5-Day Wayannad Itinerary for August 2023

1. Day 1: Edakkal Caves
   10 minutes (4.5 km) from Sulthan Bathery

   Start your day early with a visit to the Edakkal Caves, a prehistoric site with ancient petroglyphs, located in the Ambukuthi Hills. The trek up to the caves takes around 30-45 minutes but the stunning panoramic views of the valley and mountains will make the effort worth it. Spend the afternoon at the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can explore the lush greenery and spot elephants, deer and other wildlife. Finish off your day with a relaxing evening at the Banasura Sagar Dam, India's largest earthen dam, and enjoy its stunning views and scenic beauty.

2. Day 2: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 20 minutes (49.8 km) from Sulthan Bathery

   Spend your day exploring the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area that houses an incredible range of flora and fauna. Take a jeep safari to see the animals up close or trek through the jungle to spot them in their natural habitat. After lunch, head to the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, and trek up to the heart-shaped lake. It's a challenging trek, but the view from the top is breathtaking. Wind down with a relaxing evening at the Karapuzha Dam, located in the scenic Karapuzha Reservoir.

3. Day 3: Banasura Hill Resort
   1 hour 15 minutes (45.2 km) from Sulthan Bathery

   Head over to the Banasura Hill Resort, built in the lap of Banasura Hills. Start your day with an early morning trek, and then relax at the resort's infinity pool, which offers a panoramic view of the Banasura Sagar Dam. After lunch, visit the Soochipara Waterfalls, a beautiful three-tiered waterfall that offers a perfect place for swimming and relaxing. Wind down your day with a trip to the Lakkidi View Point, which offers sweeping views of the valley and forests.

4. Day 4: Kuruvadweep Island
   1 hour 35 minutes (58.7 km) from Sulthan Bathery

   Take a day trip to the Kuruvadweep Island, located in the midst of the Kabini river. The island is home to a dense forest, and you can spot a variety of birds and animals here. Take a leisurely stroll along the bamboo bridge, which offers stunning views of the river and forest. After lunch, visit the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, a haven for bird watchers. Finish off your day with a visit to the Thirunelli Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located amidst the lush Brahmagiri hills.

5. Day 5: Pookode Lake
   30 minutes (13.4 km) from Sulthan Bathery

   Start your day with a visit to the Pookode Lake, a serene lake surrounded by lush forests and hills. Take a paddle boat ride on the lake and spot the fish swimming beneath you. After lunch, head to the Jain Temple, located in the nearby town of Sulthan Bathery. The temple is renowned for its intricate carvings and architecture. End your day with a trip to the Chain Tree, a historic banyan tree with an interesting legend attached to it.

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider visiting the Chethalayam Falls, a beautiful waterfall located in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. The Kuruva Island is another must-visit destination for nature lovers. For day trips, consider visiting Mysore, another popular tourist destination just 2 hours away from Wayanad. To make the most of your trip, hire a local guide who can give you insider tips and show you the best spots to explore.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Edakkal Caves (2-3 hours, INR 40-80)
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary (3-4 hours, INR 400-600)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2-3 hours, INR 20-50)
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (4-5 hours, INR 1500-2500)
• Chembra Peak (3-4 hours, INR 500-1000)
• Karapuzha Dam (2-3 hours, INR 20-50)
• Soochipara Waterfalls (2-3 hours, INR 50-100)
• Lakkidi View Point (1-2 hours, INR 20-50)
• Kuruvadweep Island (4-5 hours, INR 250-500)
• Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary (2-3 hours, INR 50-100)
• Thirunelli Temple (2-3 hours, INR 20-50)
• Pookode Lake (2-3 hours, INR 10-50)
• Jain Temple (1-2 hours, Free)
• Chain Tree (1-2 hours, Free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2820-5200

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