3-Day Wayanad Adventure Itinerary in June 2023

1. Day 1: Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 35 minutes (45.1 km) from Kozhikode

   In the morning, drive to Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the northern part of Wayanad. Go on a jungle safari to spot elephants, tigers, leopards, and other wildlife. After the safari, head to the interpretation centre to learn about the flora and fauna of the sanctuary. In the afternoon, visit Pookode Lake, a freshwater lake surrounded by lush green forests. Take a boat ride and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the evening, explore the nearby Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. Trek to the top and enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding hills.

2. Day 2: Banasura Sagar Dam
   1 hour 20 minutes (36.5 km) from Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary

   Spend the morning at Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India. Enjoy a speed boat ride or go kayaking on the reservoir. After that, visit the nearby Meenmutty Waterfalls, a three-tiered waterfall located in a lush green forest. Trek to the waterfall and take a refreshing dip in the pool. In the afternoon, visit the Edakkal Caves, a prehistoric site with ancient cave paintings. Trek up the Ambukuthi Hill to reach the caves. In the evening, visit the Wayanad Heritage Museum to learn about the history and culture of Wayanad.

3. Day 3: Chethalayam Falls
   1 hour 20 minutes (36.7 km) from Banasura Sagar Dam

   Start the day with a visit to the Chethalayam Falls, a beautiful waterfall hidden in the forests of Wayanad. Trek to the falls and enjoy the scenic beauty. After that, visit the Kuruvadweep Island, a cluster of small islands on the Kabini River. Take a bamboo raft ride and explore the flora and fauna of the island. In the afternoon, visit the Thirunelli Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Take a dip in the nearby Papanasini river and seek blessings at the temple. In the evening, head back to your hotel and relax.

Recommendations

If you have an extra day, consider visiting the Soochipara Waterfalls, a three-tiered waterfall with a natural pool. You can also go on a trek to the Brahmagiri Peak, which offers a panoramic view of Wayanad. For a side trip, consider visiting the Kuruva Island, a group of uninhabited islands on the Kabini River. To maximize your fun, try the local cuisine, which includes appam, dosa, and seafood. You can also go shopping for spices, handicrafts, and tea.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, INR 300)
• Pookode Lake (2 hours, INR 40)
• Chembra Peak (3 hours, INR 500)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (3 hours, INR 60)
• Meenmutty Waterfalls (2 hours, INR 30)
• Edakkal Caves (2 hours, INR 40)
• Wayanad Heritage Museum (1 hour, INR 10)
• Chethalayam Falls (2 hours, INR 20)
• Kuruvadweep Island (3 hours, INR 80)
• Thirunelli Temple (2 hours, no entry fee)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1140