5-Day Wayanad Itinerary for June 2023

1. Day 1: Edakkal Caves
   30 minutes (11.5 km) from Kalpetta

   Start the day at Edakkal Caves, a prehistoric site with stone carvings. Take a guided tour and learn about the history of the caves dating back to the Neolithic era. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Wayanad Heritage Museum for more insight into the region's history and culture. In the evening, head to Phantom Rock for a scenic sunset view.

2. Day 2: Banasura Sagar Dam
   1 hour 15 minutes (38.5 km) from Kalpetta

   Visit the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India. Go on a speedboat ride or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll around the reservoir. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Meenmutty Waterfalls for a refreshing dip in the pools. End the day with a visit to the Karapuzha Dam for a stunning sunset view.

3. Day 3: Chembra Peak
   1 hour (20 km) from Kalpetta

   Start the day with a trek to the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. The hike takes around 3-4 hours and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests. In the afternoon, visit the Pookode Lake for a scenic boat ride or take a dip in the freshwater lake. In the evening, head to the Chain Tree, a historic fig tree with an interesting legend behind it.

4. Day 4: Thirunelli Temple
   1 hour 30 minutes (58 km) from Kalpetta

   Visit the Thirunelli Temple, an ancient Hindu temple located amidst the Brahmagiri hills. Take a dip in the nearby Papanasini River, believed to have purifying powers. After lunch, head to the nearby Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary for a serene nature walk. In the evening, visit the nearby Kuruva Island for a peaceful boat ride amidst thick forests and bamboo groves.

5. Day 5: Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 15 minutes (45 km) from Kalpetta

   Start the day with a visit to the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Take a Jeep safari and spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Jain Temple at Sulthan Bathery for a glimpse of the region's spiritual heritage. End the day with a visit to the nearby Uravu Bamboo Village, where you can witness the traditional bamboo craft of the region.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on a visit to the Soochipara Waterfalls, a beautiful seasonal waterfall located about 45 minutes from Kalpetta. If you have time, consider taking a side trip to the nearby town of Vythiri, known for its lush greenery and coffee plantations. For a unique experience, try camping at the Kuruva Island or taking a sunrise trek to the Banasura Hill.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Edakkal Caves (2-3 hours, INR 40)
• Wayanad Heritage Museum (1-2 hours, INR 20)
• Phantom Rock (1-2 hours, Free)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2-3 hours, INR 60)
• Meenmutty Waterfalls (2-3 hours, INR 30)
• Karapuzha Dam (1-2 hours, Free)
• Chembra Peak (5-6 hours, INR 500)
• Pookode Lake (1-2 hours, INR 40)
• Chain Tree (30 minutes - 1 hour, Free)
• Thirunelli Temple (1-2 hours, Free)
• Papanasini River (1 hour, Free)
• Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary (2-3 hours, INR 100)
• Kuruva Island (2-3 hours, INR 80)
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary (3-4 hours, INR 250)
• Jain Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Uravu Bamboo Village (1-2 hours, Free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1260