7-Day Itinerary for Kerala in November 2023

1. Day 1: Exploring Fort Kochi
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Downtown Kochi

   In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and St. Francis Church. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Jew Town and visit the Paradesi Synagogue. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance at the Kathakali Centre.

2. Day 2: Backwater Cruise in Alleppey
   1 hour 30 minutes (50 miles) from Fort Kochi

   Spend the morning cruising through the serene backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat. Enjoy the scenic views and indulge in delicious local cuisine. In the afternoon, explore the Alleppey Beach and relax by the shore. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the Arabian Sea.

3. Day 3: Tea Plantations in Munnar
   3 hours 30 minutes (95 miles) from Alleppey

   In the morning, visit the lush tea plantations of Munnar and learn about the tea-making process at a tea museum. Enjoy a refreshing cup of tea amidst picturesque surroundings. In the afternoon, take a guided hike to the beautiful Attukad Waterfalls. In the evening, stroll through the vibrant Munnar town and explore the local markets.

4. Day 4: Wildlife Safari in Periyar National Park
   3 hours 30 minutes (85 miles) from Munnar

   Embark on an early morning wildlife safari in Periyar National Park. Spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake and soak in the scenic beauty of the surrounding forests. In the evening, witness a traditional Kalaripayattu martial arts performance.

5. Day 5: Beaches and Ayurvedic Massage in Varkala
   4 hours (100 miles) from Periyar National Park

   Spend the morning relaxing on the stunning beaches of Varkala. Take a dip in the turquoise waters and unwind amidst the scenic cliffs. In the afternoon, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage at one of the renowned wellness centers. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the Varkala Cliff.

6. Day 6: Exploring the Backwaters of Kumarakom
   2 hours 30 minutes (60 miles) from Varkala

   In the morning, embark on a backwater tour of Kumarakom and witness the pristine beauty of the Vembanad Lake. Enjoy a traditional Kerala-style lunch on a houseboat while cruising through the backwaters. In the afternoon, visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and spot a variety of migratory birds. In the evening, take a sunset cruise on the backwaters.

7. Day 7: Relaxation in Kovalam
   2 hours 30 minutes (90 miles) from Kumarakom

   Spend the day relaxing on the idyllic beaches of Kovalam. Soak up the sun, indulge in water activities, and enjoy fresh seafood by the shore. In the evening, visit the iconic lighthouse and witness a breathtaking view of the coastline. End your trip with a memorable dinner overlooking the Arabian Sea.

Recommendations

For additional experiences, consider exploring the cultural hub of Kochi by visiting the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, a contemporary art exhibition. You can also take a day trip to Thekkady and experience bamboo rafting in the Periyar Tiger Reserve to get closer to nature. To maximize your fun, try attending a traditional Kerala cooking class or enjoying a sunset cruise on the Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Fort Kochi Chinese Fishing Nets (1 hour, free)
• St. Francis Church (30 minutes, free)
• Jew Town in Kochi (2 hours, based on activities chosen)
• Paradesi Synagogue (1 hour, entrance fee required)
• Kathakali Centre (2 hours, ticket price varies)
• Alleppey Backwater Cruise (6-8 hours, houseboat rental fee)
• Alleppey Beach (2 hours, free)
• Munnar Tea Plantations (3-4 hours, free)
• Attukad Waterfalls (2 hours, free)
• Periyar National Park Safari (3-4 hours, entrance fee required)
• Periyar Lake Boat Ride (2 hours, ticket price varies)
• Kalaripayattu Martial Arts Performance (1 hour, ticket price varies)
• Varkala Beaches (4-6 hours, free)
• Ayurvedic Massage in Varkala (1-2 hours, price varies)
• Kumarakom Backwater Tour (6-8 hours, houseboat rental fee)
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (2 hours, entrance fee required)
• Kovalam Beaches (4-6 hours, free)
• Kovalam Lighthouse (1 hour, entrance fee required)
• Dinner in Kovalam (2 hours, price varies)
• Total Estimated Costs: Varies depending on chosen activities and accommodations

Time and Costs Estimates

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.