6-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Athirapally and Wayanad

Tuesday, December 26: Athirapally Waterfalls

Start your trip by visiting the mesmerizing Athirapally Waterfalls. Enjoy the morning by marveling at the breathtaking cascade of water amidst lush greenery. Take a walk along the pathways to witness the beauty up close. In the afternoon, head to Vazhachal Waterfalls located nearby for more natural wonders. Spend the evening relaxing and cherishing the serene ambiance of Athirapally.

• Athirapally Waterfalls: Entry fee - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Vazhachal Waterfalls: Entry fee - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day, located near Athirapally Waterfalls. Enjoy a variety of breakfast options including sandwiches, omelettes, and fresh-brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to River View Restaurant which offers stunning views of the river and lush greenery. Indulge in a wide range of local Kerala cuisine including seafood dishes and traditional thali meals. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• End your day by dining at The Banyan Tree, a charming restaurant nestled amidst nature. Relish their delicious multi-cuisine menu featuring Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Wednesday, December 27: Wildlife Safari at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Embark on an adventurous morning safari at the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Explore the rich flora and fauna of the region while spotting elephants, tigers, and various species of birds. Afternoon is perfect for a visit to the Edakkal Caves, known for their prehistoric rock carvings. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around Pookode Lake and enjoy the serene surroundings.

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Entry fee - INR 110 per adult, INR 45 per child, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Edakkal Caves: Entry fee - INR 40 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Pookode Lake: Entry fee - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A cozy café called "Baker's Delight" is a great spot for breakfast with a wide variety of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
• For a delightful dinner experience, visit "Taste of Wayanad" which offers a diverse menu of Indian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.

Thursday, December 28: Banasura Sagar Dam and Meenmutty Waterfalls

Start your day by visiting the Banasura Sagar Dam, one of the largest earth dams in India. Enjoy scenic views, boating, and a nature walk around the dam. Afternoon is the best time to hike to the magnificent Meenmutty Waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip. In the evening, explore the local markets for souvenirs and indulge in delicious traditional Kerala cuisine.

• Banasura Sagar Dam: Entry fee - INR 10 per person, Boating - INR 750 (approx.) for 20 minutes, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Meenmutty Waterfalls: Entry fee - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• A cozy breakfast place near Banasura Sagar Dam is Cafe Cinnamon, known for its delicious pancakes and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, head to The View Restaurant, located at the base of Meenmutty Waterfalls, which offers a breathtaking view while enjoying their sumptuous biryani and seafood. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• Indulge in a delectable dinner at Pepper Grove Restaurant, famous for its traditional Kerala cuisine and welcoming ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.

Friday, December 29: Soochipara Waterfalls and Wayanad Heritage Museum

Begin your day by visiting the stunning Soochipara Waterfalls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls. Enjoy a rejuvenating dip in the natural pool formed at the base of the falls. In the afternoon, explore the Wayanad Heritage Museum and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. End your day with a visit to Wayanad's famous tea plantations and savor a cup of freshly brewed tea.

• Soochipara Waterfalls: Entry fee - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Wayanad Heritage Museum: Entry fee - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Tea Plantations: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in the area is The Hilltop Cafe, known for their delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a breakfast here is about $10 per person.
• For lunch, head to Spice Village, a local favorite for their authentic Wayanad cuisine. Enjoy dishes like Malabar Fish Curry and Appam. The average cost for a meal here is about $15 per person.
• In the evening, dine at The Bamboo Grove, a charming restaurant nestled amidst the lush greenery. Indulge in their mouth-watering grilled seafood and traditional Kerala biryani. The average cost for a dinner here is about $20 per person.

Saturday, December 30: Thirunelli Temple and Trek to Chembra Peak

In the morning, visit the ancient Thirunelli Temple, located amidst the dense forests of Wayanad. Experience spiritual tranquility and admire the architectural beauty of the temple. Afterward, embark on an exhilarating trek to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and heart-shaped lake on top. Spend the evening relaxing and cherishing the natural beauty of Wayanad.

• Thirunelli Temple: No entry fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Chembra Peak Trek: Entry fee - INR 500 per group (up to 10 members), Time spent - 5-6 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, try Cafe Robusta, a cozy cafe known for its delicious pancakes and fresh brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
• For lunch, head to ClayHut Village Restaurant, a popular spot that serves traditional Kerala cuisine. Don't miss their mouthwatering fish curry and appam. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
• For dinner, we recommend The Willow Tree, a charming restaurant offering a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Try their signature chicken biryani and homemade ice cream. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.

Sunday, December 31: Shopping and Departure

Spend your morning exploring the local markets of Wayanad and indulge in some shopping for spices, handicrafts, and traditional clothing. In the afternoon, check out from your hotel and head back home with wonderful memories of your family-friendly trip to Athirapally and Wayanad.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider a visit to the Kuruva Island, a serene uninhabited island on the Kabini River. It offers an escape into nature with lush greenery, bamboo groves, and a chance to spot rare bird species. Another hidden gem is the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse wildlife population, including elephants, leopards, and deer. These attractions provide unique experiences away from the usual tourist crowds and are suitable for family outings.

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