3-Day Itinerary for Wayanad in July 2023

1. Day 1: Edakkal Caves
   25 minutes (10 miles) from Kalpetta

   Begin your day by exploring the ancient Edakkal Caves. These caves are known for their prehistoric rock carvings and paintings that date back to the Neolithic era. Spend your morning trekking up to the caves through the lush green forest while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats. Afternoon can be spent visiting Wayanad Heritage Museum which showcases the rich tribal heritage of the region. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the Pookode Lake and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

2. Day 2: Chembra Peak
   1 hour 15 minutes (20 miles) from Kalpetta

   Embark on an adventurous hike to the highest peak in Wayanad- Chembra Peak. The trail takes about 4-5 hours, and the view from the top is breathtaking, with a heart-shaped lake visible from the summit. Make sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the top. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at the Soochipara Falls. In the evening, head to the Banasura Sagar Dam to watch the sunset and enjoy a boat ride in the serene reservoir.

3. Day 3: Thirunelli Temple
   1 hour 20 minutes (31 miles) from Kalpetta

   Spend your final day exploring the spiritual side of Wayanad, starting with the ancient Thirunelli Temple. Nestled in the Brahmagiri range of hills, the temple is believed to have been constructed by Lord Brahma himself. Take a dip in the nearby Papanasini River, known for its cleansing properties. In the afternoon, visit the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, a haven for bird watchers and nature lovers. In the evening, head to the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary for a jeep safari to spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife.

Recommendations

If you have time, do visit the Kuruva Island, an uninhabited island in the middle of the Kabini River. You can also take a day trip to the nearby town of Sultan Bathery, which has a rich history and is home to Jain Temples and the historic Juma Masjid.

To maximize your fun, make sure to carry comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent as the region is known for its diverse flora and fauna.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Edakkal Caves (3-4 hours, £2.50)
• Wayanad Heritage Museum (1-2 hours, £1.50)
• Pookode Lake (1-2 hours, £1.50)
• Chembra Peak (5-6 hours, £8)
• Soochipara Falls (1-2 hours, £1)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2-3 hours, £1.50)
• Thirunelli Temple (2-3 hours, free entry)
• Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary (2-3 hours, £2)
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary (3-4 hours, £4)
• Total Estimated Costs: £22.50

For hotel and flight prices, click here.