Exploring Waynad: A Family-Friendly 4-Day Itinerary
Friday, September 29: Arrival in Waynad
Welcome to Waynad! Start your trip by arriving at the Calicut International Airport and taking a scenic drive to your hotel. Spend the morning settling in and enjoying the resort's facilities, surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, head to Pookode Lake, a serene freshwater lake nestled amidst forests. Rent a pedal boat and explore the calm waters while taking in the beautiful surroundings. As the evening approaches, visit the Lakkidi Viewpoint, known for its breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling valley below.
Pookode Lake: Estimated cost: INR 50 per person for boat rental. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Lakkidi Viewpoint: No entry fee. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Restaurants
In the morning, start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Bake Shop. This cozy café offers a variety of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, head to ClayHut Village Restaurant located near Pookode Lake. Indulge in traditional Kerala cuisine, including mouthwatering seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
In the evening, dine at Meenumix Restaurant, a popular choice for dinner in Waynad. Enjoy a range of Indian and Chinese delicacies in a comfortable setting. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Saturday, September 30: Nature and Wildlife Exploration
Start your second day with a visit to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Embark on a jeep safari to spot elephants, deer, langurs, and various bird species in their natural habitat. Afterward, visit the breathtaking Soochipara Waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pools and enjoy the cascading waters. In the evening, head to the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary for another thrilling wildlife safari experience.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost: INR 500 per person for jeep safari. Time spent: 4-5 hours.
Soochipara Waterfalls: Estimated cost: INR 80 per person for entry. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost: INR 500 per person for jeep safari. Time spent: 4-5 hours.
Restaurants
Cafe Coffee Day: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day, located near the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. They offer a wide range of options including sandwiches, pancakes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 200 per person.
The Coffee County: For lunch, head to The Coffee County, a charming restaurant known for its delicious South Indian cuisine. Try their authentic dosas, biryanis, and filter coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 300 per person.
Mint Street Restaurant: Indulge in a flavorsome dinner at Mint Street Restaurant situated near the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary. With a menu featuring a mix of Indian and Chinese dishes, you can relish their mouthwatering biryanis, noodles, and curries. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 400 per person.
Sunday, October 1: Cultural and Historical Delights
Immerse yourself in Waynad's rich cultural heritage on the third day. Start the morning by visiting the Edakkal Caves, fascinating prehistoric caves adorned with ancient rock art. Spend some time exploring the caves and taking in the captivating history. Afterward, visit the Wayanad Heritage Museum, which showcases artifacts, tribal artifacts, and historical relics. In the evening, watch a traditional Kalaripayattu performance, an ancient martial art form indigenous to Kerala.
Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost: INR 40 per person for entry. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Wayanad Heritage Museum: Estimated cost: INR 20 per person for entry. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Kalaripayattu Performance: Estimated cost: INR 300 per person. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Monday, October 2: Serene Retreat and Departure
On your final day in Waynad, embark on a peaceful and spiritual journey. Start with a visit to the tranquil Thirunelli Temple, an ancient temple nestled amidst the lush Brahmagiri Hills. Take a dip in the sacred Papanasini River, believed to cleanse sins. Afterward, head to the serene Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India. Take a leisurely walk along the dam, enjoying the scenic beauty. In the afternoon, check out from the hotel and proceed to Calicut International Airport for your departure.
Thirunelli Temple: No entry fee. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated cost: INR 10 per person for entry. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Greenex Healthy Foods, a charming restaurant known for its organic and healthy menu options. Indulge in their freshly baked bread, smoothie bowls, and nutritious salads. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Satisfy your cravings for lunch at Udupi Bhavan, a popular vegetarian restaurant serving authentic South Indian cuisine. Enjoy their flavorful dosas, idlis, and a variety of traditional curries. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit Currymeen Restaurant, where you can relish a wide range of seafood delicacies prepared with local spices and flavors. Don't miss their signature fish curry and prawn masala. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Waynad, don't miss out on the local favorite of Meenmutty Falls, a stunning three-tiered waterfall surrounded by dense forests. It requires a short trek, but the breathtaking views and the opportunity to swim in the natural pools make it worth the effort. Another hidden gem is the Kuruva Island, a serene river delta formed by the Kabini River. It offers a peaceful escape with its lush greenery, bamboo groves, and picturesque landscapes. Both these attractions are family-friendly and provide an opportunity to connect with nature.