A 3-day itinerary for Wayanad, Kerala in July 2023

1. Day 1: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
   15 minutes (5.5 km) from Kalpetta

   Start your journey with a visit to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to several endangered species like Indian Bison, Sloth bear, Elephant, and Tiger. You can also spot a variety of birds and reptiles here. Take a guided tour of the sanctuary to learn more about the flora and fauna. The morning safari is the best time to spot animals. In the afternoon, you can visit the Chembra Peak, which is the highest peak in Wayanad. The trek is quite challenging, but the view from the top is worth it. In the evening, visit the Pookode Lake which is a natural freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. You can take a walk around the lake or go for a boat ride.

2. Day 2: Edakkal Caves and Soochipara Waterfalls
   30 minutes (13 km) from Kalpetta

   Start your day with a visit to the Edakkal Caves which are two natural caves located on top of a mountain. The caves have ancient carvings and paintings that date back to the Neolithic era. You have to do a bit of hiking to reach the caves, but the view from the top is breathtaking. In the afternoon, head to Soochipara Waterfalls which is a three-tiered waterfall located in the dense forest. You can take a dip in the natural pool at the bottom of the falls. In the evening, visit the Jain Temple, which is a beautiful temple with intricate carvings and architecture.

3. Day 3: Banasura Sagar Dam and Thirunelli Temple
   1 hour and 20 minutes (48 km) from Kalpetta

   Start your day with a visit to Banasura Sagar Dam, which is the largest earthen dam in India and the second-largest in Asia. You can go boating in the reservoir or take a walk around the dam. In the afternoon, visit the Thirunelli Temple, which is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is located on the banks of the Papanasini River. You can take a dip in the river which is believed to wash away your sins. In the evening, visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to several species of animals like elephants, tigers, and deer.

Recommendations

If you have more time, you can visit the Kuruva Island, which is a beautiful island located in the middle of the Kabini River. You can also visit the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary which is home to several species of birds and animals. If you are interested in history, you can visit the Wayanad Heritage Museum which has a collection of artifacts and objects from the past. To maximize your fun, you can go trekking or camping in the nearby hills.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, INR 1000)
• Chembra Peak (4 hours, INR 500)
• Pookode Lake (2 hours, INR 300)
• Edakkal Caves (3 hours, INR 50)
• Soochipara Waterfalls (2 hours, INR 50)
• Jain Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (3 hours, INR 50)
• Thirunelli Temple (2 hours, Free)
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, INR 200)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2200

Check hotel and flight prices here.