7-Day Itinerary for Kerala and Ooty in July 2023

1. Day 1: Munnar
   3 hours (87 km) from Cochin International Airport

   In the morning, visit the Eravikulam National Park to see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the afternoon, explore the tea plantations and learn about tea making at the Tea Museum. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around the scenic Mattupetty Dam.

2. Day 2: Thekkady
   3.5 hours (91 km) from Munnar

   In the morning, take a guided tour of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to see elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. In the afternoon, go on a spice plantation tour and learn about the spices grown in the region. In the evening, take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake to spot wildlife.

3. Day 3: Alleppey
   4.5 hours (138 km) from Thekkady

   In the morning, take a scenic drive to Alleppey and board a traditional houseboat for an overnight backwater cruise. Enjoy the scenic views of paddy fields, coconut groves, and traditional villages. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kerala-style dinner on the houseboat.

4. Day 4: Varkala
   3 hours (120 km) from Alleppey

   In the morning, head to Varkala and spend the day relaxing at the beach. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple and the nearby Sivagiri Mutt. In the evening, watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea from the cliff-top beach.

5. Day 5: Kovalam
   1 hour (45 km) from Varkala

   In the morning, visit the Kovalam Lighthouse Beach and enjoy water sports like surfing, parasailing, and swimming. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Halcyon Castle and the Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple. In the evening, take a walk along the promenade and watch the fishermen bring in their catch.

6. Day 6: Ooty
   10 hours (380 km) from Kovalam

   In the morning, take a scenic drive to Ooty, also known as the "Queen of Hill Stations". In the afternoon, visit the Botanical Gardens and the Ooty Lake. In the evening, take a stroll on the famous Charring Cross Road and indulge in some shopping.

7. Day 7: Coimbatore
   3 hours (90 km) from Ooty

   In the morning, visit the famous Marudamalai Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan. In the afternoon, take a tour of the Kovai Kondattam Amusement Park. In the evening, enjoy a scenic drive to Coimbatore Airport for your flight back home.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider a day trip to the Athirappilly Waterfalls or the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. To maximize your fun, try the local cuisine, including the famous Kerala-style fish curry and appam, and shop for some souvenirs like spices, tea, and handmade crafts.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Eravikulam National Park (3 hours, £5)
• Tea Museum (2 hours, £3)
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, £7)
• Spice Plantation Tour (2 hours, £5)
• Houseboat Cruise (24 hours, £120)
• Janardhana Swamy Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Halcyon Castle (1 hour, £3)
• Kovai Kondattam Amusement Park (4 hours, £10)
• Total Estimated Costs: £153

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