Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary for Wayanad in December 2023

1. Day 1: Pookode Lake
   30 minutes (9.1 miles) from Kalpetta

   Enjoy a leisurely boat ride in the scenic Pookode Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and home to a variety of fish and birds. Take a hike around the lake or indulge in some shopping for traditional handicrafts and spices at the nearby markets.

2. Day 2: Edakkal Caves
   1 hour (14.8 miles) from Pookode Lake

   Explore the mysterious Edakkal Caves, filled with ancient petroglyphs and rock art. The hike up to the caves is moderately challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys along the way.

3. Day 3: Banasura Sagar Dam
   1 hour 20 minutes (24.7 miles) from Edakkal Caves

   Visit the largest earthen dam in India and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests. Take a boat ride on the lake or go trekking in the nearby hills. Don't miss the unique Banasura Meenmutty waterfalls, located close by.

4. Day 4: Thirunelli Temple
   1 hour 10 minutes (30.5 miles) from Banasura Sagar Dam

   Visit the ancient Thirunelli Temple, believed to be over 3000 years old and nestled in the midst of serene mountains and forests. Take a dip in the nearby Papanasini river or go for a hike to the Brahmagiri Hills for stunning views.

5. Day 5: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 30 minutes (31.2 miles) from Thirunelli Temple

   Explore the rich biodiversity of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Western Ghats. Spot animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, and deer, along with numerous species of birds and butterflies. Take a guided trek or jeep safari for an up-close experience.

Time and Costs Estimates:

• Pookode Lake (2 hours, INR 50 per person)
• Edakkal Caves (3 hours, INR 80 per person)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (4 hours, INR 10 per person + boat ride fees)
• Thirunelli Temple (2 hours, free entry)
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, INR 300 per person + jeep safari fees)
• Total Estimated Costs (per person): INR 440