Exploring Wayanad: A 6-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary
Sunday, December 24: Arrival in Wayanad
Welcome to Wayanad! Start your trip by checking into a family-friendly hotel and getting settled. In the morning, head to Pookode Lake, a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the Edakkal Caves, ancient caves with prehistoric carvings. Explore the caves and learn about their historical significance. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling Kalpetta Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts and spices.
Pookode Lake: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost - INR 40 per person, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
Kalpetta Market: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, visit The Bakehouse, a charming bakery known for its delicious pastries and freshly baked bread. Average cost for a breakfast here is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, try the Bamboo Village Restaurant, a cozy eatery offering a variety of regional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 300 per person.
For dinner, head to ClayHut Village Restaurant, a traditional restaurant nestled amidst nature. Enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine like appam and stew, and expect to spend around Rs. 400 per person for a meal.
Monday, December 25: Wildlife and Nature Exploration
On this day, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Wayanad. Start your morning with a visit to the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark on a thrilling jeep safari through the sanctuary, where you can spot various wildlife species such as elephants, deer, and monkeys. In the afternoon, head to the beautiful Soochipara Waterfalls. Take a refreshing dip in the cascading waters and relish a picnic amidst the scenic surroundings. As the evening approaches, visit the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India. Enjoy the panoramic views and indulge in boating on the reservoir.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 150 per person, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
Soochipara Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Café Robusta: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this cozy café known for its delicious omelettes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Green Leaf Restaurant: Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at this popular vegetarian restaurant offering a variety of Indian and South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
ClayHut Village Restaurant: Experience authentic Kerala cuisine for dinner at this traditional restaurant. Don't miss their delectable fish curry served with steaming rice and appam. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 26: Cultural Exploration
Today, delve into the rich cultural heritage of Wayanad. Begin your morning with a visit to the Wayanad Heritage Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the region's history, art, and culture. In the afternoon, explore the ancient Jain Temple at Sulthan Bathery and marvel at its intricate architecture. As the evening approaches, head to the Lakkidi Viewpoint, the highest point in Wayanad, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Wayanad Heritage Museum: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Lakkidi Viewpoint: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Wayanad is Cafe Robusta, known for its delicious coffee and freshly baked pastries. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹200 per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, head to ClayHut Village Restaurant which offers a range of traditional Kerala dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, try The Mezban Restaurant known for its delectable meat dishes and cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, December 27: Tea Plantations and Waterfalls
Embark on a scenic journey through Wayanad's tea plantations and waterfalls. In the morning, visit the picturesque Meenmutty Waterfalls, one of the largest waterfalls in Wayanad. Enjoy the mesmerizing views and capture beautiful photographs. Afterward, head to the scenic tea estates of Wayanad and take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, visit the tranquil Kanthanpara Waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pool and unwind amidst nature's splendor.
Meenmutty Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Tea Plantation Tour: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
For breakfast, head to The Hilltop Cafe located near the tea plantations. This cozy cafe offers a delicious spread of freshly baked goods, hearty breakfast options, and a variety of hot and cold beverages. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Udupi Grand situated in the heart of Wayanad. This vegetarian restaurant serves a wide range of South Indian delicacies including dosas, thalis, and traditional curries. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 150 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, head to ClayHut Village Restaurant located near Kanthanpara Waterfalls. This rustic restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and specializes in traditional Kerala cuisine, including seafood and mouth-watering vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Thursday, December 28: Adventure and Nature
Get ready for an adventurous and nature-filled day in Wayanad. Start your morning with a thrilling trek to the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. Enjoy the panoramic views from the top and soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Karapuzha Dam, known for its scenic beauty and boating opportunities. As the evening sets in, head to the Thirunelli Temple, an ancient temple nestled amidst the mountains, offering a serene and spiritual ambiance.
Chembra Peak Trek: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person (including guide), Estimated time spent - 5-6 hours
Karapuzha Dam: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Thirunelli Temple: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Bakehouse. This cozy bakery offers a variety of freshly baked goods, including croissants, muffins, and breads. Average cost for a breakfast here is about $5 per person.
For lunch, head to Green Leaf Restaurant, a popular vegetarian eatery. Indulge in a wholesome meal consisting of traditional South Indian dishes like dosas, idlis, and sambar. You can expect to spend around $8 per person for a satisfying lunch.
End your adventurous day with a delightful dinner at ClayHut Village Restaurant. Known for its authentic Kerala cuisine, this restaurant offers a range of flavorful dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients. Enjoy a scrumptious dinner here for an average cost of $12 per person.
Friday, December 29: Wayanad's Natural Wonders
On your last day in Wayanad, explore some of its most captivating natural wonders. Begin your morning with a visit to the stunning Papanashini River, known for its religious significance and crystal-clear waters. Take a dip in the holy waters and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, head to the breathtaking Neelimala Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the Meenmutty Waterfalls. As the evening approaches, visit the picturesque Karlad Lake and unwind amidst the tranquility of nature.
Papanashini River: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Neelimala Viewpoint: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Karlad Lake: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions and places loved by the locals, don't miss a visit to the Phantom Rock. This unique rock formation resembles a skull and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Another hidden gem is the Kuruva Island, a secluded river island with dense forests and picturesque streams. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride and explore the island's natural beauty. Both these attractions are family-friendly and provide a unique experience away from the usual tourist spots.
For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit kayak.com.