Is there a direct train to Wayanad?

No, Wayanad does not have a railway station; the nearest station is Kozhikode.

How many hairpin bends are there?

The Thamarassery Churam pass consists of nine hairpin bends.

Is it safe to drive at night?

Driving at night is discouraged due to fog and potential wildlife movement on the roads.

What is the best way to travel locally?

Renting a private taxi or a local jeep is the most convenient way to explore Wayanad.

Are there ATMs in Wayanad?

ATMs are available in major towns like Kalpetta, Mananthavady, and Sultan Bathery.

Wayanad

Bus Driving

Chittanda to Wayanad

Updated: 22 May 2026

The journey from Chittanda to Wayanad spans approximately 160 kilometers through the lush Western Ghats. You will primarily travel via NH 544 towards Thrissur and then connect to NH 766 through Kozhikode or Nilambur. The route is famous for the Thamarassery Churam, a mountain pass with nine hairpin bends. Expect a travel time of 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic at the pass. This route offers a transition from the midlands of Thrissur to the high-altitude misty hills of Wayanad.

Total Distance: 160 km driving distance; 115 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Private taxi via NH 544, taking 5 hours.

Cheapest Way

KSRTC bus via Thrissur, costing approximately 450 INR.

Compare Chittanda to Wayanad Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours	5 hours
Avg Price	400-600 INR	2500-3500 INR
Operator	KSRTC	Private Taxi
Route	Chittanda to Thrissur KSRTC Stand, then express bus to Kalpetta	Chittanda - Thrissur - Kozhikode - Thamarassery - Kalpetta
Tip	Book your KSRTC ticket online to ensure a seat on the long-distance express buses.	Start early morning to avoid heavy tourist traffic at the Thamarassery Churam.

Travel Tips

Carry Woolens
Wayanad temperatures drop significantly at night, even in summer.
Road Conditions
Check for landslide alerts during the monsoon season before starting your trip.
Local Transport
Hire a local jeep for interior sightseeing as public transport is limited in remote areas.
Stay Location
Choose Kalpetta for better connectivity or Vythiri for a luxury resort experience.
Fuel Up
Refuel your vehicle in major towns like Kalpetta as petrol pumps are sparse in the deep forest zones.

Safety Tips

Driving Caution
Drive slowly on the hairpin bends of Thamarassery Churam; do not overtake on curves.
Wildlife Awareness
Do not feed wild animals if you pass through the Bandipur or Muthanga forest buffer zones.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local police and hospital numbers for Kalpetta before entering the hilly terrain.
First Aid
Carry a basic medical kit, especially if you are prone to motion sickness on winding roads.