A Nature Lover's Escape: 3-Day Itinerary in Wayanad, Kerala
Saturday, October 21: Exploring the Lush Landscapes
Start your adventure by immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Wayanad. Begin your morning with a trip to the breathtaking Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth dam in India. Take a boat ride on the serene reservoir and marvel at the surrounding hills covered in mist. In the afternoon, head to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary for an unforgettable safari experience, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and various species of birds. Wrap up the day with a visit to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, offering mesmerizing views of the Western Ghats at sunset.
Banasura Sagar Dam: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 650 per person (safari), Estimated time spent - 3 hours
Chembra Peak: Estimated cost - INR 750 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
The DreamCafe: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the DreamCafe, known for their fresh-baked bread and organic ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
The Green Leaf Restaurant: Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at the Green Leaf Restaurant, offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
The Spice Station: Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at the Spice Station, renowned for its authentic Kerala cuisine and aromatic spices. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Sunday, October 22: Experiencing the Cultural Heritage
Dive into the cultural heritage of Wayanad on your second day. Begin your morning by visiting Edakkal Caves, a fascinating archaeological site with ancient rock carvings. Explore the caves and soak in the historical significance. In the afternoon, head to Pookode Lake, a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a boat ride and witness the abundance of flora and fauna. End the day with a visit to the Soochipara Falls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, to witness the cascading beauty amidst dense forests.
Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Pookode Lake: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Soochipara Falls: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple: Indulge in a traditional Kerala breakfast at this renowned temple restaurant. Enjoy hot idlis, crispy dosas, and refreshing coconut chutney. Average cost for a meal is about $3 per person.
Udupi Pure Veg: Savor a vegetarian feast for lunch at Udupi Pure Veg. Their thali meals are a perfect combination of flavors and textures, with a variety of curries, rice, and breads. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
ClayHut Village Restaurant: For dinner, experience the authentic tastes of Kerala at ClayHut Village Restaurant. Their menu features a range of seafood delicacies and traditional Malabar dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Monday, October 23: Discovering the Tea Gardens
On your final day, explore Wayanad's famous tea gardens. Begin your morning with a visit to the picturesque Meenmutty Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Wayanad. Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters and enjoy the stunning landscape. In the afternoon, head to the scenic tea estates of Wayanad and learn about the tea production process. Take a leisurely stroll amidst the green tea gardens, breathe in the aroma of fresh tea leaves, and enjoy a cup of authentic locally-made tea. End your trip by witnessing the mesmerizing sunset at Neelimala Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the rolling hills.
Meenmutty Falls: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Tea Gardens: No entry fee, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Neelimala Viewpoint: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Robusta, a charming cafe located amidst the tea gardens. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea, paired with their delectable homemade pastries and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, visit The Green Leaf Restaurant, a cozy restaurant serving authentic Kerala cuisine. Indulge in their mouthwatering seafood dishes, traditional vegetarian thalis, and flavorsome biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For dinner, dine at The Great Escape, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the surrounding hills. Treat yourself to their wide range of international dishes, including pizzas, pastas, and grilled meats. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature enthusiasts seeking off the beaten path attractions in Wayanad, I highly recommend a visit to Kuruva Island. This uninhabited island on the tributaries of the Kabini River is a haven for birdwatchers and offers scenic walking trails amidst dense forests. Another gem to explore is Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its rich biodiversity and tiger sightings. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the traditional rural life at Wayanad Heritage Museum, where you can learn about the indigenous tribal communities and their unique traditions.