Wayanad, nestled in the lush green hills of Kerala, is the perfect weekend escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With misty mountains, waterfalls, tea plantations, and tribal culture, Wayanad has something for every traveler. If you’re planning your first visit, here’s a perfect weekend itinerary to explore the best of Wayanad in just two days.
Day 1: Discover Nature and Culture
8:00 AM – Arrive and Check-In
Start your Wayanad journey early in the morning. If you’re coming from Bangalore or Kochi, you can arrive by road. Choose a cozy stay in the middle of nature. You’ll find many options, including budget homestays, tree houses, and luxury resorts.
9:00 AM – Breakfast With a View
Enjoy a traditional Kerala breakfast like puttu and kadala curry or appam with stew. Many hotels offer breakfast with scenic views of the forest or hills.
10:00 AM – Visit Edakkal Caves
Head to Edakkal Caves, a famous archaeological site with stone carvings that date back thousands of years. A short trek leads to the cave. The view from the top is stunning.
12:30 PM – Explore Wayanad Heritage Museum
Next, visit the Wayanad Heritage Museum at Ambalavayal. It gives a glimpse into tribal life, ancient artifacts, and local history. It’s a quick yet meaningful stop.
1:30 PM – Lunch Break
Stop at a local restaurant for Kerala-style meals or Wayanad Sadya, a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. Non-veg options include spicy fish curry or chicken roast.
3:00 PM – Visit Soochipara Waterfalls
In the afternoon, visit Soochipara Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Wayanad. It’s a great place to relax or take a dip in the natural pool. Wear good footwear for the short walk to the falls.
5:30 PM – Sunset at Neelimala Viewpoint
Drive to Neelimala Viewpoint for a peaceful sunset. The view of the valleys, rivers, and distant hills is breathtaking. It’s also a great spot for photos.
7:00 PM – Tribal Village Visit or Cultural Show
Many eco-resorts and tour groups offer evening visits to tribal villages or local cultural shows. Learn about tribal life, music, and traditions that make Wayanad unique.
8:00 PM – Dinner and Campfire
Return to your hotel for a relaxing dinner. Some stays also offer campfire nights under the stars. Try local dishes and enjoy the cool night air.
Day 2: Adventure and Serenity
6:00 AM – Sunrise Trek to Chembra Peak
Start your day early with a trek to Chembra Peak, the highest point in Wayanad. On the way, you’ll find the famous heart-shaped lake, a must-see spot. The trek takes around 3–4 hours and offers stunning views.
10:00 AM – Return and Breakfast
After your trek, return to your hotel for a well-deserved breakfast and a quick freshen-up.
11:30 AM – Banasura Sagar Dam Visit
Next, visit Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India. You can go for boating, nature walks, or just relax by the reservoir. The view of the dam and the surrounding hills is very soothing.
1:00 PM – Lunch at a Plantation Café
Enjoy lunch at a café in a tea or coffee plantation. Many plantation homestays serve fresh, organic food. Don’t forget to sip freshly brewed Wayanad coffee.
2:30 PM – Zipline Adventure or Bamboo Craft Workshop
If you’re feeling adventurous, try ziplining through plantations—an exciting experience in Wayanad. If you prefer a quieter activity, join a bamboo craft workshop and learn traditional skills from local artisans.
4:00 PM – Explore a Spice Garden
Before leaving, explore a spice garden to see how pepper, cardamom, and other spices grow. You can also buy organic spices to take home.
5:30 PM – Coffee and Souvenirs
Stop by a local shop or café for coffee and snacks. Pick up handmade souvenirs, tribal crafts, or organic honey as gifts.
6:30 PM – Departure
Head back with a heart full of memories. If you’re driving, you’ll enjoy the scenic routes through the Western Ghats.
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
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Best Time to Visit: October to May is ideal. Monsoon (June to September) is also beautiful but may affect travel.
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Clothing: Carry light cotton clothes, trekking shoes, and a light jacket for the evening.
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Travel Options: Wayanad is accessible by road from Kozhikode, Mysore, or Bangalore.
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Stay Choices: Tree houses, eco-resorts, plantation homestays, and budget lodges are all available.
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Local Cuisine: Don’t miss Kerala meals, bamboo rice dishes, and tribal food.
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Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in most stays, but mobile networks may be weak in remote areas.
Conclusion
Wayanad is the perfect weekend getaway for those who love nature, culture, and calm surroundings. With just two days, you can explore waterfalls, hike to scenic peaks, learn about tribal life, and enjoy traditional Kerala food. Whether you stay in a tree house or a budget homestay, Wayanad will surely leave you refreshed and inspired.