7-Day Waynad Itinerary

Thursday, August 31: Arrival in Waynad

Arrive in Waynad and check into your hotel. Take the afternoon to relax and settle in. In the evening, explore the local market and try some delicious street food.

• Hotel Check-in: Check hotel prices
• Local Market: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Friday, September 1: Chembra Peak and Pookode Lake

In the morning, embark on a trek to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Waynad. Enjoy the panoramic views from the top. In the afternoon, visit Pookode Lake and take a boat ride amidst the scenic surroundings. End the day with a visit to the nearby Soochipara Waterfalls.

• Chembra Peak: Cost varies for trekking guide, Time spent: 6-7 hours
• Pookode Lake: Entrance fee: INR 10, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Soochipara Waterfalls: Entrance fee: INR 80, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 2: Edakkal Caves and Banasura Sagar Dam

Start the day with a visit to the historic Edakkal Caves, known for its ancient rock engravings. After exploring the caves, head to Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India. Enjoy boating in the reservoir and soak in the picturesque views.

• Edakkal Caves: Entrance fee: INR 40, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Banasura Sagar Dam: Entrance fee: INR 10, Boating fee: INR 60, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Sunday, September 3: Thirunelli Temple and Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary

Visit the ancient Thirunelli Temple, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Waynad. Explore the temple and its surroundings. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling wildlife safari at Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary and spot various species of animals and birds.

• Thirunelli Temple: No entrance fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee: INR 115, Safari fee: INR 350, Time spent: 4-5 hours

Monday, September 4: Wayanad Heritage Museum and Meenmutty Falls

Start the day with a visit to the Wayanad Heritage Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. Explore the exhibits and learn about the local history. In the afternoon, trek to Meenmutty Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush forests.

• Wayanad Heritage Museum: Entrance fee: INR 20, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Meenmutty Falls: Entrance fee: INR 30, Time spent: 3-4 hours

Tuesday, September 5: Kuruvadweep and Bamboo Rafting

Head to Kuruvadweep, a group of islands formed by the Kabini River. Enjoy a serene walk through the lush green forests and bamboo groves. In the afternoon, indulge in a thrilling bamboo rafting experience on the river.

• Kuruvadweep: Entrance fee: INR 80, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Bamboo Rafting: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Wednesday, September 6: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Departure

On your last day, visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Embark on a jeep safari and spot elephants, deer, and various bird species. After the safari, it's time to bid farewell to Waynad and head back home.

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee: INR 80, Jeep safari fee: INR 450, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Departure: Check-out from hotel

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Thirunelli Forest Guest House, located near the Thirunelli Temple. It offers a tranquil setting amidst nature and is a great place to unwind. Another local favorite is the Kuruva Island, a pristine island on the Kabini River, perfect for picnics and nature walks.