Four-Day Nature Itinerary in Wayanad in July 2023

1. Day 1: Chembra Peak
   30 minutes (8.6 miles) from Kalpetta

   Enjoy a morning trek to the top of the highest peak in Wayanad. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and the heart-shaped lake on the way up. After lunch, visit Pookode Lake, a serene freshwater lake surrounded by forests. End the day with a visit to the Edakkal Caves, which contain ancient petroglyphs and offer sweeping views of the valley below.

2. Day 2: Thirunelli Temple and Brahmagiri Peak
   1 hour 30 minutes (39.5 miles) from Kalpetta

   Start your day with a visit to the ancient Thirunelli Temple, nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills. Take a dip in the nearby Papanasini river, believed to wash away sins. After lunch, embark on a challenging trek to the Brahmagiri Peak, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding forests and hills. End the day with a visit to the peaceful Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, home to a variety of bird species.

3. Day 3: Banasura Sagar Dam and Meenmutty Falls
   1 hour 40 minutes (37.6 miles) from Kalpetta

   Visit the largest earthen dam in India, the Banasura Sagar Dam, in the morning. Enjoy a boat ride on the serene waters and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding hills. After lunch, trek to the stunning Meenmutty Falls, which cascade down from a height of 300 meters. End the day with a visit to the Kuruva Island, a lush green island on the Kabini river, home to a variety of flora and fauna.

4. Day 4: Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary and Soochipara Falls
   50 minutes (13.5 miles) from Kalpetta

   Embark on a morning jeep safari to the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of animals such as elephants, tigers, and deer. After lunch, trek to the picturesque Soochipara Falls, which cascade down from a height of 200 meters and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding forests. End the day with a visit to the Chethalayam Falls, a hidden gem in the forests of Wayanad.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on the Chethalayam Falls, a stunning waterfall hidden in the forests. If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to the nearby Ooty, a popular hill station known for its picturesque tea plantations. To maximize your fun, try local cuisine like the Wayanadan biryani, made with local spices and herbs.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Chembra Peak (4 hours, free)
• Pookode Lake (2 hours, INR 20)
• Edakkal Caves (2 hours, INR 40)
• Thirunelli Temple (2 hours, free)
• Brahmagiri Peak (6 hours, free)
• Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 20)
• Banasura Sagar Dam (2 hours, INR 10)
• Meenmutty Falls (4 hours, INR 30)
• Kuruva Island (3 hours, INR 80)
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, INR 110)
• Soochipara Falls (3 hours, INR 50)
• Chethalayam Falls (2 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 360