Wayanad Wild

Wayanad, a district set in the northeast of Kerala conjures images of the evergreen forests of the southern Western Ghats with altitudes ranging from 700 to 2100 meters. Nestled in 12 acres of pristine, untamed, and enchanting rainforests of Ladikki, Wayanad Wild offers immersive experiences with nature at its spectacular. The sounds of chirping birds, gurgling streams, and jungle chatter truly soothe the senses. What really stands out is the knowledgeable team of naturalists, part of the ‘Draco Club’, named after the Draco Flying Lizard found in the area, is the nature club at Wayanad Wild. The highlight here is definitely being in the ’wild’ and outdoors and there are ample well-planned activities for children as well as adults.  The highly recommended ones are nature walks including night expeditions, guided forest treks, and birdwatching excursions led by passionate naturalists.

Perched high amidst the treetops, a collection of spacious stilted cabins harmoniously integrates with the surrounding trees, while balconies give out stunning views of the wonders of the wild. The infinity pool, overlooking the forest is perfect for some relaxing downtime. Wholesome meals and regional specialties prepared from fresh local produce are served at the restaurant with breathtaking views of the wild.

Location

Wayanad Wild is located in Lakkidi, one of the highest locations in Wayanad, and is situated 700m above mean sea level. The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport about 3 hours away.  Wayanad district does not have a railhead. Guests can take a train to Kozhikode, the nearest railway station to Wayanad.

Things to know

  • Lakkidi experiences a warm climate from February-June and a cool climate from October-January. During monsoons, the region experiences high rains (June, July, and August). The dry season is from January to May.
  • The last approach stretch is around 4 km of rugged terrain and requires a ride in the hotel’s jeep from the hotel’s parking.
  • It is highly recommended to carry good hiking boots, a light jacket, repellent, a hat, and if possible a good pair of binoculars.
  • Respecting the natural habitat of wild animals and creatures of the forests, it is best to avoid bright colors, strong perfumes, and loud noises.
  • The hotel is located in the heart of the woods and the nearest hospital and pharmacy are located half hour away.

Rooms & Suites

For a property in the middle of the forests, there are quite a few choices of rooms: Superior Room, Deluxe Room, and Deluxe Rooms with a private Jacuzzi. All rooms are large and spacious with all the creature comforts. Guests have so much to see and experience outside that unapologetically so, there are no TVs in the room.  The room interiors are warm and earthy and the balcony provides stunning views and occasional wild encounters with a Giant Malabar Squirrel or the orange minivet.

Restaurants & Bars

Meals at Wayanad Wild is a presentation of authentic food from the region with an added dose of brilliant views of the forest. Local and hyper-local ingredients like the Pallthondi, Gandakachaala, fresh fish from the nearby rivers and local bamboo rice are served unpretentiously. Buffets are a large-spread affair and food is customized as per requests.

Spa & Wellness

There is no spa or fitness center at the hotel. Guests can unwind at the outdoor infinity swimming pool that offers verdant views of the misty forest beyond the edge.

 

Experiences

The ‘Draco Club’ offers guided walks around the property and in the wilderness outside for the more adventurous.  The naturalists passionately familiarise guests, young and old, with the fascinating fauna and flora endemic to the region. Explore the Western Ghats biosphere or go birding with the naturalists. There are plenty of programs including the indoor bird hunt program and guided activities designed for children where they will discover the small and bigger creatures around the perennial creek, protected by safety gum boots (in case of leeches), and learn about the biodiversity of the forest, conservation, as well as observe the interesting behavior of the creatures around.

Night expeditions offer guests opportunities to discover the unique and elusive nocturnal creatures of the forest. Evenings are best spent with the naturalist with discussions from topics featured on the Draco Club’s bulletin board. Cooking classes for children and adults are also on offer.

A few activities arranged outside the hotel include zip lining, bamboo rafting in the river, and a visit to a tea plantation can be arranged outside the hotel on request.

Sustainability and Responsible Tourism

CGH aptly translates to ‘clean, green and healthy’ and every CGH Earth experience rests on certain cardinal principles that are the foundation of the brand’s core values: caring for the environment, working with local communities, and being one with the local ethos.