Chain Tree in Wayanad, Kerala — The Chain Tree is a large tree with a thick chain, a well-known local landmark.
✓ Open Last updated: June 2026

Chain Tree

The Chain Tree is a large tree with a thick chain, a well-known local landmark.

Standing at the edge of the Thamarassery Ghat road as it winds up into the Wayanad plateau, the Chain Tree is one of Kerala’s most unusual roadside landmarks. A large ficus tree draped with heavy iron chains, it draws curious travellers who stop to hear the haunting legend behind it — a story of betrayal, sacrifice, and a restless spirit that has become inseparable from Wayanad’s identity. The stop takes only a few minutes, but the tale it carries lingers far longer.

The Legend of Karinthandan

The story most commonly told centres on Karinthandan, a tribal chieftain who is said to have guided a British engineer through the dense, uncharted forests of the Thamarassery Churam during the colonial period. The engineer needed a route to connect the lowlands of Kozhikode with the Wayanad plateau, and Karinthandan revealed a secret path known only to the local tribes. Once the road was surveyed and construction began, Karinthandan was allegedly killed — some versions say by the engineer himself — so that no one else would learn the route independently.

According to the legend, Karinthandan’s spirit refused to rest. Travellers along the newly built ghat road reported accidents, eerie sounds, and unexplained disturbances. To pacify the spirit, a local priest is said to have chained it to this tree, binding it in place so it could no longer trouble passers-by. Over the decades the chains have been replaced and added to by devotees and visitors, and today the tree stands wrapped in multiple layers of heavy chain, a striking visual symbol of the story.

How to Reach the Chain Tree

The Chain Tree is located at Lakkidi, the eastern gateway to Wayanad on the NH766 (Kozhikode–Mysore highway). If you are driving up the Thamarassery Ghat from Kozhikode, the tree appears on the left side of the road shortly after the ninth hairpin bend, just before you reach the Lakkidi Viewpoint. From Kalpetta, it is approximately 7 km heading south toward the ghat. There is a small layby where vehicles can pull over, and the tree is visible directly from the road. No walking is required — this is a convenient stop even for those with limited mobility.

Cultural Significance

Beyond the folklore, the Chain Tree has become a powerful symbol of resistance against colonial exploitation and a reminder of the contributions made by Wayanad’s tribal communities. In 2019, a statue of Karinthandan was unveiled at the Thamarassery Ghat section by the state government, acknowledging his role in opening the route that connects Wayanad to the rest of Kerala. The site is now part of a broader conversation about indigenous history and recognition, making it culturally significant well beyond the ghost story that first made it famous.

Nearby Attractions

The Chain Tree sits at the start of the Vythiri tourism belt, making it easy to combine with other stops in the area. The Lakkidi Viewpoint, barely a kilometre further up the road, offers dramatic views of the ghat road switchbacks and the plains below. Pookode Lake, a serene freshwater lake surrounded by forest, is about 3 km from Lakkidi and is ideal for a relaxed pedal-boat ride. If you are interested in artisan crafts, the Mitti Pottery Studio near Vythiri offers hands-on pottery workshops in a beautiful hillside setting.

Visiting Information

  • Opening Hours: The tree is on a public roadside and can be visited at any time; daylight hours are recommended for photographs
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Best Time to Visit: October to May, when the ghat road is clear and visibility is good
  • Duration: 10 to 15 minutes is sufficient to see the tree and read the information boards nearby
  • Tip: Combine this stop with the Lakkidi Viewpoint for sunrise or sunset views over the ghat

* For exact directions, we recommend contacting our travel desk or using Google Maps navigation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chain Tree currently open to visitors?

Chain Tree is currently open to visitors. The area has not been significantly affected by the recent landslides in Wayanad. However, it’s advisable to check local conditions and advisories before planning your visit.

Are there any disruptions or changes to visiting hours at Chain Tree due to the landslides?

As of the latest updates, there are no reported disruptions to the visiting hours at Chain Tree. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to check the site’s official website or contact local authorities for the most current information before your visit.

What should I be aware of when visiting Chain Tree during the landslide situation?

While Chain Tree itself is accessible, visitors should be aware of potential travel disruptions in Wayanad due to landslides. It’s recommended to check road conditions and local travel advisories before traveling to the site.

Can I get a refund for any bookings or fees related to Chain Tree?

For information on refunds or rescheduling related to Chain Tree, please contact the relevant service providers or tour operators. They will assist you with your requests based on the circumstances.

Are there other nearby attractions that are currently open while Chain Tree is accessible?

Yes, there are several nearby attractions you might explore. Consider visiting places like Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, or the scenic viewpoints in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Always verify the status of these sites and check local travel advisories before visiting.

How can I stay updated on the status of Chain Tree?

To stay informed about Chain Tree, monitor local news, visit official websites, or follow social media channels for updates. Signing up for notifications or alerts, if available, can also help you receive the latest information about the site and its accessibility.

how to change process chain view from tree to network?

Open SAP BW: Launch the SAP GUI and log into your SAP BW system. Use transaction code RSPC to access process chains. Find Your Process Chain: Search for the process chain you want to view. Open it by clicking Display or Edit. Switch to Network View: Look for the View menu or a similar option. Select Network View or Graphical View. The process chain will now show as a network diagram. General Steps for Other Systems Open Your Tool: Open the tool or software where you manage process chains. Find and Open the Process Chain: Locate the specific process chain you want to view. Change to Network View: Look for view settings under View, Display, or Options. Select Network View or Graphical View. These steps will help you switch to a network view for a clearer, more visual representation of your process chain.

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1. Tree: A tree is a hierarchical structure where data is organized in a parent-child relationship, with each node having zero or more child nodes. It is used in databases to represent hierarchical data like organizational structures or file systems. 2. Relational: A relational database structure organizes data into tables (relations), where each table consists of rows and columns. It supports SQL and is widely used in database management systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, and Oracle. 3. Network: A network database structure is more flexible than a tree structure, allowing each record to have multiple parent and child records. It represents data in a graph with nodes and connecting edges, suitable for complex relationships like in network models. 4. Chain: Chain is not a recognized type of database structure. It is more of a sequence concept and does not represent a logical database organization. It doesn't fit into the standard database structural types used in organizing data. Thus, the chain is not a logical database structure when compared to the other options listed.

chain retailer whose name is a direction plus a tree?

The chain retailer you're referring to is likely 'Northwoods.' This could be interpreted as a combination of 'North' (a direction) and 'Woods' (which can be associated with trees). 'Northwoods' is a fictional example often used in puzzles or riddles involving directions and nature-related themes.

Who is Karinthandan and what is his connection to the Chain Tree?

Karinthandan is believed to have shown a secret route through the Thamarassery Churam to a British engineer, leading to the construction of the road. He was subsequently betrayed and killed, and his spirit is said to haunt the area around the Chain Tree.

What is the story behind the Chain Tree in Wayanad?

According to local legend, after guiding the British engineer, Karinthandan was killed to prevent him from revealing the route's secrets. His spirit allegedly tied a chain around a nearby tree to mark the path.

How can one visit the Chain Tree in Wayanad?

The Chain Tree is easily accessible by road, located near Lakkidi on the Thamarassery Ghat Pass. It is a short drive from Kalpetta, the main town in Wayanad.

Where is the Chain Tree located in Wayanad?

The Chain Tree is located near Lakkidi, a gateway of Wayanad on the Thamarassery Ghat Pass.

What is the significance of the Chain Tree in local culture?

The Chain Tree symbolizes the tragic tale of Karinthandan and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by local tribes during the colonial era.

Are there photos of the Chain Tree in Wayanad?

Yes, there are photos available online showcasing the Chain Tree and its surroundings.

What are some other names or terms associated with the Chain Tree?

Sukh Chain Tree, Karinthandan Chain Tree, Lakkidi Chain Tree, and Ghost Chain Tree are some variations or aspects linked to this landmark.

What is the relevance of the Chain Tree in Wayanad tourism?

The Chain Tree is a popular tourist attraction in Wayanad due to its historical significance and the intriguing legend associated with it.

Is the Chain Tree related to the Thamarassery Churam?

Yes, the Chain Tree is located near the Thamarassery Churam, a mountain pass in Kerala, India.

Are there ghost stories associated with the Chain Tree in Wayanad?

Yes, local folklore suggests that Karinthandan's spirit haunts the area around the Chain Tree, seeking justice for his betrayal and death.

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