A 4-Day Wayanad Itinerary For Nature Lovers

  1. Day 1: Banasura Sagar Dam
    2 hours 17 minutes (57.7 km) from Kozhikode International Airport

    Banasura Sagar Dam, India's largest earth dam, is a perfect destination for nature lovers. Enjoy a boat ride amidst the picturesque mountains and soak in the serene beauty of the place. Take a 2-kilometer trek to reach the Banasura peak and enjoy the panoramic view of the forest and the dam. The place also has options for camping and adventure sports like ziplining and rope climbing.

  2. Day 2: Edakkal Caves and Soochipara Falls
    1 hour 23 minutes (33.6 km) from Banasura Sagar Dam

    Start your day with a visit to the Edakkal Caves, known for its prehistoric rock art dating back to 6000 BC. It's a 1.5-kilometer uphill trek to reach the caves, but the view from the top is worth the effort. Later, head to the Soochipara Falls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls. The waterfall is a three-tiered cascade, and you can take a dip in the natural pool below it. The place also offers opportunities for rock climbing and rappelling.

  3. Day 3: Pookode Lake and Chembra Peak
    1 hour 21 minutes (37.2 km) from Soochipara Falls

    Start your day with a tranquil boat ride in the pristine waters of Pookode Lake, surrounded by dense forests. Next, head to the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. It's a 6-kilometer trek to the top, and you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the whole town and beyond. The place is ideal for camping and nature photography.

  4. Day 4: Thirunelli Temple and Kuruva Island
    1 hour 16 minutes (39.1 km) from Chembra Peak

    Visit the Thirunelli Temple, nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills, known for its significance in Hindu mythology and the tranquil surroundings it offers. After that, head to the Kuruva Island, located in the middle of the Kabini River. The place is a bio-diverse home to rare species of flora and fauna and is great for nature walks and bird watching.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Banasura Sagar Dam (2 hours): Entry Fee - INR 60 ($0.8) per person
  • Edakkal Caves (2 hours): Entry Fee - INR 40 ($0.5) per person
  • Soochipara Falls (2 hours): Entry Fee - INR 50 ($1) per person
  • Pookode Lake (2 hours): Boating Fees - INR 250 ($3.5) per boat
  • Chembra Peak (6 hours): Entry Fee - INR 500 ($7) per group of 10 people
  • Thirunelli Temple (1 hour): No entry fee
  • Kuruva Island (3 hours): Entry Fee - INR 80 ($1) per person
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 1830 ($25.7)

Useful tips

If you have an extra day, you can visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, known for elephant sightings and bird watching. If you're short on time, you can skip the Thirunelli Temple and Kuruva Island. You can also visit the Banasura Hill Resort and take the resort's jeep ride to the Banasura Peak instead of trekking. It also has a natural infinity pool and organic farm tours worth exploring.

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