Exploring the Natural Beauty of Wayanad: A 4-Day Itinerary
Saturday, September 30: Arrival in Wayanad
Welcome to Wayanad! Start your nature-filled adventure by checking into one of the cozy hotels available in the area. Use this link to check hotel prices and availability. Spend the morning exploring the stunning Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India. Enjoy the serene surroundings and take a boat ride in the reservoir. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Pookode Lake, nestled amidst lush greenery. Take a relaxing boat ride or go for a nature walk around the lake. As the evening sets in, explore the quaint town of Kalpetta and savor some local cuisine.
Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
Pookode Lake: Estimated cost - INR 40 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Kalpetta: Cost varies depending on activities, Estimated time spent - Evening
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Wayanad is Café Robusta, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to ClayHut Village Restaurant, located amidst nature with a charming ambiance. Their traditional Kerala thali is a must-try, and the average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Jubilee Restaurant, offering a wide range of mouthwatering seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1: Exploring Wildlife and Waterfalls
Embrace the beauty of Wayanad's wildlife today. Start your morning with a visit to the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a jeep safari and spot elephants, deer, and various bird species. In the afternoon, head to the enchanting Soochipara Waterfalls and enjoy the cascading waters amidst dense forests. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pool or go for a short hike to capture breathtaking views. As the evening approaches, visit the Edakkal Caves, known for their ancient rock carvings and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person (including jeep safari), Estimated time spent - 4 hours
Soochipara Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost - INR 40 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
The Great Banyan Tree: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Great Banyan Tree. This charming restaurant offers a variety of options, from traditional Kerala dishes to international cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Mint Leaf Restaurant: For a delightful lunch, head to Mint Leaf Restaurant. Known for its authentic Indian flavors and cozy ambiance, this restaurant offers a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
The Willow Tree: Enjoy a memorable dinner at The Willow Tree. With its serene setting and delectable food, this restaurant is perfect for a romantic evening. Indulge in a mix of Indian and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, October 2: Tea Gardens and Sunrise Trek
Start your day early to witness a mesmerizing sunrise at the popular sunrise viewpoint in Wayanad. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the mist-covered hills as the sun paints the sky with vibrant hues. Afterward, visit the picturesque tea gardens in Meppadi and learn about the tea production process. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush green plantations and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea. In the afternoon, explore the stunning Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. Embark on a thrilling trek to reach the heart-shaped lake atop the peak and soak in the panoramic vistas. As the day ends, relax and unwind in the tranquil surroundings.
Sunrise viewpoint: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Tea gardens in Meppadi: No cost, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Chembra Peak: Estimated cost - INR 750 for a group of 10 people, Estimated time spent - 6 hours
Restaurants
The Misty Brews Cafe: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this charming cafe located amidst the scenic tea gardens. Indulge in their delicious local breakfast specialties, such as appam and stew, while enjoying the serene views. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
The Spice Blends Restaurant: For lunch, head to this traditional restaurant known for its flavorsome Kerala cuisine. Savor the mouthwatering biryanis, seafood curries, and vegetarian dishes prepared with aromatic spices. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
The Hilltop Retreat: Dine at this rooftop restaurant for a memorable dinner experience with a stunning view of the Chembra Peak. Relish their delectable multi-cuisine dishes, including barbecue delights, while soaking in the breathtaking panorama. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
As you wrap up your trip to Wayanad, explore the hidden gems and local favorites in the region. Start your morning with a visit to the tranquil Kanthanpara Waterfalls and enjoy the peaceful ambiance surrounded by lush greenery. Then, head to the Neelimala Viewpoint, known for its stunning panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Take a short trek to reach the viewpoint and witness nature's grandeur. In the afternoon, visit the serene Karapuzha Dam and indulge in a picnic by the backwaters. As you bid farewell to Wayanad, take some time to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs in the nearby markets.
Kanthanpara Waterfalls: No cost, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Neelimala Viewpoint: No cost, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Karapuzha Dam: No cost, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Shopping in local markets: Cost varies depending on purchases, Estimated time spent - Evening
Restaurants
Start your day with a scrumptious South Indian breakfast at the popular Hotel Wayanad. Known for its authentic flavors and wide variety of dishes, this restaurant offers a delicious meal for an average cost of about 150 rupees per person.
For lunch, head to the charming Cafe Robusta, a quaint cafe known for its delectable food and cozy ambiance. Indulge in their mouthwatering sandwiches and refreshing beverages at an average cost of about 250 rupees per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at ClayHut Village Restaurant, a rustic eatery that specializes in traditional Wayanad cuisine. Savor their authentic dishes like bamboo biryani and fish curry, with an average cost of about 400 rupees per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature enthusiasts, the lesser-known Thusharagiri Waterfalls is a must-visit. Located amidst dense forests, these mesmerizing waterfalls offer a serene and off the beaten path experience. Another hidden gem is the Chethalayam Waterfalls, known for its picturesque beauty and peaceful surroundings. For a unique experience, consider visiting the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary at night for a thrilling nocturnal adventure. End your trip by visiting the tranquil and lesser-explored Meenmutty Waterfalls, where you can enjoy the cascading beauty in a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.