Devala is a serene village located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, nestled amidst lush greenery and rolling hills. Known for its tranquil environment and spice plantations, Devala attracts tourists seeking a peaceful retreat away from city life. This guide covers all practical ways to reach Devala, whether you are coming from nearby cities or other parts of India.

Travelers often visit Devala for weekend getaways, nature walks, and to explore the rich cultural heritage of Wayanad. In this guide, you will find detailed information on train, bus, car, and flight options, along with step-by-step travel plans and useful tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Major Cities to Devala – Main Options

Train

While Devala itself does not have a railway station, nearby towns offer convenient rail access. Train travel is popular for those coming from major cities like Bangalore, Mysore, or Kozhikode, combining rail and road travel for a comfortable journey.

• Nearest railway stations:

  The closest stations are Kozhikode (Calicut) and Mysore, approximately 85 km and 90 km away respectively. Both stations are well connected to major Indian cities via regular trains.

• Travel time and ticket costs:

  From Kozhikode, trains from Bangalore or Chennai take around 6–8 hours, with sleeper class fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹700. From Mysore, trains are shorter and cheaper, ideal for travelers from southern Karnataka.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains to Kozhikode and Mysore run multiple times daily, offering options from express to superfast trains. Booking through IRCTC is recommended well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From the railway stations, taxis or buses can be hired to reach Devala. Shared jeeps and private cabs are available but may require negotiation. Prepaid taxis at Kozhikode station are reliable and safer for first-time visitors.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling by train during monsoon months (June to September) if possible, as heavy rains can cause delays and slippery roads on the onward journey to Devala.

Bus

Buses are a cost-effective and widely used mode to reach Devala, especially from nearby towns and cities in Kerala and Karnataka. State transport and private operators provide regular services, though comfort levels vary.

• Key bus routes:

  Regular MSRTC and KSRTC buses run from Kozhikode, Kalpetta, and Mysore to towns near Devala. Direct buses to Devala are limited, so travelers often take buses to Sulthan Bathery or Kalpetta and then hire local transport.

• Travel duration and fares:

  Bus journeys from Kozhikode take about 3–4 hours, costing ₹100–₹200. From Mysore, buses take 4–5 hours with fares around ₹150–₹250 depending on the service type.

• Bus types and frequency:

  Both ordinary and deluxe buses operate on these routes. Deluxe buses offer better comfort and fewer stops but run less frequently. Night buses are rare, so plan daytime travel for safety and convenience.

• Boarding and drop-off points:

  Major bus stands like Kozhikode New Bus Stand and Mysore KSRTC Bus Stand have clear signage and ticket counters. From drop-off points near Devala, local taxis or auto-rickshaws can be hired for the final leg.

• Travel tips:

  Carry water and snacks as some routes have limited refreshment options. Booking tickets in advance during festivals or holidays is advisable to avoid last-minute hassles.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving to Devala offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy scenic routes through Kerala’s Western Ghats. This mode is ideal for families or groups who prefer a personalized itinerary and multiple stops.

• Popular routes:

  From Kozhikode, take NH766 towards Kalpetta, then continue on local roads to Devala. From Mysore, the route via Gundlupet and Sulthan Bathery is well maintained and picturesque.

• Distance and travel time:

  The drive from Kozhikode to Devala covers about 85 km and takes 3–3.5 hours. From Mysore, the distance is around 90 km, requiring approximately 3.5–4 hours depending on traffic.

• Road conditions and tolls:

  NH766 is generally in good condition with toll plazas en route. The last stretch to Devala involves narrow, winding roads, so cautious driving is necessary, especially during monsoon.

• Parking and facilities:

  Devala has limited parking near main attractions, so plan to park at designated spots. Fuel stations are available in Kalpetta and Sulthan Bathery, but not directly in Devala.

• Best time to drive:

  Early morning departures help avoid traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures. Avoid night driving due to wildlife crossings and poor lighting on rural roads.

Flight

The nearest airport to Devala is Calicut International Airport (CCJ), which connects to major Indian cities and some international destinations. Flying is convenient for long-distance travelers, combined with road transport to reach Devala.

• Airport location and connectivity:

  Calicut Airport is about 75 km from Devala, roughly a 2.5-hour drive via NH766. It has frequent flights from Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi.

• Flight duration and fares:

  Flights from Bangalore to Calicut take about 1 hour, with fares ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 depending on booking time and airline. Early booking can secure better deals.

• Airport to Devala transport:

  Upon arrival, prepaid taxis and car rentals are available at the airport. Shared cabs or private taxis can be booked via apps like Ola and Uber, though availability may vary.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flight schedules may be affected during monsoon due to weather disruptions, so check status before travel. Peak tourist seasons may see higher fares and crowded flights.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers to Devala, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets at least two weeks in advance using IRCTC for trains or official airline and bus websites to avoid last-minute price surges.

• Reach your departure point early:

  Arrive at the railway station, bus stand, or airport at least 1 hour before departure to complete check-in and avoid rush, especially during weekends and holidays.

• Plan your last-mile transport:

  From Kozhikode or Mysore stations and bus stands, pre-book taxis or use prepaid counters to avoid bargaining and ensure safe travel to Devala.

• Pack essentials for the road:

  Carry water, light snacks, and a raincoat or umbrella during monsoon. Comfortable shoes and insect repellent are useful for exploring Devala’s natural surroundings.

• Use local apps for cabs:

  Download Ola or Uber for convenient local travel in Kozhikode or Kalpetta. In Devala, local taxis and jeeps are common but confirm fares beforehand.

• Keep emergency contacts handy:

  Save numbers of local taxi services, your accommodation, and emergency services to handle any unexpected situations during your trip.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Avoid traveling alone at night on rural roads near Devala due to limited lighting and wildlife presence. Use trusted taxi services and avoid unmarked vehicles.

• Food and water:

  Stick to bottled water and freshly cooked local cuisine. Devala has small eateries offering authentic Kerala dishes, but carry snacks if you have dietary restrictions.

• Booking strategies:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and official MSRTC or KSRTC portals for bus bookings. For flights, compare fares on aggregator sites and book directly with airlines for better support.

• Local commute:

  Auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps are common in Devala but may not run late at night. Pre-arrange rides or use hotel transport services if arriving after dark.

• Luggage handling:

  Pack light as local transport options have limited space. Secure your bags and keep valuables close, especially on crowded buses and trains.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause landslides and roadblocks in Wayanad. Check weather updates and local advisories before traveling during June to September.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Devala is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are safe. Monsoon season brings heavy rains, which can disrupt travel but also enhances the natural beauty.

Planning your journey outside peak festival times ensures less crowded transport and better accommodation availability.

• Avoid traveling during Onam and Christmas weekends as transport and hotels get booked quickly.

• Early mornings offer clear roads and cooler temperatures, ideal for driving or bus travel.

• Monsoon months (June–September) may cause delays due to slippery roads and occasional landslides.

• Winter months (December–January) have misty mornings; allow extra time for road travel in foggy conditions.

Arrival at Devala & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Devala, travelers are greeted by a peaceful rural setting surrounded by spice plantations and hills. The village is small, with limited public transport, so pre-arranged pickups or local taxis are recommended.

Nearby attractions include the scenic Banasura Sagar Dam and Meenmutty Falls, accessible via short drives. Accommodation options range from homestays to eco-resorts, mostly clustered near the main road. Local buses are infrequent, so private vehicles or taxis are preferred for sightseeing.

Conclusion

Among all options, traveling by train to Kozhikode or Mysore followed by a taxi or bus ride to Devala offers the best balance of comfort, cost, and convenience. This route is well-served, reliable, and allows travelers to enjoy the scenic beauty of Kerala’s Western Ghats.

With proper planning and awareness of local conditions, reaching Devala is straightforward. Whether you choose to drive, take a bus, or fly, this guide equips you with practical tips to ensure a smooth journey to this tranquil destination.