Woodlands of Wayanad: Bid adieu to the concrete jungle
The mushrooming of cities in India coupled with migration of people from the rural to the urban regions has resulted in a lopsided imbalance. Today one thing that city dwellers miss is that earthy connect with nature. Nature is in our DNA, and in fact, our ancestors worshipped nature in all its forms. Rivers, mountains, trees, animals, flowers, and every element of nature be it water, wind, fire, earth have always been held sacred and revered in the Indian culture. But somewhere on the road to urbanisation and development concrete jungles have replaced verdant forests whiled paved roads have taken over natural trails. But it is a blessing that there are places that still retain their pristine essence and offer an escape from the monotony and mechanics of urban life.
Wayanad – An Escape into The Arms of Nature
A place where mornings mean feeling the cool air of the hills and listening to the incessant chirping of birds, being bathed in the golden rays of the rising sun and being engulfed in the serenity of silence. Such a place exists and not far from many of the urban centres of South India. Such a place is Wayanad.
Wayanad is about 280 kilometres from the megacity of Bangalore and 130 kilometres from the now burgeoning city of Mysore. It makes for an ideal weekend escape from the clutches of city life, especially for people from these cities. With its undulating hilly tracks, mountains, waterfalls, streams, rivers, lakes, and forests Wayanad beckons with its pristine self to reconnect with nature and rejuvenate in its arms.
Why Wayanad is a Getaway from The Concrete Jungle
The picturesque district of Wayanad in God’s Own Country, Kerala sits pretty on the Western Ghats bordering the states of Kerala and Karnataka. With just about 4% urbanisation the district is a haven for nature lovers to lose themselves in the beauty of nature. Here are some reasons that contribute to making Wayanad an ideal getaway from the concrete jungle.
Banasura Hills
The Banasura Hill is one of the highest peaks of the Western Ghats in Wayanad at a height of 6,800 feet. One can ascend the peak through a 3-hour exciting trek that takes one through thick forests and roaring waterfalls. The area also has colourful flora and fauna and makes for a challenging but satisfying trek up the hills.
Chembra Peak
The Chembra Peak is the highest in the Wayanad district with a height of over 2100 metres. It is reached by a 3-hour trek that takes one through undulating tea gardens, narrow wooded paths, rocky terrain, grasslands, and much more. A beautiful heart-shaped lake that one comes across on this trek is enchanting. It is said that the lake never dries. The trek is absolute heaven for nature lovers and provides some spectacular panoramic views of the valleys below.
Soochipara Falls
A drive across the emerald tea estates of Wayanad takes you into the heart of the evergreen montane forest region of Wayanad, set amidst these lush surroundings is the enthralling sight of the Soochipara falls. Crystal clear waters cascade in three tiers over the rocks soothing the senses with their beauty and the music of water crashing against the rocks. Here are 5 other waterfalls you must visit while in Wayanad.
The Tea Gardens
When in Wayanad you will never be far from the enchanting beauty of a tea garden. Tea gardens stretch like necklaces across Wayanad district and contribute to the invigorating mountain air with their freshness. A walk in the midst of the tea gardens in the early morning or at sunset is like losing yourself in a magical land.
Kuruvadweep Island
A group of uninhabited islands home to exotic and rare flora and fauna, the Kuruvadweep islands are indeed pristine gems of Wayanad. Streams and rivers caress the islands where rare orchids bloom. Accessed by rafts and boats the Kuruvadweep islands is a rare Eden and a place where silence reigns supreme.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
The Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is the soul of the Wayanad region. It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere, and it teems with wildlife. The home of the elephants, the sanctuary is also home to deer, monkeys, and a few tigers. Exotic birds, butterflies and other insects add to the charm of the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary which is a treasure trove of biodiversity. The thick deciduous forests provide the ideal setting for an adventurous outing on the jungle trails, basking in nature.
The woodlands of Wayanad beckon with their irresistible charm which cannot be escaped for long. Sterling Wayanad nestles in the midst of this natural haven to curate the best holiday for you in the lap of mother nature.
