The green paradise of Wayanadis cuddled among the mountains of the Western Ghats, with altitudes of 700 to 21000 m above sea level. It lies on the north eastern part of the state of Kerala, at a distance of about 76 kms from the tranquil palm-fringed seashores of Kozhikkode. The etymology of the word Wayanad is Vayal (paddy) Naad (land); 'Land of Paddy Fields'. The present district of Wayanad was carved out, from the parts of Kozhikkode and Kannur districts. Though considered as backward, this district funds the maximum foreign exchange to the state economy. It owes this credit to its rare flora and fauna, which helps production of cash crops like pepper, cardamom, coffee, tea, spices and other condiments in plenty.

The geographical setting of Wayanad is unique in that each locality within the district experiences a variation of climatic conditions. The difference in altitudes of Nature has endowed this idyllic district with stunningly beautiful mist wrapped undulating mountains and sylvan valleys. Wayanad is connected to neighboring Udagamandalam (Ooty) and Mysore with effective road facilities.

The east flowing rivers of Wayanad are in striking contrast to the various rivers of the rest of Kerala. The river Kabani of Wayanad is a perennial source of water to Cauvery. The Penamaram rivulet, originating from Lakkidi and the Mananthavady rivulet originating from Thondarmudi peak, meet six kilometres north of Panamaram town and after the confluence, the river is known as Kabani. A visitor may be impressed by the extensive paddy fields of the district. Agriculture in Wayanad is equally divided between paddy and plantation crops, except coconut. The hills, which are deep blue in bright sunlight and mist-covered most of the time, juxtaposes with the green of these paddy fields.