As the heat of summer gives way to the wet and windy monsoon season, Wayanad transforms into a lush, green paradise. Nestled in the Western Ghats Mountain range of Kerala, Wayanad is a land of rolling hills, dense forests, and winding rivers. During the monsoons, the region comes alive with verdant foliage, thundering waterfalls, and misty landscapes. For those who love the rain, there’s no better time to visit Wayanad than during the monsoons.
One of Wayanad’s biggest attractions of the monsoon season is the region’s waterfalls. With rainfall averaging around 3,000mm per year, Wayanad is home to some of the most stunning cascades in Kerala. During the monsoons, these waterfalls reach their peak flow, thundering down the mountainside in a display of raw power. Wayanad’s most famous waterfalls include the Soochipara Falls, Kanthanpara Falls, and Meenmutty Falls.
Soochipara Falls, or Sentinel Rock Falls, is a three-tiered waterfall in the Vellarimala mountain range. The falls can be seen from miles away during the monsoons, thanks to the towering sentinel rock that looms over them. Visitors can take a short trek through the forest to reach the base of the falls, where they can splash around in the cool, crystal-clear pool.
Kanthanpara Falls, located near Meppadi, is another popular spot during the monsoons. The falls are surrounded by thick forests, which become even more lush and green during the rainy season. Visitors can trek through the woods to reach the base of the falls, where they can dip in the natural pool.
Meenmutty Falls, located near the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, is one of the largest waterfalls in Wayanad. With a height of over 800 feet, the falls are a spectacular sight during the monsoons. Visitors can trek through the forest to reach the base of the falls and enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool.
In addition to waterfalls, the monsoons also bring out the best in Wayanad’s flora and fauna. The forests of Wayanad are home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and bears. During the monsoons, the forests become even more vibrant and lush as the rain nourishes the plants and trees. Visitors can trek through the forests to spot some of the region’s wildlife or stroll through the greenery.
For those looking to get up close and personal with the rain, few experiences are more thrilling than a monsoon trek. Wayanad is home to several trekking trails perfect for the monsoons, including the Chembra Peak and Brahmagiri trek. These trails can be challenging during the monsoons, as the rain can make the paths slippery and muddy. However, the reward is worth the effort, as trekkers are treated to some of the most stunning views of Wayanad’s green landscape.
Of course, no trip to Wayanad during the monsoons would be complete without sampling the region’s delicious cuisine. Kerala is known for its spicy, flavourful food, and Wayanad is no exception. During the monsoons, visitors can warm up with a hot bowl of steaming soup or indulge in crispy fried snacks. Some of the most popular monsoon foods in Wayanad include “puttu and kadala” (steamed rice cake and chickpea curry), “vada” (savory fried doughnuts), and “kappa and meen curry” (boiled tapioca and fish curry). Visitors can also sip on a hot cup of “chai” (spiced tea) or indulge in some “sulaimani” (a traditional Kerala tea infused with spices and lemon juice).
While the monsoons bring their fair share of challenges, including heavy rainfall and flooding, they also offer a unique opportunity to experience Wayanad in all its green glory. From the thundering waterfalls to the vibrant forests to the delicious cuisine, the monsoons in Wayanad are an experience like no other. For those looking to relax and enjoy the rain, there’s no better place than in a beautiful resort, “After the Rains” in Wayanad. It offers a unique experience during this region’s monsoon season, typically between June and September. Staying at After the Rains during the monsoon season can be a magical experience, as you will be surrounded by lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and misty hills.
In conclusion, Wayanad’s monsoons are a great time to visit the region and experience its natural beauty. The monsoons bring out the best in Wayanad’s waterfalls, flora, and fauna. Visitors can also embark on thrilling monsoon treks, taste the region’s spicy and delicious cuisine, and enjoy the calming sound of raindrops. Despite the challenges of the rainy season, the monsoons in Wayanad offer a unique and unforgettable experience that should not be missed.
Kerala