Wayanad is gaining greater prominence on Kerala itineraries as travel companies respond to rising demand for nature-led, wellness, luxury, and experiential holidays. Travel trade stakeholders say the destination is attracting families, couples, and leisure travellers, while increasingly finding space as both a standalone getaway and an extended Kerala itinerary.
Travel agents and tour operators see Wayanad emerging as a strong experiential destination, supported by its scenic landscapes, plantation stays, wildlife experiences, wellness retreats, adventure activities, and accommodation options across budget segments.
Jitul Mehta, Joint Secretary, TAFI, and Managing Partner, VP Travels, said Wayanad holds strong potential across families, couples, corporate groups, and leisure travellers. He added that accessibility through Kozhikode and Kannur airports, along with accommodation options across segments, adds to its appeal for short breaks and longer holidays.
“Given the increasing demand for experiential, nature-led, and wellness-focused travel, Wayanad offers a compelling combination of scenic landscapes, wildlife, adventure activities, premium resorts, plantation stays, and authentic local experiences,” Mehta said.
Wayanad is also gaining space in curated Kerala programmes. While Mehta recommends two to three nights for a standalone Wayanad getaway, he said a five to seven-night Kerala itinerary can combine destinations including Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Wayanad, depending on traveller preferences.
Kalpana Sawlani, Managing Director, Bombino Travels, said Wayanad has immense potential as a premium experiential destination. “Its blend of luxury retreats, nature, wellness, plantations, and soft adventure makes it highly appealing for today’s travellers seeking meaningful and immersive holidays,” she said.
Bombino Travels is increasingly including Wayanad in curated Kerala itineraries, particularly for families, couples, and luxury travellers, with most programmes ranging between five and seven days.
Domestic demand remains stronger
Domestic travel currently dominates business for several travel companies operating Kerala holidays. Abdul M Khan, Managing Partner, Zest Tours and Travel, said Kerala remains one of the most popular domestic destinations, particularly among families, couples, and honeymooners.
“Whoever wants to come to South, the first choice is Kerala,” Khan said, adding that his company promotes Wayanad alongside other Kerala destinations and typically sells packages of at least seven nights.
Khan said domestic travellers account for 80 per cent of the company’s business, while inbound accounts for 20 per cent. He added that inbound business was lower during the past year, although it had otherwise been growing.
Rajesh Rateria, Member – Tourism Council, TAFI, Cirrus Travels and Holidays LLP, said his company sells three to four-night packages for Wayanad, primarily to FITs and families. He said the destination attracts both domestic and international visitors and can be promoted for most of the year.
Beyond leisure travel
Hotels in the region are also seeing opportunities beyond leisure tourism. Benny George, General Manager, Vythiri Village, said the property receives a significant share of its domestic business from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, particularly Bengaluru, Mysuru, and neighbouring areas.
The property also receives inbound groups from Germany, Canada, and Australia during the September to February season, apart from agent business for North Kerala.
George said leisure remains the largest segment, with many guests arriving for weekend stays. However, the property also caters to MICE and weddings, supported by its convention facilities and outdoor spaces.
With travel companies increasingly seeking differentiated experiences for their clients, Wayanad is finding relevance across standalone short breaks and wider Kerala programmes. Its appeal across nature, wellness, luxury, adventure, and leisure segments is helping the destination gain greater traction among travel trade partners.
Rahul Bhadana is a digital editor at TravTalk with experience spanning multiple content niches, with a strong focus on travel trade journalism and digital publishing. A graduate of Delhi University, his work covers editorial writing, content strategy and platform-led storytelling, supporting TravTalk’s digital growth and industry engagement. A technology enthusiast, he enjoys films, poetry and exploring new ideas across media and culture.