Two-Day Shoestring Budget Wayanad Itinerary in July 2023

1. Day 1: Pookode Lake
   20 minutes (5.1 km) from Kalpetta

   Start your day with a refreshing visit to Pookode Lake, a serene natural freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Take a relaxed 30-minute pedal boat ride and enjoy the serene surroundings. If you're interested in bird watching, take a walk on the nearby birdwatching trail. Afternoon, visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary for an adventurous trek through the forest, spotting elephants, tigers, and sloth bears. In the evening, visit the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India, for a stunning view of the sunset.

2. Day 2: Edakkal Caves
   1 hour and 20 minutes (42.7 km) from Pookode Lake

   Start the day by visiting the ancient Edakkal Caves, where you can explore the prehistoric rock art and carvings that date back to the Neolithic era. Afternoon, visit the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad for a moderate trek through the forest. The trek will take around 3-4 hours, and the view from the top is worth the effort. In the evening, visit the Soochipara Waterfalls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, to relax and unwind.

Recommendations

Make sure to try out the local cuisine, such as the popular Kerala-style biryani, appam and stew, and puttu and kadala curry. For a unique experience, visit the Kuruva Island, a protected river delta with a variety of flora and fauna, and bamboo rafting. It's also worth visiting the Thirunelli Temple, a 3000-year-old temple located in the Brahmagiri hills, and the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of bird species.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Pookode Lake (1.5 hours, INR 50)
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (3-4 hours, INR 150)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (1 hour, INR 20)
• Edakkal Caves (2-3 hours, INR 40)
• Chembra Peak (3-4 hours, INR 500)
• Soochipara Waterfalls (1 hour, INR 50)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 810

Use https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo to check hotel and flight prices.