6-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Wayanad and Munnar in July 2024

1. Day 1: Edakkal Caves
   1 hour 45 minutes (47.4 miles) from Kozhikode International Airport

   Explore the fascinating Edakkal Caves, a set of two natural caves located 1200 meters above sea level. These caves are famous for their prehistoric carvings, which are believed to date back to 6000 BCE. The hike to the caves takes around 45 minutes, but the stunning views of the surrounding landscape make it worth it.

2. Day 2: Banasura Sagar Dam
   1 hour 10 minutes (25.7 miles) from Edakkal Caves

   The Banasura Sagar Dam is the largest earth dam in India and a popular tourist spot, especially for families. Visitors can enjoy boating on the dam's calm waters or go hiking in the nearby hills. The scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests make it a perfect spot for a picnic.

3. Day 3: Tea Museum and Eravikulam National Park
   2 hours 10 minutes (62.2 miles) from Banasura Sagar Dam

   Start the day by visiting the Tea Museum, where you can learn about the history and production of tea in India. Afterward, head to Eravikulam National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park's rolling hills are covered in lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

4. Day 4: Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake
   1 hour 15 minutes (23.4 miles) from Eravikulam National Park

   Visit the picturesque Mattupetty Dam, which is surrounded by lush forests and tea gardens. Take a boat ride on the tranquil waters of Kundala Lake and admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Kids will love the booming Echo Point, located nearby.

5. Day 5: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
   5 hours (147 miles) from Kundala Lake

   Spend the day exploring the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can take a jeep safari to spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. The sanctuary also has several trekking trails that are suitable for families with kids.

6. Day 6: Pookode Lake
   1 hour 45 minutes (50.7 miles) from Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

   End your trip with a visit to the scenic Pookode Lake, a freshwater lake surrounded by dense forest. Take a pedal boat ride on the lake or go for a leisurely walk around its shores. The nearby Wayanad Heritage Museum is also worth a visit.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Edakkal Caves (2 hours, ₹80 per person)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2 hours, ₹10 per person)
• Tea Museum (1 hour, ₹150 per person)
• Eravikulam National Park (3 hours, ₹120 per person)
• Mattupetty Dam (1 hour, ₹20 per person)
• Kundala Lake (1 hour, ₹200 per boat)
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (4-5 hours, ₹110 per person)
• Pookode Lake (2 hours, ₹20 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: ₹710 per person

Recommendations

If you're interested in adventure activities, consider adding a visit to Meenmutty Falls or Soochipara Falls to your itinerary. Both are located near the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and offer opportunities for trekking and rock climbing. You might also want to check out the Munnar Tea Festival, which takes place in August and offers visitors a chance to sample different types of tea and learn about tea production.