Exploring Wayanad and Alleppey: A Magical 5-Day Itinerary
Thursday, September 28, 2023: Arrival in Wayanad
Start your journey by arriving in Wayanad, a picturesque hill station known for its lush green landscapes and tea plantations. In the morning, take a refreshing walk through the tea gardens and enjoy the aroma of freshly brewed tea. In the afternoon, visit the popular Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. End the day with a relaxing boat ride on the serene Pookode Lake, surrounded by dense forests and tranquil surroundings.
Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 10 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Pookode Lake: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 20 per person, Boat ride INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Tea Garden Cafe
This charming cafe located amidst the tea gardens of Wayanad offers a variety of breakfast options including delicious omelettes, sandwiches, and traditional South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
Lunch: Clay Pot Restaurant
Experience the authentic flavors of Kerala cuisine at Clay Pot Restaurant. From lip-smacking seafood dishes to delightful vegetarian options, they have something for everyone. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Dinner: Zest 1934
Zest 1934 is a fine dining restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and delectable international cuisine. Indulge in their carefully crafted dishes and enjoy the warm hospitality. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Friday, September 29, 2023: Exploring Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries
Embark on an adventurous day exploring the wildlife sanctuaries in Wayanad. Start your morning with a visit to the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot elephants, deer, and various bird species during a thrilling jeep safari. Afterward, head to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its rich biodiversity and tropical rainforests. In the evening, visit the ancient Edakkal Caves, famous for their prehistoric rock carvings and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - Jeep safari INR 300 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 20 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 40 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
The Morning Cafe: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at The Morning Cafe, known for its fresh and healthy menu options. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Spice Box: For lunch, head to Spice Box, a local favorite that serves authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
The Treehouse: Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at The Treehouse, a unique restaurant nestled amidst nature. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Saturday, September 30, 2023: Wayanad Hill Station Exploration
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Wayanad's hill stations. Begin your day with a visit to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and tea estates. Afterward, head to the Soochipara Waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cascading waters and enjoy a picnic amidst the lush greenery. In the evening, explore the quaint town of Kalpetta and indulge in some local shopping for spices and handicrafts.
Chembra Peak: Estimated cost - Trekking fee INR 500 per group, Time spent - 5 hours
Soochipara Waterfalls: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 50 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Start your day at Coffee Grove, a cozy breakfast spot known for its fresh coffee and delicious pastries. Enjoy a selection of freshly brewed coffees and indulge in their signature breakfast platter. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Claypot Restaurant, where you can savor authentic Kerala cuisine amidst a rustic ambiance. Try their lip-smacking seafood specialties and traditional curries. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 300 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at The Willow Tree, a charming restaurant nestled amidst the hills. Treat yourself to their delectable continental dishes and enjoy a serene dining experience. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1, 2023: Backwaters of Alleppey
Leave Wayanad and travel to the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey. Start your morning with a relaxing houseboat cruise along the serene backwaters, marveling at the lush green surroundings and traditional Keralan villages. Enjoy a delicious lunch on the houseboat while cruising through the narrow canals. In the afternoon, explore the Alleppey Beach and soak in the sun or take a dip in the Arabian Sea. End your day with a visit to the famous Mullakkal Temple, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.
Houseboat Cruise: Estimated cost - Starts from INR 6,000 per night (varies based on the size and facilities of the houseboat), Time spent - 8 hours
On your last day, bid farewell to Alleppey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take some time to relax by the backwaters. In the afternoon, explore the local markets and indulge in some souvenir shopping. If time permits, visit the Krishnapuram Palace, a splendid palace known for its mural paintings and architecture. Depart from Alleppey with beautiful memories of your Wayanad and Alleppey adventure.
Local Markets: Estimated cost - Varies based on purchases, Time spent - 2 hours
Krishnapuram Palace: Estimated cost - Entrance fee INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Delight, a charming cafe located near the backwaters. Indulge in their delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, visit The Indian Kitchen, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Indian cuisine. Try their flavorful biryani or butter chicken with naan bread. The average cost for a lunch meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, dine at Spice Trail, a fine dining restaurant offering a wide range of local and international delicacies. Enjoy their mouthwatering seafood platter or grilled steak. The average cost for a dinner meal is about ₹500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Wayanad and Alleppey, don't miss the hidden gems and local favorites. In Wayanad, experience the tranquility of the Kanthanpara Waterfalls, tucked away in the dense forests. Enjoy a traditional Keralan meal at a local homestay and savor the flavors of the region. In Alleppey, visit the Pathiramanal Island, a peaceful haven for birdwatching, and take a leisurely walk through the lush green paddy fields, immersing yourself in the rural charm.