Wayanad in the Rains

The Road Through the Wild

It was the long Diwali weekend, and we wanted to escape the city noise and find a quiet corner in nature. Since it was a long weekend, we planned a day in advance to start the trip. By 5 a.m., we were already out of Bengaluru, chasing the dawn and empty highways.

Our first stop was Mysuru, for a warm, buttery breakfast at the legendary Mylari Dosa. The city always feels like a pause between chaos and calm and has a familiar and gentle vibe. The Dosa was scrumptious.

After wrapping up a few errands, we left Mysuru at around 4 p.m.. The sky had turned grey, and rain started to pour as we drove towards Bandipur National Park. The roads shimmered, trees swayed, and the smell of wet earth filled the car.

As we entered Bandipur, the forest stood silent with tall trees and mist surrounding us. The daylight faded fast, and the drive uphill began. Lightning flashed across the sky, thunder followed close behind, and the whole scene felt raw and alive.

By the time we reached Wayanad, it was dark and stormy. We checked into Wave by Citrine, near Karapuzha Lake, around 8 p.m. The night was dark, and the night sky turned blue with bouts of lightning but the calm that came with it was unmatched.

It was eerie, yet peaceful. Wild, yet beautiful.

Clouds, Culture, and Comfort
A Day by the Lake

We woke up to a cloudy morning with thick clouds hanging low over the lake. From our porch, we could enjoy the water rippling softly, birds flying across the mist, and rain gently tapping the roof.

After breakfast, we went exploring. Instead of checking Google, we walked to a local shop and asked for suggestions. We started with Karapuzha Dam, and the view was breathtaking. There is an adventure park nearby where you can try some adventure rides too.

Next, we stumbled upon a cultural museum, tucked quietly by the road. Inside, we found stories of Wayanad’s tribal life, like ancient tools, ornaments, and traditions that spoke of a simpler, deeper way of living. Later, we drove to see a few waterfalls in the vicinity like Kanthanpara, Meenmutty, and a smaller one hidden behind dense trees. You could see small springs all over the place when you drive through the mountains.

On our way back, we stopped by a local candle and soap-making unit, where women worked patiently, moulding wax and mixing scents. The smell of lemongrass and vanilla lingered as we picked up some souvenirs.

Back at the resort, we had lunch and a short nap. By evening, the rain softened, and we drove to Ambalavayal town for snacks. In Wayanad, snacks are a must-try. We went to the Olive restaurant to try hot shawarma rolls, chicken samosas, and chai. Everything tasted perfect in the cool air.

We ended the day with a Kerala massage at the resort. What could have been the best way to wrap up a long, rainy day? Outside, thunder rolled softly as we drifted into a cosy night.

The Road Back

The final morning arrived, and it was dark, rainy, like a hill station. We decided to follow our hearts and just drive without any plan or map.

Through winding mountain roads, mist, and tea gardens, we headed towards Vythiri and Pookode Lake. The lake looked magical, still water surrounded by forest, the rain creating ripples across its calm surface. We stopped at a small tea stall nearby. The owner handed us cups of hot chai, ripe banana fry, and suji pakodas, simple food that somehow tasted extraordinary in that setting.

After a long, scenic drive, we returned to the resort around 8:30 a.m., had breakfast, and began our journey back home. At Sulthan Bathery, we made a short stop to visit the Jain Temple. It was peaceful and ancient, sitting quietly amidst the town. From there, we drove to Mysuru, grabbed lunch at McDonald’s, and visited a Vintage Car Museum along the way.

By the time we reached Bengaluru, it was close to 11 p.m. The trip had ended, but Wayanad had left its mark, in raindrops, in stillness, and in the quiet joy of just being.

Plan Your Wayanad Trip

Best Time to Visit:
June to October for monsoon lovers; December to February for cool, dry weather.

How to Reach:

• From Bengaluru: ~280 km (6–7 hours drive via Mysuru–Bandipur route)

• Nearest Railhead: Kozhikode (85 km)

• Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport

Must-Visit Places:

• Karapuzha Dam

• Bandipur National Park (en route)

• Kanthanpara Waterfalls

• Meenmutty Waterfalls

• Pookode Lake

• Sulthan Bathery Jain Temple

Must-Try Eats:

• Mylari Dosa, Mysuru – buttery, soft, and iconic

• Olive Restaurant at Ambalavayal town - Street Snacks like shawarma roll, chicken samosa, hot chai

• Local Cafes & Tea Stalls – for banana fry and pakodas in the rain

Where We Stayed:

• Wave by Citrine, near Karapuzha Lake, which was peaceful, scenic, and perfect for rainy mornings

Travel Tips:

• Start early from Bengaluru to skip weekend traffic.

• Keep cash handy for local shops and tolls.

• Avoid night drives in the forest stretch (limited visibility and wildlife crossings).

• Always check the weather before planning outdoor visits during the monsoon season, as it could be raining heavily at times.