Unmistakably the best way to explore Kerala is to start at the northern tropical forests that are lush green and untouched. Once our flight booking to Bangalore was done, we made arrangements for a car to take us to Wayanad in north Kerala. Flash-forward to two weeks later, we were negotiating the hairpin bends on the windy Kerala roads, we made our way to the Vythiri Resort in the Wayanad district. It began to rain as we ducked into our spacious rooms in the early part of the day.
After the rain settled, we climbed down the wooden stairway, past the bridge that had a fast flowing stream below and strolled to the pool. What better way to start the holiday than a trip to the pool, where we could enjoy the pleasant weather and relax on a pool stool, mocktail in hand. We then grabbed some breakfast. Breakfast was just as delicious topped off with appam and stew. The receptionist escorted us to our Yoga session which was set along a stream. The restaurant had the usual buffet fare and we were served up fresh coconut water to compliment the food.
As the day grew on us, we climbed the 6,900 feet Chembra Peak and hearing the calls of the Hornbill and the scurrying of the Giant Squirrel. Back at the resort, the stream had calmed and we were at the liberty to play in the water and got completely soaked in the mini waterfall behind us!
The resort had a cycling path and we took it on ourselves to explore the outdoors. On our way back, we booked a cab at the reception and travelled to the Chain Tree and drove down to the forests below. Without a doubt, the trip to the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary was the most fascinating part of the trip as there were several elephant sightings. We were lucky to take photos of spotted deer, bison, Malabar squirrels and leopards. I would also definitely recommend a visit to the 300 feet Soochipara Waterfalls . You are simply taken away by its gushing waters and its mystical beauty grows on you.
As night approached, we were invited to a Kerala-styled Kathakali dance and were amazed at Kalaripayattu martial arts performance. Wayanad is home to many indigenous tribes that are among the forests and several plantations. They are hospitable and have a lot of walk-ins. We were able to spend time getting to know about their habits and traits from our tour guide.
Wayanad is simply magical and it’s calming presence and spectacular greenery make it truly God’s own country. For that much needed break to unwind, Wayanad is definitely the place to be for an experience that will last you a lifetime. This is just the tip of Kerala Tourism, it’s a state that has a lot to offer and will keep you coming back for more.
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