Family-Friendly Itinerary: Exploring Wayanad Valparai

Friday, August 18: Arrive in Wayanad

Start your family adventure in Wayanad, a beautiful hill station in Kerala known for its lush green landscapes and tea plantations. Begin your day by visiting the scenic Pookode Lake, where you can enjoy boating and spot wildlife. In the afternoon, head to the Edakkal Caves, a fascinating archaeological site with ancient rock carvings. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to elephants, tigers, and other exotic animals.

• Pookode Lake: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 150 per person, Time spent - 3 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Jubilee, located in the heart of Wayanad. They serve a variety of breakfast items, including pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Kerala cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, head to the Farmhouse Restaurant, known for its farm-to-table concept. They offer a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes made with fresh, organic ingredients sourced from local farms. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
• For dinner, indulge in a sumptuous feast at ClayHut Village Restaurant. This rustic restaurant specializes in traditional Kerala cuisine, with a focus on clay pot cooking. Enjoy authentic flavors and unique dining experience. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Saturday, August 19: Exploring Wayanad

Start your day by visiting the breathtaking Soochipara Waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pools. In the afternoon, take a jeep safari to the picturesque Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse flora and fauna. End your day with a visit to the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills.

• Soochipara Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
• Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, August 20: Journey to Valparai

Today, embark on a picturesque drive to Valparai, a serene hill station in Tamil Nadu. Along the way, make a stop at the stunning Athirapally Waterfalls, often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India." Spend some time enjoying the natural beauty and capturing memorable photos. Afterward, continue your journey to Valparai, where you can relax amidst the tea plantations and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

• Athirapally Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Monday, August 21: Exploring Valparai

Start your day by visiting the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Go on a safari to spot elephants, deer, and various species of birds. In the afternoon, visit the Balaji Temple, a popular religious site known for its beautiful architecture. End your day with a visit to the Aliyar Dam, where you can enjoy boating and admire the scenic surroundings.

• Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
• Balaji Temple: Free entry, Time spent - 1 hour
• Aliyar Dam: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family experience, consider visiting the Chembra Peak in Wayanad, a popular trekking spot offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Another hidden gem is Valiyaparamba Backwaters, near Wayanad, where you can enjoy a serene boat ride amidst the mangrove forests and explore the secluded islands. These off-the-beaten-path attractions are perfect for families seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.