Munnar & Wayanad Shoestring Budget Itinerary - December 2023

Friday, December 22: Arrival in Munnar

Start your trip by arriving in Munnar. Morning: Visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and production of tea in the region. Afternoon: Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Echo Point and enjoy boating in Kundala Lake. Evening: Take a leisurely walk through the aromatic spice gardens in Munnar.

• Tea Museum: Entry fee - INR 150 ($2); Time spent - 2 hours
• Echo Point: Free; Time spent - 1 hour
• Kundala Lake: Boating - INR 200 ($3); Time spent - 2 hours
• Munnar Spice Gardens: Entry fee - INR 100 ($1.5); Time spent - 1 hour

Saturday, December 23: Trekking in Munnar

Morning: Embark on a guided trek to Anamudi, the highest peak in South India. Afternoon: Visit the picturesque Mattupetty Dam and enjoy a soothing boat ride. Evening: Relax with a serene walk through the Tea Gardens.

• Anamudi Trek: Guide fee - INR 500 ($7); Time spent - 6 hours
• Mattupetty Dam: Entry fee - INR 25 ($0.3); Boat ride - INR 300 ($4); Time spent - 2 hours
• Tea Gardens: Free; Time spent - 1 hour

Sunday, December 24: Exploring Wayanad

Morning: Visit the historic Edakkal Caves known for their ancient rock carvings. Afternoon: Explore the wildlife at the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary through an exciting jeep safari. Evening: Witness the mesmerizing sunset at the Banasura Sagar Dam.

• Edakkal Caves: Entry fee - INR 50 ($0.7); Time spent - 2 hours
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Safari fee - INR 250 ($3.5); Time spent - 3 hours
• Banasura Sagar Dam: Entry fee - INR 10 ($0.1); Time spent - 1 hour

Monday, December 25: Wayanad Heritage Tour

Morning: Visit the Wayanad Heritage Museum to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region. Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the lush greenery of the Soochipara Waterfalls and take a refreshing dip. Evening: Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the tranquil Pookode Lake.

• Wayanad Heritage Museum: Entry fee - INR 20 ($0.3); Time spent - 2 hours
• Soochipara Waterfalls: Entry fee - INR 80 ($1.1); Time spent - 2 hours
• Pookode Lake: Entry fee - INR 10 ($0.1); Time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, December 26: Wayanad Wildlife and Hiking

Morning: Embark on a thrilling early morning safari at the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary. Afternoon: Go for a scenic hike through the lush forests of Chembra Peak. Evening: Enjoy the panoramic views from the viewpoint near Meenmutty Falls.

• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary: Entry fee - INR 110 ($1.5); Safari fee - INR 420 ($6); Time spent - 4 hours
• Chembra Peak Hike: Entry fee - INR 500 ($7); Time spent - 5 hours
• Meenmutty Falls: Entry fee - INR 10 ($0.1); Time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Wayanad Tribal Excursion

Morning: Visit the indigenous tribal village of Thirunelli and learn about their unique customs and traditions. Afternoon: Explore the serene Kuruvadweep Island and enjoy a bamboo rafting experience. Evening: Observe the sunset at the scenic Karapuzha Dam.

• Thirunelli Tribal Village: Free; Time spent - 2 hours
• Kuruvadweep Island: Entry fee - INR 80 ($1.1); Rafting fee - INR 500 ($7); Time spent - 3 hours
• Karapuzha Dam: Free; Time spent - 1 hour

Thursday, December 28: Departure from Wayanad

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and depart from Wayanad. Safe travels!

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path experiences and places loved by locals, consider visiting the lesser-known Meenmutty Falls for a captivating waterfall adventure. You can also explore the captivating Neelimala View Point, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Don't miss the village of Kolagapara, known for its scenic beauty and tea plantations.