Wayanad Onam travel guide: Alternative routes to bypass Thamarassery Ghat bottleneck

Wayanad's tourism sector is gearing up for a vibrant resurgence this Onam season. After temporary setbacks from heavy monsoon rains and safety concerns over the tunnel road construction at Kalladi, local tour operators and hoteliers are highly optimistic.

Favourable weather and a long festive holiday weekend are expected to draw thousands of travellers to the pristine hills. However, this holiday rush inevitably brings one major headache: severe gridlock along the iconic Thamarassery Churam (mountain pass). To help you enjoy a seamless trip, here is a comprehensive guide to alternative routes that bypass the Thamarassery bottleneck.

Kozhikode to Wayanad: The Nadukani and Kuttiady passes
If you are heading to Sulthan Bathery from Kozhikode, the Nadukani Churam route is an excellent choice. You can drive along the national highway to Kunnamangalam, and then proceed via Mukkam – Areacode – Nilambur. Alternatively, you can take the Kozhikode Medical College – Edavannappara – Areacode – Nilambur road to access the Nadukani pass.

For those travelling to Mananthavady, the Perambra – Kuttiady – Thottilpalam – Niravilpuzha route is highly recommended. However, keep in mind that this mountain path is relatively narrow and might not be suitable for larger or heavy vehicles. Minor delays are also possible due to ongoing hillside road development works.

Kannur to Wayanad: The Periya and Palchuram options
Travellers departing from Kannur can opt for either the Periya and Palchuram passes or the Mahe – Thottilpalam route. To reach Mananthavady from Kannur, you can easily drive via Koothuparamba and Periya. Another beautiful option is the route spanning Kannur – Kottiyoor – Iritty – Peravoor – Boys Town, which takes you through the Palchuram road directly to Mananthavady. However, do note that during heavy downpours, safety restrictions are sometimes imposed on this stretch. If you are unfamiliar with this mountainous terrain, it is highly advisable to travel during daylight hours. Alternatively, the route via Kannur – Thalassery – Mahe – Thottilpalam is also a viable way to reach Mananthavady.

Southern Kerala and Malappuram to Wayanad: The Nilambur route
If you are driving from the southern districts of Kerala or Malappuram, you can bypass Kozhikode entirely by taking the scenic Nilambur route. The best pathway is Nilambur – Vazhikkadavu – Nadukani – Cherambadi – Vaduvanchal. Upon reaching Vazhikkadavu, travellers heading to Ooty should take the right fork, while those bound for Wayanad must turn left. Once you reach Vaduvanchal, a right turn will lead you straight to Sulthan Bathery, whereas those heading to Kalpetta or Vythiri can easily navigate their way onwards by following the signposts or asking local residents for the smoothest path.