Exploring Wayanad, Kasaragod, and Chikmagalur in 4 Days
Saturday, August 12: Arrival in Wayanad
Welcome to Wayanad, a picturesque district in Kerala! Start your day by visiting the stunning Edakkal Caves in Sultan Bathery. These ancient caves feature Stone Age carvings and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. In the afternoon, head to the beautiful Pookode Lake for a serene boat ride amidst lush greenery. As the evening sets in, visit the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India, and marvel at its impressive structure.
Edakkal Caves: Entrance fee approximately ₹50 per person, 2-3 hours
Pookode Lake: Boat ride cost around ₹200 per person, 1-2 hours
Banasura Sagar Dam: No entry fee, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at The Bake Shop. This cozy cafe offers a wide range of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and hot beverages. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a hearty lunch, head to Heritage Restaurant. Known for its traditional Kerala cuisine, this restaurant serves authentic dishes like Malabar Biryani, Appam with Stew, and Fish Curry. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at The Willow Tree Restaurant. Set amidst lush greenery, this restaurant offers a serene ambiance and a menu featuring a variety of continental and Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Sunday, August 13: Kasaragod Exploration
Today, journey to Kasaragod, a hidden gem in Kerala. In the morning, visit the enchanting Bekal Fort, a 17th-century fort overlooking the Arabian Sea. Explore its ancient architecture and enjoy panoramic views. Afterward, head to the serene Kappil Beach for a relaxing time by the coast. In the afternoon, visit the historic Madhur Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and soak in the spiritual ambiance. In the evening, take a stroll through the vibrant Kasaragod town, exploring local markets and savoring delicious street food.
Bekal Fort: No entry fee, 2-3 hours
Kappil Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Madhur Temple: No entry fee, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Kasaragod is Cafe Bakelicious, known for its delicious spread of fresh pastries and savory sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Mayflower Restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes and traditional Kerala meals. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
In the evening, dine at the iconic Malabar Cuisine Restaurant, offering an extensive menu of authentic Malabari dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Monday, August 14: Chikmagalur Coffee Trail
Today, embark on a journey to Chikmagalur, known for its coffee estates. Begin the day by visiting the famous Mullayanagiri Peak, the highest peak in Karnataka. Enjoy a scenic trek and be rewarded with panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful coffee plantations of Baba Budangiri and learn about the coffee-making process. Don't miss tasting some freshly brewed coffee! As the evening approaches, visit the peaceful Hebbe Falls and let the cascading water rejuvenate your senses.
Mullayanagiri Peak: No entry fee, 4-5 hours
Baba Budangiri Coffee Plantations: No entry fee, 2-3 hours
Hebbe Falls: No entry fee, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Vintage Cafe, known for its delicious homemade pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, head to Bean There Done That, a cozy cafe that serves a variety of sandwiches, salads, and wraps made with locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at The Pepper Grove, a restaurant specializing in traditional Chikmagalur cuisine. Enjoy dishes like Chicken Chettinad and Mutton Biryani. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Tuesday, August 15: Chikmagalur Cultural Delights
On this final day, explore the cultural side of Chikmagalur. Start your morning by visiting the ancient Belur and Halebidu Temples, renowned for their intricate Hoysala architecture and sculptures. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of Chikmagalur town. Explore the local markets, indulge in traditional cuisine, and visit the famous Veera Narayana Temple. As the evening unfolds, witness a mesmerizing classical dance performance at the Rama Temple.
Belur and Halebidu Temples: Entrance fee approximately ₹40 per person, 3-4 hours
While exploring Wayanad, Kasaragod, and Chikmagalur, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Thirunelli Temple in Wayanad, a sacred spot surrounded by breathtaking mountains. For nature lovers, a visit to the Ranipuram Wildlife Sanctuary in Kasaragod offers a chance to spot various wildlife species. In Chikmagalur, the peaceful Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit, providing an immersive experience in nature's lap. These hidden gems and local favorites offer a unique insight into the cultural and natural diversity of this region.