Start your family vacation by visiting the ancient Thirunelli Temple, nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills. It is one of the oldest temples in Kerala, with a history spanning over a thousand years. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located near Papanasini, a mountain stream believed to have divine healing properties. The surroundings of the temple offer a scenic view of the Western Ghats. Your family can walk along the river, feed the fish and turtles, perform rituals to honor their ancestors, and try Ayurvedic treatments. Make sure to check the dress code before visiting.
After lunch, head towards the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, located in an elevated hilly region. It is home to animals like leopards, deer, elephants, and tigers. The sanctuary offers jeep safaris and trekking tours to explore the flora and fauna of the region. There is an elephant ride available for children to enjoy. You can also visit the nearby Edakkal Caves, ancient rock shelters with inscriptions dating back to the Neolithic Age. The caves offer a panoramic view of the Wayanad hills and the lush greenery.
On the second day, explore the beautiful Pookode Lake, which is a natural freshwater lake surrounded by mountains and forests. Your family can enjoy a boat ride on the lake, go for a nature walk, and spot various species of birds. There is a children's park with a toy train and a small aquarium as well. Do not forget to try the local delicacies from the nearby food stalls, such as banana chips and jackfruit chips.
End your trip with an adventurous trek to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. The trek takes around 3-4 hours to complete but offers breathtaking views of the cloud-kissed Western Ghats. You can spot various species of flora and fauna on the way, such as the Neelakurinji flower that blooms every 12 years. At the peak, you can witness the heart-shaped Chembra lake, one of the most romantic spots in South India. Do not forget to carry enough water and food for the trek.
If you have more time, you can add a visit to the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India, and the Soochipara Waterfalls. For kids, you can visit the Muthanga Wildlife Safari, which offers a bus safari to see animals like elephants, deer, and monkeys. You can also try various adventure activities like zip-lining and nature walks. If you have less time, you can skip Chembra Peak and visit the Karapuzha Dam and the Jain Temple instead.