Relaxing 4-Day Itinerary in Kerala, July 2023

1. Day 1: Kovalam Beach
   30-minute drive (8.5 miles) from Trivandrum International Airport

   Start your Kerala adventure by relaxing on the beautiful Kovalam Beach, known for its pristine shores and calm waters. In the morning, enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea and bask in the sun's warmth. After lunch, take a short walk to the nearby lighthouse and enjoy a panoramic view of the coastline from the top. Spend the evening savoring some delicious seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.

2. Day 2: Alleppey Backwaters
   4-hour drive (111 miles) from Kovalam Beach

   Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a day cruising the serene Alleppey backwaters. In the morning, board a traditional houseboat and peacefully glide along the canals, passing by lush green paddy fields and coconut groves. Savor a delicious lunch onboard the boat, freshly prepared by your private chef. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the charming village and learn about the traditional way of life of the locals. Spend the evening watching a beautiful sunset and enjoying a traditional Keralite dinner onboard the houseboat.

3. Day 3: Thekkady Spice Plantation
   4-hour drive (90 miles) from Alleppey Backwaters

   Embark on a sensory journey through the Thekkady spice plantations. In the morning, take a guided tour of the sprawling fields and learn about the cultivation of spices such as cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. Smell the fragrant aroma of the spices and sample some freshly brewed chai made using the plantation's produce. After lunch, head to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and take a boat ride across the lake, spotting elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. Spend the evening shopping for some locally produced spices and souvenirs.

4. Day 4: Varkala Beach
   4-hour drive (77 miles) from Thekkady Spice Plantation

   Spend your last day in Kerala relaxing on the beautiful Varkala Beach. In the morning, take a dip in the sea and indulge in some beach yoga, known for its calming and restorative effects. After lunch, take a walk to the nearby Janardhana Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and marvel at its intricate architecture. Spend the evening watching the sunset from the cliff and enjoying a refreshing drink from one of the nearby cafes.

Recommendations

If you have an additional day in Kerala, consider visiting the hill station of Munnar, known for its scenic beauty and tea plantations. You can also take a day trip to the historic town of Fort Kochi and learn about its colonial past and the influence of various cultures on the region. For adventure seekers, a trek to the Meenmutty Falls in Wayanad is a must-do. Make sure to try some of the local delicacies, such as appam and stew, puttu and kadala curry, and Kerala-style fish curry.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Kovalam Beach (half-day, free)
• Alleppey Backwaters Houseboat Cruise (full-day, INR 8,000-15,000)
• Thekkady Spice Plantation and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (full-day, INR 1,500-3,000)
• Varkala Beach (half-day, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 9,000-18,000 (excluding accommodation and transportation)

Check here for hotel and flight prices.