Lakkidi View Point

Introduction: The Gateway Viewpoint of Wayanad

Perched at an elevation of 700 meters (2,296 feet) above sea level at the summit of the Thamarassery Churam mountain pass, Lakkidi View Point is known as the 'Gateway to Wayanad'. Located just 5 km from Vythiri town along National Highway 766 (NH 766), this vantage point offers vistas overlooking nine steep hairpin bends, deep forest gorges, and misty Western Ghats valleys stretching toward the coastal plains of Kozhikode.

As one of the highest points in Wayanad district, Lakkidi receives some of the highest rainfall in South India, keeping its rainforest canopy shrouded in rolling mountain mists throughout the year. Located right along the highway, it serves as an essential stopover for road-trippers, nature lovers, photographers, and travelers ascending from Kozhikode to explore Wayanad's hill country.

History and Tribal Heritage: The Legend of the Chain Tree

The history of Lakkidi View Point is tied to British colonial engineering and indigenous tribal lore. For centuries, the dense mountain barrier separating Kozhikode from the Wayanad plateau was considered impassable. According to popular local legend, during the late 18th century, a British engineer sought a trade route up the Ghats and enlisted the help of a local Paniya tribal youth named Karinthandan, who possessed intimate knowledge of secret forest paths.

After Karinthandan guided the engineer to discover the route for the Thamarassery Ghat road, the engineer killed him to claim sole credit for the discovery. Legend holds that Karinthandan's restless spirit caused frequent accidents along the new mountain road until a priest bound his soul to a massive banyan tree using a heavy iron chain. Located just 1 km from Lakkidi View Point, the historic Lakkidi Chain Tree stands as a protected cultural monument honoring Karinthandan's legacy.

Key Natural & Heritage Highlights

• Nine Hairpin Bends Panorama: A dramatic vantage point overlooking the winding curves of the Thamarassery Ghat road as it cuts through green mountain slopes.
• The Historic Chain Tree: A sacred banyan tree bound by a massive iron chain, commemorating the tribal guide Karinthandan.
• High-Altitude Rainforest Climate: Cool mountain breezes, frequent fog, and dense evergreen foliage harboring endemic Western Ghats birds and monkeys.

How to Reach Lakkidi View Point

Lakkidi View Point is situated directly along National Highway 766 (NH 766), about 5 km from Vythiri and 30 km from Kalpetta.

By Air

The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport (CCJ) in Karipur, Kozhikode, located approximately 70 km away (about a 2-hour drive). Taxis and rental cars drive directly up the Thamarassery Churam pass to Lakkidi.

By Train

The closest major railway station is Kozhikode Railway Station (CLT), located about 55 km southwest, offering direct rail links to Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kochi.

By Road

Lakkidi is exceptionally easy to access by road. Frequent Kerala KSRTC and Karnataka KSRTC buses operating along the Kozhikode-Kalpetta-Mysuru route stop directly at Lakkidi.

Best Time to Visit

Lakkidi offers pleasant mountain weather throughout the year, with distinct seasonal vistas.

Peak Season: Post-Monsoon & Winter (October to March)

The post-monsoon and winter months offer the best weather for visiting Lakkidi. Temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C (59°F–77°F) with clear skies, cool breezes, and low-lying morning fog—ideal for sunset viewing and valley photography.

Monsoon Magic (June to September)

The monsoons turn Lakkidi into a rain-soaked green paradise as clouds drift directly across the road. While driving up the hairpin bends requires care during heavy rains, monsoon offers a dramatic atmosphere for nature enthusiasts.

Top Nearby Attractions

1. The Chain Tree of Lakkidi (1 km away)

Visit the historic banyan tree chained to the ground, surrounded by a small shrine honoring the tribal guide Karinthandan.

2. Pookode Lake (4 km away)

A natural freshwater lake nestled in forest hills, offering pedal boating, walking paths, and lily ponds.

3. Vythiri Rainforest Resorts (5 km away)

Explore nearby luxury eco-resorts featuring high-canopy treehouses, hanging bridges, and spice plantation walks.

Local Food and Culinary Delights

Roadside tea stalls and canteens near Lakkidi serve hot Malabar snacks and beverages to travelers taking a break along the highway.

Must-Try Specialties

• Hot Cardamom & Ginger Tea: Freshly brewed local tea enjoyed in cool, misty mountain air.
• Pazham Pori (Banana Fritters): Crispy ripe banana fritters served hot from roadside kiosks.
• Wayanad Malabar Chicken Biryani: Aromatic short-grain Kaima rice cooked with spiced chicken, available at eateries in nearby Vythiri.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options

Visitors stay at resorts and homestays located in nearby Vythiri (5 km) or Kalpetta (30 km).

Luxury Resorts in Vythiri ($120 – $300 USD / ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 INR per night)

• Vythiri Resort: A luxury eco-property set inside rainforest canopy, offering private treehouses and stream pools.
• Lakkidi Village Resort: A serene valley property situated close to the viewpoint offering comfortable cottages and hill views.

Essential Rules and Visitor Guidelines

• Park Safely Off the Highway: Parking along the narrow highway pass is restricted; use designated parking bays near the viewpoint to avoid traffic congestion.
• Mind the Resident Monkeys: Bonnet macaques inhabit the roadside trees around the viewpoint; avoid carrying open food or feeding them.
• Drive Cautiously on Hairpin Bends: Maintain low gear and give right of way to ascending heavy vehicles when driving through the Thamarassery Churam pass.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Where is Lakkidi View Point located?

Lakkidi View Point is located along NH 766 at the peak of the Thamarassery Churam pass in Wayanad district, Kerala, near Vythiri.

2. What is Lakkidi View Point famous for?

It is famous for panoramic views of nine hairpin mountain bends, deep forest valleys, rolling mists, and proximity to the Chain Tree.

3. Is there an entry fee for Lakkidi View Point?

No, visiting the roadside viewpoint is completely free of charge.

4. What is the nearest airport to Lakkidi View Point?

Calicut International Airport (CCJ) in Kozhikode is the nearest airport, located approximately 70 km away.

5. What is the legend of the Chain Tree near Lakkidi?

It is a banyan tree bound by an iron chain, believed to hold the soul of Karinthandan, a tribal guide killed during the British colonial era after discovering the mountain pass route.

Conclusion

Lakkidi View Point stands as a scenic gateway where winding mountain roads, mist-shrouded valleys, and rich tribal heritage come together in breathtaking beauty. From looking down over the nine hairpin bends of the Thamarassery pass to learning the legend of the Chain Tree and enjoying hot cardamom tea in mountain air, Lakkidi offers an essential stopover on your journey into Wayanad. Plan your visit, park safely, and experience the natural charm of Lakkidi View Point!