The Historical Wayanad

The Lady picking tea leaves in Wayanad Tea Garden

Wayanad, the ‘Green Paradise’, is one of the top places to explore in Kerala. It is a popular hill station and tourist destination, abundant in natural life and beauty. It also has a rich history to be told which is generally not very known and talked about. It is situated on the Western Ghats in North Kerala, 1000 m above sea level. It has lush green forests, rich wildlife, and fertile agricultural lands. Wayanad is also called the spicy hills of God’s own country and is famous for tea plantations. In November 1956, when the State of Kerala came into being, Wayanad was part of the Kannur district. Later, south Wayanad was added to the Kozhikode district. To meet the Wayanad people’s aspirations, north and South Wayanad were joined together to form the present Wayanad district. The district came into being on November 1, 1980, as the twelfth district of Kerala.

The Historical Wayanad Town

Wayanad comprises two Malayalam words, ‘Vayal’ and ‘Nadu,’ which means ‘village of fields.’ Indeed, a soothing, evergreen sleepy little town that takes the traveller away from the maddening crowd. Being close to the hill stations of Coorg and Ooty, the climate of Wayanad is calm, misty, and serene. It is also a trekker’s dream come true. Wayanad in Kerala has a long history. In the earliest records, the region was known as Mayakshetra (Maya’s land). Mayakshetra evolved into Mayanad and finally to Wayanad.

Kings of the Veda tribe ruled this place in ancient times. The recorded history of Wayanad dates back to the 10th century when this place was called ‘Bayalnad’ under the Ganga Dynasty. From the kings of Vijayanagar to the sultans of Mysore, the Wadiyar of Mysore, and the Pazhassi kings, each kingdom left a mark on the history and landscape of this beautiful place.

The historical places in Wayanad which should be on your list to be visited are:

Thirunelli Temple

Jain Temples at Sulthan Bathery

Thirunelli Temple is considered to be Lord’s Vishnu abode. Mountains from all sides surround it, and the pathway to the temple is covered with lush green forests. Folklore is that Lord Brahma created it with the help of Devas. The temple has a pond, too, known as ‘Panchatheertham,’ and the water source is not the temple but a nearby stream. It is a must-visit while on a trip to Wayanad.

Edakkal caves

Walls of Edakkal Caves

Edakkal caves are only 25 kilometres away from Wayanad. It is at a height of 1200 meters above sea level. Historians believe organized human life existed in these parts at least ten centuries before Christ. One can see evidence of the stone age in the Edakkal caves. Edakkal caves are natural ones located 1200 meters above the level of Ambukutty Mala. Pictorial writings inside the caves are believed to be from Neolithic man. The carvings are of animal, and human figures, tools used by humans, and yet-to-be deciphered symbols, suggesting the presence of a prehistoric settlement. The oldest petroglyphs may date back over 8,000 years. Such stone age carvings are rare and are the only known examples in southern India. It is on the historical trade route connecting Mysore to the Malabar coast. One can quickly return to Wayanad after exploring the caves the same day.

Pazhassi Memorial

It is named after the Pazhassi Raja. The Tomb is standing silent, reminiscent of the fight for supremacy against the British by the Pazhassi king. Legend says that the Pazhassi king killed himself in these forests and became a martyr. He was called the Lion king of Kerala and was believed to be one of the first freedom fighters.

Jain Temples at Sulthan Bathery and Panamaram

It is a widespread belief that the Jains were the first ones who came to Wayanad, the reason Wayanad is home to many Jain temples. But two important ones should be on your list. One temple is at the Sulthan Bathery, built during the 13th century. It is protected via the archaeological survey of India. The other temple is the Panamaram, built during the Hoysala dynasty. These temples are unique examples of architectural marvels built using stones and rocks with several stunning engravings on their walls.

Beauty of Wayanad Valley

Wayanad has something to offer everyone different tastes, like adventures, relaxation, nature-loving, love for historical places, and beautiful resorts for a weekend gateway. So next time you visit Kerala, recharge yourself by visiting the picturesque and exploring the historical Wayanad. Wayanad won’t disappoint you.