Exploring the Natural Beauty of Kerala in August 2023

1. Day 1: Athirappilly Waterfalls
   1 hour 20 minutes (39.4 miles) from Cochin International Airport

   Start your day by visiting one of the largest waterfalls in India, Athirappilly Waterfalls, located in the lush green forest of Sholayar ranges. Enjoy the breathtaking view of water cascading down from 80 feet height. Take a dip in the cool water or go for a nature walk around the waterfalls. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Vazhachal Waterfalls and trek to the base of the falls. In the evening, head to Paniyeli Poru, a serene picnic spot where you can enjoy the beauty of the Periyar River gushing through the rocky terrain.

2. Day 2: Thekkady
   2 hours (56.3 miles) from Athirappilly Waterfalls

   Start your day early and head to Thekkady, known for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations. Go for a nature walk in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spot some wild animals like elephants, tigers, and leopards. Take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake to enjoy the picturesque view of the sanctuary. In the afternoon, visit the spice plantations and learn about the different spices grown here. You can even buy some fresh spices to take back home. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a classical dance-drama of Kerala.

3. Day 3: Munnar
   2 hours 50 minutes (89.7 miles) from Thekkady

   Start your day by visiting the picturesque hill station of Munnar. Visit the sprawling tea gardens at Kolukkumalai, the highest tea plantation in the world, and learn about the tea-making process. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Mattupetty Dam and the Kundala Lake. Go for a nature walk in the Eravikulam National Park and spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the evening, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and evolution of tea plantations in Munnar.

Recommendations

If you have time, visit the backwaters of Alleppey and enjoy a houseboat ride. You can also visit the hill station of Wayanad and go for a trek in the Chembra Peak.

For day trips, visit the beach town of Varkala, located 3 hours (96.9 miles) from Munnar. You can also visit the city of Kochi and explore the Chinese fishing nets, the Mattancherry Palace and the Jewish Synagogue.

To maximize your fun, try the local cuisine of Kerala like Appam, Puttu, and Kadala Curry. Take a spice tour to learn about different spices and their uses. Go for an Ayurvedic massage and rejuvenate yourself.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Athirappilly Waterfalls (4 hours, INR 500)
• Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary (5 hours, INR 400)
• Kathakali Dance Performance (2 hours, INR 300)
• Munnar Tea Gardens (4 hours, INR 200)
• Eravikulam National Park (3 hours, INR 200)
• Tea Museum (2 hours, INR 150)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1750

Check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo to check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Kerala.