6-Day Nature Itinerary for Wayanad in July 2023

1. Day 1: Chembra Peak
   40 minutes (14.6 km) from Kalpetta

   Start your trip by hiking Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. The trek to the top takes about 4 hours round trip and is perfect for nature lovers. In the morning, enjoy the cool mountain air and stunning views of the surrounding tea plantations. Afternoon, take a break and have a picnic lunch at the heart-shaped Chembra Lake. End your day with a visit to Neelimala Viewpoint to witness the sunset over the Western Ghats.

2. Day 2: Banasura Sagar Dam
   1 hour 10 minutes (31.5 km) from Chembra Peak

   Start your morning by visiting Meenmutty Falls, a 2 km hike from the parking area. Take a refreshing dip in the pool and enjoy the lush greenery surrounding the waterfall. Afternoon, head to the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India, and rent a paddleboat to explore the serene waters. End your day with a visit to Pookode Lake, a freshwater lake surrounded by lush forests and home to many different species of birds.

3. Day 3: Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 30 minutes (50.1 km) from Banasura Sagar Dam

   Start your day with a visit to the Edakkal Caves, containing ancient petroglyphs dating back to the Neolithic era. Afternoon, head to Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot elephants, tigers, leopards, and a variety of birds. Take a jeep safari through the sanctuary and enjoy the serene surroundings. End your day with a visit to the Kuruva Island, a group of small islands surrounded by streams and home to rare species of birds, orchids, and herbs.

4. Day 4: Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary
   1 hour 20 minutes (41.7 km) from Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary

   Start your day by visiting the Kuruvadweep waterfall, a 950-meter trek from the main entrance. Afternoon, head to Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, home to a variety of birds, including the Malabar grey hornbill, white-bellied treepie, and the Malabar pied hornbill. Take a guided tour of the sanctuary and enjoy the serene surroundings. End your day with a visit to the Wayanad Heritage Museum, showcasing the traditions and culture of Wayanad.

5. Day 5: Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 5 minutes (33.2 km) from Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary

   Start your day with a visit to the Chethalayam Waterfalls, surrounded by lush green forests and home to a variety of birds. Afternoon, head to Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of animals, including elephants, tigers, panthers, and a variety of birds. Take a jeep safari through the sanctuary and enjoy the serene surroundings. End your day with a visit to the Soochipara Falls, a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush forests and a popular spot for trekking.

6. Day 6: Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 35 minutes (60.7 km) from Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

   Start your day by visiting the Thirunelli Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Afternoon, head to the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of animals, including elephants, tigers, panthers, and a variety of birds. Take a jeep safari through the sanctuary and enjoy the serene surroundings. End your day with a visit to the Kanthanpara Waterfalls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider visiting the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Papanashini River, and the Karapuzha Dam. You can also take a side trip to the nearby towns of Sulthan Bathery and Vythiri to experience the local culture and try out some delicious Kerala cuisine. To maximize your fun, try out some adventure activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, and river rafting.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Chembra Peak (4 hours, free)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (3 hours, boat ride INR 750)
• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, Jeep safari INR 1500)
• Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary (2 hours, guided tour INR 500)
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, Jeep safari INR 1500)
• Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, Jeep safari INR 1500)
• Total Estimated Costs (excluding hotel and flight): INR 4250

To book your hotel and flight, check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.