Kerala has two breathtaking tourist destinations, Munnar and Wayanad, each with its own distinct appeal. Wayanad is located in North Kerala, and Munnar is in Central Kerala. Although Wayanad is lower in elevation than Munnar, both of these hill stations are within the boundaries of the western ghats, and their climates are essentially the same. Making a choice between Munnar and Wayanad, two of Kerala’s most stunning tourist attractions, may be rather challenging. With hundreds of visitors each day from Kerala and other parts of India as well as beyond, Munnar is the most visited hill station. Wayanad holds significant value on the tourism map of Kerala, drawing in large numbers of both local and foreign visitors who come to explore the local fauna and rural life. The stunning, dense forests and the meandering roads through them are Wayanad’s main draws.
Best Time to Visit Munnar and Wayanad
Summer is the best time to visit Munnar since it’s cool enough to explore without being too hot. Low temperatures in the lowlands make Munnar an appealing summer trip. Similarly, because of the mild but not frigid weather, winter is also a good time to visit.
Because of its pleasant climate, Wayanad is another well-liked location that is accessible all year round. Nonetheless, October through March is when many choose to visit this area to experience nature and wildlife at their most spectacular. It may be hot in Wayanad during the summer, when temperatures might reach up to 36 degrees Celsius. However, it’s also a season when nature flourishes and displays its luxuriant foliage. It is noteworthy that Wayanad and Munnar endure strong monsoons.
Tourist Attractions in Munnar and Wayanad
Wayanad is renowned for its forests and fauna. Wayanad offers you the opportunity to discover tribal culture through village visits. Wayanad offers numerous tourist attractions such as Banasura Sagar Dam, Phantom Rock, Neelimala View Point, Edakkal Caves, Kuruva Island, Chain Tree, Pookode Lake, Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, The Bamboo Factory, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Wayanad is the perfect destination for those looking for adventure and wildlife, offering a blend of historical artefacts and breathtaking natural artefacts. With its beautiful vegetation, rustic lawns, and numerous exotic homestays that enhance the trip and should never be forgotten, it is a great spot to visit.
Munnar is even more picturesque because of its relaxing climate and the hills and slopes covered in green tea plantations. Compared to Wayanad, Munnar offers better camping locations amidst tea estates at a greater altitude. Attukal Waterfalls, Devikulam, Blossom Park, Mattupetty Dam, Photo Point, Meesapulimala, Lakkam Waterfalls, Echo Point, Anamudi, Devikulam, Top Station, TATA Tea Museum, and many more are among Munnar’s tourist attractions.
Activities in Munnar and Wayanad
When deciding between Munnar and Wayanad, Wayanad is suggested for those seeking adventure, while Munnar is best suited for those seeking slightly milder activities. Both locations are excellent for hiking and trekking up mountain routes, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding ranges and woods. Munnar is a great place to go bird watching, trekking, and paragliding. Exciting wildlife excursions are available at the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. In addition to hiking and bird watching, Wayanad is well-known for its wildlife safaris in Muthanga and Tholpetty, as well as bamboo rafting in the Kuruva Islands. Munnar is well-known for its mountain biking and tea farm visits. Blossom International Park offers uncommon flower viewing opportunities as well. In contrast, Wayanad encourages tourists to discover the natural world. A thorough investigation of the historic Edakkal Caves or an ascent to Chembra Peak are two options. Wayanad offers a number of fantastic trekking routes, in addition to the more daring activities like zip-lining and mountain climbing.
Accomodation and Food in Munnar and Wayanad
The biggest expenses of your vacation will be lodging and food when you visit Munnar or Wayanad. As long as it fits within your budget, you can always select the greatest options available. Compared to Wayanad, Munnar offers a greater number of resorts; however, the cost of five-star resorts in Munnar is higher. The fact that Wayanad is a district with greater size and Munnar is a city is one explanation for this. While Wayanad and Munnar both have treehouse resorts, Munnar has more than Wayanad.
Unlike Munnar, where the territory is restricted, resorts in Wayanad are more extensive due to the area. But in Munnar and Wayanad, you can find affordable lodging in any price range and a hotel starting at 4 stars or less, depending on your budget. The cost of the meals is comparable at both locations, but you can save even more money by dining at real local eateries as opposed to well-known ones. There are several traditional homestays in Wayanad, and resorts and treehouses are the main draws in Munnar.
Accessibility to Munnar and Wayanad
Compared to Wayanad, Munnar is far easier to get there and more accessible. If Kochi is our starting point, the trip to Munnar takes roughly 4 hours, however the trip to Wayanad could take up to 11 hours.
The Kozhikode railway station is the closest railway station to Wayanad, and it is approximately 110 KM distant. After alighting from the train, one must take a taxi and travel for approximately 4 hours to reach their destination. The closest airport to Wayanad is Calicut International Airport; from there, a cab is required. The quickest and most efficient method to go around Wayanad is by taxi.
Conclusion
Munnar and Wayanad are both stunning hill stations, each with special charms of their own. The decision between the two is influenced by your travel schedule, personal preferences, and the experiences you hope to have.Exploring the captivating charms of Wayanad becomes even more enticing when you discover the enticing holiday packages in Wayanad, offering a unique blend of nature and adventure. Wayanad could be your best option if you’re looking for a place with lots of vegetation, calm backwaters, and historical landmarks. However, Munnar would be the best option if tea gardens, hazy hills, and wildlife are more appealing to you. Whichever destination you go on, Wayanad and Munnar both offer a rejuvenating and unforgettable experience amidst the abundance of nature.
