7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Wayanad in August 2023

1. Day 1: Edakkal Caves
   35 minutes (12 miles) from Sulthan Bathery

   In the morning, explore the ancient Edakkal Caves with its pictorial wall inscriptions dating back to 8000 BC. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Jain Temple, a significant religious site with intricate carvings. Finally, end the day with a nature walk in the nearby Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

2. Day 2: Banasura Sagar Dam
   1 hour 10 minutes (26 miles) from Sulthan Bathery

   Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India. Rent a pedal boat or kayak to explore the beautiful islands and hills surrounding the dam. Later, visit the nearby Meenmutty Waterfalls, the second-largest waterfall in Wayanad. End the day with a visit to the Kuruva Island, a river delta island filled with rich flora and fauna.

3. Day 3: Pookode Lake and Chain Tree
   30 minutes (8.8 miles) from Vythiri

   Start the day with a visit to the scenic Pookode Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and home to various fish and birds. Later, explore the mysterious Chain Tree, a giant Ficus tree with a legendary tale. In the evening, visit the nearby Lakkidi Viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

4. Day 4: Thirunelli Temple and Pakshipathalam
   1 hour 20 minutes (35 miles) from Vythiri

   Visit the ancient Thirunelli Temple, a significant religious site surrounded by the Brahmagiri Hills and the Papanasini River. Later, trek to the nearby Pakshipathalam, a birdwatcher's paradise filled with various rare bird species. End the day by relaxing and rejuvenating at the nearby Thirunelli Spa, offering various Ayurvedic treatments and massages.

5. Day 5: Chembra Peak and Soochipara Falls
   50 minutes (12 miles) from Kalpetta

   Start the day with a trek to the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Later, visit the nearby Soochipara Falls, a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. In the evening, visit the nearby Thusharagiri Waterfalls, a scenic waterfall with trekking trails.

6. Day 6: Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 25 minutes (30 miles) from Kalpetta

   Embark on a jeep safari in the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various rare wildlife species like the Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, and sloth bear. Later, visit the nearby Edakkal Caves Museum, showcasing various artifacts and exhibits related to the Edakkal Caves. End the day with a visit to the nearby Thirunelly Market, famous for its spices and handicrafts.

7. Day 7: Kuruva Island and Chethalayam Falls
   1 hour 25 minutes (35 miles) from Kalpetta

   Start the day by exploring the scenic Kuruva Island, a river delta island filled with rich flora and fauna. Later, visit the nearby Chethalayam Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by dense forests. In the evening, visit the nearby Banasura Hill Resort, offering various adventure activities like ziplining and kayaking.

Recommendations

Don't miss the chance to experience the Wayanad Tribal Village, showcasing the culture and lifestyle of the local tribal communities. Also, consider taking a day trip to the nearby Coorg, a beautiful hill station filled with scenic beauty and various tourist attractions.

To maximize your fun, consider renting a bike or a car to explore the remote areas of Wayanad. Also, try the local delicacies like the bamboo rice biryani and the Wayanad pepper chicken.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Edakkal Caves (3 hours, INR 40)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (4 hours, INR 60)
• Pookode Lake and Chain Tree (3 hours, INR 20)
• Thirunelli Temple and Pakshipathalam (5 hours, INR 50)
• Chembra Peak and Soochipara Falls (7 hours, INR 100)
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, INR 80)
• Kuruva Island and Chethalayam Falls (5 hours, INR 30)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 380

For hotel and flight booking, check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.