Check in, freshen up — these are comfortable, centrally located hotels in Fort Kochi with easy access to sights and restaurants; allow early-check options when booking.
Light lunch in Fort Kochi; Kashi Art Café is great for sandwiches and local fusion dishes, while The Rice Boat offers coastal seafood. Both open from about 11:00am.
Stroll Fort Kochi's shoreline and lanes to see the iconic Chinese nets, colonial churches and art shops; most outdoor sights are freely accessible 9:00am–6:00pm.
Visit the art-filled Mattancherry Palace (check opening hours 10:00am–5:00pm) and Paradesi Synagogue (10:00am–5:00pm) for Kochi's history; synagogue may close during specific services—confirm locally.
Board a private overnight houseboat for cruising backwaters—recommended check-in around 11:00am; the cruise showcases paddy fields, village life and canals.
Early-morning boat ride to spot birds (migratory and resident); sanctuary boat safaris typically run 6:00am–9:00am and mid-afternoon—confirm on arrival.
Scenic drive up into the Western Ghats — expect 4–5 hours of travel with tea-plantation views; private car is the most convenient (stops for photos/tea).
Early visit to Eravikulam NP to spot the Nilgiri tahr and view rolling hills; park generally opens 7:30am–4:00pm but can close seasonally—check ticket availability and closure days.
Boat cruises in Periyar Lake are scheduled early morning and late afternoon (approx 6:00am–8:30am and 2:00pm–4:00pm / 5:00pm slots vary); book the best available slot to spot elephants, deer and birds.
Long scenic drive through Kerala (approx 5–6 hours). Alternatively, break the journey at Madurai/Trivandrum on request; private car recommended for comfort.
Visit the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple (dress code enforced; visiting times often 3:30am–11:00am and 5:00pm–8:00pm) and Napier Museum (10:00am–5:00pm).
Guided morning tour helps avoid crowds; Red Fort is generally open 9:30am–4:30pm and Jama Masjid opens early (check prayer times); Chandni Chowk food tour excellent at mid-morning.
Agra is possible as a full-day trip (2–3 hour drive each way or high-speed train) but will require an early start; otherwise shop in Dilli Haat, Connaught Place or Khan Market.
Morning flight to Dehradun (0.75–1h) or early train (6–7 hours overnight options). From Dehradun AP, taxi to Rishikesh ~45–60 minutes. Flights and taxis are quickest.
Early yoga session to experience Rishikesh's spiritual atmosphere; check class starting times (often 6:00–7:30am) and book in advance for popular shalas.
Rafting season is good in November; half-day trips (approx 2–4 hours including transfers) run from morning till afternoon—book a reputable operator and wear suitable clothing.
Pre-book airport transfer based on your international flight time; allow 3 hours prior to departure for check-in and immigration for an international flight to Nairobi.