Discover Kerala in July 2023

1. Day 1: Kochi (Cochin)
   Ernakulam Junction Railway Station - 10 minutes (3 km) from Fort Kochi

   Morning: Visit the iconic St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, dating back to the 16th century. Take a stroll through the Jew Town and explore the vibrant market selling spices, antiques and handicrafts.

   Afternoon: Head to the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, and marvel at the impressive murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits of the Kochi royal family and scenes from the Ramayana.

   Evening: Watch the famous Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala that combines dance, drama and music, at the Cochin Cultural Centre.

2. Day 2: Alleppey (Alappuzha)
   1 hour 30 minutes (53 km) from Kochi

   Morning: Take a scenic backwater cruise in a traditional houseboat and witness the picturesque beauty of Alleppey.

   Afternoon: Visit the Alleppey Beach and relax by the serene Arabian Sea.

   Evening: Walk through the bustling Alleppey city and shop for local souvenirs and handicrafts.

3. Day 3: Munnar
   4 hours (130 km) from Alleppey

   Morning: Visit the Eravikulam National Park and witness the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and other wildlife species.

   Afternoon: Head to the Tea Museum and learn about the history and production of tea in Kerala.

   Evening: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Munnar and watch the sunset from the Pothamedu viewpoint.

4. Day 4: Thekkady
   3 hours 30 minutes (92 km) from Munnar

   Morning: Take a guided tour of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a tiger reserve and elephant reserve, and explore the diverse flora and fauna.

   Afternoon: Take a walk through the spice plantations and learn about the cultivation of spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon and cloves.

   Evening: Attend the traditional Kalaripayattu martial arts show, which originated in Kerala, at the Mudra Cultural Centre.

5. Day 5: Kovalam
   4 hours 30 minutes (218 km) from Thekkady

   Morning: Visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and marvel at the beautiful architecture.

   Afternoon: Relax on the Kovalam Beach and indulge in water sports activities.

   Evening: Visit the Hawa Beach and enjoy the sunset.

Recommendations

Don't miss the opportunity to experience the traditional Ayurvedic massages and treatments for rejuvenation and relaxation. Take a day trip to Athirappilly Waterfalls, the largest waterfall in Kerala, for an unforgettable experience. To maximize your fun, try the local cuisine, especially the seafood dishes, and take part in the cultural festivals, like Onam and Vishu.

Time and Costs Estimates

• St. Francis Church (1 hour, Free)
• Mattancherry Palace (1 hour, INR 20)
• Kathakali dance performance (2 hours, INR 500)
• Backwater cruise (5 hours, INR 5000)
• Tea Museum (1 hour, INR 150)
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, INR 400)
• Kalaripayattu martial arts show (1 hour, INR 300)
• Padmanabhaswamy Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Athirappilly Waterfalls (6 hours, INR 1000)
• Local cuisine and shopping (variable, INR 1000)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 8650

To check hotel and flight prices, click here.