3-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Wayanad in July 2023

1. Day 1: Visit Edakkal Caves
   15 minutes (6.8 km) from Sulthan Bathery

   Begin your day early to visit the famous Edakkal Caves, known for their prehistoric rock etchings. The ascent to the caves is a trek through the Ambukuthi hills, which should take around 45 minutes. Once at the top, expect awe-inspiring views of the Western Ghats and a chance to explore the caves. Wear sturdy shoes and carry water and snacks for the trek. After the caves, head to the nearby Phantom Rock, a natural rock formation resembling a skull. For lunch, head to the nearby Sulthan Bathery town to try some local delicacies at Jubilee restaurant. Spend the evening exploring the local markets before heading back to your hotel.

2. Day 2: Trek to Chembra Peak & Visit Pookode Lake
   1 hour 20 minutes (33 km) from Sulthan Bathery

   Start early for a trek to the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. The trek to the heart-shaped lake at the top is a challenging one and requires a permit from the forest office in Meppady, which you can obtain on the way. Trekking to the lake and back will take around 4-5 hours. After lunch, head to Pookode Lake, a freshwater lake surrounded by forests and hills. Take a paddleboat ride or go for a nature walk around the lake. Spend the evening exploring the nearby Lakkidi Viewpoint and the Chain Tree. Have dinner at Wilton restaurant before heading back to your hotel.

3. Day 3: Visit Banasura Sagar Dam & Hike to Meenmutty Falls
   1 hour 20 minutes (44 km) from Sulthan Bathery

   Start the day by visiting the Banasura Sagar Dam, one of the largest earth dams in India. Take a walk around the dam and enjoy a stunning view of the reservoir and the surrounding hills. After lunch, head to Meenmutty Falls, a 2 km hike through lush forests. The falls, cascading down from a height of 300 metres, is a sight to behold. Wear sturdy shoes and carry water and snacks for the hike. Spend the evening exploring the nearby Soochipara Falls, a three-tiered waterfall. Have dinner at the nearby Hotel Greenland Plaza before heading back to your hotel.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the nearby Kuruva Island, a group of islets formed by the Kabini River, and the Thirunelly Temple, an ancient temple in a serene setting. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Bandipur National Park or Nagarhole National Park for a chance to spot some wildlife. To maximize your fun, consider hiring a bike or scooter for the duration of your trip or taking a guided tour.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Edakkal Caves (2-3 hours, INR 40)
• Phantom Rock (1 hour, free)
• Jubilee Restaurant (1 hour, INR 200)
• Chembra Peak Trek (4-5 hours, INR 750 for a group of 10)
• Pookode Lake (2-3 hours, INR 10 entry fee + INR 100 for paddleboat ride)
• Lakkidi Viewpoint (1 hour, free)
• Chain Tree (30 minutes, free)
• Wilton Restaurant (1 hour, INR 150)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2-3 hours, INR 20 entry fee)
• Meenmutty Falls Hike (2-3 hours, INR 50)
• Soochipara Falls (1-2 hours, INR 80 entry fee)
• Hotel Greenland Plaza (1 hour, INR 200)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1,600 per person

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