4-Day Itinerary for Wayanad and Varkala in August 2023

1. Day 1: Explore Wayanad
   3 hours (88 miles) from Calicut International Airport

   Wayanad is a beautiful hill station in Kerala that offers a variety of activities such as trekking, camping, and wildlife safaris. Start your morning with a visit to the Edakkal Caves, which are known for their ancient rock paintings. Afternoon, visit the Soochipara Falls, a picturesque waterfall that is surrounded by lush greenery. In the evening, explore the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and take a safari to spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife.

2. Day 2: Visit Banasura Sagar Dam and Pookode Lake
   1 hour 30 minutes (40 miles) from Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

   Visit the Banasura Sagar Dam in the morning, the largest earth dam in India and enjoy activities like speed boating and trekking. Later in the afternoon, visit the Pookode Lake, a natural freshwater lake surrounded by mountains and forests. You can go boating, fishing, and enjoy the scenic views. In the evening, relax at your hotel or have a bonfire night at a nearby campsite.

3. Day 3: Beach Day at Varkala
   5 hours (142 miles) from Wayanad

   Spend your morning driving to Varkala Beach, a pristine beach known for its beautiful cliffs and clear blue waters. Spend your time swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Varkala Beach Lighthouse. In the evening, enjoy the sunset from one of the many seaside restaurants and bars in the area.

4. Day 4: Sightseeing in Varkala
   10 minutes (2 miles) from Varkala Beach

   Start your day with a visit to the Anjengo Fort, a historical site built by the British East India Company in the 17th century. Later, visit the Kappil Beach, a tranquil beach with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, explore the Varkala Aquarium and the Sivagiri Mutt, a spiritual center of the Sree Narayana Guru. In the evening, relax at your hotel or explore the local markets for souvenirs.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Chembra Peak in Wayanad which is known for its breathtaking views. Another option is a day trip to the beautiful Athirapally Falls near Thrissur. To maximize your fun, try some local cuisine like appam and stew, puttu and kadala curry, and banana chips. For a unique experience, try a houseboat ride in Alleppey or visit the tea plantations in Munnar.

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