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    This election season, you have more than one reason (Rahul Gandhi) to visit Wayanad

    Synopsis

    The Congress President has popularised Wayanad. But there’s more to the beautiful hill town.

    Untitled-18Agencies
    Situated in northeast Kerala among the Western Ghats, Wayanad is home to waterfalls and lakes, a wildlife sanctuary and peaks, apart from being a treasure trove of history and culture. (Image: Instagram/wayanadtourism)
    The misty, quaint hill station of Wayanad hit headline high point this election season when Congress President Rahul Gandhi filed his nomination from the area. As polling was held in Kerala's 20 constituencies this month, the district witnessed a record voter turnout on April 23. But even before the Gandhi scion put the spotlight on the town with its lush spice and coffee plantations, it was a hidden escape for travellers looking to rejuvenate in nature.

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    Rahul Gandhi (c) at the Thirunelli temple in Wayanad.

    Situated in northeast Kerala among the Western Ghats, Wayanad is home to waterfalls and lakes, a wildlife sanctuary and peaks, apart from being a treasure trove of history and culture. Its paddy fields – from which it derives its name – with picturesque mountains in the backdrop, acres of plantations, and green as far as the eye can see make it look right out of a painting.

    An ideal holiday destination, whether you plan to spend the summer with family or want to plan a romantic getaway with your partner, Wayanad has plenty to offer (and we mean apart from all that election buzz).

    Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

    elephants-wayand-GettyImageGetty Images
    A family of elephants in the Wayand wildlife sanctuary.

    The second-largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala with its rich biodiversity is also known by the name Muthanga. Home to a diverse fauna, a visit to the sanctuary will give you a chance to spot tigers, panthers, Sloth bear, Gaur, and the majestic elephants along with other mammals. It is also a great spot for bird-watching and if you are lucky, you might just get a glimpse of the threatened white-rumped and red-headed vultures.

    Wayanad Heritage Museum

    Untitled-16Agencies
    (Image: incrediblekerala.org)

    Located at Ambalavayal, the Wayanad Heritage Museum houses artefacts dating back to the 9th century. Also known as the Ambalavayal Heritage Museum, it exhibits pottery from the Megalithic Age, stone weapons and hunting equipment, clay sculptures and idols. When in the area, tourists can also plan a visit to the multi-media theatre near the museum.

    Edakkal caves

    Untitled-19Agencies
    (Image: ekeralatourism.net)

    A 20-minute hike from the Wayanad Heritage Museum, the pre-historic Edakkal Caves are the only spot in the country with Stone-Age carvings. Carvings from the Neolithic and Mesolithic age can be seen on the walls of the two caves – that are said to have been formed by a split in one huge rock.

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    The heart-shaped lake Hridaya Saras at Chembra. (Image: HolidayIQ)

    Apart from the several tourist spots, Wayanad’s topography also makes it an excellent pick for adventure enthusiasts, giving them abundant options to go bamboo rafting, trekking, cycling, and camping. Plan a hike to the Chembra, the highest peak in Wayanad, for a mesmerising view that’s sure to take your breath away - and to see the heart-shaped lake, Hridaya Saras.


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