3-Day Nature Itinerary in Wayand, August 2023

1. Day 1: Edakkal Caves
   30 minutes (13.6 km) from Kalpetta

   In the morning, explore the prehistoric Edakkal Caves that show evidence of human settlement dating back to the Neolithic era. After admiring the ancient carvings and paintings, hike to the top of Ambukuthi Hill to enjoy a panoramic view of Wayanad. For lunch, head to Hotel Udupi, a popular vegetarian restaurant in Kalpetta that serves authentic South Indian cuisine. Spend the afternoon at Soochipara Falls, a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. End your day with a campfire dinner at the nearby Meenmutty Heights Resort.

2. Day 2: Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 20 minutes (53.4 km) from Kalpetta

   Start your day early with a wildlife safari at Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna including elephants, tigers, leopards, and macaques. After the safari, stop for lunch at the nearby Hotel Rainbow, a cosy restaurant that serves delicious Kerala-style biryani. Spend the afternoon at Banasura Sagar Dam, India's largest earthen dam built across the Karamanathodu River. Here, you can go boating, trekking or simply relax amidst the scenic beauty. End your day with a sumptuous dinner at the nearby Jubilee Restaurant.

3. Day 3: Chembra Peak
   1 hour 10 minutes (23.5 km) from Kalpetta

   Begin your day by trekking to the top of Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. The trek is steep and takes around four hours, but the view from the top is breathtakingly beautiful. Carry a packed lunch as there are no eateries on the way. After the trek, head to Pookode Lake, a natural freshwater lake surrounded by lush green forests and rolling hills. Here, you can go boating or take a leisurely walk around the lake. End your day with dinner at ClayHut Village Restaurant, a rustic eatery that serves delicious local delicacies.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Kuruva Island, a protected river delta known for its diverse species of flora and fauna. You can also plan day trips to nearby towns such as Sulthan Bathery and Mananthavady. To maximize your fun, go on a bamboo rafting adventure in the Kabini River, visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, or book a plantation stay to experience rural life in Wayanad.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Edakkal Caves (2 hours, INR 40)
• Soochipara Falls (2 hours, INR 80)
• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, INR 100)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2 hours, INR 60)
• Chembra Peak Trek (4 hours, INR 500)
• Pookode Lake (1 hour, INR 50)
• Hotel Udupi (INR 200)
• Hotel Rainbow (INR 150)
• Jubilee Restaurant (INR 300)
• ClayHut Village Restaurant (INR 250)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1730 (~GBP 17.30)

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