6-Day Adventurous Itinerary in Kerala, July 2023

1. Day 1: Thrissur
   1 hour 40 minutes (52.3 miles) from Cochin International Airport

   In the morning, visit the Athirapally Waterfalls, a stunning 80-feet waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the Vazhachal Forest Gardens and take a refreshing dip in the natural pools. End the day at the Bible Tower, the tallest church tower in Asia, which offers panoramic views of the city at sunset.

2. Day 2: Munnar
   3 hours 20 minutes (90.6 miles) from Thrissur

   Wake up early and hike to the top of Anamudi, the highest peak in South India, for an unforgettable sunrise. In the afternoon, go on a thrilling off-road jeep safari through the tea plantations and spice gardens. End the day with a visit to the Mattupetty Dam, where you can go boating and catch a glimpse of the wild goats.

3. Day 3: Thekkady
   2 hours 40 minutes (77.3 miles) from Munnar

   Start the day with a bamboo rafting adventure through the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and other exotic animals. In the afternoon, take an exhilarating trek through the dense forests and spice plantations. End the day with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage at a spa in the town center.

4. Day 4: Varkala
   5 hours 50 minutes (116 miles) from Thekkady

   Unwind at the Papanasam Beach, famous for its black sand and healing waters. In the afternoon, hike to the top of the Varkala Cliff and enjoy the panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. End the day with a seafood dinner at one of the many seaside restaurants.

5. Day 5: Kovalam
   1 hour 30 minutes (40.2 miles) from Varkala

   Head to Lighthouse Beach for a surfing lesson, or go parasailing and flyboarding for a more thrilling experience. In the afternoon, visit the Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple, a fascinating 8th-century rock-cut temple with ancient carvings. End the day with a sunset cruise along the coast.

6. Day 6: Cochin
   3 hours 30 minutes (137 miles) from Kovalam

   Start the day with a cultural tour of Fort Kochi, visiting the Mattancherry Palace, the Jewish Synagogue, and the St. Francis Church. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride through the backwaters of Alleppey, where you can see traditional fishing villages and paddy fields. End the day with a Kathakali dance performance, a classical Indian dance form, at the Cochin Cultural Center.

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider exploring the backwaters of Kumarakom, taking a houseboat tour, or visiting the scenic hill station of Wayanad. To maximize your fun, try the regional delicacies like 'puttu and kadala curry' and 'appam with stew' and shop for souvenirs like spices, handicrafts, and ayurvedic remedies. Don't forget to pack appropriate clothing and footwear for each activity, and stay hydrated in the summer heat.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Athirapally Waterfalls (2 hours, INR 50)
• Vazhachal Forest Gardens (2 hours, INR 20)
• Bible Tower (1 hour, INR 25)
• Anamudi (5 hours, INR 500)
• Mattupetty Dam (2 hours, INR 25)
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (6 hours, INR 500)
• Spice Plantations Trekking (4 hours, INR 400)
• Ayurvedic Massage (1 hour, INR 1000)
• Papanasam Beach (4 hours, Free)
• Varkala Cliff (3 hours, Free)
• Lighthouse Beach (2 hours, INR 500)
• Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple (1 hour, INR 50)
• Backwater Cruise (3 hours, INR 1500)
• Kathakali Dance Performance (2 hours, INR 200)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 3415

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