3 Great Homestays in Wayanad for a local experience

Snuggled in the enchanting mountains of the Western Ghats, Wayanad is lustrous green with plantations, forests, and wildlife – in abundance. Stunning mountain plateaus with vast stretches of mist-topped mountains, prosperous water springs, expanses of green meadows in the valley, thriving forests, and blue water lakes, Wayanad is home to all of this and more. Besides the flourishing natural beauty around, this pristine hill station is also rich in culture and history and attracts numerous tourists and nature enthusiasts each year. The local tribes residing in these hills have a culture of their own and many travellers head to these cloudy environs to experience life with the locals.

If you wish to see these hills for what they are, to explore the jungle on hidden trails, and come across the wild like never before, skip the hotels. This vacation, stay with the locals in homestays in Wayanad. We’ve listed a few of our favourites.

Olives Homestay

Located in a peaceful and serene setting in Kalpetta, the Olive Homestay is surrounded by lush green forests, coffee plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries. The rooms are well-kept and the staff accommodating and helpful. Mr. Thomas (owner) and his family are welcoming hosts and are known for their kind hospitality. While you are here, you can spend time reading in the library overlooking the hills, or practice yoga and meditation in the presence of the green forests – Olive Homestay is a great place to enjoy your getaway from the city.

What Not to Miss: Night safari and a rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatment – both of which can be arranged by your hosts easily.

Ranches Jungle Beats

Located in a beautiful valley with a serene water stream at the end, Ranches Jungle beats is known for providing comfort, luxury, safety, and an in all pleasant and memorable experience. The rooms have a jungle theme and are equipped with all the necessary amenities, some of them even have views of the stream and the garden. Choose from their romantic huts – specially designed for couples to their gypsy cottages built for backpackers. Barbeque can be arranged, and then there is a separate play area for kids. For adults who enjoy games, provisions for table tennis and carrom are made.

What Not to Miss: The spa and a fitness zone equipped with a special cardio centre.

Green Peace Holiday Home

Located in the lush green hills of the Western Ghats with rooms offering views of the Wayanad Hills, the Green Peace Holiday Home is one of the best homestays in Wayanad. The rooms are spacious and come with modern amenities and you can also avail their gym, WiFi, and ayurvedic massage (on request), and sightseeing guide facilities.  The property also boasts of their superior service and helpful staff.

What Not to Miss: A winter night by the campfire (arranged by the homestay).

The enthralling forests of Wayanad offer various plantation visits (tea, coffee, pepper, etc.), wildlife tours, and trekking opportunities. The Bandipur National Park, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Karappuzha Dam, Chethalayam Waterfall, and Pookote among others are some of the best places to visit in the vicinity.