7-day Family Friendly Itinerary for Wayanad and Kozhikode

Sunday, December 24: Arrival in Wayanad

Start your trip in Wayanad by immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the region. In the morning, visit the breathtaking Banasura Sagar Dam and take a boat ride on the reservoir. In the afternoon, explore the lush greenery of Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary on a jeep safari. As the evening sets in, unwind at Pookode Lake, a natural freshwater lake surrounded by forests.

• Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 150 per person, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Pookode Lake: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Monday, December 25: Lakkidi Viewpoint and Edakkal Caves

Start your day with a visit to Lakkidi Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the Wayanad landscape. In the afternoon, head to Edakkal Caves, famous for its ancient rock paintings. Explore the caves and learn about their historical significance. In the evening, enjoy shopping at the local markets in Kalpetta.

• Lakkidi Viewpoint: Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost - INR 40 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Kalpetta Markets: Cost varies based on purchases, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

On this day, explore the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark on a wildlife safari to spot wild animals like elephants, deer, and various bird species. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Jain Temple at Sultan Bathery. Later, take a leisurely walk through the lush tea plantations at Meppadi.

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 80 per person, Estimated time spent - 5 hours
• Sultan Bathery Jain Temple: Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Meppadi Tea Plantations: Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Wednesday, December 27: Exploring Kozhikode

Head to Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, for a day of exploration. Start your morning with a visit to Kappad Beach, where Vasco da Gama first set foot in India. In the afternoon, visit the Pazhassiraja Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the history of the region. Enjoy shopping and tasting local delicacies at SM Street in the evening.

• Kappad Beach: Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Pazhassiraja Museum and Art Gallery: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• SM Street: Cost varies based on purchases, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Thursday, December 28: Beypore and Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary

Begin your day by visiting Beypore, known for its ancient shipbuilding industry. Explore the Beypore Fort and the traditional wooden shipyard. In the afternoon, head to Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary and witness a variety of migratory bird species. Enjoy a serene boat ride to observe the birds in their natural habitat.

• Beypore Fort: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 25 per person, Estimated time spent - 3 hours

Friday, December 29: Thusharagiri Waterfalls and Mananchira Square

Visit Thusharagiri Waterfalls in the morning and witness the stunning cascade amidst lush green surroundings. Enjoy a refreshing swim if weather permits. In the afternoon, head to Mananchira Square, a beautiful park and the centerpiece of Kozhikode city. Relax in the picturesque garden and explore the nearby attractions.

• Thusharagiri Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Mananchira Square: Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Saturday, December 30: Departure

Say goodbye to Wayanad and Kozhikode as you depart for your next destination. Take the morning to relax, pack, and reminisce about your wonderful family-friendly trip before heading to the airport or train station.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off the beaten path experience, consider visiting Thikkoti Light House in Kozhikode. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Another local favorite is the Tushara Arts & Crafts Village in Wayanad, where you can learn about traditional art forms, interact with local artisans, and purchase unique handicrafts.