From the Kerala Coast, I headed inland to the Wayanad region, which is quite large and spread across the three towns of Mananthavady, Kalpetta & Sultan Bathery. For the first few days I stayed south of Kalpetta, near Vythiri village, and did find some quiet country roads to walk along, and see the tea plantations.

I also had a good view of Chembra Hill where some hiking is available. However, currently it was not open to hike to the peak.

I got local buses across the area to then stay south of Sultan Bathery, in Ambalavayal. This was to go and see the nearby Edakkal caves, which are on a hill top some 1200 m above sea level. I took the scenic route down quiet country lanes.

Whilst it was a hot walk up to the hill top and caves, the countryside was beautiful passing by banana fields.

And here is another view along my walk.

In Ambalavayal there was the annual flower show, Pooppoli 2024. This turned out to be very impressive and with a small funfair, as well as all of the flowers and gardens to see.