Start your city experience in Kochi by visiting the Fort Kochi Beach. Stroll along the shore, enjoy the sea breeze, and admire the Chinese Fishing Nets installed on the beach. Next, visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Then, head to the Dutch Palace, locally known as Mattancherry Palace, a 16th-century palace built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch. End the day by walking through Jew Town to shop for souvenirs and spices at the Spice Market.
Spend the day discovering Thrissur, known as the "cultural capital of Kerala." Start at the Vadakkunnathan Temple, a 10th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Then, visit the Kerala Kalamandalam, a deemed university of art and culture. Next, head to the Institute of Mural Painting, to learn about the art of mural paintings. In the evening, catch a Kathakali dance performance at the Kerala Kalamandalam or Kerala Sahitya Academy.
Start the day by visiting the Kozhikode Beach, a picturesque beach where the Arabian Sea meets the Kallai River. Next, head to the Pazhassiraja Museum and Art Gallery to see sculptures and paintings from different eras. For lunch, try the local delicacy, Kozhikode Biriyani, at Paragon, a popular restaurant in the city. In the evening, visit the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary where you can see different species of migratory birds.
Begin the day by visiting the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Next, visit the Napier Museum, an art and natural history museum that houses many ancient treasures, including artifacts from the Chera and Satavahana dynasties. End your city experience by visiting the Kovalam Beach, a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with clear waters and a lighthouse.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the scenic Munnar, known for tea plantations, or the Periyar National Park, one of the largest tiger reserves in India. If you have less time, consider skipping Kozhikode and exploring more of Kochi. Keep in mind that some attractions may have long wait times, so plan accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes as most of these places require walking. In addition, be prepared for hot weather and carry water, sunscreen, and a hat.