Highrange Kerala Expedition

Your Kerala adventure begins as you arrive at Kannur Airport or Railway Station. After a warm welcome, you'll be transferred to your comfortable hotel to check in and refresh. Kannur, formerly known as Cannanore, is steeped in colonial history and was a significant trading port. Begin your exploration with a visit to the historic St. Angelo Fort (Kannur Fort), an imposing structure built by the first Portuguese Viceroy of India in 1505, later occupied by the Dutch and British. Walk along its massive walls offering spectacular views of the Arabian Sea and explore the ancient barracks, chapel, and prison. Visit the nearby Moppila Bay, a picturesque natural harbor where you can observe traditional fishing activities. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Kasaragod (approximately 90 minutes) to visit the majestic Bekal Fort, Kerala's largest and best-preserved fort sprawling over 40 acres along the coastline. Dating back to the 17th century, this keyhole-shaped fort offers stunning panoramic views of the Arabian Sea from its tall observation towers. Explore its massive walls, underground passages, and the ancient Hanuman temple within the fort complex. As evening approaches, return to Kannur where you might have an opportunity to witness the traditional Theyyam performance (seasonal) or enjoy a leisurely stroll along Payyambalam Beach. Overnight in Kannur.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and embark on one of the most scenic drives in Kerala as you ascend to Wayanad through the Mattannur-Mananthavady high range route. This breathtaking journey winds through the Western Ghats, offering spectacular views of mist-covered mountains, verdant valleys, and lush tea and coffee plantations. The drive takes approximately 3-4 hours, but you'll make several photo stops along the way to capture the stunning landscape. As you climb higher, feel the temperature drop and the air become crisper. The route takes you through charming villages and dense forests, giving you glimpses of local life and pristine nature. Continue your journey to your resort in Wayanad, strategically located to offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. After checking in and refreshing, spend the evening at leisure exploring the resort's facilities or taking a guided nature walk in the vicinity to appreciate the local flora and fauna. Overnight in Wayanad.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting out to explore Wayanad's natural wonders. Begin with a visit to the prehistoric Edakkal Caves, featuring ancient petroglyphs dating back to 6000 BCE, reached after a moderate trek of about 45 minutes through coffee plantations. Next, visit the crystal-clear Soochipara Waterfalls (also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls), a three-tiered waterfall that cascades down from a height of 200 meters into a rock pool perfect for a refreshing dip (swimming subject to weather conditions). After a packed lunch at a scenic spot, continue to Pookode Lake, a freshwater lake nestled among lush forests and hills. Enjoy a serene boat ride on the lake while observing various local bird species and the unique freshwater fish. Complete your day with a visit to a local tea plantation and factory where you can learn about the tea-making process from plucking to packaging and sample some of the finest highland tea varieties. Return to your resort by evening for dinner and overnight stay in Wayanad.

After breakfast, embark on an early morning wildlife safari at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The sanctuary is home to various species including elephants, gaur, deer, tigers, and numerous bird species. After your safari adventure, visit the ancient Thirunelli Temple, nestled among the mountains and believed to be over 1000 years old. Nearby is the Papanasini stream, considered sacred for performing rituals. Post lunch, visit the Kuruvadweep Island, a protected river delta system of evergreen forest spread across 950 acres with a rich diversity of plants, orchids, herbs, and birds. Explore the island via bamboo rafting (subject to water levels and weather conditions). Later, visit Uravu, an indigenous science and technology study center focusing on bamboo crafts, where you can witness artisans creating various items and perhaps pick up unique souvenirs. End your day with a cultural program showcasing tribal arts and dances of Wayanad (subject to availability). Return to your resort for dinner and overnight stay in Wayanad.

After a leisurely breakfast, check out from your Wayanad resort and begin your descent to Kozhikode (Calicut), a historic city that was once the capital of the powerful Zamorin rulers and a major spice trading hub. The journey from Wayanad to Kozhikode takes approximately 2-3 hours through scenic winding roads. En route, stop at the famous Lakkidi viewpoint, considered the gateway to Wayanad and one of the highest locations in the district, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the hairpin bends below. Feel the dramatic change in climate and vegetation as you descend from the cool highlands to the warmer coastal plains. Continue to the majestic Thusharagiri Waterfalls, where multiple streams cascade down the mountainside creating a misty environment that gives the falls their name 'Thusharagiri' meaning 'snow-capped mountains.' Proceed to Kozhikode, and upon arrival, check into your hotel. After refreshing, visit the historic Kozhikode Beach, where Vasco da Gama first landed in India in 1498, marking the beginning of European colonization in the Indian subcontinent. Walk along the old pier extending into the sea and witness a beautiful sunset if time permits. Visit the nearby Marine Water Aquarium and Lions Park before heading to the famous S.M. Street (Sweetmeat Street), a bustling traditional market known for its sweet delicacies, spices, crafts, and textiles. End your day with a sumptuous traditional Kerala dinner featuring Kozhikode's famous Malabar cuisine. Overnight in Kozhikode.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a comprehensive tour of Kozhikode's cultural and historical attractions. Start with a visit to the Kozhikode Mananchira Square, built around an ancient pond, featuring a musical fountain, open-air theatre, and lush gardens. Explore the nearby Mishkal Mosque, an architectural marvel built in the 14th century featuring traditional Kerala architecture blended with Islamic elements. Visit the Pazhassi Raja Museum and Art Gallery housing artifacts from the prehistoric era to the modern period, including ancient bronzes, coins, models of temples, and megalithic relics. After lunch featuring traditional Malabar delicacies, visit Kappad Beach, where Vasco da Gama landed with 170 men in 1498. A stone monument at the beach commemorates this historic event. Next, explore Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, situated at the estuary where the Kadalundi River flows into the Arabian Sea, home to over 100 species of native birds and more than 60 species of migratory birds. In the evening, visit Beypore, an ancient port and ship-building center famous for the construction of 'Uru' (Arabian trading vessel) using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Witness the skilled craftsmanship of boat builders and enjoy the serene backdrop of the river meeting the sea. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay in Kozhikode.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel. Depending on your departure time, you might have a few hours for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kozhikode. Your driver will ensure a timely transfer to Kozhikode Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey, concluding your memorable exploration of Northern Kerala's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.