Wayanad
Wayanad predates Jesus Christ by ten centuries – or at least that’s what some historians say. The district that too birth in 1980, after being carved out of Kozhikode and Kannur, is today an eye-catching and soul-soothing destination. In its 2131 sq km (823 sq miles), Wayanad is one of the least urbanized districts in India. Hence, it’s pristine beauty. At around 816,000 people, Wayanad’s population is roughly the size of the US state of South Dakota.
It is set in the majestic Western Ghats with altitudes ranging from 700 metres at the lowest to 2100 metres above mean sea level. Imprints of its ancient civilization still exist in the two caves of Ampukuthimala – a short drive from Sulthan Bathery. The wall paintings and pictorial representation of life in those times speak volumes of the age of this land.
Although Wayanad has had its share of kings and rulers, it was the British authorities who opened the gateway to this hill station by picking it to cultivate tea, cardamom and a slew of other cash crops.