Welcome to Wayanad! Start your trip by exploring the stunning Banasura Sagar Dam in the morning. This scenic reservoir offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and is a popular spot for boating. In the afternoon, visit the Edakkal Caves, known for their prehistoric rock art. These ancient caves provide a fascinating glimpse into human civilization from thousands of years ago. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk through the Wayanad Tea Museum and learn about the region's tea production history.
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Hotel Neelambari. This local restaurant serves traditional dishes like idli, dosa, and vada. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Meemis Kitchen, a cozy restaurant known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Try their flavorful seafood dishes like fish curry and prawns biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in a delightful dining experience at CopperLeaf Restaurant. This upscale eatery offers a fusion of Indian and continental dishes, with a focus on local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, August 12: Exploring Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries
Embark on a wildlife adventure today! In the morning, head to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and enjoy a safari experience amidst the lush greenery. Keep an eye out for elephants, tigers, and various bird species. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot herds of deer, monkeys, and even leopards. As the evening approaches, take a peaceful stroll through the serene Soochipara Waterfalls and marvel at the cascading beauty.
Soochipara Waterfalls: Entrance fee: INR 50, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe de Wayanad, which offers a wide range of South Indian delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 150 per person.
For lunch, head to Curry Leaf Restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine, including seafood specialties. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at ClayHut Village Restaurant, known for its traditional Malabar dishes. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Sunday, August 13: Wayanad Hill Stations
Today, explore the hill stations of Wayanad. Begin your day with a visit to Chembra Peak in the morning. This picturesque peak offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and is a great spot for trekking enthusiasts. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Pookode Lake and enjoy a peaceful boat ride. As the evening sets in, visit the Lakkidi View Point to witness a mesmerizing sunset over the Western Ghats.
Pookode Lake: Entrance fee: INR 10, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Lakkidi View Point: No entrance fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Coffee Grove. This charming cafe offers a variety of delicious breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to crispy bacon and eggs. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For an authentic Wayanad lunch experience, head to Clay Pot. This restaurant specializes in traditional Kerala cuisine, with a menu featuring delectable dishes like appam with stew and fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Indulge in a flavorful dinner at Garden Fresh. This restaurant serves a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, with a focus on using fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to try their mouthwatering biryani or tandoori kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Monday, August 14: Journey to Kannur
Today, bid farewell to Wayanad and make your way to Kannur. In the morning, visit the famous Thalassery Fort, built by the British East India Company. Explore the historical ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Afterward, head to the St. Angelo Fort, a majestic Portuguese fort dating back to the 16th century. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Payyambalam Beach and soak in the coastal beauty. As the evening approaches, visit the bustling Kannur Fish Market and witness the vibrant trading scene.
Thalassery Fort: Entrance fee: INR 10, Time spent: 1-2 hours
St. Angelo Fort: Entrance fee: INR 25, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Payyambalam Beach: No entrance fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Kannur Fish Market: No entrance fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Kudumbam, a cozy eatery known for its fresh and healthy food options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Dine and Grill, a popular restaurant that offers a variety of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
End your day with a scrumptious dinner at Malabar Coast, a fine dining restaurant specializing in traditional Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Tuesday, August 15: Kannur Cultural Exploration
Immerse yourself in Kannur's rich cultural heritage today. In the morning, visit the iconic Theyyam performance at a local temple. Witness the vibrant dance rituals and elaborate costumes of this traditional art form. Afternoon is the perfect time to explore the Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, where you can drive along the sandy shores and enjoy a picnic with stunning sea views. As the evening sets in, visit the Folklore Museum to learn about Kannur's history, art, and culture.
Theyyam Performance: No entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Folklore Museum: Entrance fee: INR 10, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular choice for breakfast is Morning Mist Cafe, located near the Theyyam temple. They offer a delicious selection of South Indian and continental breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Malabar Taste Buds, a restaurant known for its authentic Malabar cuisine. Enjoy a variety of flavorful dishes like biryani and seafood specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Seafood Paradise, a restaurant situated near the Folklore Museum. Indulge in a delectable array of fresh seafood dishes, prepared in traditional local flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Wayanad, don't miss a visit to the charming village of Thirunelli. Located amidst the hills, this serene village is home to the Thirunelli Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site. Explore the lush green surroundings and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. In Kannur, make sure to visit the picturesque Parassinikadavu Snake Park, where you can learn about various snake species and witness thrilling snake handling demonstrations.