5-Day Nature Adventure in Waynaad

Friday, September 29: Arrival in Waynaad

Welcome to Waynaad, a nature lover's paradise nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala. After arriving at the Kozhikode International Airport, hire a taxi or rent a car to reach your accommodation in Waynaad. Spend the morning exploring the stunning Pookode Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and offering boating opportunities. In the afternoon, visit the breathtaking Soochipara Waterfalls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll through the lush tea gardens and enjoy the serene ambiance.

• Pookode Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Soochipara Waterfalls: Estimated cost - Entry fee of approximately $1 (INR 50) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Tea Gardens: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• The Beanery Café: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Beanery Café, known for its aromatic coffee and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• Green Leaf Restaurant: For lunch, head to Green Leaf Restaurant, a vegetarian eatery offering a variety of authentic Kerala dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• Rainforest Restaurant: Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Rainforest Restaurant, known for its unique jungle-themed ambiance and delectable multi-cuisine menu. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Saturday, September 30: Exploring Wildlife

Get ready for an exciting day filled with wildlife encounters. Start your morning by visiting the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various species of animals including elephants, tigers, and deer. Embark on a thrilling jeep safari to explore the sanctuary's diverse flora and fauna. In the afternoon, head to the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary for another wildlife safari experience. Marvel at the majestic creatures and immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. As the evening sets in, visit the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary for a chance to spot more wildlife and birds.

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - Entry fee of approximately $2 (INR 100) per person, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - Entry fee of approximately $2 (INR 100) per person, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - Entry fee of approximately $2 (INR 100) per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Sunday, October 1: Trekking in Chembra Peak

Prepare for an exhilarating day of trekking in the majestic Chembra Peak. Start your morning early to reach the base camp of Chembra Peak, located near Meppady. Embark on a challenging trek through lush forests and stunning landscapes, passing by a heart-shaped lake on your way to the peak. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys from the summit. After descending, take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters of the nearby Soochipara Waterfalls. Spend the evening relaxing and rejuvenating amidst nature.

• Chembra Peak Trek: Estimated cost - Entry fee of approximately $6 (INR 300) per group (maximum of 10 members), Time spent - 6-7 hours
• Soochipara Waterfalls: Estimated cost - Entry fee of approximately $1 (INR 50) per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, October 2: Wayanad Heritage Tour

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Wayanad on a heritage tour. Start your morning by visiting the Edakkal Caves, renowned for their ancient rock carvings and panoramic views. Spend time exploring the caves and learning about their archaeological significance. In the afternoon, head to the Wayanad Heritage Museum, which showcases artifacts, tools, and information about the indigenous tribes of Wayanad. As the evening approaches, visit the historic Jain Temple at Sultan Bathery, known for its intricate architecture and serene ambiance.

• Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost - Entry fee of approximately $3 (INR 150) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Wayanad Heritage Museum: Estimated cost - Entry fee of approximately $1 (INR 50) per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Jain Temple at Sultan Bathery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 3: Nature Retreat at Banasura Sagar Dam

Conclude your Waynaad adventure by visiting the magnificent Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India. Start your morning by enjoying a leisurely boat ride on the serene reservoir, surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush greenery. Afterward, embark on a short trek to the nearby Banasura Hill, offering panoramic views of the dam and its surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the charming Meenmutty Waterfalls and relish the mesmerizing beauty of three-tiered cascades amidst nature. Spend the evening relaxing by the dam before bidding farewell to Waynaad.

• Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated cost - Entry fee of approximately $2 (INR 100) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Meenmutty Waterfalls: Estimated cost - Entry fee of approximately $0.50 (INR 30) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions in Waynaad, consider visiting the stunning Kuruva Island, a serene river island offering lush forests, bamboo bridges, and rare species of birds. Another hidden gem is the Neelimala Viewpoint, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Meenmutty Waterfalls and the surrounding valleys. Locals also love exploring the tranquil forests of Thirunelli, home to the ancient Thirunelli Temple and picturesque hiking trails.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.