Exploring Wayanad in June 2023

1. Day 1: Edakkal Caves
   30 minutes (9.7 miles) from Kalpetta

   Start your day by exploring the Edakkal Caves, one of the prime attractions in Wayanad. The caves have carvings that date back to the Neolithic era. The trek to the caves is about 1.5 km and takes approximately 45 minutes. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the area and the picturesque view from the top. Afternoon, head to the Wayanad Heritage Museum which showcases the tribal heritage and history of Wayanad. In the evening, visit the Kuruva Island, a beautiful uninhabited island which is a perfect spot for nature lovers. A walking trail of about 2 km takes you around the island.

2. Day 2: Banasura Sagar Dam
   1 hour 15 minutes (26.8 miles) from Edakkal Caves

   Spend the first half of the day at Banasura Sagar Dam, one of the largest and most beautiful earthen dam in India. It's an ideal place for boating, kayaking, and trekking. Afternoon visit the Pookode Lake, a spectacular freshwater lake surrounded by lush green forests. You can enjoy boating, and nature walks here. In the evening, visit the Lakkidi viewpoint which is the gateway to Wayanad, and offers a panoramic view of the valley and the ghat pass.

3. Day 3: Thirunelli Temple
   1 hour 10 minutes (33.2 miles) from Banasura Sagar Dam

   Start your day by visiting the Thirunelli Temple which is an ancient temple in Wayanad and is known for its serene location and architecture. The temple is surrounded by mountains and lush green forests, and a dip in the Papanasini river here is believed to wash away all sins. Afternoon, visit the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to the diverse flora and fauna of Wayanad. You can enjoy a jeep safari and spot elephants, tigers, and other animals here. In the evening, visit the Soochipara Waterfalls, which is a 3-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush green forests. You can take a dip in the waterfall and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Recommendations

If you have time, consider visiting the Kozhikode Beach, which is about 2 hours (53.4 miles) from Wayanad. You can also visit the Chembra Peak, which is a beautiful trekking spot. Wayanad is also known for its spice plantations, so you can visit one of the many spice plantations here and learn about the various spices grown here. You can also try local dishes like appam and stew, puttu and kadala curry, and biryani.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Edakkal Caves (2.5 hours, ₹ 40 per person)
• Wayanad Heritage Museum (1 hour, ₹ 10 per person)
• Kuruva Island (2 hours, ₹ 80 per person)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (3 hours, ₹ 60 per person)
• Pookode Lake (2 hours, ₹ 30 per person)
• Lakkidi viewpoint (1 hour, no entry fee)
• Thirunelli Temple (2 hours, no entry fee)
• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, ₹ 150 per person)
• Soochipara Waterfalls (2 hours, ₹ 50 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: ₹ 470 per person

Check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo to compare hotel and flight prices and plan your trip better.