Ajinkya’s Family Adventure: Exploring Wayanad’s Hidden Gems with Thrillophilia

Ajinkya’s Family Adventure: Exploring Wayanad’s Hidden Gems with Thrillophilia

It was our last morning in Wayanad, and the mist hung low over the rolling hills, painting a serene picture of the lush greenery surrounding us. My wife and I sat on the balcony of our resort, sipping on freshly brewed filter coffee, while our kids played in the garden below, their laughter echoing in the crisp air. The thought of leaving this beautiful place tugged at my heart.

“Can we stay just one more day, Papa?” my younger one asked, her eyes pleading. I smiled and said, “This trip will stay with us forever, even if we leave today.”

As we packed up and prepared to leave, my mind wandered back to the beginning of this incredible journey, and I couldn’t help but relive every magical moment we had experienced.

The Star Attractions!


Our journey began in Mysore, where the grandeur of the Mysore Palace left us spellbound. The detailed carvings, the shimmering gold domes, and the huge gardens were nothing short of royal. My wife, who loves history, couldn’t stop marveling at the architecture, while the kids were more fascinated by the light and sound show in the evening. “It’s like a fairytale castle!” my daughter exclaimed out of wonder.

Next, we visited the Namdroling Monastery in Bylakuppe, a short drive from Mysore. The monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, was a serene escape. The towering golden statues of Buddha and the calming chants of the monks transported us to a world of peace. My son whispered, “It feels like magic here,” as we lit butter lamps and soaked in the spiritual energy of the place.

In Coorg, the Abbey Falls was a sight to behold. The roar of the water, the lush greenery around, and the cool mist on our faces made it a refreshing experience. We also visited Raja’s Seat, a viewpoint that offered stunning views of the valley below. Watching the sunset there was a moment of pure bliss, as the sky turned shades of orange and pink, leaving us all in awe.

Wayanad: The Crown Jewel


While every destination was memorable, Wayanad was undoubtedly the highlight of our trip. Nestled in the Western Ghats, this place was a paradise of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Our first stop was Pookode Lake, a freshwater lake surrounded by dense forests. We rented a pedal boat, and the kids had the time of their lives steering it around the calm waters. The chirping of birds and the gentle ripples in the lake created a soothing ambiance.

The Soochipara Falls was another marvel. The trek to the falls was an adventure in itself, with narrow trails cutting through thick forests. The sight of the waterfall tumbling down from a great height was worth every step. We spent hours there, splashing in the cool water and taking in the breathtaking views.

The Edakkal Caves took us back in time. The ancient rock carvings inside the caves were fascinating, and the kids loved imagining stories about the people who might have created them thousands of years ago. The hike to the caves was steep but rewarding, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

The next day, we visited the Thirunelli Temple, an ancient shrine nestled amidst the Brahmagiri Hills. The peaceful atmosphere of the temple and the sound of the nearby Papanasini stream made it a spiritually uplifting experience.

At the Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India, we enjoyed a family picnic by the water. The kids were thrilled with the speedboat ride, while my wife and I soaked in the stunning views of the reservoir and the hills beyond.

Our trip to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary was a treat for the kids, who were excited to spot elephants, deer, and a variety of birds. The guided safari through the dense forest was both thrilling and educational, leaving us with a newfound appreciation for wildlife conservation.

The Flavours of South India


One of the highlights of our trip was undoubtedly the food. We indulged in authentic South Indian dishes like appam with stew, puttu with kadala curry, and the famous Malabar biryani.

At a local eatery in Wayanad, we tried pathiri, a traditional rice pancake, and it quickly became a family favorite. My son couldn’t get enough of the banana chips and payasam we found at a small roadside stall.

The hospitality of the locals was heartwarming. At one homestay, the host taught us how to make idiyappam, and my daughter proudly announced that she would make it for us back home. The flavours, the aromas, and the love with which the food was served made every meal a memorable experience.

Shopping in Wayanad


No trip is complete without shopping, and Wayanad didn’t disappoint. The local markets were a treasure trove of spices, coffee, and handicrafts. We bought packets of pepper, cardamom, and cloves, which filled our bags with the essence of Wayanad. My wife picked up beautiful handmade bamboo products, while the kids were fascinated by the colourful toys and trinkets.

We also visited a small shop that sold traditional Kerala sarees, and my wife couldn’t resist buying one. The shopkeeper, a kind elderly man, shared stories about the weaving process, making the experience even more special.

As we drove away from Wayanad, the memories of our trip played like a slideshow in my mind. The laughter of my kids, the serenity of the temples, the thrill of exploring waterfalls, and the warmth of the locals— all of it felt like a beautiful dream.

Read More: Thrillophilia Wayanad Reviews