Getting just one day in Wayanad might seem too short, but it's actually enough to fall in love with this place.
Wayanad sits up in Kerala's hills like a hidden treasure. The waterfalls here will blow your mind, the coffee plantations smell incredible, and those ancient caves feel like stepping into another world. It's the kind of place that makes you forget about your phone for a while.
The secret to great places to visit in Wayanad in 1 day is being smart about it. Don't try to see everything - pick three good spots and actually enjoy them. Nobody wants to spend their day stuck in mountain traffic trying to tick off every single attraction.
Start early. Really early. The best Wayanad places to visit in one day are amazing in the morning when it's quiet and the light hits everything just right. Plus, you'll beat the tourist buses.
Planning routes and timing everything perfectly can be a pain. That's where our Kerala tour packages come in handy - they've already figured out the best combinations so you can just relax and soak it all in.
One day here is way better than staying home scrolling through travel photos.
Top Places to Visit in Wayanad in 1 Day
1. Edakkal Caves - A Walk into History
Edakkal Caves are one of the most unique Wayanad places to visit in one day. Located on Ambukuthi Hills, these caves have carvings and drawings that are more than 6,000 years old. To get there, you need to trek up a hill, which takes some effort but is worth it.
Inside, the rock carvings tell stories of ancient people and animals. Imagine standing inside a cave and looking at art made by humans thousands of years ago! If you are travelling with friends, this is one of the best places to visit in Wayanad in 1 day with friends because the trek and history make it exciting.
- Location: Ambukuthi Hills, about 25 km from Kalpetta town.
- Timings: 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, closed on Mondays.
- Entry Fee: Around ₹50 for Indians, ₹60 for foreigners. Extra charges for cameras. Jeep service from the base costs about ₹70.
Highlight: The 6,000-year-old carvings are the main attraction. Plus, the trek offers stunning views of Wayanad’s hills.
2. Soochipara Waterfalls - A Refreshing Escape
Soochipara Waterfalls, also called Sentinel Rock Falls, is a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by forests. The water falls from about 200 meters, making it one of the most beautiful sights in Wayanad.
You need to walk a bit through a forest path to reach the falls, but the sound of rushing water and the cool breeze keep you fresh. Families love this spot because kids can play near the shallow water. It is one of the best places to visit in Wayanad in 1 day with family for relaxation and fun.
- Location: Near Meppadi, around 23 km from Kalpetta.
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
- Entry Fee: About ₹150 for adults, ₹50 for children. Foreign tourists may pay more.
Highlight: The natural pool is perfect for relaxation, and the waterfall is also popular for rock climbing and photography.
3. Pookode Lake - Boating in Nature
Pookode Lake is a natural freshwater lake shaped like India’s map. Surrounded by hills and forests, it is a calm and peaceful place to stop during your Wayanad 1 day trip.
Here you can enjoy pedal boating or row boating. There’s also a small aquarium and a children’s park nearby. Local stalls sell snacks, spices, and handicrafts, which makes it more lively. If you are planning places to see in Wayanad in one day, Pookode Lake is a must because it suits both families and couples.
- Location: Around 15 km from Kalpetta, near Lakkidi.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: About ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for kids. Boating charges are extra.
Highlight: Peaceful boating in the lake and scenic surroundings make it perfect for families.
4. Banasura Sagar Dam - Stunning Views
Banasura Sagar Dam is the largest earthen dam in India. Surrounded by the Banasura hills, the dam creates a beautiful reservoir that looks like a huge lake.
Here you can go for speed boating, which is thrilling if you’re travelling with friends. Families often enjoy a picnic here because of the wide open space. The sunset at Banasura Dam is magical, making it one of the Best Places to visit in Wayanad in 1 Day.
- Location: 21 km from Kalpetta.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Around ₹20 per person. Extra charges for boating.
Highlight: The vast stretch of water, surrounded by hills, is perfect for photography. Speed boating is the main attraction here.
5. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary - A Jungle Experience
If you love nature and animals, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a must on your one day trip to Wayanad. Spread across thick forests, the sanctuary is home to elephants, deer, bison, monkeys, leopards, and even tigers.
You can take a jeep safari and experience the jungle up close. This is one of the most exciting places to visit in Wayanad in 1 day with family, and also a fun spot for groups of friends who enjoy adventure.
- Location: Muthanga and Tholpetty ranges, about 16 km from Sultan Bathery.
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Around ₹20 for Indians, ₹110 for foreigners. Safari charges are extra.
Highlight: Spotting elephants and other wildlife during the safari is the main attraction.
6. Lakkidi View Point - The Gateway to Wayanad
Lakkidi View Point is called the “Gateway of Wayanad.” It is located on the Thamarassery Ghat Pass and offers a stunning view of valleys, hills, and winding roads.
In the morning, the mist covers everything, making it look dreamy. It is a quick stop but one of the best 1 day Wayanad places to visit because the views are breathtaking and perfect for photography.
- Location: 16 km from Kalpetta, on the Thamarassery Ghat Pass.
- Timings: Open all day, best visited early morning or evening.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Highlight: Mesmerising views, especially when mist covers the hills.
7. Kuruvadweep Island - An Island Adventure
Kuruvadweep is a small group of river islands in the Kabini River. Covered with bamboo groves and evergreen forests, it feels untouched and natural.
You can walk around the island or take bamboo rafts across the water. Birdwatchers also love this spot. If you are travelling with friends, this is one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Wayanad in 1 day with friends.
- Location: About 17 km from Mananthavady.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Open only during certain seasons, depending on river conditions.
- Entry Fee: Around ₹10 for Indians, ₹80 for foreigners.
Highlight: Bamboo rafting and the untouched beauty of the island.
8. Meenmutty Waterfalls - Wild and Beautiful
Meenmutty is the tallest waterfall in Wayanad, falling from around 300 meters in three stages. To reach it, you need to trek through forest paths, which adds an adventurous touch.
It is one of the most exciting Wayanad places to visit in one day for those who enjoy trekking and adventure. The roaring water and green surroundings make it unforgettable.
- Location: Around 29 km from Kalpetta, near Banasura Sagar Dam.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: About ₹30 per person, with extra charges for parking.
Highlight: The majestic three-tier waterfall and the adventurous forest trek to reach it.
9. Thirunelli Temple - A Peaceful Break
Thirunelli Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is an ancient temple located in the Brahmagiri Hills. Surrounded by forests, it has a calm and holy atmosphere.
Families often stop here to offer prayers during their short trips. That’s why it is one of the best places to visit in Wayanad in 1 day with family. The Papanasini stream near the temple is also believed to have holy water.
- Location: About 30 km from Mananthavady.
- Timings: 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Free entry.
Highlight: The temple’s historic charm and the nearby Papanasini River, believed to wash away sins.
10. Karlad Lake - Adventure and Fun
Karlad Lake is a quiet lake with options for adventure activities like kayaking, zip-lining, and boating. It’s a great place to relax in the evening after exploring other spots.
For groups, it is one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Wayanad in 1 day with friends, because you can try activities together. It’s also peaceful if you just want to sit by the lake and watch the sunset.
- Location: 16 km from Kalpetta, near Banasura Dam.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Around ₹30 for adults, activities charged separately.
Highlight: Adventure sports like zip-lining and kayaking.
Suggested Itinerary for a One Day Wayanad Trip
Here’s how you can plan your one day trip to Wayanad:
- Morning (7 AM - 9 AM): Start at Lakkidi View Point for fresh morning views.
- Morning (9:30 AM - 11 AM): Visit Pookode Lake for boating.
- Late Morning (11:30 AM - 1 PM): Head to Edakkal Caves for history and adventure.
- Lunch (1 PM - 2 PM): Enjoy Kerala dishes like appam, Kerala fish curry, or Malabar biryani at a local restaurant.
- Afternoon (2 PM - 4 PM): Visit Soochipara or Meenmutty Waterfalls.
- Evening (4 PM - 6 PM): End your day at Banasura Sagar Dam or Karlad Lake with boating and sunset views.
This way, you can experience the Best Places to Visit in Wayanad in 1 Day without feeling rushed.
Tips for Your Wayanad Day Trip
- Start early to cover maximum spots.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking.
- Carry water bottles, snacks, and sunscreen.
- If travelling with kids, pick easy and safe places.
- Avoid littering—help keep Wayanad green and clean.
- Plan your route to save time.
Wayanad is a treasure of nature, history, and culture. Even in a short visit, you can experience waterfalls, caves, lakes, viewpoints, and temples. There are plenty of Wayanad places to visit in one day, and with a good plan, you can make it a day full of memories.
Whether you want calm spots for your family or adventurous activities with your friends, Wayanad has it all. A one day trip to Wayanad will give you the perfect mix of fun, relaxation, and adventure.
So pack your bag, leave early, and enjoy the unforgettable charm of Wayanad in just one day!
