3-Day Wayanad Nature Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Chembra Peak
    45 minutes (14 miles) from Kalpetta

    Chembra Peak is the highest peak in Wayanad and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire district. The hiking trail to the summit is a popular trek for nature enthusiasts. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and cascading waterfalls along the way. The trek to the top takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the pace. Don't forget to carry a water bottle and some snacks for the climb.

  2. Day 2: Edakkal Caves and Soochipara Falls
    1 hour 30 minutes (34 miles) from Chembra Peak

    Explore the prehistoric Edakkal Caves, famous for its ancient rock art and carvings dating back to the Neolithic era. The caves can be reached by a moderately difficult trek from the foothills. After Edakkal Caves, head to the picturesque Soochipara Falls, which is surrounded by lush greenery and is one of the famous tourist spots in Wayanad. You can take a dip in the pool beneath the waterfall, although be careful as the rocks can be slippery.

  3. Day 3: Thirunelli Temple and Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary
    1 hour 45 minutes (44 miles) from Edakkal Caves and Soochipara Falls

    Visit the beautiful Thirunelli Temple, a 3000-year-old temple nestled in the Brahmagiri hills, surrounded by lush greenery and a serene atmosphere. After the temple visit, head to Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, known for its biodiversity and home to several rare and endangered species of birds. The highlight of the sanctuary is a natural rock cave that can only be accessed by trekking. You will need permission from the forest department to access the sanctuary.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Chembra Peak (3-4 hours trek, free entry)
  • Edakkal Caves (2-3 hours, INR 40 for Indians, INR 80 for foreigners)
  • Soochipara Falls (1-2 hours, INR 80)
  • Thirunelli Temple (2 hours, free entry)
  • Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary (3-4 hours, INR 250 for Indians, INR 500 for foreigners with permission from the forest department)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 370-630

Useful Tips

If you have more time in Wayanad, you can add a visit to the Banasura Sagar Dam, which is the largest earthen dam in India, or the Kuruva Island, a pristine and uninhabited island on the Kabani River. For those with less time, you can consider skipping Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary or Thirunelli Temple. Note that some places may be closed due to weather conditions, such as Chembra Peak during monsoons, so it's best to check ahead of time.

0