Mananthavady, the third-largest town in Wayanad, became the perfect backdrop for our New Year celebration. Shah Rukh and the team chose The Periya Heights, a homestay perched on an elevated location, to welcome the New Year.
Day 1: The Journey and Arrival
Our group consisted of Shah Rukh, Himani, Bharat, Sonika, JD, Rijul, Sur, and myself. The drive down to Wayanad took us through the Kabini Reserve Forest, where the roads were in terrible condition, delaying our journey. We stopped for a quick meal before continuing to The Periya Heights, a homestay run by a warm and welcoming couple.
Reaching the homestay proved challenging, as the GPS directions ended near a bridge. We had to rely on Shah Rukh’s guidance and some local help. However, one unnerving moment occurred when a drunk man tried to approach our car, forcing us to drive away quickly. Thankfully, another kind gentleman went out of his way to help us locate the property, despite not knowing the exact address himself.
We managed to reach the homestay just before dark, which was a blessing as driving on those roads in pitch darkness would have been a nightmare. Shah Rukh and his group, having extended their lunch break, learned the hard way about the challenges of arriving late in such remote areas.
Once everyone arrived, we settled in with tea and onion pakodas, followed by a delicious dinner. Exhausted from the drive, we retired early for the night.
Day 2: Exploring Banasura Sagar Dam
After a hearty breakfast, we headed to the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India and the second largest in Asia. The drive to the dam was pleasant, and the walk up a flight of stairs rewarded us with stunning views. The dam also offered several activities, but the boat rides were overcrowded, so we skipped them.
Instead, the boys indulged in a mechanical bull ride while we cheered them on. Later, we enjoyed a fish spa, with Shah Rukh’s ticklish reactions leaving us in fits of laughter—it reminded me of Sumathi’s antics in Sri Lanka!
We stopped for a quick lunch on the way back and spent the evening watching a breathtaking sunset near the homestay, surrounded by fields of chili and cluster beans. The sunset was one of the most serene moments of the trip. Afterward, we enjoyed a lovely dinner and called it a night.
Day 3: Nature and Culture
Following another local breakfast, we visited the Gurukula Botanical Sanctuary, a haven for native plants of the Western Ghats. The sanctuary was founded by Wolfgang Theuerkauf, a German national, and is now run by a dedicated team of naturalists and gardeners. The highlight was the giant pitcher plants, though photography wasn’t allowed, so we had to carry the memories in our hearts.
Next, we explored the Kunkichira Heritage Museum, which showcases the biodiversity and cultural richness of Wayanad. The traditional objects used by tribal communities were fascinating, and the museum was well-maintained and informative. Outside, we admired a picturesque pond with a Kerala lady statue and a plantain garden interspersed with bitter gourd vines. It was postcard-worthy, and we couldn’t resist taking photos.
In the evening, we strolled through a nearby village, capturing moments by a peaceful stream. Back at the homestay, Rijul and JD took charge of preparing a barbeque for the New Year celebration. We enjoyed delicious food, danced, and welcomed the New Year with joy and laughter before retiring for the night.
Day 4: Farewell to The Periya Heights
After a final breakfast, it was time to bid farewell. Saying goodbye to the homestay owners felt like leaving family—they had made us feel so at home. The journey back was another test of patience, with bad roads slowing us down, but we finally reached home by evening.
Key Takeaways
- Best Time to Visit: Wayanad is ideal during the dry season. The bad roads and narrow paths would be nearly impossible to navigate during the rains.
- The Periya Heights: Highly recommended! The warmth of the hosts and the serene location made our stay unforgettable.
- Plan Your Arrival: Reaching the property before dark is crucial due to challenging road conditions.
Until next time—Udan Kaanam!