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If you are looking for the best Wayanad itinerary for 2 days then you are at the right place. In this article, I am going to provide information about a Wayanad itinerary for 2 days which includes the best time to visit Wayanad, places to visit in Wayanad, how to reach Wayanad, the local culture of Wayanad, and what I found most appealing about Wayanad
Introduction of Wayanad
A Beautiful View From Wayanad.
Wayanad is a beautiful cool place in the Western Ghats of Kerala. Here you will find a beautiful blend of nature and wildlife and the local culture. On reaching here, you are greeted by the misty mountain ranges, the far-off greenery and the sanctified atmosphere.
I think it’s a great place to relax and take some time out from our hectic daily lives. What I found most appealing about Wayanad was its ability to offer both adventure and relaxation.
In Wayanad, you also get to see many picturesque waterfalls such as Soochipara waterfall and Meenmutty waterfall that will surely delight your mind as they tumble down through the lush green vegetation. Being here and seeing the wonderful view of the Western Ghats from it gave me a lot of peace of mind.
If you are planning to stay in Wayanad, instead of a hotel, I would suggest you go for a traditional homestay as Wayanad offers some of the best homestays in South India. If you’re planning a short trip, it is a great choice to plan the best Wayanad itinerary for 2 days
Best time to visit Wayanad.
Great Atmosphere Of Wayanad.
If you are planning to visit Wayanad then I think the best time for you is October to February during winter. The climate here is very pleasant during winter which makes it perfect for trekking sightseeing and wildlife exploration. I visited Wayanad in November and the vast expanse of greenery and open sky was an unforgettable experience for me.
June to September is the best time to visit if you are a fan of monsoons, but after the recent landslide incident in Wayanad, I would suggest you not visit during monsoons. Being located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, this place receives heavy rainfall, so keep in mind that many places cannot be visited during monsoons.
Summers can also be the best time to visit this place as the temperature stays below 20 degrees Celsius even in summers so if you are suffering from the heat then you can visit here in summers to get relief from it for some time. Finally, I would suggest you decide to visit here at your convenience.
How to reach Wayanad.
Wayanad is not very difficult to reach. But from my experience, I suggest you travel to Wayanad by road because this trip is very charming. While travelling by road we can see lovely scenery and greenery here. I also travelled by road while visiting Wayanad.
By Air Travel
If you are going to travel by air then the nearest airport to Wayanad is Kozhikode Airport which is 90 Kms from Wayanad from where you will get many taxis to Wayanad. This Kozhikode to Wayanad journey will surely be unforgettable for you so I suggest you not sleep during this journey, otherwise you will miss many fascinating sights.
By Train
If you like to travel by train then you can also visit Wayanad by train. The nearest railway station to Wayanad is Calicut Railway Station where taxis are available which take you to Wayanad within two hours.
By Road ( My Favourite )
If you like driving like me then you can travel to Bangalore by plane or train and then you can take a self-drive taxi from Bangalore and drive yourself to Wayanad I have travelled this way once and my experience was very unforgettable It is about 280 km and it took me four to five hours to complete this journey but the enjoyment from this journey will be really exciting for you.
Where to stay at Wayanad.
On reaching Wayanad the first question before us is where to stay in Wayanad but for this, there are many options available in Wayanad. Wayanad has options ranging from budget homestays to luxury hotels so you can choose the options at your convenience. But I would suggest you opt for a homestay in Wayanad rather than a hotel because the homestays here are the best I have seen to date.
During my visit to Wayanad, I stayed at a homestay called Green Mount Cottage, run by a local family. In this homestay, I got to experience the traditional Kerala food prepared by the local people which also helped me in planning my trip as they are locals.
For those who enjoy nature and a bit of luxury, Vythiri Resort is an excellent choice. Located in the middle of a rainforest, the resort offers treehouses, villas, and rooms with stunning views of the forest
If you’re travelling budget is tight, then Banasura Hill Resort is another fantastic option. It’s eco-friendly and offers rooms made from mud, giving it a unique rustic charm. I loved the fact that it’s located near Banasura Sagar Dam so that you can visit it very easily from this resort.
Best places to visit in Wayanad.
Wayanad is a place located in the Western Ghats of Kerala and for nature lovers, it seems like a treasure of natural beauty. Dense forests, mist-shrouded mountains and waterfalls gushing through dense forest will surely keep you entertained in one place.
I was also stunned to see all these places on my visit to Wayanad. If you are planning to visit here, I would like to suggest some beautiful places here to help you plan your trip.
Edakkal Caves
Location: Google Maps
This is one of the most unique places I have visited in Wayanad. The ancient caves here are 6000 years old. The caves are carved with human figures, animals and birds, which stand as a testimony to the ancient history of man. You have to trek for 40 to 45 minutes to reach here but seeing the beauty here makes the trek worthwhile. The view from the top of the hill is very beautiful
Wayanad wildlife sanctuary
Location: Google Maps
If you love wildlife tourism like me, then Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary will be a great place for you. This wildlife sanctuary is a part of the Nilgiris Bio Spare Reserve. In this sanctuary, you will get to see tigers, elephants, leopards as well as many species of birds. If you want to take a jungle safari here, I suggest you book a morning jungle safari here.
The sanctuary Is divided into two parts – Muthanga and Tholpetty. I visited the Muthanga range, and the dense forests, along with the chance to spot wildlife, It was an unforgettable experience for me.
Chembra Peak
Location: Google Maps
If you love trekking and adventure then Chembra Peak is a must-visit place for you. Chembra Peak is the highest peak in Wayanad with a height of 2100 meters. While reaching Chembra Peak, you have to travel through dense green forest and you also get to see a heart-shaped lake which is one of the major tourist attractions for trekkers. From the peak, you get a breathtaking panoramic view of Wayanad that you will remember forever.
The District Tourism Promotion Council provides guidance and trekking equipment to trekkers for fees.
Suggestion: One thing to remember here is that every day only certain people are allowed to trek so I would suggest you start your trek early in the morning.
Soochipara Waterfalls
Location: Google Maps
A View Of Soochipara Waterfall.
Soochipara Water Fall is also known as Sentinel Rock Water Fall. Surrounded by thick green trees, this waterfall is a beautiful waterfall in Wayanad. One can reach this waterfall by a short trek. When I visited the Sochepara waterfall and saw the water falling from a height of almost 200 meters, my mind experienced an awe-inspiring peace.
The sound of the water cascading down from a height of 200 meters increases as you approach the falls and it was a thrilling experience for me.
Banasura Sagar Dam
Location: Google Maps
A view Of Banasura Dam Lake.
Bana Sura Sagar Dam is located at a distance of 21 km from Kalpetaa. The dam is surrounded by Bansur hills. If you want to spend a relaxing afternoon in a quiet place then this place can be perfect for you. I also spent a relaxing afternoon at this place, enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. I also took a boat ride on the calm waters of this dam.
I want to tell you here that a speed boat option is also available at this place but if you want to have a calm boating experience then you can also do simple boating like me.
Kuruva Island
Location: Google Maps
Kuruva Island is a group of small islands on the Kabine River. There is no habitation on these islands. But these islands are very rich in flora and fauna. Even the peace of this place cannot be compared to any other place. I took the help of a bamboo raft boat to reach here and travelling on this bamboo raft boat was also a thrilling experience. Walking along the banks of the river on this island makes you feel connected to nature. The island is a great place for bird watching and if you are lucky, you may even spot some wild animals.
Phantom rock
Location: Google Maps
Phantom rock is a unique Rock structure. It looks like a human skull. This rock is naturally formed due to friction of air over the years. A short trekking is necessary to reach at this location, also this tracking is not very difficult. The look of the surroundings is very beautiful from this place.
I visited Phantom Rock in the late evening so that I could enjoy the beautiful golden View of the sunset from there.
It is also a perfect spot for photographers who want to capture some beautiful shots and nature lovers who want to connect to nature
Pookode Lake
Location: Google Maps
View Of Pookode Lake
It is a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by the hills of Wayanad. Surrounded by lush greenery, it is one of the best attractions for nature lovers.
here you can enjoy a peaceful boating ride along with peaceful forest cover.
You can find a small aquarium and a children’s park near Pookode Lake, it can be your best experience if you are travelling with your family. Children of your family enjoy this place.
Thirunelli Temple
Location: Google Maps
An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is nestled in the Brahmagiri mountain range. The architecture of the temple is very good and the dense greenery around it and the religious atmosphere created here add more to the beauty of this temple.
During my visit, I visited this temple early in the morning so that I could spend enough time in the religious atmosphere.
On the premises of this temple, you will also find a papanashi spring. Locals believe that taking a bath in this spring washes away all the sins of a person, hence it is called papanashi. I have seen many people in my travels coming out after bathing here
Meenmutty Waterfalls
Location: Google Maps
This is another beautiful waterfall in Wayanad. It is near Bansur Sagar Dam. To reach this place, you have to do a relatively difficult trek of two kilometres as the waterfall is situated in a dense forest. But when you reach that place, you get to see such a sight that you forget all the fatigue of reaching here.
The water of this waterfall falls from a height of about 300 meters and the sight will make you hold your breath. As the trekking of this place is a bit difficult, I would suggest you wear some good quality shoes and trek carefully as the road here is also a bit slippery.
What to eat at Wayanad
Kerala is famous for its flavorful dishes, and Wayanad didn’t disappoint you with its delicious food options.
the first place I tried was The 1980s A Nostalgic Restaurant in Kalpetta. This place serves authentic Kerala meals, and I absolutely loved their Puttu with Kadala Curry—a simple but unique combination of steamed rice cake and black chickpea curry.
Their fish curry, made with fresh catch, was also a highlight of my meal.
The restaurant operates from 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM,
For breakfast, I highly recommend trying Udupi Restaurant near Sultan Bathery. Well Known for its vegetarian South Indian cuisine, I love its soft, fluffy Appam with a coconut-based vegetable stew. The appams were light, and the stew was medium spicy, making it the perfect start to the day.
They are open from 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM, and it’s a great spot for those who love vegetarian dishes.
If you are a sweet dish lover like me, don’t miss Unniyappam from local bakeries. This fried rice cake, made with jaggery and ripe bananas, is both sweet and crunchy—a perfect snack for you.
Another delightful experience was at Wilton Restaurant in Sultan Bathery. I tried their Malabar Biryani, which was aromatic with flavours of spices and tender meat.
They are open from 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM, and the ambience was casual but appealing.
The food in Wayanad, with its traditional flavours and fresh ingredients, added an extra layer of joy to my travel experience.
What to Shop at Wayanad
Wayanad is known for its local culture and unique handicrafts so I would suggest you buy some of the famous items here. I found the market in Kalpatta and Sultan Bathery to be the best for shopping. Here you can find many unique handmade items.
Among them, I particularly liked the handmade bamboo items. Looking at these items gives you a sense of the skill of the artisans who make them. I also liked basket mats and some toys among these handmade items.
Wayanad is also particularly famous for its spices so a visit to this place should make buying spices a must. Here I visited a spice plantation, where I enjoyed cardamom and black pepper as well as different types of coffee. Like spices, Wayanad is also known for its coffee plantations, so a visit to this place cannot be complete without buying coffee.
When I visited a coffee plantation in this place, the aroma of coffee permeated the whole area and it was one of the best experiences of my visit.
At this place, I bought coffee made from fresh coffee beans and also bought some coffee beans as a souvenir.
The local markets here are also famous for handcrafting special traditional Kerala sarees. The shopkeepers here tell you very well the history behind the production of these sarees and also the method of making them. I also bought some beautiful sarees for my mother and sister from this place. These sarees are made from natural fabric and the attractive designs on them make you feel the craftsmanship of the artisans.
In addition to the handicrafts and local products, I found that Wayanad offers a range of organic products, including honey and herbal teas. These are perfect for anyone looking to take home
Overall, my shopping experience in Wayanad was enriching. I left with a bag full of unique finds.
Local culture of Wayanad.
Wayanad offers a beautiful blend of traditional history and a deep connection with nature. The locals, mainly belong to indigenous tribes, like the Paniyas, Kurichiyas, and Adiyas. I had the chance to visit a tribal village, where I learned about their unique customs, traditional dances, and lifestyle. And it was fascinating to see how they lived harmoniously with the forests around them.
I also noticed that agriculture plays a significant role in Wayanad’s culture. Many of the locals are farmers, growing crops like coffee, tea, spices, and rice. The traditional methods of farming passed down through generations, I had the opportunity to visit a spice plantation and learn how cardamom, pepper, and other spices are cultivated. Overall, Wayanad’s culture is a harmonious blend of tradition, simplicity, and a strong connection to nature.
What care should be taken while visiting Wayanad?
Although Wayanad is a very beautiful and peaceful place, Being situated in the Western Ghats, this place receives a lot of rainfall so all the visitors should take care of a few things during their trip to make their journey safer and more comfortable. As mentioned earlier I would like to reiterate to you that if possible do not travel to Wynad during monsoons as a recent landslide incident in August 2024 killed hundreds of people in Wayanad.
So even though Wayanad’s environment like rivers, and waterfalls is at its best during monsoons, travel to Wayanad should generally be avoided during monsoons. And even if you want to visit Wayanad during the monsoons, you should plan your trip with a full forecast of the weather.
Another important aspect to consider is clothing. Wayanad is a hill station, so the weather can be quite chilly in the mornings and evenings. Even during the day, if you’re visiting one of the many peaks or high-altitude areas, you may experience cooler temperatures. I packed light, breathable clothing for the daytime but also carried a few warm layers for the cooler parts of the day. It’s also essential to wear comfortable shoes with a good grip, especially if you’re planning on trekking or visiting waterfalls.
One thing I noticed is that wildlife is quite active in Wayanad. The forests here are home to elephants, bison, and other animals. While the chances of encountering wildlife on regular roads or tourist spots are low, it’s important to respect the natural habitat and not venture into restricted areas. During my visit to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, I made sure to follow all the rules and stay on designated paths.
Overall, Wayanad is a beautiful destination but it’s crucial to be aware of potential risks, especially during the rainy season. With a little preparation and caution, you can ensure that your trip to Wayanad is safe and enjoyable
Best Wayanad itinerary for 2 days
Day 1: Exploring the Nature and History of Wayanad
Morning: Edakkal Caves
I started my first day with a visit to the famous Edakkal Caves. These ancient caves are known for their prehistoric carvings, and I was excited to explore this unique historical site. Located about 25 km from Kalpetta, it took me around an hour to get there by car.
The trekking up to the caves was a bit challenging, but the breathtaking view from the top and the ancient rock made it all worthwhile. It’s important to reach early because the caves close by 4 PM, and the best time to visit is in the morning when it’s less crowded.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults
Afternoon: Wayanad Heritage Museum
After exploring Edakkal Caves, I made my way to the Wayanad Heritage Museum in Ambalavayal, just a short drive away. This museum provides information about the rich history and culture of Wayanad. From ancient artefacts to tribal communities, I learned a lot about the region’s heritage. It’s a great stop if you’re a history enthusiast.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults
Late Afternoon: Soochipara Waterfalls
After a quick lunch, I headed to Soochipara Waterfalls, which is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Wayanad. The journey to the falls was scenic, passing through tea plantations and lush greenery. A short trek took me to the waterfall, where the cool mist air refreshed me after a long day of exploring. I spent an hour or two in the beauty of the surroundings.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹80 per person
Evening: Pookode Lake
To end my first day, I made my way to Pookode Lake, a peaceful freshwater lake surrounded by hills and forests. It’s a great spot for boating, and I decided to take a pedal boat ride, which was a lot of fun. As the sun began to set, the lake took on a magical glow. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 for entry, ₹100 for boating
Day 2: Wildlife and Scenic Views
Morning: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
The second day started with an early morning trip to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the highlights of my visit. I opted for a safari, which was an incredible experience. I got to see elephants, deer, and several species of birds in their natural habitat. The sanctuary’s lush greenery and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit for nature lovers. The best time for the safari was early in the morning, so I made sure to get there by 7 AM.
Timings: 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹110 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners (Jeep safari costs extra)
Afternoon: Banasura Sagar Dam
Next, I headed to Banasura Sagar Dam, Asia’s second-largest earthen dam. The dam is surrounded by hills and water, offering stunning views of those hills I took a speedboat ride, which gave me a fantastic view of the surrounding hills. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature. I spent some time walking around before heading to my next destination
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults
Late Afternoon: Lakkidi Viewpoint
For the final stop of my trip, I made my way to Lakkidi Viewpoint, often called the “Gateway of Wayanad.” It’s known for offering one of the best panoramic views of Wayanad. I arrived just before sunset, and the view of the winding roads and lush green hills was absolutely amazing.
The cool breeze at this altitude made it a perfect way to end my two-day adventure in Wayanad.
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free.
Conclusion:
My two days in Wayanad were packed with nature, adventure, and history. The blend of beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and historical sites made the experience unforgettable. If you’re looking for a short trip to a serene, green paradise, this best Wayanad itinerary for 2 days will give you a perfect taste of what Wayanad has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Based on my own experiences and interactions with locals, these answers should help you to plan your best Wayanad itinerary for 2 days.
1. What is the best time to visit Wayanad?
In my opinion, the best time to visit Wayanad is between October and May. During these months, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the outdoors. I visited in November, and the cool breeze made trekking and sightseeing very enjoyable.
If you enjoy the monsoon season, June to September offers a lush green landscape, but it can be tricky to travel due to heavy rains and occasional landslides.
2. How do I reach Wayanad?
Reaching Wayanad is easy. Since there’s no direct airport or railway station, the nearest airport is Calicut International Airport (Karipur), about 100km away.
Kozhikode Railway Station is the closest, about 85 km from Wayanad.
From Kozhikode, there are regular buses and taxis that can take you to the region. The drive is scenic, especially once you start climbing the Western Ghats.
3. Best places to visit places in Wayanad
Wayanad has plenty to offer. During my trip, I visited Edakkal Caves, which showcases prehistoric rock carvings, and the beautiful Soochipara Waterfalls. I also loved the experience at Pookode Lake and the panoramic views from Lakkidi Viewpoint.
For wildlife lovers, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit place. These places are unique and offer a rich blend of nature and history.
4. What is the best way to get around Wayanad?
To get around Wayanad, I found renting a car or hiring a taxi to be the most convenient option. Since the attractions are spread across, having your vehicle gives you flexibility.
You can rent self-drive cars or hire a cab for the entire day. There are also local buses available, but they can be infrequent and not the best option if you’re on a tight schedule.
5. Where can I stay in Wayanad?
Wayanad has a wide range of accommodation options. I stayed at a beautiful homestay, which gave me an authentic local experience. Several resorts, hotels, and eco-lodges cater to different budgets. If you’re looking for something luxurious, Vythiri Resort is well-known for its treehouse accommodations.
For budget travellers, there are plenty of affordable guesthouses and lodges in towns like Kalpetta and Sultan Bathery.
6. What should I eat while in Wayanad?
Wayanad is a great place to test traditional Kerala cuisine. I enjoyed trying local dishes like Puttu and Kadala Curry, Appam with Stew, and the famous Kerala Sadhya (a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf).
You can also try delicious seafood dishes like Karimeen Pollichathu and Fish Moilee. Don’t miss the fresh Malabar biryani, which is a treat for any food lover. Most restaurants open by 8 AM and close around 10 PM, so plan your meals accordingly.
7. Is Wayanad safe to visit during the monsoon?
While Wayanad looks stunning during the monsoon, I would advise caution if you plan to visit between June and September. During my visit, I heard about the landslide incidents that have occurred in the past, including a major one in 2024, which affected several areas.
Roads can get slippery and risky, and some trekking trails may be closed during heavy rains. If you still want to experience the monsoon, make sure to check weather forecasts and be prepared for travel delays. Stick to the safer, well-known tourist routes and avoid offbeat paths during this season.