Lakkidi is another beautiful hill station of Kerala. This hill station is perched at a height of about 2,296 feet above the main sea level. It is situated at the crest of Thamarassery Ghat Pass that features over 9 hairpin curves that start at Adivaram (downhill).

The Lakkidi Hill station is well-known as the gateway to the Green Paradise - Wayanad. The place is adorned with impressive mountain peaks, dense forests and beautiful cascading streams and is surrounded by plantations of coffee, pepper and cardamom.

Lakkidi receives the second highest amount of annual rainfall in the world. Hence this hill station is wrapped in lush green forests and rinsed by the many streams and waterfalls. Lion-tailed macaque, rare birds, Little Cormorant (Phalacrocorax Niger), Little Green Heron (Ardeola striatus), Indian Shag (Phalacrocorax fuscicollis), and Pond Heron (Ardeola grayii) are some of the rare wild inhabitants of this region.

The Chain Tree of Lakkidi which is a large chain bound ficus tree situated near the destination is also famous. Lakkidi View Point is the major attraction of this charming hill station which offers spectacular views of the cliffs and valleys surrounding the region.

The Pookot Lake which is nestled among the wooded hills of Lakkidi is a perennial freshwater lake and is the only one of its kind in Kerala. This lake offers boating in paddle-boats. Trekking, hiking and camping are the exciting activities offered in Lakkidi for the adventure seekers.

Highlights

• Lakkidi is known as the gateway to the Green Paradise - Wayanad.
• This hill station is said to be one of the highest locations in Wayanad.
• Lakkidi hill station is perched 700 meters above the mean sea level, atop Thamarassery Ghat pass.
• Lakkidi Hill Station receives the second highest amount of annual rainfall in the world.
• The annual rainfall of the Lakkidi hill station averages from 600 cm to 650 cm.
• The Lakkidi View Point is the major attraction of this hill station which offers beautiful views of the cliffs and valleys surrounding the region.
• Lakkidi hill station is also well-known for the Chain Tree, which is a large chain bound ficus tree located near the destination.
• This hill station also serves as a bird watcher's paradise.

Best Time to Visit

August to March is the best time to visit Lakkidi.

Lakkidi receives heavy rainfall during the tropical monsoon season from June to August. So, monsoon is not recommended as the best season to visit Lakkidi. Summer season starts in March and ends in May with temperature ranging from 35°C to 23°C. Winter season in Lakkidi is pleasant with temperature ranging from 15°C to 25°C. November to February is the winter season here.

Way to Reach

 By Air - Karipur International Airport is the nearest airport to Lakkidi which is 110 Km away.

By Rail: Kozhikode Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Lakkidi which is 100 Km away.

 By Road - Regular KSRTC buses are available from major cities of Kerala and Karnataka to Lakkidi. Frequent buses are also available from Kozhikode to Lakkidi.

Monday through Sunday, all day

FAQs:

Why Lakkidi is called the 'Gateway to Wayanad'?

Lakkidi is known as the "Gateway to Wayanad" because it is situated at the crest of the Thamarassery Ghat Pass which is the main route leading into the lush, green district of Wayanad. The region offers stunning views of valleys and cliffs as one enters Wayanad.

What makes Lakkidi Hill Station a popular tourist destination?

Lakkidi Hill Station is famous for its natural beauty, featuring mist-covered mountains, dense forests, cascading streams, and plantations of coffee, pepper, and cardamom. It is also known for its high annual rainfall and is a hotspot for adventure activities like trekking, hiking, birdwatching, and boating.

What is the significance of the Chain Tree in Lakkidi?

The Chain Tree is a notable attraction in Lakkidi. According to local legend, a tribal guide who helped British engineers find the route to Wayanad was killed, and his spirit is said to have been bound to this Ficus tree with a large chain. The tree is located near the highway and is a popular tourist spot.

What is the Lakkidi View Point?

Lakkidi View Point offers panoramic views of the valleys and cliffs in the surrounding region. It is one of the most famous spots in Wayanad, where tourists can enjoy the mesmerizing sights of lush green landscapes especially during sunrise and sunset.

How far is Lakkidi from Kalpetta, the district headquarters of Wayanad?

Lakkidi is about 15 Km from Kalpetta, the district headquarters of Wayanad. It is easily accessible via road and is a popular stop for travellers heading to other destinations in Wayanad.

Is Lakkidi Hill Station good for birdwatching?

Yes, Lakkidi is considered a birdwatcher's paradise. The dense forests and ample rainfall create a perfect environment for spotting a wide variety of bird species, including several rare and migratory birds.

What adventure activities are available at Lakkidi Hill Station?

Lakkidi offers several adventure activities, such as trekking, hiking, birdwatching, and camping. Visitors can also enjoy boating at the nearby Pookot Lake, which is a freshwater lake surrounded by wooded hills.