Saturday, September 16: Arrival and Local Exploration
Start your Waynad adventure by arriving in the morning and checking into your hotel. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming town, immersing yourself in its cultural atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the Edakkal Caves, a fascinating historical site with ancient rock art. As the evening sets in, head to Pookode Lake, a scenic freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and take in the serenity of the surroundings.
Edakkal Caves: Estimated Cost: INR 50 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Pookode Lake: Estimated Cost: INR 10 per person (entry fee), INR 150 per boat (approx.), Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Cafe Coffee Day - Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day, offering a range of delicious sandwiches and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: Udupi Restaurant - For a traditional South Indian lunch, head to Udupi Restaurant, known for its authentic flavors and variety of dosas and thalis. You can enjoy a satisfying meal here for an average cost of 300 INR per person.
Dinner: The Willow Tree - Indulge in a memorable dining experience at The Willow Tree, a fine dining restaurant serving a fusion of Indian and international cuisines. Enjoy a delectable meal here with an average cost of 800 INR per person.
Sunday, September 17: Wildlife Safari and Waterfalls
Embark on an exciting wildlife safari at the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in the morning. Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region, including elephants, leopards, and various bird species. After the safari, make your way to the breathtaking Soochipara Falls. Spend the afternoon marveling at the cascading waterfalls and enjoying a refreshing dip in the natural pool. In the evening, visit the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India, and soak in the panoramic views.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated Cost: INR 250 per person (safari), Time Spent: 3-4 hours
Soochipara Falls: Estimated Cost: INR 50 per person (entry fee), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Dumpling Delight: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Dumpling Delight, known for their wide variety of steamed and fried dumplings. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Jungle Bistro: For lunch, head to Jungle Bistro, a rustic restaurant nestled amidst the lush greenery of Wayanad. Indulge in their flavorful and authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Mystic Spice: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner experience at Mystic Spice, a fine-dining restaurant offering a fusion of Indian and international cuisines. Delight in their innovative dishes and elegant ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Monday, September 18: Plantations and Cultural Delights
On your last day in Waynad, explore the lush tea and coffee plantations in the morning. Take a guided tour to learn about the cultivation and processing of these popular beverages. Afterward, visit the Thirunelli Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills. Absorb the spiritual aura and admire the intricate architecture. In the afternoon, indulge in a traditional Kerala lunch at a local restaurant. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the quaint village of Tholpetty and interact with the friendly locals.
Tea and Coffee Plantations: Estimated Cost: Free (guided tour may have a fee), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Thirunelli Temple: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Kerala Lunch: Estimated Cost: INR 200-500 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Tholpetty Village: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Beans and Brews, a charming café located near the tea plantations. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and a variety of hearty breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Savor the flavors of Kerala cuisine for lunch at Spice Garden, a restaurant known for its traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Try their authentic thali meal for a wholesome experience. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For a memorable dinner, head to Misty Mountain Restaurant, a rooftop eatery offering stunning views of the surrounding hills. Indulge in their delectable continental and Indian dishes while admiring the scenic beauty. Average cost for a meal is about $18 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Waynad is known for its natural beauty, but there are some hidden gems and local favorites worth exploring. Pay a visit to the Neelimala Viewpoint, offering stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys. If you're up for an adventurous trek, head to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Waynad, for a challenging yet rewarding hike. For a taste of local culture, attend a Theyyam performance, a traditional dance and ritual art form unique to North Kerala. These hidden gems and local favorites will add a touch of authenticity to your Waynad experience.