5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Wayanad in July 2023

1. Day 1: Edakkal Caves
   30 minutes (10 km) from Kalpetta

   In the morning, visit the famous Edakkal Caves known for their rock carvings and pictorial writings. Take a moderate trek to the caves, enjoy the scenic views and learn about ancient civilization. In the afternoon, explore the Wayanad Heritage Museum in the town of Ambalavayal. In the evening, take a stroll through the Lakkidi View Point and witness the beautiful sunset over the hills.

2. Day 2: Pookode Lake
   20 minutes (7 km) from Kalpetta

   Spend your morning at the Pookode Lake, a scenic freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Take a boat ride, explore the nearby forest and try some local snacks. In the afternoon, visit the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India. Enjoy the scenic views and take a pedal boat ride on the reservoir. In the evening, visit the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, for a beautiful sunset view.

3. Day 3: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 30 minutes (43 km) from Kalpetta

   Start your day early and head to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary for a jungle safari experience. Spot various animals such as elephants, tigers, leopards and deer in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit the Meenmutty Waterfalls, one of the largest waterfalls in Wayanad. Take a dip in the refreshing water and enjoy the surrounding greenery. In the evening, visit the Soochipara Waterfalls, another popular waterfall in the region.

4. Day 4: Thirunelli Temple
   1 hour 20 minutes (50 km) from Kalpetta

   Visit the Thirunelli Temple in the morning, an ancient Hindu temple located in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains and forests. The temple is believed to have been constructed over 3000 years ago and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. In the afternoon, visit the Kuruvadweep, a group of islands formed on the Kabini river. Take a bamboo raft ride, explore the nearby forests and enjoy a picnic lunch. In the evening, visit the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary for a birdwatching experience.

5. Day 5: Chain Tree
   40 minutes (20 km) from Kalpetta

   Visit the Chain Tree in the morning, a popular tourist attraction located on the way to Lakkidi. According to legend, a British engineer built a road through the forest which angered the local Adivasi tribe. The engineer was killed by the tribe and his spirit haunted the road. A local priest tied a chain around a nearby tree to pacify the spirit. In the afternoon, visit the Edakkal Caves again if you want to revisit the site or visit the Jain Temple in Sulthan Bathery. In the evening, head back to Kalpetta for some souvenir shopping.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary for more wildlife sightings. You can also visit the Kuruva Island for a bamboo rafting experience. For adventure seekers, try the Wayanad Adventure Camp for activities such as zip lining, rock climbing and archery. Also, consider visiting the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary for another jungle safari experience.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Edakkal Caves (2-3 hours, ₹40)
• Wayanad Heritage Museum (1-2 hours, ₹20)
• Lakkidi View Point (1 hour, free)
• Pookode Lake (2-3 hours, ₹10)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2-3 hours, ₹20)
• Chembra Peak (2-3 hours, ₹750 for a group of 10 people)
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (3-4 hours, ₹110 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners)
• Meenmutty Waterfalls (2-3 hours, ₹30)
• Soochipara Waterfalls (2-3 hours, ₹80)
• Thirunelli Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Kuruvadweep (3-4 hours, ₹80)
• Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary (2-3 hours, ₹20)
• Chain Tree (1 hour, free)
• Jain Temple (1 hour, free)

Total Estimated Costs: ₹1450 (excluding accommodation and transportation)

Check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for hotel and flight prices.