Mysore to Wayanad, Kerala: Family-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Mysore Palace
   1 hour 30 minutes (72.2 km) from Bangalore Airport

   Start your trip with a visit to the stunning Mysore Palace, a symbol of the city's rich history and culture. Built in the early 20th century, the palace's beautifully designed and crafted interiors include intricately carved doors and ceilings, stained glass windows, and exquisite artworks.

2. Day 2: Nagarhole National Park
   2 hour 15 minutes (78.3 km) from Mysore Palace

   Explore the unspoiled natural beauty of Nagarhole National Park, home to a diverse range of wildlife including tigers, elephants, leopards, and Indian bison. Take a jeep safari through the lush forest, and enjoy panoramic views of the park's scenic landscape and gurgling streams.

3. Day 3: Edakkal Caves
   4 hours (130 km) from Nagarhole National Park

   Discover the ancient and fascinating Edakkal Caves, nestled atop the Ambukuthi Hills. The prehistoric paintings and carvings on the cave walls offer intriguing glimpses into the cultural and artistic heritage of the region, while the hike to reach the caves is a scenic and thrilling adventure in itself.

4. Day 4: Pookode Lake
   1 hour 30 minutes (50.6 km) from Edakkal Caves

   Relax and unwind amid the peaceful environs of Pookode Lake, a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. Go boating, or take a leisurely stroll along the landscaped gardens and paved walkways. The park also features a children's playground and a few small food stalls.

5. Day 5: Banasura Sagar Dam
   1 hour 30 minutes (46.5 km) from Pookode Lake

   Take in the stunning views of the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India and one of the most scenic spots in Wayanad. The surrounding lush hills and clear waters of the dam offer ample opportunities for nature walks and boating.

6. Day 6: Thirunelli Temple
   1 hour 30 minutes (45.5 km) from Banasura Sagar Dam

   Explore the ancient and sacred Thirunelli Temple, nestled amidst the verdant Brahmagiri Hills. Considered to be one of the best examples of traditional Kerala architecture, the temple houses a shrine to Lord Vishnu, and features intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple is also surrounded by picturesque waterfalls and natural pools.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mysore Palace (2 hours, INR 200 per adult)
• Nagarhole National Park (Jeep safari: 2-3 hours, INR 300-400 per person)
• Edakkal Caves (3-4 hours, INR 50 per person)
• Pookode Lake (1-2 hours, INR 10 per person)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2-3 hours, INR 20 per person)
• Thirunelli Temple (1-2 hours, INR 20 per person)
Total Estimated Costs: INR 700-800 per adult

Useful Tips

If you have more time, some other noteworthy attractions include the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Soochipara Waterfalls, and the Kuruva Island. For a more offbeat experience, consider visiting the quaint and charming mountain town of Vythiri. If you have less time, you can skip Pookode Lake or Banasura Sagar Dam to save time.