Wayanad Churam is a scenic mountain pass located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It connects the towns of Wayanad and Koottupuzha (in the foothills of the Western Ghats) to the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu. This winding road is renowned for its breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and lush green forests. The pass is part of the Wayanad Ghat Road, and it is one of the most picturesque routes in the region, making it a favorite for travelers exploring the Wayanad district.
Key Features of Wayanad Churam:
1. Location and Connectivity
- Geographical Location: Wayanad Churam is situated in the Wayanad district of Kerala, near the border with Tamil Nadu. It serves as a key route between the two states, connecting Wayanad to Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in Tamil Nadu, which is a famous hill station in the Western Ghats.
- Road and Accessibility: The road through Wayanad Churam is a part of the National Highway 766 (NH 766), which connects Kozhikode in Kerala to Mysore in Karnataka. The pass offers access to the picturesque hills of Wayanad and is popular for road trips and travel.
2. Scenic Views and Natural Beauty
- Panoramic Views: The drive through Wayanad Churam offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats, dense forests, and rolling hills. The landscape is lush and green, particularly during the monsoon season, when the area becomes enveloped in mist and fog.
- Tea and Coffee Plantations: The slopes of Wayanad are dotted with tea, coffee, and spice plantations, and the pass offers travelers glimpses of this plantation landscape. The area is also known for its biodiversity, with rich flora and fauna.
- Waterfalls and Streams: Along the road, visitors can spot small waterfalls, streams, and rivers that add to the tranquil atmosphere of the region.
3. Driving Experience
- Curvy and Steep Roads: The road through Wayanad Churam is known for its steep ascents and sharp curves, making it both a thrilling and challenging drive for visitors. The route requires careful navigation, especially during the monsoon when the roads can become slippery due to rain.
- Temperature: The weather at Wayanad Churam is generally cool and pleasant throughout the year. However, temperatures tend to drop significantly during the evenings, making it a refreshing place to travel during the summer months.
4. Nearby Attractions
- Edakkal Caves: Located nearby, the Edakkal Caves are famous for their ancient petroglyphs (rock engravings) that date back over 6,000 years. These caves are accessible through a short trek, and the site offers spectacular views of the Wayanad region.
- Pookode Lake: Located in the vicinity, Pookode Lake is a serene freshwater lake surrounded by forests. It’s a popular spot for boating, nature walks, and picnics.
- Soochipara Waterfalls: A beautiful three-tiered waterfall located in the Wayanad region, ideal for a nature walk or a visit to enjoy the beauty of cascading water surrounded by lush greenery.
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and leopards. It is an important part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and offers jeep safaris for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Banasura Hill: The Banasura Hill, one of the highest peaks in Wayanad, offers a trekking trail with views of the surrounding hills and the Banasura Sagar Dam.
5. Best Time to Visit
- October to May: The best time to visit Wayanad Churam is during the cooler months between October and May, when the weather is pleasant, and the road conditions are ideal for travel.
- Monsoon (June to September): While the monsoon season (June to September) brings lush greenery and a misty atmosphere, it also makes the roads slippery and challenging to navigate. Therefore, it’s advisable to visit Wayanad Churam during the dry season if you plan to drive through the pass.
6. Travel Tips
- Drive Carefully: The road through Wayanad Churam is steep and winding, so it’s important to drive carefully, especially in rainy or foggy conditions. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and take extra caution while maneuvering curves.
- Pack Light: Since Wayanad is a hill station with narrow roads, it’s best to pack light and travel with only the essentials to ensure comfort.
- Stay Hydrated and Carry Snacks: The drive can be long, so it’s a good idea to carry water and light snacks to keep refreshed along the way.
- Photography: The views at Wayanad Churam are incredibly scenic, so don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone for some great photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.