By Hameed and the WayanadTrips team
Welcome to Nettara Gramam, a charming riverside village in Wayanad that offers a peaceful escape into the heart of rural Kerala. I recently had the pleasure of taking some guests to this beautiful spot, and it’s truly a place where you can slow down and soak in the natural beauty of our region.
About Nettara Gramam and Why Visit
Nettara Gramam, as I know it, is a lovely riverside village, a place where life unfolds at a gentle pace. Nestled beside a serene river, it offers a glimpse into the authentic Wayanad rural lifestyle. If you’re looking to step away from the usual tourist crowds and experience the tranquil side of Wayanad, this is a wonderful destination.
Visiting Nettara Gramam is all about connecting with nature and local life. You can hear the gentle flow of the river, see the lush greenery that surrounds the village, and observe the daily routines of the villagers. It’s a place for quiet contemplation, gentle walks, and simply enjoying the refreshing air and peaceful atmosphere that a riverside setting provides. It’s perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty and wish to experience the true essence of Wayanad beyond its famous landmarks.
Best Time to Visit and How Long to Stay
The best time to visit Nettara Gramam, like much of Wayanad, is generally from October to May. The post-monsoon months from October to February offer lush landscapes and pleasant, cool weather, making it ideal for exploring. March to May can be warmer, but still very enjoyable, especially by the river.
The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rains. While Wayanad is incredibly green during this time, some outdoor activities might be restricted, and river levels can be high. It’s always a good idea to check local conditions if you plan to visit during the monsoon.
For Nettara Gramam itself, you might want to spend anywhere from a couple of hours to half a day, depending on how much you wish to relax and explore the village surroundings. If you’re looking for a tranquil retreat, you could easily spend more time just enjoying the quietude.
Getting There
Nettara Gramam is located within Wayanad, and like many of our beautiful hidden gems, it’s best accessed by road. The nearest major towns in Wayanad would be Kalpetta, Mananthavady, or Sulthan Bathery, depending on its exact location. From any of these towns, you’ll embark on a journey through picturesque Wayanad roads.
The roads leading to and within Wayanad are known for their winding nature, especially the ghat roads with their famous hairpin bends if you’re approaching from Kozhikode. While incredibly scenic, these roads require careful driving. This is where having a local driver, someone like me, who knows every twist and turn, really makes a difference. I can navigate these routes comfortably, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy the stunning views without any worries about directions or road conditions. Parking in a village like Nettara Gramam is usually straightforward, but having a private car means flexibility and ease right to your destination.
What to See and Do
Nettara Gramam is less about specific attractions and more about the experience of a serene riverside village. Here’s what I suggest you see and do:
- Riverside Walks: The highlight of Nettara Gramam is undoubtedly its river. Take a leisurely walk along its banks. Listen to the gentle sounds of the water, feel the cool breeze, and simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a wonderful spot for quiet reflection and to connect with nature.
- Experience Village Life: Observe the daily routines of the local community. You might see farmers working in their fields, children playing, or villagers going about their day. It’s a genuine insight into rural Kerala life, far removed from the hustle and bustle of cities.
- Photography: With its lush green landscapes, clear river waters, and traditional village scenes, Nettara Gramam offers many opportunities for beautiful photographs. Capture the serene beauty and the authentic charm of the village.
- Relax and Recharge: This is an ideal place to simply sit back, breathe in the fresh air, and unwind. Pack a book, or just enjoy the quietude. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking a break from their busy lives.
When visiting, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, as you’ll likely be exploring on foot. Light clothing suitable for a tropical climate is also advisable. Remember to carry water, and perhaps some snacks, as amenities in a small village might be limited. Always respect local customs and privacy when observing village life.
Nearby Places to Combine
To make the most of your trip, Nettara Gramam can be wonderfully combined with other attractions in central or northern Wayanad. Here are a few suggestions:
- Banasura Sagar Dam: This is India’s largest earth dam and a stunning sight. You can enjoy speed boating, a walk across the dam, and the beautiful views of the surrounding hills. It’s a popular spot and offers a different kind of natural beauty.
- Karlad Lake: A serene lake offering zip-lining, boating, and kayaking. It’s a lovely, less crowded alternative to Pookode Lake, perfect for some gentle adventure or just relaxation.
- Kuruva Island: A protected river delta, Kuruva Island offers bamboo rafting and guided walks through dense, evergreen forests. It’s a unique ecological hotspot, but remember to check its opening status as it can close due to high river levels or forest department regulations.
- Thirunelli Temple: A very ancient and beautiful temple nestled in the Brahmagiri hills, surrounded by forests. It’s known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance, often called the “Kashi of the South.”
2-Day Wayanad Itinerary Including Nettara Gramam
Here’s a practical itinerary for a short but fulfilling trip, with Nettara Gramam as a peaceful highlight:
Day 1: Nature and Tranquility
- Morning: Arrive in Wayanad, check into your accommodation.
- Late Morning/Afternoon: Head to Banasura Sagar Dam. Enjoy the scenic drive, take a walk across the dam, and consider a boat ride. Allow 2-3 hours.
- Late Afternoon: Drive to Nettara Gramam. Spend a couple of hours enjoying the riverside, taking a leisurely walk, and soaking in the peaceful village atmosphere.
- Evening: Return to your stay. Relax and enjoy the Wayanad night.
Day 2: Lakes and Local Charm
- Morning: After breakfast, visit Karlad Lake for some gentle activities like zip-lining or kayaking, or simply enjoy the serene views. Allow 1.5-2 hours.
- Late Morning: Explore the vibrant local markets in Kalpetta, the district headquarters, offering a glimpse into local life and produce.
- Afternoon: Visit Pookode Lake (if time permits and it fits your route) for a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by forests. Enjoy boating or a walk around the lake.
- Late Afternoon: Begin your journey back, carrying wonderful memories of Wayanad.
3-Day Wayanad Itinerary Including Nettara Gramam
For those with a little more time, here’s an extended itinerary to explore more of Wayanad’s treasures:
Day 1: Dam, Village, and Relaxation
- Morning: Arrive in Wayanad, settle into your chosen accommodation.
- Late Morning/Afternoon: Drive to Banasura Sagar Dam. Explore the dam, enjoy the views, and perhaps try speed boating. Allow 2-3 hours.
- Late Afternoon: Proceed to Nettara Gramam. Spend a peaceful couple of hours walking by the river, observing village life, and enjoying the tranquility.
- Evening: Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening.
Day 2: Forest, River, and Ancient Lore
- Morning: After breakfast, head north to Kuruva Island (do check its opening status beforehand). Enjoy the unique experience of bamboo rafting and a guided walk through the dense forest. Allow 3-4 hours.
- Lunch: Have lunch at a local eatery near Kuruva Island.
- Afternoon: Visit the sacred Thirunelli Temple, set amidst the stunning Brahmagiri hills. Explore this ancient temple and soak in its spiritual ambiance. Allow 2-3 hours.
- Evening: Drive back, enjoying the scenic routes.
Day 3: Caves, Coffee, and Departure
- Morning: After breakfast, journey to Edakkal Caves. This involves a moderate trek to reach the caves, which hold ancient petroglyphs, offering a fascinating peek into prehistoric life. Allow 3-4 hours including the trek.
- Late Morning/Afternoon: Visit a local spice or coffee plantation. Many offer guided tours where you can learn about the cultivation of Wayanad’s famous spices and coffee.
- Late Afternoon: Enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping in Sulthan Bathery or Kalpetta, then begin your journey homeward.
Summary – and a warm invitation to visit Wayanad and call us to plan the trip
Nettara Gramam is a testament to Wayanad’s quieter, more authentic beauty – a beautiful riverside village perfect for those seeking peace and a glimpse into local life. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and appreciate the simple, natural rhythms of Kerala.
Exploring Wayanad, especially its charming villages and winding roads, is always more enjoyable and stress-free with a local driver. I, Hameed, with my 30 years of experience, know Wayanad like the back of my hand. I can ensure your journey is smooth, comfortable, and filled with wonderful discoveries, from hidden gems like Nettara Gramam to the most famous landmarks.
Plan your Wayanad trip with Hameed at wayanadtrips.com – private cars, local drivers and sightseeing packages. Call 9746967281.
