4-Day Nature Inspired Itinerary in Wayanad

Saturday, October 28, 2023: Exploring Banasura Sagar Dam

Start your nature-filled journey by visiting the magnificent Banasura Sagar Dam in the morning. This reservoir is surrounded by lush greenery and offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. Take a boat ride on the placid waters and witness the beauty of the dam up close. In the afternoon, hike to the nearby Lakkidi viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the valleys below. As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful sunset at the dam. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 6-8 hours.

• Banasura Sagar Dam: Free, 6-8 hours
• Lakkidi viewpoint: Free, 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 29, 2023: Discovering Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Embark on a morning safari adventure at the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Experience the thrill of spotting elephants, deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, head to the Pookode Lake, a serene freshwater lake nestled amidst forests. Enjoy a boat ride and soak in the peaceful surroundings. As the evening approaches, visit the Soochipara Waterfalls and be mesmerized by its cascading beauty. Estimated cost: Wildlife safari - INR 600 per person, Pookode Lake - INR 10 per person, Soochipara Waterfalls - INR 80 per person. Time spent: 6-8 hours.

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 600, 6-8 hours
• Pookode Lake: INR 10, 1-2 hours
• Soochipara Waterfalls: INR 80, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Arabica, a cozy café known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
• For lunch, head to The Tamarind Tree, a popular restaurant offering a wide range of authentic local delicacies. Don't miss their flavorful biryanis and aromatic curries. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
• Celebrate a wonderful day at Mirchi Masala, a vibrant Indian restaurant serving mouthwatering dishes from various regions of the country. Taste their signature butter chicken and indulge in aromatic biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.

Monday, October 30, 2023: Exploring Edakkal Caves and Chembra Peak

Start your morning by visiting the awe-inspiring Edakkal Caves, known for its ancient rock carvings. Trek to the cave's entrance amidst the dense forest, and marvel at the historical significance of the art inside. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling trek to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the heart-shaped lake atop the peak. As the evening unfolds, cherish the tranquility and natural beauty of the Banasura Hill viewpoint. Estimated cost: Edakkal Caves - INR 40 per person, Chembra Peak - INR 750 per group, Banasura Hill viewpoint - Free. Time spent: 8-10 hours.

• Edakkal Caves: INR 40, 2-3 hours
• Chembra Peak: INR 750, 6-8 hours
• Banasura Hill viewpoint: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Cafe Mambos, a cozy little cafe known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
• For a delightful lunch experience, head over to Spice Garden Restaurant. Indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine, including mouthwatering biryanis and delectable seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
• End your day with a memorable dinner at The Vintage Restaurant. This charming eatery offers a wide range of continental and local delicacies, along with a great selection of wines. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.

Tuesday, October 31, 2023: Serene Meenmutty Falls and Kuruva Island

Begin your day by visiting the picturesque Meenmutty Falls, a three-tiered waterfall set amidst lush greenery. Enjoy the serenity and indulge in the cool waters of the cascade. In the afternoon, head to Kuruva Island, a protected river delta rich in biodiversity. Walk through the dense forest trails, cross bamboo bridges, and explore the hidden gems of the island. As the evening approaches, take in the tranquility of the island before bidding farewell to Wayanad. Estimated cost: Meenmutty Falls - Free, Kuruva Island - INR 80 per person. Time spent: 6-8 hours.

• Meenmutty Falls: Free, 2-3 hours
• Kuruva Island: INR 80, 3-4 hours

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe Muzik. This cozy cafe offers a wide variety of breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to hearty omelettes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, visit Gardenia Restaurant. This charming eatery serves an array of dishes, including local Kerala cuisine and international favorites. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
• Indulge in a delightful dinner at Vintage Inn. This elegant restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu featuring delectable Indian and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature enthusiasts seeking hidden gems in Wayanad, a visit to Thirunelli Temple is a must. Nestled amidst the hills, this ancient temple offers a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by forests. The Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, another off the beaten path attraction, is a paradise for birdwatchers. The sanctuary is home to various migratory and resident bird species. Local favorites include exploring the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, where one can spot stunning wildlife, and trekking to the enchanting Neelimala Viewpoint for breathtaking views of the region. Wayanad captivates visitors with its untouched natural beauty and numerous hidden treasures.

Make sure to check out hotel and flight prices on KAYAK for your stay in Wayanad!