Kerala Relaxation Retreat

  1. Friday, August 11: Kochi
    30 minutes (22.6 km) from Cochin International Airport

    Kickstart your relaxing getaway in Kochi, also known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea." Start your morning with a serene walk along Fort Kochi Beach, admiring the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets as the sun rises. In the afternoon, explore the historic Mattancherry Palace, filled with stunning murals and artifacts. As evening sets in, take a leisurely boat ride through the tranquil backwaters, enjoying the calmness of the surroundings.

    • Mattancherry Palace: ₹100, 1-2 hours
    • Backwater Boat Ride: ₹500, 2-3 hours
  2. Saturday, August 12: Munnar
    4 hours (127 km) from Kochi

    Escape to the picturesque hill station of Munnar. Start your day with a rejuvenating visit to the Tea Museum, where you can learn about the tea-making process and enjoy panoramic views of the tea plantations. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Eravikulam National Park, home to endangered Nilgiri Tahr. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the breathtaking Echo Point, surrounded by lush greenery.

    • Tea Museum: ₹150, 1-2 hours
    • Eravikulam National Park: ₹120, 2-3 hours
    • Echo Point: Free, 1-2 hours
  3. Sunday, August 13: Alleppey
    3 hours (156 km) from Munnar

    Experience the tranquility of the backwaters in Alleppey. Start your day with a relaxing houseboat cruise, gliding through the serene canals while enjoying a traditional Kerala meal. In the afternoon, explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for bird lovers. As the sun sets, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage, known for its therapeutic benefits.

    • Houseboat Cruise: ₹5,000-10,000, 4-6 hours
    • Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: ₹50, 1-2 hours
    • Ayurvedic Massage: ₹1,000-3,000, 1-2 hours
  4. Monday, August 14: Varkala
    3 hours (126 km) from Alleppey

    Indulge in the serene coastal beauty of Varkala. Begin your day with a peaceful yoga session on the cliffside, overlooking the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, relax on the sun-kissed Papanasam Beach or take a dip in the therapeutic mineral springs of the Varkala Beach. As the evening unfolds, witness the mesmerizing sunset from the Varkala Cliff while savoring delicious seafood at one of the cliffside restaurants.

    • Yoga Session: ₹500-1,000, 1-2 hours
    • Papanasam Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
    • Varkala Cliff: Free, 1-2 hours
  5. Tuesday, August 15: Kovalam
    2 hours (64.3 km) from Varkala

    Conclude your relaxation retreat in the serene beach town of Kovalam. Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the famous Lighthouse Beach, soaking in the sun and sea breeze. In the afternoon, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatment, leaving you refreshed and revitalized. As the evening descends, witness the mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.

    • Ayurvedic Spa Treatment: ₹1,500-3,000, 1-2 hours
    • Kathakali Dance Performance: ₹300-500, 2-3 hours

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider exploring Wayanad's lush green landscapes and wildlife at the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Another day trip option is a visit to Thekkady, where you can embark on a thrilling boat safari in Periyar National Park. To make the most of your money, don't forget to try the delectable local cuisine, such as appam with stew or banana fry. Don't miss the opportunity to experience a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala that showcases vibrant costumes and captivating storytelling.

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