Wayanad

Wayanad is a verdant plateau in northern Kerala forming part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The district is distinguished by the Edakkal Caves — two natural rock formations containing petroglyphs dating back to the Neolithic era (6000 BCE), making them among the oldest human art in South India. Other highlights include Banasura Sagar Dam (India's largest earth dam), the heart-shaped lake atop Chembra Peak, and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary connecting to Mudumalai and Bandipur reserves. The region thrives on coffee, tea, cardamom, and pepper plantations with a strong eco-tourism ethos.