Nature Lover's Itinerary for Wayanad in October 2023

1. Day 1: Chembra Peak
   1 hour 20 minutes (27.3 miles) from Calicut International Airport

   Start your trip with a thrilling trek to the top of Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. Watch the sunrise and take in the panoramic views of the lush green hills and the heart-shaped lake. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Soochipara waterfalls and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool. End the day with a visit to the Edakkal Caves, known for its prehistoric carvings and breathtaking views of the valley.

2. Day 2: Banasura Sagar Dam
   1 hour 30 minutes (34.9 miles) from Chembra Peak

   Start your day by visiting the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India. Take a boat ride and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Banasura hills and islands. Then head to the Meenmutty waterfalls and enjoy the trek through the dense forest and the three-tiered waterfall. In the afternoon, visit the Kuruva Island, a protected river delta with lush green forests, diverse fauna and flora, and bamboo bridges.

3. Day 3: Thirunelli Temple
   1 hour 50 minutes (46.4 miles) from Banasura Sagar Dam

   Start your day by visiting the Thirunelli Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and located in the Brahmagiri hills. Take a dip in the nearby Papanasini River, which is believed to wash away all your sins. In the afternoon, visit the Pakshipathalam bird sanctuary, a lesser-known paradise for birdwatchers and trekking enthusiasts. End the day with a visit to the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot elephants, leopards and other wildlife.

4. Day 4: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 15 minutes (24.7 miles) from Thirunelli Temple

   Start your day by visiting the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, the second-largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala, home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and other endangered species. Take a jeep safari through the forest and spot the wildlife in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit the Chain Tree, a popular legend in Wayanad associated with the tragic death of a British colonialist and a tribal chieftain. End your trip with a visit to the Lakkidi View Point, one of the highest points in Wayanad, offering breathtaking views of the valley and the surrounding hills.

Recommendations

If you have more time, you can visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, the Kozhikode Beach, the Thusharagiri Waterfalls, and the Jain Temple. You can also plan a day trip to the nearby cities of Kozhikode and Mysore. To maximize your fun, try the local cuisine, shop for spices and handicrafts, and attend cultural festivals like the Wayanad Heritage Festival and the Tribal Fest.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Chembra Peak Trek (5-6 hours, INR 750 per person)
• Banasura Sagar Dam Boat Ride (1 hour, INR 400 per person), Meenmutty Waterfalls Trek (2-3 hours, INR 30 per person), Kuruva Island Visit (3-4 hours, INR 80 per person)
• Thirunelli Temple Visit (1-2 hours, free entry), Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary Trek (3-4 hours, INR 500 per person), Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary Jeep Safari (2-3 hours, INR 300 per person)
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Jeep Safari (3-4 hours, INR 500 per person), Chain Tree Visit (30 minutes, free entry), Lakkidi View Point Visit (1 hour, free entry)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 3,510 per person

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