
Best Backpacking Destinations in Calicut, Kerala, India
1. Vythiri Forest Resort
Nestled amidst the dense forest of Wayanad, this resort offers unique tree houses for a memorable stay.
- Tree Houses: Stay in eco-friendly tree houses built high above the ground.
- Nature Trek: Explore the rich biodiversity of the forest with guided nature treks.
- Spice Plantations: Visit nearby spice plantations to witness various spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.
2. Banasura Sagar Dam
India's largest earth dam with scenic beauty and boating options makes it a must-visit.
- Boating Activities: Experience a serene boat ride amidst the tranquil waters of Banasura Sagar Dam.
- Night Camping: Stay overnight near the dam for an unforgettable camping experience under the stars.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of the lush green surrounding hills and valleys.
3. Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to various wildlife species including elephants, tigers, and leopards, this sanctuary promises a wild adventure.
- Wildlife Spotting: Spot various wildlife species during guided jungle safaris.
- Trekking Opportunities: Explore the dense forest on foot and enjoy the untouched beauty of nature.
- Bird Watching: Spot a variety of bird species during your visit to Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary.
4. Pazhassi Raja Museum and Art Gallery
Housing a rich collection of artifacts from the era of Pazhassi Raja, this museum offers insights into Kerala's history.
- Historical Artifacts: Explore various historical artifacts related to the legendary King Pazhassi Raja.
- Art Gallery: Appreciate traditional Kerala arts and crafts in the well-curated art gallery.
- Architecture: Admire the unique architecture of the museum, designed to resemble a traditional Kerala house.
5. Mappila Bay Beach
A serene and less crowded beach offering a tranquil getaway from city life.
- Tranquility: Enjoy a peaceful and quiet beach experience away from the crowd.
- Sunset Views: Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
- Local Cuisine: Taste delicious local seafood dishes at nearby eateries.
6. Kappad Beach
Historic beach where Vasco da Gama first set foot in India, offering a blend of history and natural beauty.
- Historical Significance: Visit the site where Vasco da Gama first arrived in India.
- Beach Activities: Participate in beach activities like swimming and sunbathing.
- Nature Walks: Explore the lush greenery and coastal ecosystem during a guided nature walk.
7. Valiyaparamba Backwaters
A serene network of backwaters offering houseboat stays and scenic beauty.
- Houseboat Stay: Stay on traditional Kerala houseboats while cruising through the picturesque backwaters.
- Fishing Villages: Visit nearby fishing villages to learn about local life and traditions.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the serene beauty of coconut palms, paddy fields, and pristine waterways.
8. Kalpetta
A hill station in Wayanad offering trekking trails, waterfalls, and tea plantations.
- Trekking Trails: Explore various trekking trails catering to all levels of difficulty.
- Waterfalls: Visit scenic waterfalls like Soochipara and Meenmutty for a refreshing dip.
- Tea Plantations: Witness the lush green tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process.
9. Bababudan Hills
Home to one of the oldest coffee estates in India, offering scenic beauty and trekking opportunities.
- Coffee Estate Tour: Learn about the history and cultivation process of coffee at the old coffee estate.
- Trekking Opportunities: Explore scenic trekking trails in the Bababudan Hills.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
10. Kuruvadweep
An island in Wayanad offering a haven for birds and unique rock formations.
- Bird Watching: Spot various bird species during your visit to Kuruvadweep.
- Rock Formations: Explore unique rock formations created by the river flowing through the island.
- Scenic Beauty: Admire the serene beauty of the lush green island surrounded by a river.
11. Kavvayi Backwaters
A less crowded network of backwaters offering houseboat stays and scenic beauty.
- Houseboat Stay: Stay on traditional Kerala houseboats while cruising through the picturesque backwaters.
- Fishing Villages: Visit nearby fishing villages to learn about local life and traditions.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the serene beauty of coconut palms, paddy fields, and pristine waterways.
12. Chembra Peak
The highest peak in Wayanad offering a challenging trek and panoramic views.
- Challenging Trek: Experience a challenging yet rewarding trek to the top of Chembra Peak.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the summit of Chembra Peak.
- Heart-Shaped Lake: Visit the heart-shaped lake at the foothills of Chembra Peak.
13. Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary
A remote bird sanctuary offering a unique opportunity to spot rare and endemic species.
- Rare Bird Species: Spot various rare and endemic bird species during your visit.
- Remote Location: Experience the tranquility of a remote location, far from city life.
- Guided Treks: Explore the sanctuary on guided treks catering to all levels of difficulty.
14. Thusharagiri Waterfalls
A set of three waterfalls offering a refreshing retreat and trekking opportunities.
- Waterfall Trek: Trek to the base of the waterfalls for a refreshing dip.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills, valleys, and forests.
- Adventure Sports: Participate in adventure sports like rock climbing and zip-lining nearby.
15. Edakkal Caves
Prehistoric caves showcasing stone age carvings and offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
- Stone Age Carvings: Explore prehistoric rock engravings dating back to the Stone Age.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats from the caves.
- Archaeological Significance: Learn about the archaeological significance of these caves and their role in human history.