Kerala Nature Tour - July 2023

1. Day 1: Munnar
   2 hours 40 mins (83.1 miles) from Cochin International Airport

   In the morning, explore the rolling hills and tea plantations at Kolukkumalai Tea Estate. In the afternoon, visit Mattupetty Dam and take a boat ride to indulge in the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance at Punarjani Traditional Village.

2. Day 2: Thekkady
   3 hours 15 mins (70.6 miles) from Munnar

   Start your morning with a jungle trek in Periyar National Park. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on Periyar Lake to see elephants and other wildlife. In the evening, visit Kadathanadan Kalari Centre to witness a show of ancient martial arts.

3. Day 3: Alleppey
   3 hours 20 mins (87.6 miles) from Thekkady

   Begin your day with a scenic drive to Alleppey. Take a leisurely cruise on a traditional houseboat through the serene backwaters surrounded by palm trees. In the evening, indulge in local delicacies and enjoy a beautiful sunset view at Marari Beach.

4. Day 4: Varkala
   3 hours 30 mins (81.8 miles) from Alleppey

   Start the day by visiting the beautiful 15th century Janardhana Swamy Temple and the surrounding picturesque hilltops. Spend the afternoon relaxing at Varkala Beach and watching the sunset over the Arabian Sea. In the evening, take a stroll through the Varkala Cliff, which is filled with shops and restaurants.

5. Day 5: Wayanad
   7 hours (222 miles) from Varkala

   Start your day by exploring the Edakkal Caves, which showcase prehistoric rock art and inscriptions. In the afternoon, visit the tranquil Pookode Lake and enjoy a boat ride surrounded by lush greenery. In the evening, visit the historical Wayanad Heritage Museum to learn about the history and culture of the area.

6. Day 6: Kumarakom
   8 hours 15 mins (226 miles) from Wayanad

   Spend your morning at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of migratory and indigenous birds. In the afternoon, take a relaxing canoe ride through the serene backwaters. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic massage and indulge in local cuisine at a local restaurant.

7. Day 7: Cochin
   1 hour 45 mins (28.9 miles) from Kumarakom

   Begin your day by visiting the historical Fort Kochi and its famous Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, explore the Hill Palace Museum to learn about the history and culture of Kerala. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance at Kerala Kathakali Centre.

Recommendations

Consider taking a day trip to the beautiful Athirapally Falls, which is about 2 hours (47.8 miles) from Cochin. Maximise your fun by trying local delicacies such as Appam, Puttu, and Fish Curry. Don't forget to pack comfortable walking shoes and light clothing suitable for the hot and humid weather.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kolukkumalai Tea Estate (2 hours, £5)
• Mattupetty Dam (2 hours, £3)
• Punarjani Traditional Village (2 hours, £8)
• Periyar National Park (3 hours, £10)
• Kadathanadan Kalari Centre (2 hours, £5)
• Alleppey Houseboat (6 hours, £50)
• Marari Beach (3 hours, £5)
• Janardhana Swamy Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Varkala Beach (3 hours, Free)
• Pookode Lake (2 hours, £3)
• Wayanad Heritage Museum (2 hours, £2)
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (3 hours, £5)
• Canoe Ride (2 hours, £7)
• Kerala Kathakali Centre (2 hours, £8)
• Total Estimated Costs: £111

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