4-Day Nature Itinerary for Wayanad in July 2023

1. Day 1: Chembra Peak
   1 hour 10 minutes (27.7 km) from Kozhikode International Airport

   Start your trip with a visit to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. Trek to the heart-shaped lake and enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding hills and forests. Afterward, head to Pookode Lake for a relaxing boat ride and spot some native and migratory birds. End the day with a visit to the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India, and witness the beautiful sunset over the dam.

2. Day 2: Thirunelli Temple
   2 hours 30 minutes (70.8 km) from Banasura Sagar Dam

   Start your day with a visit to Thirunelli Temple, an ancient temple located amidst the Brahmagiri hills in a serene environment. Trek to the nearby Papanashini river, which is believed to have purifying powers, and take a dip. Afterward, visit the Edakkal Caves and witness the prehistoric petroglyphs. In the evening, visit the Kuruva Island and go for a nature walk amidst the river and bamboo forests.

3. Day 3: Soochipara Falls
   2 hours 20 minutes (55.3 km) from Kuruva Island

   Start your day with a visit to Soochipara Falls, located amidst dense forests and tea plantations. Trek to the waterfall and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool. Afterward, visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary and spot some native animals like elephants, tigers, and deer. In the evening, visit the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary and spot some rare species of birds.

4. Day 4: Kuruvadweep
   2 hours 20 minutes (63.8 km) from Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary

   End your trip with a visit to Kuruvadweep, a protected river delta located amidst dense forests and streams. Go for a nature walk and spot some exotic birds and animals. Take a bamboo raft to cross the river and enjoy the scenic view of the surroundings. Afterward, visit the Wayanad Heritage Museum and witness the artifacts and relics of the tribal communities of Wayanad. End your trip with some shopping at the Uravu Bamboo Village, where you can buy some eco-friendly bamboo products.

Recommendations

You should also consider visiting the Neelimala Viewpoint, where you can witness the beautiful sunrise and sunset and enjoy the view of the Meenmutty Falls. You can also go for a day trip to the Nagarhole National Park, located in the neighboring state of Karnataka, and spot some wildlife like elephants, tigers, and crocodiles. To maximize your fun, you can try some adventure activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, and camping at the Wayanad Adventure Camp.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Chembra Peak (4 hours, INR 750 for trekking)
• Pookode Lake (2 hours, INR 30 for entry and INR 200 for boating)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2 hours, INR 20 for entry)
• Thirunelli Temple (3 hours, INR 20 for entry)
• Edakkal Caves (2 hours, INR 40 for entry)
• Kuruva Island (3 hours, INR 80 for entry and INR 750 for rafting)
• Soochipara Falls (3 hours, INR 50 for entry and INR 50 for trekking)
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, INR 110 for entry)
• Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 50 for entry and INR 500 for trekking)
• Kuruvadweep (4 hours, INR 80 for entry and INR 650 for rafting)
• Wayanad Heritage Museum (2 hours, INR 20 for entry)
• Uravu Bamboo Village (1 hour, no entry fee)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2,630 (excluding accommodation and transport costs)