Two-Day Itinerary for Wayanad in August 2023

1. Day 1: Chembra Peak
   30 minutes (8.1 miles) from Kalpetta

   Start your first day with a trek to the Chembra Peak, which is the highest peak in Wayanad. The trek starts with a 4 km journey from Meppadi to the foothills of the peak. From there, you have to trek 2 km uphill to reach the heart-shaped lake. This is an amazing place for photography. After a break, continue the trek to the peak for a panoramic view of the Wayanad district. The entire trek takes about 5-6 hours (including the journey to Meppadi).

2. Day 1: Edakkal Caves
   1 hour ( 14.8 miles) from Chembra Peak

   After a trek to the Chembra peak, head to the historical Edakkal Caves. These caves are located in the Ambukuthi Hills and are noted for their ancient carvings, some of which are believed to be over 8000 years old. It takes about 2 hours to explore the caves, which includes a steep climb.

3. Day 1: Pookode Lake
   40 minutes (10.6 miles) from Edakkal Caves

   End the day with a visit to the Pookode Lake, which is a freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. The lake offers a tranquil getaway from the busy city life. The lake is also frequented by many birds and you can rent a rowboat or pedal boat to enjoy the scenery.

4. Day 2: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 30 minutes (31.8 miles) from Pookode Lake

   Start your second day by exploring the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located in the foothills of the Western Ghats. Take a jeep safari to discover the wildlife, which includes tigers, leopards, elephants, and several species of birds. Inside the sanctuary, you can also visit the Pakshipathalam area, which is famous for bird-watching and trekking.

5. Day 2: Soochipara Falls
   1 hour (21.2 miles) from Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

   After the wildlife sanctuary, head to the Soochipara Falls, which is also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls. The drive to the falls is a bit tricky, but it is all worth it. The waterfall is a three-tiered waterfall and it requires a 2 km trek to reach the falls. The falls have a natural pool at the bottom where you can take a dip. Total time for the visit is around 1 to 2 hours.

6. Day 2: Banasura Sagar Dam
   45 minutes (13.7 miles) from Soochipara Falls

   End your trip with a visit to the Banasura Sagar Dam, which is the largest earthen dam in India and the second-largest in Asia. You can enjoy the scenic splendor of mountains and a lake here. Also, take a speedboat ride in the dam's reservoir. This place is perfect for stunning photographs and admiring its beauty.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Chembra Peak (6 hours trek) - No cost
• Edakkal Caves (2 hours) - INR 40 per person for entrance
• Pookode Lake (2 hours) - INR 10 per person for entrance and INR 50-100 to rent a boat
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (3-4 hours jeep safari) - INR 50 per person for entrance and INR 1500-2000 per jeep (6 seater)
• Soochipara Falls (1-2 hours) - INR 50 per person for entrance and INR 1200 for a jeep ride and hiking assistance (Optional)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2-3 hours ) - INR 10 per person for entrance and INR 750 per person for speedboat ride
Total Estimated Costs - INR 3000-4000 per person (excluding accommodation and transportation)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, don't miss out on the following places:

• Thirunelli Temple
• Kuruva Island
• Lakkidi View Point

If you have less time, you can skip visiting Pookode Lake and Banasura Sagar Dam, which tend to get crowded and time-consuming.