3-Day Adventure Itinerary in Wayanad, July 2023

1. Day 1: Soochipara Waterfalls
   1 hour 20 minutes (34.9 km) from Kalpetta

   Morning: Start your adventure with a trek to Soochipara Waterfalls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, which is surrounded by dense forests and offers an exhilarating 2 km trek through the Western Ghats. Experience the gushing waterfalls up-close and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool.
   Afternoon: Head to Phantom Rock, a unique rock formation resembling a skull, and trek through the surrounding tea plantations. Take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch with a stunning view of the landscape.
   Evening: Wrap up the day with a visit to Edakkal Caves, a prehistoric rock shelter with ancient petroglyphs dating back to 6000 BCE. Marvel at the engravings and enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding hills.

2. Day 2: Chembra Peak and Banasura Sagar Dam
   1 hour 40 minutes (43.9 km) from Kalpetta

   Morning: Hike up to the highest peak in Wayanad, Chembra Peak, which offers breathtaking views of the entire district from the top. The steep trek takes around 3-5 hours, but the scenic beauty makes it all worth it.
   Afternoon: Head to Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India, and take a speedboat ride around the reservoir. The dam is surrounded by lush green hills and is a popular spot for photography.
   Evening: Visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, and leopards. Take a guided Jeep safari through the sanctuary and spot some of the animals in their natural habitat.

3. Day 3: Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary and Kuruva Island
   1 hour 30 minutes (45.9 km) from Kalpetta

   Morning: Start your day with a visit to Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of animals, including deer, bison, and the elusive leopard. Take a guided trek through the sanctuary and experience the wilderness up-close.
   Afternoon: Head to Kuruva Island, a dense evergreen forest located on the Kabini River, which is only accessible by bamboo rafts. Take a peaceful walk through the island, enjoy a picnic lunch, and cool off in the river.
   Evening: End your trip with a visit to the Pookode Lake, a freshwater lake surrounded by forests and hills. Take a boat ride, spot some fish, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Recommendations

If you're a fan of adventure sports, consider visiting the Karlad Lake, which offers activities like ziplining, kayaking, and rope activities. You can also take a day trip to the nearby city of Mysore, home to the famous Mysore Palace and Brindavan Gardens. For a unique cultural experience, visit the Uravu Bamboo Village, where you can learn about bamboo handicrafts and take part in workshops.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Soochipara Waterfalls (4 hours, 50 INR)
• Phantom Rock (2 hours, admission free)
• Edakkal Caves (2 hours, 40 INR)
• Chembra Peak (5-7 hours, 750 INR)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2 hours, 60 INR)
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, 10 INR entry fee and 250 INR Jeep safari)
• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, 10 INR entry fee and 250 INR Jeep safari)
• Kuruva Island (3 hours, 80 INR entry fee and 600 INR for bamboo raft)
• Pookode Lake (2 hours, 10 INR entry fee and 100 INR for boat ride)
• Total Estimated Costs: 1,330 INR per person

Check hotel and flight prices here.