Adventure in Kochi: 5-day Itinerary (June 2023)

1. Day 1: Athirapally Waterfalls
   1 hour 20 minutes (43 miles) from Kochi

   Start your adventure by visiting Athirapally Waterfalls, located in the Chalakkudy River. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and makes for a perfect spot for trekking and rock climbing. You can also go for a refreshing swim in the river. Head to nearby restaurants for lunch and enjoy local cuisine. In the afternoon, explore the beauty of the Sholayar forest range. Later, visit the Vazhachal Waterfalls, a ten-minute drive away from Athirapally.

2. Day 2: Fort Kochi Beach
   2 hours (15 miles) from Athirapally Waterfalls

   Start your day by heading to Fort Kochi Beach, a picturesque beach filled with palm trees. You can engage in water sports or relax and sunbathe on the beach. Visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. In the evening, head to the Chinese Fishing Nets to witness the stunning sunset and enjoy local street food.

3. Day 3: Hill Palace Museum
   1 hour (12 miles) from Fort Kochi Beach

   Visit the Hill Palace Museum, the largest archaeological museum in Kerala, and learn about the history of the region. The palace was built in 1865 and served as the residence of the Kochi Maharaja. Afterward, head to the Elephant Training Center in Kodanad, where you can engage in activities like elephant riding, feeding, and bathing. In the evening, explore the local markets and indulge in some shopping for souvenirs.

4. Day 4: Cherai Beach
   40 minutes (14 miles) from Hill Palace Museum

   Head to Cherai Beach, a beautiful beach famous for its serene environment and dolphin sightings. You can also engage in water sports like kayaking and windsurfing. Later, visit the nearby Pallipuram Fort, one of the oldest existing European forts in India. In the evening, head to the Lulu Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in India, and enjoy some shopping and dining.

5. Day 5: Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
   1 hour 30 minutes (37 miles) from Cherai Beach

   End your adventure by visiting the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, home to over 300 species of birds. You can go for a nature walk or a boat ride and witness the beauty of the sanctuary. Later, visit the nearby Bhoothathankettu Dam and enjoy a picnic by the river. In the evening, head back to Kochi and enjoy a farewell dinner.

Recommendations

You can consider visiting the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to witness the stunning mural paintings. You can also go for a day trip to Munnar, a hill station famous for tea plantations and trekking trails. To maximize your fun, try out the local street food and indulge in some shopping in the local markets.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Athirapally Waterfalls (3 hours, INR 500)
• Fort Kochi Beach (4 hours, INR 200)
• Hill Palace Museum (3 hours, INR 300)
• Cherai Beach (4 hours, INR 400)
• Thattekad Bird Sanctuary (5 hours, INR 600)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2000

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