Wayanad district

Wayanad occupies the northeastern corner of Kerala on a plateau that runs through the Western Ghats at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,100 meters. The landscape shifts between mountain forests, tea plantations, and farmland, with rivers and waterfalls cutting through the hillsides.

The administrative area was formed in 1980 by dividing portions of Kozhikode and Kannur districts. The Edakkal Caves hold rock carvings that show human settlement dating back roughly 6,000 years.

The district maintains the largest tribal population in Kerala, including the Adiyan, Paniyan, Mullukkurman, and Kurichyan communities with their distinct traditions.

Kalpetta serves as the administrative center and provides access to wildlife reserves and farming areas across the region. The elevation keeps temperatures moderate throughout the year, with monsoon rains arriving between June and September.

The region contains Kerala's only plateau and mirror temple, while its extensive forested area of 885 square kilometers supports numerous endangered species.

Location: Kerala

Inception: November 1, 1980

Capital city: Kalpetta

Elevation above the sea: 700 m

Shares border with: Kannur district, Kozhikode district, Nilgiris district, Chamarajanagar district, Mysuru district, Malappuram district

Website: http://wayanad.nic.in

GPS coordinates: 11.62639,76.08889

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:00