Kerala Nature Itinerary for July 2023

1. Day 1: Periyar National Park
   2 hours 50 minutes (90 miles) from Cochin International Airport

   Start your nature journey at the Periyar National Park, which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Take a morning guided nature walk through the forest and discover the beauty of the Western Ghats. After lunch, explore the park's famous Periyar lake by boat, where you can spot elephant herds, deer, and various bird species. In the evening, visit the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre for a traditional martial arts performance.

2. Day 2: Munnar Tea Plantations
   3 hours 20 minutes (87 miles) from Periyar National Park

   Start your day by driving to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its sprawling tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate and witness the tea-making process. After lunch, go on a guided trek to the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India. In the evening, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and culture of tea production in the region.

3. Day 3: Alleppey Backwaters
   4 hours 25 minutes (111 miles) from Munnar Tea Plantations

   Drive to Alleppey and take a houseboat cruise through the winding backwaters of Kerala. Enjoy the scenic views of the coconut trees, paddy fields, and small villages along the way. Have a traditional lunch on the houseboat and take a swim in the backwaters. In the evening, enjoy a serene sunset and relax on the houseboat as it docks for the night.

4. Day 4: Athirapally Falls
   2 hours 30 minutes (58 miles) from Alleppey Backwaters

   Start your day with a drive to Athirapally Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala. Take a refreshing dip in the waterfall's natural pool and enjoy the lush green surroundings. After lunch, visit the nearby Vazhachal Falls and take a guided trek through the Sholayar rainforest. In the evening, return to Cochin International Airport for your flight back home.

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider visiting the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary or the Silent Valley National Park for more nature exploration. You can also take a side trip to the beautiful beaches of Kovalam or Varkala. To maximize your fun, try local cuisine such as appam, puttu, and fish curry at local restaurants. Make sure to buy some fresh spices and tea from local markets as souvenirs. Lastly, don't forget to stay hydrated and bring mosquito repellent for your outdoor activities.

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