Banasura Hill Trek

• All our arrangements are fundamental; we do not/cannot provide luxury on such an event.

• In case of unforeseen Weather conditions, government restrictions, or permission changes, certain activities may be cancelled. In such cases, we will try to provide an alternate feasible activity or Postpone option. However, no refund will be provided.

• Once you book the Banasura Hill Trek package there will be no cancellation.

• No Refund/No Cancellation Once you reach the property or on the event day.

• You agree to indemnify yourself for the risks involved in the outings varying from destination to destination.

• In case of damage or loss of any equipment or Items of Escape2explore, the responsible member has to bear the cost.

• We have designated pick-up and drop points to make your arrangements for transport to the desired pick-up point accordingly.

• We depend on a third-party transport agency; we don't have direct control over the vehicle or driver. Issues about pick-up and drop times or bus quality are quite rare. If you are too specific, please check before registering.

• Escape2explore is not responsible if any injuries or accidents occur during the event.

• Any client consuming Alcohol, Misbehaving, or causing delay during the event will be terminated without any prior warning, and no refund will be given. Such clients should arrange their transport on their way back, and Escape2explore is not responsible for terminating clients.

• Littering, smoking & consumption of alcohol are banned for Trekking packages.

For Bookings made from Third Party Websites:

• The client is responsible for communicating with a third party (booking website) for cancellation.

• Cancellation / Refund is done by a third party based on their policies. 

Banasura Hill, a hill of rocks in the scenic Wayanad district in Kerala, India, is the most unique geographical and ecological feature of the region. It is the highest point in the Wayanad district and also one of the highest peaks of the Western Ghats. Famous for its viewscapes, flora, and tremendous biodiversity, Banasura Hill is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, adventure tourists, and ecologists. The hill gets its name from the mythological demon king Banasura, a well-known personality in Hindu mythology, and therefore the location has an extra cultural and historical value. The hill is part of the series of Banasura Western Ghats hills and part of the constituent element of the ecological corridor that preserves the balance of flora and fauna of this hotspot of biodiversity.

Banasura Hill is situated to the north of Wayanad district close to Padinjarathara town. It falls under the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage location owing to its unique biological richness and environmental values. The hill is surrounded by dense forests, rolling meadows, and several waterfalls that make it beautiful. Banasura Sagar Dam, India's largest earth dam and a major tourist attraction, lies at the foot of Banasura Hill. The geographical significance of the hill and its location in the Western Ghats make it a crucial element of regional geography and ecotourism.

Banasura Hill is a significant place in regional geography as well as the tourism sector. Geographically, it is a prominent feature of the Western Ghats mountain chain, a natural wind barrier during the monsoons that regulates Kerala's climate. The hill contributes importantly to the hydrological balance of the region with many streams and waterfalls to supply the Kabini River. Such water courses with their existence make the surrounding country fertile and cultivable as well as applicable for the maintenance of local settlers.

The forests covering the landscape, consisting of evergreen and semi-evergreen species, are home to a luxuriant range of wildlife in the shape of elephants, leopards, Malabar giant squirrels, and other endemic birds. Tourism in itself, Banasura Hill is a trekking and adventure sport lover's paradise. The hike up to the top is a laborious but fulfilling adventure, offering splendid scenery of the nearby valleys, Banasura Sagar Dam, and distant ranges. Trekking in the dense forest, rock-based topography and misty area is a lifetime experience for travellers. In addition to trekking, the travellers come to the hill also for camps, bird sightseeing, and majestic sunrise and sunset scenery.

Mythological and Historical Significance

One name that does so is that of Banasura. Such a name cries out for powerfully Indian myth and history, especially that of Hindu myth and local-region folklore. The demon king Banasura was named after the mythological character with that name, to our fortune one of the best-known individuals in Hindu literature largely in the Puranas. His legend gets incorporated into Lord Shiva's, Lord Krishna's, and other gods' mythology too, and thus Banasura is quite an interesting fellow of religious and historical tales.

Origin of the Name "Banasura"

The word "Banasura" came from Hindu mythology since Banasura was a powerful asura king and a son of Mahabali, the powerful asura king revered in Kerala, particularly during Onam festival celebrations. Banasura was an ardent follower of Lord Shiva and known for his monstrous strength and abilities. His name is mostly synonymous with different localities in India, especially locations that represent his mythological presence.

Water Bodies Around (Banasura Sagar Dam)

Yet another aspect of the place is that it owns the Banasura Sagar Dam, a mythical lake lying in Wayanad's rolling hills. The dam is Asia's second-largest and India's biggest dam, constructed over the tributary known as Karamanathodu to Kabini River. Situated in the hilly mist of the Banasura range, the dam is not only a huge hydroelectric venture but also a resort in high demand for the scenic location. The lake is wide enough to span several square kilometres and serves as a big source of potable water as well as irrigation needs for the area.

Banasura Sagar backwaters also create an equally stunning visual feast with the hills by creating small islands that are rising and falling based on fluctuating water levels. These islands are heavily vegetated, contributing to the secrecy of the location and aiding in protecting various aquatic and avian life. In addition to its irrigation and hydroelectric purposes, the reservoir is a centre of ecotourism activities like kayaking, boating, and trekking. The serene waters mirror the top of the Banasura hills, and to be amidst such pristine beauty is the ultimate desire of every photographer and nature enthusiast.

Weather Conditions During the Seasons

India has four seasons winter, summer, monsoon, and post-monsoon/autumn. All of them have their conventional role in dividing trekking routes and holiday destinations.

• Winter (December to February): Winter snows in the northern Himalayas attract adventure travellers to high-altitude treks such as the Chadar Trek in Ladakh and Kedarkantha Trek in Uttarakhand. It makes some routes such as Roopkund and Stok Kangri impassable because of extremely cold weather, heavy snow, and the risk of avalanches.

• Summer (March to June): With rising temperatures, summer releases high-altitude treks in Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh. Valley of Flowers, Hampta Pass, and Rupin Pass are on the agenda. Western and central India regions like Gujarat and Rajasthan are scorching hot, and trekking is not pleasant. Ladakh and Spiti Valley are also full of tourists, though, as roads are open.

• Monsoon (July to September): There is intense rain during monsoon in most of India and is therefore not safe to travel because of landslides, flooded rivers and slippery roads. The Himalayas, i.e., Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Sikkim, experience unstable weather, leading to probable roadblocks.

Banasura Sagar Dam: Wonder of Nature and Engineering

Sitting in Kerala's picturesque Wayanad district, Banasura Sagar Dam is a triumph of man versus nature and nature versus man. Recorded in the annals of history as India's largest earth dam and Asia's second-largest dam, this stunning reservoir is a topmost favourite among domestic tourists today. Surrounded by the rolling greenery of hills and its still waters, Banasura Sagar Dam is thrilling, serenity, and eye candy at its best.

Importance as India's Largest Earthen Dam

Banasura Sagar Dam is an important piece of India's infrastructure. The dam was built using enormous heaps of stones and boulders instead of concrete. The earthen dam has great importance when it comes to water storage and irrigation. Banasura Sagar Dam was built over River Karamanathodu, which is a tributary of the Kabini River, in 1979 as a part of the Banasura Hydro-Electric Project. The prime objective of the dam is to enable hydroelectricity and irrigation power generation within the Wayanad district, which is famous for its gigantic paddy fields and spice plantations.

Its construction is also required to safeguard the area from the monsoon flood. Its high water carrying capacity gives livelihood to indigenous and agrarian for their utilization in the purpose of cultivation and domestic use. Banasura Sagar Dam, being so large in actual practical utility, also forms one of the most significant places in Kerala to visit for nature tourists, camera tourists, and sports tourists.

Boating and Adventure Sports near the Dam

Banasura Sagar Dam is a personification of beauty but heaven on earth for adventure lovers as well. Boating, among the favourite games played here, is the mode by which common masses get to appreciate the landscapes around the reservoir. They offer pedal boats and speed boats on rent that are a new means of rolling over the gigantic waterbody. A speed boat ride across the dam is an adrenaline rush, zooming down the peaceful waters, and providing stunning views of the hill and floating island landscape. Adventure seekers have sufficient space to move around in the Banasura Hills. Climbing to the hilltop offers tourists a bird's eye view of the dam, the valley, and Wayanad's green landscape.

The trekking path is easy and welcoming to beginners and experts alike. Some tourists undertake the journey to the dam also combined with a trek to the Meenmutty Waterfalls, another one of Wayanad's natural wonders, boasting a resplendent cascade in a verdant backdrop. In addition to boating and trekking, ziplining and nature walks are also available in the dam compound. The nature walks inside and outside the dam have also helped to popularize the dam as a place for tourists to remain close to nature as well as engage in outdoor activities. Even the tribal villages surrounding the area can be accessed by the tourists to familiarize themselves with Wayanad's Indigenous cultures and infuse the cultural flavour into their experience.

One Stop Not to Miss in Kerala

Banasura Sagar Dam is not just a water reservoir but also an adventure, nature, and culture tour. Whether you desire a peaceful retreat in the arms of nature or an adrenaline rush through adventure sports, there is something for every person here. The best time to visit would be the post-monsoon season from September to March when the reservoir is full of water and the greens surrounding it are green in color. A trip to Wayanad is never complete without the experience of witnessing the splendour of Banasura Sagar Dam. For its natural splendour, adventure-sport facilities, and ecological value, this mythological site is a treasure of Kerala's nature and engineering expertise.

Tourist Spots Around Banasura Hill

Banasura Hill, in the picturesque Wayanad district of Kerala, is a nature enthusiast's paradise, an adventure tour operator's dream, and a sanctuary for all those who want to relish the bliss of serene ambience. One of the Western Ghats, Banasura Hill is the second-highest peak in the region and is surrounded by a series of high-diversity places of interest that attract visitors to their natural beauty, adventure sports, and heritage. Of the numerous tourist places near Banasura Hill, the most fascinating ones are Meenmutty Waterfalls, Karlad Lake, Pookode Lake, and Edakkal Caves. These are a mix of adventure, recreation, and history and are hence the destinations one simply cannot afford to miss on a visit to Wayanad.

• Meenmutty Waterfalls: Meenmutty Waterfalls is one of the most picturesque and highest waterfalls of Wayanad, cascading from a height of nearly 300 meters (984 feet) in three cascades. Located far away in dense tropical rainforests, it's a challenging but rewarding journey along dense rainforest, wet slippery boulders, and twisting paths to reach the waterfalls. "Meenmutty" literally translates to "Meen" (fish) and "Mutty" (blocked) in Malayalam, a place where fish are barred. The three-tiered falls are nothing but a sheer panoramic view down the surrounding valley and the forest and nature enthusiasts and shutterbugs' delight.

• Karlad Lake: Karlad Lake is yet another hidden gem just close to Banasura Hill, where nature enthusiasts and adventure enthusiasts can have a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. This new lake, a couple of kilometres from Banasura Sagar Dam, is thickly forested, and therefore it is a very good spot for nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, and adventure activity enthusiasts as well. While people-thronged Pookode Lake is one thing, Karlad Lake is not so crowded and is a peaceful haven amidst the urban hubbub. The most sought-after feature of Karlad Lake is the range of adventure sports it offers to tourists.

• Pookode Lake: Pookode Lake is the most frequented lake and most beautiful lake in Wayanad that welcomes tourists to it with its enchanting beauty and unique geography. The freshwater lake is surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills and is in the shape of the map of India with dense flora and fauna. The crystal clear water of the lake mirrors the green around it, forming a postcard-like situation that surprises the tourists.

• Edakkal Caves: For history enthusiasts and those who love archaeology, Edakkal Caves is a place to visit just near Banasura Hill. The ancient rock shelter on Ambukuthi Hills is renowned for the petroglyphs dating as far back as 6000 BCE. Edakkal Caves are not caves but a natural rock formation where a big boulder gets wedged between two large stones, and the result is a shelter. The trek to Edakkal Caves itself is an experience since the tourists have to trek up along hilly and bumpy roads through coffee plantations and dense jungles.

Cultural and Local Aspects of Wayanad: Indigenous Tribes, Festivals, and Folk Beliefs

Wayanad, Kerala's peaceful and picturesque district, is a heaven not only for nature lovers but also for those who enjoy culture, traditions, and folklore. Certain Indigenous tribes in the district were able to preserve their old mores, social and religious mores that bring life, and old folklore adding fairy-tale-like beauty to the hills. A knowledge of the cultural environment of Wayanad presents to us the traditional culture of the region, even as it exists despite outside forces.

Native Tribes of Wayanad and Their Traditions

Wayanad has the highest number of tribal individuals in Kerala. The Paniyas, Kurichiyas, Kattunayakans, Adiyas, and Kurumbas are the prevailing tribes in this region. They have their traditions, customs, and rituals that have been followed from generation to generation.

• Paniyas: Paniyas, meaning literally 'workers' in Malayalam, were previously bonded labour on landlord plantations. They are now agricultural labour and manual workers. They also have a unique dialect, in addition to their traditional dances and music, which at such ceremonies are normally performed. Among interesting aspects of Paniya culture is the worshipping of souls of their dead ancestors, who in their beliefs shield their relatives from harm and guide them to the righteous way during life.

• Kurichiyas: The Kurichiyas are renowned for their martial culture and were the initial ones to fight against British colonial troops. They are skilled archers and still practice traditional hunting, although now largely ceremonial in purpose. The Kurichiyas also practice matrilineal inheritance and descent through the mother. Their bamboo houses with grass roofs reflect their nature-oriented lifestyle.

• Kattunayakan: The Kattunayakans, or 'forest chiefs,' are an inaccessible tribe living mainly deep in the Wayanad forests. They live by honey gathering, forest products of small amounts, and herb medicine. They place great respect on animism, nature and religious worship. Animal sacrifice and offering in festivals for pleasing gods and scaring wild animals is one of their modes of worship.

• Adiyas: The Adiyas were occupational bonded labourers like the Paniyas, but have managed to preserve their folk culture. They are renowned for their ritual songs and dances, which they sing during harvest festival seasons and temple festivals. Adiyas also have traditional medicine in the form of herbs and know the medicinal values of herbs in the area.

• Kurumbas: Kurumbas have a shamanistic culture and rich religious heritage. They coexist with supernatural life and love to perform ceremonies so that they are not attacked by evil spirits. Nature is referred from their song as well as from folklore and traditions where nature, animals, and sky gods ideas prevail.

• Karkidaka Vavu: The Karkidaka Vavu, also celebrated in July, is a very important Wayanad festival, wherein they conduct offering ceremonies to ancestors. Individuals visit places around lakes and rivers and offer prayers and gifts to their ancestors, praying that the souls would be at peace.

• Thirunelli Temple Festival: The Thirunelli Lord Vishnu Temple is a pilgrim temple of ancient times in Wayanad. At the temple festival every year, thousands of pilgrims get to see tall processions, folk music, and oblations. The temple is located in the Brahmagiri hills and also believed that the sins are pardoned by the sacred Papanasini river flowing alongside the temple.

• Valliyoorkavu Festival: The Valliyoorkavu Temple, which is of Goddess Durga, has an important festival in March. The festival consists of classical tribal dances such as 'Kolkali' and 'Theyyam,' which bring mythological concepts to life through colourful costumes and choreography.

Folk Tales and Legends About Wayanad

Wayanad is also dense with folklore since many tales have been passed down through the ages. Historical, mythological, and supernatural material is present in the tales, and the tales beget mysticism in the hill slopes.

• Legend of Chain Tree: One of the oldest legends still in existence about Wayanad is that of the Chain Tree legend of Lakkidi. Adivasi youth Karinthandan assisted a British engineer in finding a path through dense Wayanad forests, as per local folklore.

• Edakkal Caves and the Lost Civilization: Edakkal Caves in Ambukuthi Hills have petroglyphs of several thousands of years old. The caves also had a highly advanced species of humans who vanished mysteriously, as stated by some indigenous myths. According to others, the caves carry a gigantic history with Ramayana and Ram's sons Lava and Kusha residing in them.

• Phantom Rock and Guardian Spirit: Phantom Rock, a human-shaped rock, is guarded by a supernatural creature. People think that showing disrespect to the rock will be unfortunate. This prevents people from showing disrespect to the place when they are present there.

• The Cursed Village of Kalladi: There is another lesser-known variation of a village named Kalladi, which was cursed by a sage who had visited the place. There had been some mishaps earlier, and the villagers had abandoned their village well in advance. Locals to date avoid venturing near the area of Kalladi during the night.

Rock Climbing and Rappelling Activities

Rock climbing is a physically and mentally demanding sport that demands strength, endurance, and technique. Some of the most stunning rock-climbing spots on the planet are found in India, with locations for beginners as well as professionals. From the granite boulders of Hampi in Karnataka to the gigantic Sar Pass cliffs of Himachal Pradesh, rock climbing spots galore are found all over the country. Badami, Karnataka is famous for rock climbing sports. Badami red sandstone cliffs are the ideal place for any sports climber or a conventional climber. The more than 70-foot tall cliffs of varying heights have varying levels of difficulty and hence it is the ideal place for all climbers regardless of their experience.

Ramanagara, located just outside Bengaluru, is another climber's paradise. It is also very popular because it has an odd formation of rocks and is historic as it is the shooting location of the film Sholay, which is one of the best classic Bollywood films. For thrill-seekers seeking a combination of rappelling and rock climbing, spots such as Malshej Ghat in Maharashtra, Pachmarhi in Madhya Pradesh, and Shey Rock in Ladakh offer spectacular cliffs that have been utilized as the route for treks. Rappelling or abseiling is controlled, slow down-rope on rock faces. It is an adrenaline sport because adventure sports lovers get a chance to glide down cliffs over scenic landscapes.

How to Reach Banasura Hill

Banasura Hill is in Wayanad, Kerala, and is a scenic trekking spot that fascinates nature enthusiasts and adventure tourists. Banasura Hill is in the Western Ghats and is the second-highest point in the area. Banasura Hill is inaccessible as it is reachable by road, rail, and air. This guidebook includes general information on surrounding cities, transportation, and tourist facilities information on roads connecting main cities such as Bangalore, Kochi, and Mysore.

Surrounding Cities and Transport Facilities

Banasura Hill is situated in the Wayanad district and, as such, Kalpetta is the closest town and best spot for tourists to unwind. The surrounding cities are Kozhikode, Mysore, and Bangalore. The following are the modes of transport:

By Airport: The closest airport to Banasura Hill is Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode Airport) (CCJ), 85 km. It is connected with other Indian cities such as Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi. Taxi or bus booking is possible from the airport to Kalpetta or Mananthavady, the closest town to Banasura Hill.

• Other closest airport facilities are: Kannur International Airport – About 100 km away

• How to reach Wayanad from airports: Mysore Airport – Approximately 140 km, Bangalore Kempegowda International Airport – Approximately 300 km

By Train: There is no station, but the closest station is: Kozhikode Railway Station (Calicut) – 80 km. Mysore Railway Station – 140 km, Kannur Railway Station – 115 km. It is possible to proceed to Wayanad from the aforesaid railway stations by taxis or buses. Special trains from Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai have their terminals at the Kozhikode Railway Station.

By Bus: There are daily buses operated by private companies as well as by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) from other towns, i.e., Kochi, Bangalore, Mysore, and the like to Wayanad.

• The most travelled routes are: Bangalore to Mananthavady/Kalpetta – Semi-sleeper as well as sleeper overnight ride.

• Mysore to Wayanad – There are plenty of regular KSRTC as well as private buses.

• Wayanad to Kozhikode – Daily, regular daily bus connection is easily available in around 2-3 hours.