Explore the Natural Beauty of Wayanad: 3-Day Itinerary

Saturday, August 26: Arrival in Wayanad

Start your journey in Wayanad by checking into your hotel and freshening up after your arrival. In the morning, head to the magnificent Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India. Enjoy a boat ride on the reservoir, surrounded by lush green hills and captivating scenery. For lunch, savor traditional Kerala cuisine at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Edakkal Caves, known for their ancient rock carvings. Explore the caves and learn about their historical significance. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse wildlife including elephants, deer, and various bird species.

• Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost - INR 20, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 150, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, August 27: Wayanad Exploration

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Soochipara Waterfalls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls. Enjoy the refreshing spray of water as you take a dip in the pool beneath the falls. Afterward, embark on a thrilling jeep safari in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot exotic wildlife including tigers, leopards, and Indian bison. Have a picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings of Pookode Lake, a natural freshwater lake nestled amidst the forests. In the evening, visit the picturesque Meenmutty Waterfalls, cascading down from a height of 300 meters. Capture the mesmerizing beauty of the falls and unwind in nature's embrace.

• Soochipara Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 200, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Pookode Lake: Estimated cost - Free entry, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Meenmutty Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 20, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Monday, August 28: Cultural Delights

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Wayanad on your last day. Start your morning by visiting the ancient Thirunelli Temple, nestled amidst the Brahmagiri Hills. Explore the temple complex and learn about its historical and religious significance. Next, head to the breathtaking Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. Embark on a trek to the peak and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and tea plantations. For lunch, indulge in traditional Kerala cuisine at a local restaurant. In the evening, visit the popular Wayanad Heritage Museum, housing artifacts and exhibits showcasing the region's history and culture.

• Thirunelli Temple: Estimated cost - Free entry, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Chembra Peak: Estimated cost - INR 500 (trekking permit), Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Wayanad Heritage Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Wayanad, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the tranquil Kuruva Island, an uninhabited island on the Kabini River, known for its dense forest cover and bamboo groves. Take a walk along the bamboo bridges and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Embark on a trek through the dense forest to spot a variety of bird species. Lastly, don't forget to savor the authentic local delicacies at small roadside eateries, where you can taste traditional Kerala snacks and meals loved by the locals.

Check hotel and flight prices here.