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A Week of Relaxation in Kerala

Friday, December 1: Arrive in Kochi

Start your trip by arriving in Kochi, the gateway to Kerala. In the morning, explore Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to admire its beautiful murals. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing stroll along the Marine Drive promenade, enjoying the views of the backwaters.

  • Fort Kochi: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Mattancherry Palace: INR 5 (approximately $0.07), 1-2 hours
  • Marine Drive: Free, 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 2: Munnar

Embark on a scenic journey to Munnar, a hill station renowned for its tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the tea production process and enjoy panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk through the vibrant Munnar town, browsing local shops and savoring delicious tea.

  • Tata Tea Museum: INR 100 ($1.35), 2-3 hours
  • Eravikulam National Park: INR 120 ($1.62) for entry, 3-4 hours
  • Munnar town: Free, 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 3: Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Board a traditional houseboat in Alleppey and cruise along the tranquil backwaters. In the morning, relax on the houseboat, enjoying the serene views and the delicious Kerala cuisine served on board. In the afternoon, explore the villages and coconut groves along the canals. As the evening sets in, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters, creating a picturesque ambiance.

  • Houseboat cruise: INR 10,000-15,000 ($135-202) per night, 24 hours
Monday, December 4: Thekkady

Head to Thekkady, known for its spice plantations and Periyar National Park. In the morning, take a guided tour of a spice plantation, learning about the various spices grown in the region. In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari in Periyar Lake, where you might spot elephants, sambar deer, and other wildlife. As the evening approaches, stroll through the bustling Kumily town, known for its spice and handicraft shops.

  • Spice plantation tour: INR 100 ($1.35), 2-3 hours
  • Periyar boat safari: INR 450 ($6.08) for basic ticket, 3-4 hours
  • Kumily town: Free, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 5: Varkala

Travel to Varkala, a coastal town renowned for its stunning cliffs and beautiful beaches. In the morning, visit the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. In the afternoon, relax on the sandy beaches, taking a refreshing dip in the Arabian Sea. As the evening sets in, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the cliffside viewpoints and indulge in some rejuvenating yoga or Ayurvedic treatments.

  • Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Varkala Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Yoga or Ayurvedic treatments: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Kovalam

Proceed to Kovalam, a popular beach destination known for its golden sands and lighthouse. In the morning, unwind on the beautiful Hawa Beach, soaking up the sun's warmth. In the afternoon, visit the iconic lighthouse at Kovalam Beach for panoramic views of the coastline. As the evening approaches, explore the lively Kovalam Beach Road, lined with restaurants and shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs.

  • Hawa Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Kovalam Lighthouse: Entry fee unknown, 1-2 hours
  • Kovalam Beach Road: Free, 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 7: Departure from Thiruvananthapuram

Conclude your trip by departing from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. Spend the morning exploring the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Napier Museum to admire its collection of art and historical artifacts. As you bid farewell to Kerala, cherish the serene memories and plan your next relaxing getaway.

  • Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Napier Museum: INR 20 ($0.27), 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For hidden gems and off the beaten path attractions in Kerala, consider visiting the tranquil village of Kumarakom, known for its serene backwaters and bird sanctuary. Another local favorite is the hill station of Wayanad, offering lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. Both destinations provide a peaceful escape amidst nature, perfect for relaxation.

Before finalizing your travel plans, you can check hotel and flight prices in Kerala using this link.

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