Perched high on the Thamarassery Ghat Pass, Lakkidi View Point offers an unparalleled vista of Wayanad's valleys, forests, and winding roads, earning its title as the region's most famous panoramic spot.
Key Features: Spectacular Panorama, Seven Hairpin Bends, Chain Tree Legend, Lush Greenery
Perched at an impressive altitude of approximately 700 meters above sea level, Lakkidi View Point stands as one of the most breathtaking vantage points in Kerala. Often referred to as the Gateway of Wayanad, this scenic hilltop offers panoramic views of the winding Thamarassery Ghat Pass, lush green valleys, and mist-draped mountain peaks that stretch endlessly into the horizon.
Located just 20 kilometers from Kalpetta and en route to Kozhikode via NH 766, Lakkidi View Point is a favorite among nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. The drive itself is exhilarating, with a series of sharp hairpin bends that snake through dense forests and rolling hills, offering glimpses of Kerala’s rich biodiversity along the way.
What makes Lakkidi truly special is its ever-changing atmosphere. On misty mornings, the clouds hover low, creating a surreal, dreamlike ambiance. During clear days, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the Western Ghats, with verdant landscapes that resemble a green carpet unfurling beneath the sky. It’s also a prime spot to witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets, making it a must-visit for those looking to capture nature’s beauty on camera.
Beyond its visual charm, Lakkidi is known for its ecological richness. The region receives one of the highest rainfalls in Kerala and is often dubbed the Cherrapunji of Kerala. This contributes to its lush vegetation and thriving wildlife, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Nearby attractions such as the Chain Tree, Pookode Lake, and Banasura Sagar Dam add to the appeal of the area, making Lakkidi View Point a perfect starting point for exploring Wayanad’s natural wonders. Whether you're seeking tranquility, adventure, or a refreshing escape from city life, Lakkidi View Point promises an unforgettable experience in the lap of nature.
A complete summary of Lakkidi View Point's key features, location, and travel logistics.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Lakkidi, Wayanad District, Kerala, India |
| Description | A breathtaking vantage point situated at an altitude of about 700 meters, offering panoramic views of Wayanad’s lush valleys, mist-covered mountains, and winding ghat roads. |
| Significance | Known as the “Gateway of Wayanad,” it is one of the highest locations in the district and a popular spot for sunrise and sunset views. |
| Main Attractions | Scenic viewpoints of the Thamarassery Ghat Pass, misty landscapes, and serpentine roads. |
| Best Time to Visit | September to May for clear skies and pleasant weather. Early morning or late evening offers the best views. |
| Activities | Enjoy photography, witness sunrise/sunset, nature watching, and short nature walks around the viewpoint. |
| Nearby Attractions | Pookode Lake, Chain Tree, Vythiri, and Banasura Sagar Dam. |
| How to Reach | By Road: About 5 km from Vythiri and 55 km from Kozhikode. Taxis and buses are available. Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (75 km). Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station (60 km). |
| Entry Fees | No entry fee. |
| Timings | Open 24 hours, but early morning and evening are ideal for views. |
| Tips | Carry a light jacket as it can get misty and cool; exercise caution while driving on the steep ghat roads. |
Lakkidi is inextricably linked to one of Wayanad's most popular folklores, making the visit not just about scenic beauty but also local history and spirituality. Just a short distance from the main viewpoint, you will find the Chain Tree, a place of historical and mythical significance.
The legend revolves around a tribal youth named Karinthandan, who is credited with discovering the difficult Wayanad Ghat passage for the British colonial engineers. After the path was established, a British engineer allegedly killed Karinthandan to take credit for the discovery, fearing recognition for a tribal guide. The ghost of Karinthandan is said to have haunted the road thereafter, causing numerous accidents and mishaps.
The menace was finally controlled when a priest chained the restless spirit to a large fig tree using an iron chain. Today, this tree, wrapped in a large iron chain, is known as the Chain Tree and is a local place of worship, illustrating the deep connection between the natural landscape and the cultural history of the Malabar Ghats.
To truly appreciate the deep emerald hues and the sweeping perspective of Lakkidi, timing is key. Whether you're chasing the monsoon mist or the clarity of winter, Lakkidi offers stunning sights year-round.
Focus your lens downwards to capture the incredible pattern of the hairpin bends snaking through the forest—it's the signature shot of Lakkidi.
Use a long lens in the mornings to compress the mountain layers and the rolling mist, creating a dreamy, layered landscape effect.
Incorporate the lush vegetation or the safety barriers in the foreground to give depth and scale to the massive valley panorama.
Lakkidi View Point is a famous hilltop viewpoint in Wayanad, Kerala, offering spectacular views of the Thamarassery Ghat Pass and lush green valleys. It is located along the NH766 highway (Kozhikode–Mysore route) at an altitude of about 700 m, making it easily accessible by road.
| Attraction | Distance | Travel Mode | Route Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pookode Lake | 4 km | Auto/Taxi (10 min) | NH766 towards Kozhikode |
| Chain Tree (Mythical Tree) | 1 km | Walk/Auto (5 min) | Just before Lakkidi View Point |
| Thamarassery Ghat Pass | 2 km | Auto/Taxi (5 min) | NH766 |
| Chembra Peak Base Camp | 25 km | Taxi/Bus (1 hr) | Kalpetta – Meppadi Road |
| Banasura Sagar Dam | 36 km | Taxi/Bus (1.5 hr) | Kalpetta – Padinjarathara Road |
Make the most of your early morning visit to Lakkidi with this suggested schedule:
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00 AM | Sunrise at Lakkidi View Point | Arrive early to watch the sunrise and witness the mist rolling over the valleys. |
| 7:00 AM | Nature Walk & Photography | Take a short walk around the viewpoint and capture stunning landscapes. |
| 8:00 AM | Tea Break | Enjoy a hot cup of Kerala tea from local stalls while soaking in the views. |
| 9:00 AM | Drive Through Thamarassery Ghat Pass | Experience the thrilling drive through hairpin bends surrounded by dense greenery. |
| 10:00 AM | Visit Nearby Attractions | Continue to nearby spots like Pookode Lake or Chain Tree for a full Wayanad experience. |
After soaking in the views at Lakkidi, explore these prominent Wayanad destinations, all located within a short drive:
A beautiful natural freshwater lake surrounded by dense forests. Offers pedal boating, local handicrafts, and a children's park.
Known for its tree houses and jungle resorts, Vythiri is a popular base for exploring Wayanad and is located very close to Lakkidi.
Visit the famous Ficus tree wrapped in an iron chain, the site of the legendary tale of Karinthandan.
A stunning three-tiered waterfall surrounded by deciduous forests, ideal for trekking and rock climbing (check accessibility before visit).
Showcases artifacts dating back to the 2nd century, including ancient weapons, tools, and sculptures related to the region’s early civilization.
Requires a trek, but offers prehistoric rock engravings (petroglyphs) and breathtaking views from the top.
No, the famous Chain Tree is located a short distance (less than 1 km) before the main Lakkidi View Point when traveling up the Thamarassery Ghat road from Kozhikode. Both are easily visited together as they are close to the main junction.
While the Thamarassery Ghat road has nine official hairpin bends, the main Lakkidi View Point offers the clearest and most dramatic view of the first seven bends that snake up the hillside. The view is most spectacular when the weather is clear.
Visibility is generally best immediately after the monsoon, from September to February. The best hours are early mornings, when the mist is often lifting, or late afternoons, before the fog settles in. Avoid visiting during heavy rain for the best panoramic experience.
While the monsoon offers a unique, misty spectacle, the roads can be slippery, and the visibility is often extremely poor due to heavy rain and fog. Visitors must exercise extreme caution while driving and should avoid standing too close to the edge. Parking space is also limited.
Lakkidi itself is mainly a roadside viewpoint and junction. While the surrounding area is dense forest, formal, safe, and easily accessible trekking trails typically start from nearby locations like Vythiri or other parts of Wayanad. Always check with local guides or resort staff before attempting any forest hikes.
The nearest large town is Vythiri, which is approximately 5 km away. Kalpetta, the district headquarters of Wayanad, is about 16 km from Lakkidi.
Since the viewpoint is located directly on the highway, you will find small local stalls selling tea, coffee, snacks, and sometimes fresh fruits. For full meals, you should head to the nearby towns of Vythiri or Kalpetta.
Yes, it is suitable for families, but exercise caution. It is a roadside spot with sheer drops, so children must be supervised closely near the railings. The panoramic view itself is a wonderful sight for all ages.
Lakkidi is a popular but small roadside spot. There is no large, dedicated parking lot. Parking involves pulling over safely on the side of the road or in designated lay-by areas. Traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends.
The Thamarassery Ghat Pass, visible from Lakkidi, is historically significant as the only motorable road connecting the Wayanad plateau to the coastal regions of Kerala (Kozhikode). Its construction was vital for trade and is the setting for the famous Karinthandan legend.
There are generally no restrictions on amateur photography and videography for personal use. However, using drones or commercial filming may require prior permission from local authorities.
The surrounding forests are part of the Western Ghats ecosystem. While large animals are rare near the viewpoint itself, you might spot various species of birds, butterflies, and smaller primates, such as Nilgiri Langurs, especially early in the morning.
Pookode Lake is very close to Lakkidi, situated only about 3 to 4 kilometers away down the road towards Vythiri. It is often the next stop for tourists visiting Lakkidi.
Lakkidi is an open roadside viewing spot, meaning there are no gates or fixed opening hours, and it is accessible 24 hours a day. However, for the best views and safety, visiting between 6:00 AM and 6:30 PM is highly recommended.
Since Lakkidi is at a high altitude and often covered in mist, it can be cool. You should definitely pack a light jacket or shawl, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella or rain gear, especially if traveling during the monsoon season.
The Lakkidi View Point truly serves as the emerald gateway to Wayanad, offering a magnificent introduction to the region's intense beauty. From the legendary Chain Tree to the panoramic view of the Ghat roads, it is a crucial stop that connects visitors to the breathtaking geography and rich folklore of the Western Ghats. It’s a spectacular place to pause, capture stunning views, and feel the fresh, misty air of God's Own Country.
If you're continuing your exploration of the state, we have detailed guides to help you plan the rest of your journey. Consider discovering the rolling tea hills of Munnar, experiencing the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, or exploring the cultural attractions and history of the port city of Kochi. Wayanad is just one part of a diverse landscape waiting to be explored.
