Saturday, December 9: Exploring the Natural Beauty
Start your trip by immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Waynad. In the morning, head to the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride amidst the picturesque surroundings. Afterward, visit the Pookode Lake, a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery, for a refreshing afternoon picnic. In the evening, explore the ancient Edakkal Caves, famous for their prehistoric rock carvings.
Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Pookode Lake: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost - INR 40 per person, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to ClayHut Village Restaurant which offers a delicious traditional Wayanad breakfast spread. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Hotel Mintflower, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, feast on delectable North Indian dishes at the Copperleaf Restaurant. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday, December 10: Wildlife and Cultural Exploration
Embark on a day of wildlife exploration and cultural immersion. Start your morning with a visit to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of flora and fauna. Take a guided safari to spot elephants, deer, and various species of birds. In the afternoon, visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, another sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity. Later, head to the Wayanad Heritage Museum to learn about the region's tribal heritage and artifacts.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 135 per person, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 110 per person, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
Wayanad Heritage Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Bungalow Restaurant, known for its delicious and hearty breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try out ClayHut Village Restaurant, offering a range of traditional Kerala dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, dine at Jubilee Restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance and a wide variety of Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Monday, December 11: Adventure and Relaxation
On your last day in Waynad, enjoy some adventure activities and relaxation. Begin your day with a visit to the Thusharagiri Waterfalls, known for its picturesque beauty and trekking opportunities. Spend the afternoon at the Karapuzha Dam, where you can indulge in boating or simply relax by the tranquil waters. In the evening, head to the Lakkidi Viewpoint, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and forests.
Thusharagiri Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
Karapuzha Dam: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Coffee Grove, a cozy cafe known for its mouthwatering sandwiches and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, visit ClayHut Village Restaurant, a charming eatery that serves authentic Kerala cuisine. Don't miss their delectable Kerala thali. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at The Bungalow Restaurant, offering a mix of Indian and continental dishes in a beautiful colonial-style setting. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you have some extra time in Waynad, consider visiting the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Waynad, for a challenging yet rewarding trek with panoramic views. Another off-the-beaten-path gem is the Thirunelli Temple, an ancient temple nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills, where you can experience a spiritual atmosphere. For a unique experience, explore the Wayanad Tea Museum and learn about the tea-making process while enjoying a cup of freshly brewed tea.