Kerala: 5-Day Itinerary in July 2023

1. Day 1: Fort Kochi
   1 hour (20 km) from Cochin International Airport

   In the morning, visit the historic Santa Cruz Basilica and admire its Gothic architecture. Then, head to the Indo-Portuguese Museum to learn about the region's fascinating history. In the afternoon, explore the streets of Fort Kochi and visit the Chinese Fishing Nets. Finally, catch a Kathakali performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre in the evening.

2. Day 2: Alleppey
   1.5 hours (54 km) from Fort Kochi

   Take a morning drive to Alleppey, known as the 'Venice of the East'. Here, take a leisurely boat ride through the famous backwaters and enjoy the lush countryside scenery. In the afternoon, visit the Vijaya Beach Park and enjoy the sunset on the beach. For dinner, try the local seafood delicacies at the Harbour Restaurant.

3. Day 3: Munnar
   4 hours (140 km) from Alleppey

   Start the day with a scenic drive to Munnar, a popular hill station known for its tea plantations and scenic beauty. Visit the Tea Museum to learn about tea production and sample some of the local blends. In the afternoon, visit the Eravikulam National Park and spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the evening, relax at the hotel with stunning views of the surrounding hills.

4. Day 4: Thekkady
   3 hours (92 km) from Munnar

   In the morning, drive to Thekkady, known for its spice plantations and wildlife sanctuary. Take a guided tour of a local spice plantation and learn about the different spices used in Kerala cuisine. In the afternoon, go on a thrilling jungle safari in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spot elephants, tigers and other wildlife. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kalaripayattu performance, a form of martial arts unique to Kerala.

5. Day 5: Kovalam
   5 hours (220 km) from Thekkady

   End the trip with a drive to Kovalam, a beautiful beach town with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. In the morning, relax on the beach and soak up the sun. In the afternoon, visit the Halcyon Castle and learn about its fascinating history. Finally, enjoy a seafood dinner at the famous Curry Leaf restaurant before departing.

Recommendations

Consider taking a houseboat ride in Alleppey for a unique experience. For side trips, visit the Athirapally Waterfalls or the Vagamon hill station for more scenic beauty. To maximize your fun, try taking a cooking class and learn how to cook traditional Kerala dishes. Finally, be sure to check out the local markets for some unique souvenirs.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Santa Cruz Basilica (1 hour, free)
• Indo-Portuguese Museum (1 hour, INR 20)
• Chinese Fishing Nets (1 hour, free)
• Kathakali Performance (2 hours, INR 500)
• Backwater Boat Ride (3 hours, INR 500)
• Vijaya Beach Park (1 hour, free)
• Harbour Restaurant (1 hour, INR 800)
• Tea Museum (2 hours, INR 200)
• Eravikulam National Park (3 hours, INR 120)
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, INR 500)
• Kalaripayattu Performance (1 hour, INR 300)
• Halcyon Castle (1 hour, INR 100)
• Curry Leaf Restaurant (1 hour, INR 1000)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 3,660 per person

Check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for hotel and flight prices.