Waynad Family Adventure

Friday December 29: Arrival and Exploration

Start your family-friendly adventure in Waynad by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the morning, head to the stunning Banasura Sagar Dam, located amidst lush greenery and offering breathtaking views. Take a boat ride on the reservoir and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Edakkal Caves, known for their ancient rock carvings. Spend the evening exploring the Pookode Lake, where you can enjoy boating and have a picnic by the lakeside.

• Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Edakkal Caves: Estimated Cost - INR 40 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Pookode Lake: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at The Bake Shop, known for their freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Clay Pot Biryani House, where you can indulge in flavorful biryanis made with aromatic spices. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• End your day with a delightful dinner at Spice Garden Restaurant, offering a wide range of authentic Waynad cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.

Saturday December 30: Wildlife Encounters

Embark on an exciting wildlife adventure in Waynad. Start your day early with a visit to the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a jeep safari through the dense forests and spot elephants, deer, and various species of birds. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature. In the afternoon, head to the Thirunelli Temple, a beautiful ancient temple nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills. Take a refreshing dip in the nearby Papanasini River. End your day by exploring the Wayanad Heritage Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.

• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated Cost - INR 300 per person (jeep safari), Time Spent - 4-5 hours
• Thirunelli Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Wayanad Heritage Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday December 31: Nature's Delight

Embrace the natural beauty of Waynad on this day. Begin your morning with a visit to the picturesque Soochipara Waterfalls. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool and marvel at the cascading water. Afterward, head to the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Waynad, for a moderate trek. Revel in the panoramic views from the top and have a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, visit the tranquil Meenmutty Waterfalls and indulge in nature photography. In the evening, explore the charming town of Kalpetta and relish delicious local cuisine.

• Soochipara Waterfalls: Estimated Cost - INR 80 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Chembra Peak: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per group (permission and guide), Time Spent - 4-5 hours
• Meenmutty Waterfalls: Estimated Cost - INR 30 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Monday January 1: Cultural Exploration

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Waynad on your final day. Start your morning by visiting the ancient Jain Temple in Sultan Bathery, known for its intricate architecture. Explore the nearby historical site of Edakkal Caves, famous for its prehistoric rock art. Afterward, head to the Lakkidi Viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Wayanad Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and savor some freshly brewed tea. End your day with a leisurely walk through the sprawling Banasura Hill Resort.

• Jain Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Edakkal Caves: Estimated Cost - INR 40 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Lakkidi Viewpoint: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Wayanad Tea Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Banasura Hill Resort: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, consider visiting the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a jeep safari and spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife. Another hidden gem is the Bamboo Forest in Thirunelly, where you can take a peaceful walk amidst tall bamboo groves. Don't forget to try the local delicacies at roadside stalls, such as bamboo biryani and fresh coconut water.

Check Hotel and Flight Prices

Click here to check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Waynad.