4-Day Wayanad Itinerary in July 2023

1. Day 1: Banasura Sagar Dam
   50 minutes (20 miles) from Kalpetta

   In the morning, visit Banasura Sagar Dam, which is the largest earth dam in India. Enjoy boating in the dam reservoir. After that, take a short hike to Banasura Hill for a panoramic view of the dam and its surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Meenmutty Falls, which is a three-tier waterfall and is a perfect place for a picnic. In the evening, explore the Tribal Museum to learn about the tribal communities in Wayanad and their culture.

2. Day 2: Edakkal Caves
   1 hour 20 minutes (35 miles) from Kalpetta

   Start your day by visiting the Edakkal Caves, which are natural caves formed by boulders. These caves are famous for their ancient rock engravings, which date back to the Neolithic era. In the afternoon, visit the Phantom Rock, which is a natural rock formation resembling a skull. Enjoy the panoramic view of the surroundings from the top of the rock. In the evening, visit the Wayanad Heritage Museum to explore the rich history and culture of Wayanad.

3. Day 3: Pookode Lake
   30 minutes (13 miles) from Kalpetta

   Visit the Pookode Lake in the morning, which is a freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy boating and explore the wildlife sanctuary located near the lake. In the afternoon, visit the Chembra Peak, which is the highest peak in Wayanad. Trek to the top of the peak for a breathtaking view of the surroundings. In the evening, visit the Jain Temple, which is a famous pilgrimage site for Jains.

4. Day 4: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour (22 miles) from Kalpetta

   In the morning, visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, tigers, and leopards. Enjoy a jungle safari and explore the flora and fauna of the sanctuary. In the afternoon, visit the Kuruva Island, which is a group of small islands located on the Kabini River. Enjoy a picnic and explore the lush greenery. In the evening, visit the Thirunelli Temple, which is an ancient Hindu temple located at the foothills of Brahmagiri hills.

Recommendations

Aside from the recommended places in the itinerary, you may also consider visiting the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, which is another wildlife sanctuary in Wayanad. You may also try the local cuisine in the nearby restaurants and cafes. To maximize your fun, you can rent a bike or a car to explore the different places in Wayanad. We also suggest that you bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent for your outdoor activities.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Banasura Sagar Dam (3 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Meenmutty Falls (2 hours, INR 10 per person)
• Tribal Museum (1 hour, INR 20 per person)
• Edakkal Caves (3 hours, INR 80 per person)
• Phantom Rock (1 hour, no entrance fee)
• Wayanad Heritage Museum (1 hour, INR 20 per person)
• Pookode Lake (2 hours, INR 10 per person)
• Chembra Peak (4 hours, INR 750 per group of 10 people)
• Jain Temple (1 hour, no entrance fee)
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, INR 110 per person)
• Kuruva Island (2 hours, INR 80 per person)
• Thirunelli Temple (1 hour, no entrance fee)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1,200 per person