Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Fort Kochi, featuring Dutch and Portuguese architecture. Visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the Dutch Palace to learn about the history of the region. Stop by the Chinese Fishing Nets on the shore for a great photo opportunity.
Discover the beauty of the Western Ghats with a visit to Munnar, a hill station known for its sprawling tea plantations. Take a scenic drive to Echo Point and the Top Station for breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. You can opt for an elephant ride to experience the lush forest up close.
Travel to Thekkady, where you can visit the Periyar National Park, a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Take a guided jungle walk or boat ride to spot animals such as elephants, tigers, and deer. You can also explore some of the local spice plantations and learn about the flora of the region.
Experience the tranquility of the backwaters with a visit to Alleppey. Take a houseboat cruise along the palm-lined canals, and enjoy the scenic views of rice paddies and coconut groves. You can also stop by the Marari Beach, where you can relax and take in the laid-back atmosphere.
Visit Kumarakom, which is known for its picturesque backwaters and bird sanctuary. Take a relaxing canoe ride to explore the region and spot some migratory birds. You can also visit some of the local temples, such as the Kumarakom Beach Temple and the Thazhathangady Juma Mosque.
Explore Kovalam, a popular beach town known for its laid-back atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. Take a dip in the Lighthouse Beach or enjoy a seaside meal at one of the many restaurants. You can visit Napier Museum, an art and natural history museum with exhibitions on Indian heritage and culture.
End your trip with a visit to Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. Take a stroll through the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest and most elaborate Hindu temples in the world. You can also visit the Napier Museum and Zoo to learn more about the region's history and wildlife.
During your trip to Kerala, you can rely on taxis and private cars for transportation. You can also opt for public buses or trains, which are more affordable but may take longer to reach your destination. The estimated travel costs are between ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 for a private car rental, depending on the vehicle and the number of passengers. Taxi rides range from ₹15 to ₹20 per kilometer.
You can add a visit to the Cherai Beach in Kochi or the Ponmudi Hills near Trivandrum if you have extra time. On the other hand, if you have less time, you can skip Kumarakom and Trivandrum and head straight from Alleppey to Kovalam. Make sure to book your houseboat cruise in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment
The main airport in Kerala is the Cochin International Airport (COK), which is located in Kochi and serves both domestic and international flights. The airport is approximately 36 kilometers from Kochi city center. Another airport in the area is the Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), which is located in Thiruvananthapuram and is about 6 kilometers from the city center.