Experience Wayanad in 4 Days

1. Day 1: Chembra Peak
   30 minutes (12 km) from Kalpetta

   Start your journey with a trek to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. The climb takes approximately 3 hours, and the panoramic view of the surrounding hills and forests from the top is breathtaking. You can enjoy a romantic heart-shaped lake midway to the peak. Please note that entry is allowed till 02:00 pm, and permission is required from Forest Department prior to trek.

2. Day 2: Banasurasagar Dam
   1 hour 20 minutes (49 km) from Chembra Peak

   Visit the Banasurasagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India. The dam is located amidst the majestic Banasura hills and offers a stunning view of the meandering dam water. You can book a speedboat that will take you on a thrilling ride, offering you a closer view of the dam. It is recommended to reach early avoid tourist rush, as the heavy crowd makes it tough to move around.

3. Day 3: Edakkal Caves
   1 hour (30 km) from Banasurasagar Dam

   Take a guided tour of the historical Edakkal Caves. The caves are the only place in India that has Stone Age carvings. A short trek uphill is required to reach these prehistoric caves. The carvings (petroglyphs) found here date back to 6000 BC, and the view of the surrounding Wayanad hills is breathtaking. This place is crowded, making early arrival recommended.

4. Day 4: Pookode Lake
   1 hour 20 minutes (40 km) from Edakkal Caves

   Experience the serene and calmness of nature at Pookode Lake. Located between the lush green forests of Wayanad, it is the perfect place to unwind. You can enjoy pedal boating, row boating which takes you through the blue waters surrounded by hills. Adjacent to the lake, there is a small zoological park that houses deers and birds. It's a great place for refreshments and perfect to spend your last day relaxing in Wayanad.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Chembra Peak trekking (3-4 hours, ₹ 750 per group)
• Banasurasagar Dam speed boating (20-30 minutes, ₹ 850-1250 per group depending on the size)
• Edakkal Caves guided tour (2 hours, ₹ 120 per person)
• Pookode Lake boating and mini zoological park (1-2 hours, ₹ 20 per person for boating and ₹ 10 per person for park entry)
Total Estimated Costs: ₹ 1950-2350 per group (excluding transportation and food)

Useful Tips

Wayanad is a vast district, and to explore it thoroughly a minimum of 4 days is required. You can hire cabs or motorbikes to get around, although bus transportation is easily accessible. Journeys between destinations take a long time, so it is recommended to wake up early and start your journey. Additionally, pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and carry camera, since Wayanad’s scenic beauty unparalleled. You can add extra activities like Meenmutti waterfalls or hiking to Brahmagiri hills if you have extra time.