The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to start your family-friendly trip to Kunnur. It opens at 7 am and closes at 5 pm. You can explore the sanctuary in the morning and spot elephants, tigers, leopards, and other animals. You can also take an early morning trek or an evening jeep safari. There are several watchtowers where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the sanctuary. The sanctuary also has a museum and a nature interpretation center for educational purposes.
After exploring the sanctuary, head to Chembra Peak, a popular trekking spot in the Western Ghats. It opens at 7 am and closes at 2 pm. You can trek up to the heart-shaped lake, which is the main attraction of the peak. The trek is moderate and takes around 3-4 hours. The view from the top is breathtaking, and you can enjoy a picnic by the lake. You can also spot several endemic bird species during the trek.
On day 2, visit the Edakkal Caves, which is an archaeological wonder. It opens at 9 am and closes at 4:30 pm. The cave paintings and inscriptions date back to the Neolithic era. You have to trek uphill for around 45 minutes to reach the caves, but the view from the top is worth it. The caves are located in the Ambukuthi hills and have significant historical and cultural significance.
After exploring the caves, head to Pookode Lake, a serene lake surrounded by hills and forests. It opens at 9 am and closes at 5 pm. You can enjoy a boat ride in the lake and spot several fish species. The lake is also home to several migratory birds, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. You can also enjoy a nature walk around the lake and enjoy the lush greenery.
If you have time, you can also visit the Banasura Sagar Dam, a popular picnic spot, and the Thirunelli Temple, which is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. You can also consider taking a side trip to the Kuruva Island, which is a group of islands on the Kabini River, known for its natural beauty. To maximize your fun, make sure to carry sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes. It is also advisable to carry insect repellent as the sanctuary and forests have several insects.