Welcome to Kochi, the gateway to Kerala! Start your trip by exploring the historic Fort Kochi area in the morning. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride through the picturesque backwaters, admiring the lush greenery and local life. Spend the evening at Marine Drive, a popular waterfront promenade, enjoying the scenic views of the sunset.
Fort Kochi: Free, 3 hours
Backwater Boat Ride: INR 500 per person, 2 hours
Marine Drive: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Annapoorna Restaurant. This popular eatery serves idli, dosa, and vada along with a variety of chutneys and sambar. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For lunch, head to the quaint Kashi Art Café located in Fort Kochi. This artsy café offers a range of healthy and tasty options including salads, sandwiches, and pasta. Don't miss their freshly baked cakes and refreshing drinks. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a traditional Keralan dinner at the renowned Malabar Junction. Known for their exquisite seafood dishes and flavorful curries, this restaurant offers a delightful dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, October 21: Munnar
Head towards the beautiful hill station of Munnar in the morning. Marvel at the breathtaking tea gardens as you drive up the hills. In the afternoon, explore the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. Enjoy a nature walk in the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End the day with a visit to the Mattupetty Dam, where you can enjoy boating amidst the serene surroundings.
Tata Tea Museum: INR 100 per person, 2 hours
Eravikulam National Park: INR 200 per person, 3 hours
Mattupetty Dam: INR 300 per boat, 1 hour
Restaurants
Misty Mountain Cafe: Located amidst the lush tea gardens of Munnar, this cozy cafe offers a delightful breakfast spread with options like pancakes, omelettes, and fresh fruit bowls. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
Silver Spoon Restaurant: A popular lunch spot in Munnar, Silver Spoon serves a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills as you feast on their flavorful biryanis or savor their delicious noodles. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Rapsy Restaurant: For a dinner experience in Munnar, head to Rapsy Restaurant known for its mouthwatering Kerala cuisine. Indulge in dishes like appam, seafood curry, and tender beef fry. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
Sunday, October 22: Thekkady
Embark on an adventurous day in Thekkady. Start with a jungle safari in the Periyar National Park, where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants and tigers. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation and learn about the aromatic spices grown in Kerala. Enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance in the evening, showcasing the vibrant culture of the state.
Periyar National Park: INR 450 per person, 4 hours
Spice Plantation: INR 200 per person, 2 hours
Kathakali Dance Show: INR 300 per person, 2 hours
Monday, October 23: Alleppey
Experience the backwaters of Alleppey by staying in a traditional houseboat. Cruise through the serene backwaters, witnessing the picturesque landscape and local village life. Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala cuisine on board. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Alleppey Beach and witness a beautiful sunset.
Houseboat Stay: INR 8,000 per night, 24 hours
Alleppey Beach: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
Bread & Jam Café: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this cozy café known for its freshly baked bread and delicious jam spreads. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200-300 per person.
Thaff Restaurant: Indulge in a traditional Kerala lunch at Thaff Restaurant, known for its authentic local cuisine including seafood delicacies and flavorful curries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400-500 per person.
Poovattu Restaurant: For dinner, head to Poovattu Restaurant and savor the taste of traditional Kerala dishes such as appam, kerala beef fry, and seafood specialties. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300-400 per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Kovalam
Travel to Kovalam, a popular beach town. Spend the morning relaxing on the sandy beaches and taking a dip in the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Lighthouse Beach and explore the local shops and cafes. Enjoy a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage in one of the renowned wellness centers. Witness a mesmerizing cultural performance at the Kathakali Center in the evening.
Kovalam Beaches: Free, 3 hours
Lighthouse Beach: Free, 2 hours
Ayurvedic Massage: INR 1,500 per person, 1 hour
Kathakali Performance: INR 400 per person, 1.5 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at German Bakery. This popular cafe offers a variety of freshly baked breads, pastries, and fruit shakes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Curry Leaf Restaurant. Indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine, including mouthwatering seafood dishes and flavorful curries. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Malabar Café for a memorable dinner experience. This charming restaurant serves traditional Kerala delicacies made with locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 25: Trivandrum
Explore the capital city of Kerala, Trivandrum. Visit the impressive Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture and religious significance. Explore the Napier Museum, showcasing a vast collection of historical artifacts and artworks. Spend the afternoon at the beautiful Kovalam Art Gallery and relax in its tranquil surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll at the Shanghumukham Beach.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, 2 hours
Napier Museum: INR 20 per person, 2 hours
Kovalam Art Gallery: INR 100 per person, 2 hours
Shanghumukham Beach: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
The South Indian Cafe is a popular breakfast spot in Trivandrum, serving traditional dosas and idlis. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Ariya Nivaas Restaurant, known for its delicious seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Villa Maya, a charming restaurant offering a variety of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, October 26: Departure
End your trip with unforgettable memories of Kerala. Take some time to relax and pack before heading to the airport for your departure. If time permits, you can visit the Chalai Market to buy some souvenirs and experience the local hustle and bustle.
Chalai Market: Shopping costs vary, 2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, visit the Hill Palace Museum in Tripunithura, just outside Kochi. It is the largest archeological museum in Kerala and offers a glimpse into the royal history of the region. Another hidden gem is the Palaruvi Waterfalls in Kollam district, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools surrounded by lush greenery. Locals love to spend time at Varkala Beach, known for its stunning cliffs, calm waters, and laid-back atmosphere. It's a great place to relax and soak up the sun with your family.