3-Day Itinerary: Wayanad, Yercaud, and Backwaters

1. Day 1: Wayanad
   Estimated Duration: 6-7 hours, 240 km
   Depart from Bangalore early in the morning (around 6 am) to Wayanad.
   Edakkal Caves: One of the prime attractions of Wayanad, and is a must-visit. The caves feature ancient Indian carvings, and it takes a 1km trek uphill to reach the destination.

   Take a trek to the Edakkal caves to view the Indian carvings that are over a thousand years old. Post this experience lunch at a nearby restaurant.

   Chembra Peak: It is a trekking spot near the town of Meppadi, located about 8 km south of Kalpetta. Known for its scenic beauty, the peak has a heart-shaped lake on the top. It’s mostly covered with mist and requires some tough trekking to reach the destination.

   Trek to the Chembra Peak and enjoy the scenic beauty and the heart-shaped lake atop of it.

   Banasura Sagar Dam: Located at a distance of 21 km from Kalpetta, the dam is the biggest earthen dam in India. Tourists are allowed to go atop of the dam and take pictures

   Witness the beauty of the biggest earthen dam in India, Banasura Sagar Dam.

2. Day 2: Yercaud
   Estimated Duration:5-6 hours, 225 km
   Start early in the morning and depart to Yercaud.
   Killiyur Falls: Located in the Servarayan hills and is a wonderful sight to witness. It is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photoholics.

   Visit Killiyur Falls and enjoy the view and the hilly bed of the waterfall.

   Pagoda Point: Located on the eastern part of Yercaud hills, this point derives its name from the temple-like structures of four piles. The beautiful hill view with rock formations adds value to this spot.

   Visit the Pagoda point from where the mountains appear as they touch the sun.

   Yercaud Lake: The lake is surrounded by lush gardens and trees, providing a spectacular view for tourists.

   Find serenity and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Yercaud lake in the evening.

3. Day 3: Backwaters of Alleppey
   Estimated Duration: 3-4 hours, 155 km Approx
   Head early in the morning to Alleppey, situated at a distance of 155km from Cochin.
   Houseboat Cruise: Witness the beautiful backwaters of Alleppey and get a chance to experience the picturesque view of nature. Enjoy the boat ride along with a delicious lunch experience.

   Experience the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters on a Houseboat which also includes a delicious meal serving.

   Krishnapuram Palace: Located between Alappuzha and Kollam, this palace is the epitome of the historic Kerala architectural style. The palace is surrounded by a large pond, making it a must-visit destination.

   Get to know the historic tales of Kerala’s architecture and remember to take pictures of the scenery surrounding Krishnapuram Palace.

   Kochi: The city is famous for numerous tourist attractions, including St Francis Church, the Chinese fishing nets, and Fort Kochi. Try going for a sunset walk by the Arabian Sea.

   Explore Kochi and its numerous attractions which include St Francis Church, the Chinese fishing nets or even go for a sunset by the Arabian Sea

Time and Cost Estimates

• Entry charges for the Edakkal Caves: INR 40 per person.
• Banasura Sagar Dam entrance fee: INR 10 per person for adults, INR 5 for children.
• Entry fee of INR 20 per person for Killiyur Falls and use of a camera costs INR 50.
• No entry fee for Pagoda Point.
• Entrance fee for Krishnapuram Palace costs INR 20 per person.
• Houseboat prices range from INR 6,000 to INR 30,000 per night (two people).

Useful Tips

If you have more time in Yercaud, you can visit the Anna Park, Deer Park, or Botanical Garden. If you have extra time in Alleppey, visit the Pathiramanal Island, Vembanad Lake, or Marari Beach. However, if you are short on time, you can visit Banasura Hill, Karalad Lake or Soochipara falls depending on the distance from your off-destination.