4-Day Wayanad Itinerary: Embrace Nature's Best

  1. Day 1: Chembra Peak
    1 hour 30 minutes (16.9 miles) from Wayanad

    Start the trip to Wayanad with a trek to the highest peak in the region, Chembra. The trail leading up to the mountain is quite scenic, displaying an array of flora and fauna on the way. The peak offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a heart-shaped lake, which is believed to have medicinal properties. The journey may seem a little daunting, but the view from the top makes it all worth it.

  2. Day 2: Banasura Sagar Dam and Meenmutty Falls
    1 hour 30 minutes (27 miles) from Chembra Peak

    On the second day, head to the Banasura Sagar Dam, one of the largest earth dams in India. Take a speed boat ride on the dam's serene waters. After that, proceed to the nearby Meenmutty Waterfalls, which is a three-tiered waterfall cascading down from a height of over 800 feet. The trek to the falls takes about 90 minutes through the forest.

  3. Day 3: Kuruva Island and Thirunelli Temple
    2 hours 15 minutes (47 miles) from Meenmutty Falls

    Start the day with a visit to the Kuruva Island, which is a group of uninhabited islands in Wayanad, covered with lush green flora and fauna. Go for a nature walk, explore the place on foot, or else in a raft. Afterwards, go to the ancient Thirunelli Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, situated amidst mountains and rivers. The location is so peaceful that some refer to it as the 'Kashi of the South.'

  4. Day 4: Kuruvadweep Island and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
    1 hour 50 minutes (38 miles) from Thirunelli Temple

    On the final day, visit the Kuruvadweep Island once again as it is so mesmerizing that one might miss something during the first visit. Then, head to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, situated on the beautiful Western Ghats. It boasts exotic and endangered species of flora and fauna. Go for a safari and try to spot a Leopard, Indian Bison, Elephant or a Tiger in the wilderness.

Time and Cost Estimates:

  • Chembra Peak (3-4 hours, ₹100/person)
  • Banasura Sagar Dam (2-3 hours, ₹60/person), Meenmutty Falls (3-4 hours, ₹30/person)
  • Kuruva Island (4-5 hours, ₹80/person), Thirunelli Temple (1-2 hours, no entry fee)
  • Kuruvadweep Island (4-5 hours, ₹80/person), Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (3-4 hours, ₹10 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹540/person

Useful Tips:

If you have extra time in Wayanad, consider visiting the Soochipara Falls or the Edakkal Caves. However, if you have less time to spare, consider skipping the Kuruva Island and Kuruvadweep Island tours. Also, make sure to carry comfortable clothes and shoes, insect repellant, sunscreen, and drinking water.

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