Welcome to Wayanad! Begin your adventure by checking into your hotel and getting settled. In the morning, head to the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India, to witness its mesmerizing beauty and indulge in water activities like boating and kayaking. After a thrilling morning, visit the Edakkal Caves in the afternoon, known for its prehistoric rock carvings and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. In the evening, explore the local markets in Kalpetta and enjoy some authentic Wayanad cuisine.
Banasura Sagar Dam: Cost estimate - Entrance fee: INR 10 per person, Boating: INR 350 for 4 people, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Edakkal Caves: Cost estimate - Entrance fee: INR 40 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Kalpetta Market: Cost estimate - Varies depending on purchases, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day, located near Banasura Sagar Dam. Enjoy a wide array of tasty sandwiches, croissants, and refreshing coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to the Wilton Restaurant in Kalpetta and savor their delicious Kerala-style thali, which includes a variety of mouthwatering traditional dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at ClayHut Village Restaurant for dinner. Feast on their delectable Wayanad specialties like Malabar fish curry or chicken biryani while enjoying the rustic ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday December 30: Thrilling Trekking and Wildlife Experience
Start your day with an exciting trek to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. Enjoy breathtaking views of Wayanad's lush greenery and heart-shaped lake along the way. After the trek, visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in the afternoon, where you can spot various wildlife species such as elephants, tigers, and leopards. In the evening, unwind at the Pookode Lake and take a serene boat ride amidst the picturesque surroundings.
Chembra Peak Trek: Cost estimate - Guide fee: INR 750, Entrance fee: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 5-6 hours
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost estimate - Entrance fee: INR 110 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Pookode Lake: Cost estimate - Entrance fee: INR 20 per person, Boating: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious traditional South Indian breakfast at Pappadavada. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of dosas, idlis, and vadas to satisfy your taste buds. The average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Hotel Rahmania. Known for its lip-smacking biryanis and kebabs, this restaurant offers a wide range of flavorful North Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Ente Keralam. This restaurant specializes in authentic Kerala cuisine, including delicious seafood and traditional thalis. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday December 31: Adrenaline-Pumping Adventures
Get ready for an action-packed day! Start your morning by visiting the Soochipara Falls and indulge in adventurous activities like rock climbing and zip-lining. Enjoy the stunning views of three-tiered waterfalls amidst the lush green forest. In the afternoon, head to the Thirunelli Temple, a beautiful temple nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills and known for its architectural brilliance. As the evening approaches, trek to the Banasura Hill, offering panoramic views of Wayanad's scenic landscapes at sunset.
Soochipara Falls: Cost estimate - Entrance fee: INR 50 per person, Activities: INR 100-500, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Thirunelli Temple: Cost estimate - No entrance fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Banasura Hill Trek: Cost estimate - No entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try "Café Misty Mountain" which offers a cozy ambiance with stunning hill views. Enjoy their delicious traditional Kerala breakfast options starting at around 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to "ClayHut Village Resto" situated amidst lush greenery. This restaurant serves authentic Wayanad cuisine with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. An average meal here costs around 400 INR per person.
For dinner, visit "The Lake Symphony" located near the Banasura Sagar Dam. This restaurant offers a serene ambiance with picturesque lake views. Indulge in their delectable seafood and North Indian dishes with an average cost of 600 INR per person.
Monday January 1: Exploring Wayanad's Cultural Heritage
On the final day of your adventure, immerse yourself in Wayanad's rich cultural heritage. Start your morning by visiting the Wayanad Heritage Museum, showcasing ancient artifacts, tribal relics, and traditional art forms. In the afternoon, visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary and take a thrilling jungle safari, encountering wildlife species like elephants, deer, and monkeys. Wrap up your Wayanad journey in the evening with a visit to the historic Jain Temple, renowned for its architectural beauty and religious significance.
Wayanad Heritage Museum: Cost estimate - Entrance fee: INR 20 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost estimate - Entrance fee: INR 110 per person, Safari cost: INR 350 per person, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Jain Temple: Cost estimate - No entrance fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Café EssEmm. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of dosas, idlis, and vadas. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 150 per person.
For lunch, head to ClayHut Village Restaurant and savor authentic Kerala cuisine. Known for their delicious seafood dishes and traditional thali meals, this restaurant provides a unique dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at The Willow Tree. This fine dining restaurant offers a range of international and Indian delicacies, along with a great ambiance and excellent service. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 600 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adventure enthusiasts seeking off the beaten path experiences, consider exploring the secluded Neelimala Viewpoint. Trek through the forested trails to reach this viewpoint and be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Western Ghats. Another hidden gem is the Meenmutty Falls, a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Brace yourself for a challenging trek to reach the base and witness the spectacular cascade. These hidden gems will surely add an extra dose of adventure to your Wayanad journey.