3-Day Itinerary for Wayanad in June 2023

1. Day 1: Chembra Peak
   30 minutes (10.5 miles) from Kalpetta

   Start your day early and head to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. You will need to trek for about 4-5 hours to reach the summit, but the stunning views of the surrounding landscape make it all worth it. Bring plenty of water and food for the trek. After lunch, visit the nearby Pookode Lake, a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. In the evening, visit the Edakkal Caves, an ancient rock shelter with fascinating petroglyphs.

2. Day 2: Banasura Sagar Dam
   1 hour (24.5 miles) from Chembra Peak

   Start your day by visiting the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India. Take a walk along the dam and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests. Next, visit the nearby Meenmutty Waterfalls, a three-tiered waterfall cascading down from a height of 300 meters. After lunch, head to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary for a jeep safari through the lush forests and grasslands. Keep an eye out for elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds.

3. Day 3: Thirunelli Temple
   1 hour 15 minutes (33 miles) from Banasura Sagar Dam

   Start your day by visiting the Thirunelli Temple, an ancient temple surrounded by mountains and forests. Take a dip in the nearby Papanasini River, believed to wash away sins. After lunch, visit the nearby Kuruva Island, a beautiful uninhabited island in the middle of the Kabini River. Walk along the bamboo bridges and enjoy the serene atmosphere. End your day with a visit to the Soochipara Waterfalls, a three-tiered waterfall with a pool at the bottom perfect for swimming.

Recommendations

If you have time, consider visiting the Wayanad Heritage Museum, showcasing the unique history and culture of Wayanad through artifacts and exhibits. You can also take a side trip to the nearby town of Sulthan Bathery, home to the ancient Jain temple of Ananthanatha Swami. To maximize your fun, try some of the local delicacies such as bamboo rice, jackfruit chips, and sweet halwa. And don't forget to take home some spices and tea as souvenirs.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Chembra Peak Trek (4-5 hours, free)
• Pookode Lake (1-2 hours, INR 50 per person)
• Edakkal Caves (2-3 hours, INR 40 per person)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (1-2 hours, INR 20 per person)
• Meenmutty Waterfalls (1-2 hours, INR 30 per person)
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (3-4 hours, INR 3500 per jeep for up to 6 people)
• Thirunelli Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Kuruva Island (2-3 hours, INR 80 per person)
• Soochipara Waterfalls (1-2 hours, INR 50 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 4500 (excluding transportation and accommodation)

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