As a mother of three boys, it’s hard to find a place where they can explore to their heart’s content while I get a moment of peace. Our 3-day road trip from Fort Kochi to Wayanad turned out to be the perfect balance of both, offering us adventure, stunning views, and a taste of Kerala’s untouched beauty.
Day 1: A Scenic Journey and Edakkal Caves
We set out from Fort Kochi early, looking forward to the 6-hour drive. The roads were quite good, but as we approached Wayanad, they grew more twisting and narrower. The hill drive, with fog shrouding the trees, was simply breathtaking. We stopped at Edakkal Caves on our first visit, about 30 minutes from our homestay. The hike to the caves is somewhat difficult, particularly with children, but they enjoyed the experience. The petroglyphs within the caves—some more than 6,000 years old—were an excellent means of piquing my boys’ interest in history.
Our homestay, Wayanad Heritage Homestay, was a traditional Kerala house set in coffee plantations just 20 minutes away from Edakkal Caves. For ₹2,500 per night, it was ideal for our requirements—ample space, comfortable, and with a big garden where the children could run around freely. The host, a local family, treated us like home, going to the extent of even offering us fresh coconut water and homemade snacks.
For dinner, we headed to The Royal Oak Restaurant, just a short drive from the homestay. The local Kerala-style fish curry and the delicious appams were a hit with the entire family, costing us around ₹1,200 for a hearty meal.
Day 2: Waterfalls, Wildlife, and Peaceful Retreats
On day two, we set off to Soochipara Waterfalls, about 45 minutes from the homestay. The hike down was easier than I expected, and the sight of the falls surrounded by dense forest made the climb worthwhile. The boys had a blast playing in the cool waters, and we stayed for a while, enjoying the peace.
After lunch, we drove 30 minutes to Pookode Lake, but instead of the usual boat ride, we took a quieter route around the lake. We discovered a hidden corner with no one else around. The kids ran along the trails, while I relaxed by the water, soaking in the tranquility.
In the afternoon, we visited the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, around an hour from the lake. The roads were a bit bumpy, but it was worth the visit. Instead of a regular safari, we opted for a guided nature walk. My boys were fascinated by the local flora and fauna, and they especially loved spotting wild animals from a distance.
Day 3: Hidden Gems and Local Culture
On our final day, we visited Valliyoorkavu Temple, which was only 20 minutes away from the homestay. This little gem, away from the tourist crowd, was ideal for a serene morning visit. The temple complex was huge, and the children loved to explore the grounds, while I relaxed in the quiet environment.
Last but not least, we concluded our trip with a trip to Kuruva Island, a beautiful 45-minute drive. The island is an unspoiled paradise, with bamboo rafts and peaceful pathways through thick forests. The children enjoyed the thrill of wading through shallow streams, and I enjoyed the loveliness and tranquility of it all.
Challenges
Throughout the trip, we did face a few challenges—some roads were winding, and we did encounter small traffic jams near popular spots, but nothing that dampened our spirits. The kids were tired but exhilarated, and we ended our adventure on a high note.
Final Thoughts
Wayanad is a hidden treasure, filled with beauty and charm, perfect for a family looking to disconnect and explore. The combination of adventure, culture, and quiet moments made this trip unforgettable.
