3-Day Nature Itinerary for Valparai and Cochin in July 2023

1. Day 1: Valparai
   3 hours (70 miles) from Cochin International Airport
   Start the day with a visit to the Aliyar Dam to catch the sunrise. Spend the morning exploring the tranquil surroundings of the dam and indulge in some birdwatching. After lunch head to the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park to explore the lush forest trails and spot some of the wild inhabitants of the park such as elephants, tigers and leopards. Wind down the day with a cup of locally grown tea at the Tea Estate and enjoy the views of the rolling hills and tea plantations.
2. Day 2: Cochin
   3 hours (85 miles) from Valparai
   Start the day with a visit to the Fort Kochi Beach and enjoy the scenic views of the Arabian Sea. Next, head to the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and learn about its rich history and architecture. After lunch, take a relaxing stroll along the Jew Street and explore the antique shops and spice markets. In the evening, watch a Kathakali performance, a traditional Indian dance drama and immerse yourself in the Kerala culture.
3. Day 3: Cochin
   30 minutes (7 miles) from Cochin International Airport
   Start the day with a visit to the Kerala Folklore Museum and marvel at the collection of artefacts and exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. Next, head to the Mattancherry Palace, a 16th-century palace that is now a museum displaying the royal artefacts and artworks of the Cochin Rajas. After lunch, take a relaxing boat ride through the backwaters of Cochin and enjoy the scenic views of the lush greenery and local village life. End the day with a sumptuous seafood dinner at the waterfront and catch the sunset.

Recommendations

If you have an extra day, consider taking a day trip to Munnar, a scenic hill station that is famous for its tea plantations and natural beauty. You can also visit the Athirapally waterfall, which is located 70 miles from Valparai and is a popular tourist spot. To maximize your fun, try the local cuisine and street food, and indulge in some shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts at the local markets.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Aliyar Dam (2 hours, free)
• Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park (4 hours, INR 500)
• Tea Estate (1 hour, free)
• Fort Kochi Beach (2 hours, free)
• St. Francis Church (1 hour, INR 20)
• Jew Street (2 hours, free)
• Kathakali performance (2 hours, INR 500)
• Kerala Folklore Museum (1 hour, INR 200)
• Mattancherry Palace (1 hour, INR 5)
• Backwater boat ride (2 hours, INR 500)
• Seafood dinner (1 hour, INR 500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2225

Check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo to book your hotel and flight at the best prices.