious origin.



Painting on The Wall 

Among several well-endowed waterfalls within the region, we got an exclusive entry and visit to Kanthanpara waterfalls (most of all other places being closed due to pandemic) because of Mr. Anand, then-Secretary of DTPC, Wayanad, and my good friend Shaji—a highly motivated traveller and adventure tour enthusiast himself. The serene great thing about this 30-feet high waterfall is riveting. Both the falls and therefore the surrounding greenery are at their scenic best during monsoon.



Kanthanpara Waterfalls 

Our return journey to Bangalore was through a 36-km long stretch of Tholpetty and Nagarhole wildlife sanctuaries. Tholpetty sanctuary is home for an upscale diversity of flora and fauna. hospitable jeep safari during daytime, you'll catch glimpses of varied animals and bird species in their natural surroundings.

Other Must-visit Wayanad Attractions
*- Priyadarshini Tea Environs*—for Camping, Trekking, Cycling beat one place
*Karlad Lake*—a natural freshwater lake. The Wayanad Adventure Camp here offers a good range of activities like Nature Walk, Kayaking, Zipline, hiking , and Bamboo Rafting
*Kuruva Island*—Spread over 950 acres of land, this comprises of a cluster of islets over the center of Kabini River. Highly popular among nature lovers, this island offers a relaxed and serene surrounding and a secure haven for migratory birds along side hornbills, parrots, and lots of butterfly species.
*- Cheengeri Rock Adventure*—offers a breath-taking view of Karappuzha Dam catchment basin .

Our Host—The People of Wayanad
Wayanad is presumable the wettest place in Kerala albeit it's a land of warm welcoming people that are extremely attached to their cultural bond and deeply rooted to the land. it's the smallest amount populated district of Kerala with highest number of tribal populations. The name of the place itself indicates the agricultural economy base; however, the people here have a robust martial history as their profession along side traditionally being artisans and skilled craftsmen. Their works include wood cravings, sculptures, pottery, furniture, musical instruments, and hunting weapons. aside from ethnic origins of individuals here, Wayanad features a religiously diverse population too. Beliefs and subcultures of Hindu, Christian, Muslim, and Jain population have great influences on the secular and multicultural mainstream society of Wayanad.

Spend few days in Wayanad when it's safe to travel.