SPICE TOWN OF KERALA 

Wayanad district, is nestled amidst the majestic mountains of Western Ghat, at a height of 700 to 2100 m. above sea level, on the north eastern part of the State. It is bounded by Mysore, Kodagu and Chamrajnagar districts of Karnataka in the north & north east. Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu in the south east, Malappurarn district in the south and Kozhikode district in the west. Kalpetta town is the district headquarter. The name, Wayanad, is believed to have been derived from the word Vayalnadu, meaning the land of paddy fields. The present district of Wayanad came into being on 1 st  Nov. 1980 as the 12th district of Kerala. It was carved out, from the parts of Kozhikode and Kannur districts. The district is set in a peculiar and unique geographical position. The difference in altitudes of each locality within the district presents a variation of climatic conditions. Nature has blessed this part of the State with mist clad mountains and verdant valleys. The district has enormous tourist potential due to its idyllic nature, nearness to major tourist destinations viz.,Ooty. In Tamil Nadu and Mysore in Karnataka, with well laid roads to these centres. It is an industrially backward district. Agriculture is the main stay of the district's economy. The rich cash crop plantations of pepper, cardamom, coffee, tea, spices and other condiments has perhaps made Wayanad one of the biggest foreign exchange earners in the State. Besides plantation crops, paddy is the most important agriculture produce. The splendid scenic spectacle, with hills appearing deep blue in bright sunlight and mist covered most of the time, juxtaposes with the green of the paddy fields is mesmerising. The east flowing rivers of Wayanad are in striking contrast to the various rivers of the State. The Kabani river of Wayanad is a perennial source of water to the Kaveri river. The characteristic feature of the district is the presence of large number of tribals or Adivasis. The district also has a small Jain community consisting of Gounders who came from Karnataka. The Jains have built beautiful temples in the district. 

    PLACES OF INTEREST 

Banasura Sagar Dam
It is the largest earth dam in India, and is located 21 km. from Kalpetta. Due to the undulating topography of the region, islands are formed in the upstream of the dam when the dam is full. The islands in the backdrop of Banasura hills provide a spectacular scenic view.