3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Wayanad in July 2023

1. Day 1: Edakkal Caves
   30 minutes (8.1 km) from Kalpetta

   Start your morning by exploring the ancient Edakkal Caves, famous for their prehistoric cave paintings and engravings. The hike up to the caves is moderate and will take approximately 45 minutes. After visiting the caves, head to the nearby Wayanad Heritage Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the region. For lunch, stop by the nearby Hotel Udupi for some delicious vegetarian fare. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to the Soochipara Waterfalls and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters. End your day with a relaxing boat ride in the serene Pookode Lake.

2. Day 2: Thirunelli Temple
   1 hour 45 minutes (50 km) from Kalpetta

   Start your day early and head towards the Thirunelli Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys. After exploring the temple and its surroundings, take a dip in the nearby Papanasini River, believed to wash away sins. For lunch, stop by the nearby Thirunelli Kairali Restaurant for some delicious local cuisine. In the afternoon, go on a scenic drive to the nearby Kuruva Island, a beautiful uninhabited island on the Kabini River. End your day with a visit to the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India.

3. Day 3: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 10 minutes (36 km) from Kalpetta

   Begin your day by visiting the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds. The sanctuary offers various safari options, including jeep and elephant safaris. After your visit to the sanctuary, head to the nearby Phantom Rock, a unique rock formation that resembles a skull. For lunch, stop by the nearby Jubilee Restaurant for some delicious Kerala-style meals. In the afternoon, visit the Chethalayam Waterfalls, a scenic waterfall nestled in the forest. End your day with a visit to the Jain Temple Wayanad, known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.

Recommendations

While in Wayanad, consider visiting the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Chain Tree. For day trips, consider visiting the nearby town of Sulthan Bathery or the beautiful town of Mananthavady. To maximize your fun, consider hiring a local guide who can offer insights into the local culture and history.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Edakkal Caves (2 hours, INR 40)
• Wayanad Heritage Museum (1 hour, INR 20)
• Hotel Udupi (1 hour, INR 400 for a family of four)
• Soochipara Waterfalls (2 hours, INR 50)
• Pookode Lake (1 hour, INR 20)
• Thirunelli Temple (2 hours, free)
• Papanasini River (1 hour, free)
• Thirunelli Kairali Restaurant (1 hour, INR 500 for a family of four)
• Kuruva Island (3 hours, INR 80)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2 hours, INR 20)
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, INR 250 per person)
• Phantom Rock (1 hour, free)
• Jubilee Restaurant (1 hour, INR 500 for a family of four)
• Chethalayam Waterfalls (2 hours, INR 20)
• Jain Temple Wayanad (1 hour, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1300 for a family of four