The Best of Kerala in 5 Days

1. Day 1: Kochi
   Arrive at Kochi International Airport in the morning.
   Take a walk around Fort Kochi, a historic neighbourhood that boasts colonial architecture and the iconic Chinese fishing nets.
   Visit the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, a museum that houses an impressive collection of mural paintings and artefacts that date back to the 16th century.
   Head to the Jewish Synagogue nearby, a beautiful structure that is one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth of Nations.
   End the day with a sunset cruise and witness the beauty of Kochi's harbour.
   Estimated time and distance from previous location: 8 hours (15km)
2. Day 2: Munnar
   Drive to Munnar, a beautiful hill station known for its tea estates, lush greenery and cool weather.
   Visit the tea museum and learn about the history and production of tea in India.
   Go on a guided hike in the Eravikulam National Park and spot the rare Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered mountain goat.
   End the day watching the sunset at the Top Station viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
   Estimated time and distance from previous location: 4 hours (130km)
3. Day 3: Thekkady
   Drive to Thekkady, a beautiful town located on the border of Periyar National Park.
   Visit the park and take a boat ride on Periyar Lake, spotting elephants, tigers, bison and other animals in their natural habitat.
   Experience a traditional Kerala Ayurvedic massage, known for its healing and rejuvenating properties.
   End the day with a traditional Kerala meal at a local restaurant.
   Estimated time and distance from previous location: 4 hours (120km)
4. Day 4: Alleppey
   Drive to Alleppey, a town known for its serene backwaters and houseboats.
   Board a houseboat and cruise along the backwaters, witnessing the simple and peaceful lives of the locals and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
   Visit the Alleppey Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand that is perfect for a swim or a walk.
   End the day with a stunning sunset at Marari Beach, which is located just a few kilometres from Alleppey.
   Estimated time and distance from previous location: 2 hours (85km)
5. Day 5: Kovalam
   Drive to Kovalam, a beautiful beach town that is popular among tourists.
   Visit the Lighthouse Beach, a picturesque stretch of sand that attracts both locals and tourists.
   Visit the Halcyon Castle, a beautiful palace that was built by the British in the 1930s and is now converted into a hotel.
   End the day watching the sunset at the Samudra Beach, a less crowded beach that is perfect for a peaceful evening.
   Estimated time and distance from previous location: 4 hours (220km)

Time and Costs Estimates

• Entry to Mattancherry Palace (2 hours, ₹30)
• Entry to Jewish Synagogue (1 hour, ₹5)
• Eravikulam National Park hiking tour (4 hours, ₹685 per person)
• Boat ride at Periyar National Park (2 hours, ₹345)
• Kerala Ayurvedic massage (2 hours, ₹2000 - ₹5000 depending on package)
• Houseboat renting (22 hours, ₹15000 - ₹25000 depending on boat size and amenities)
• Entry to Halcyon Castle (1 hour, ₹100)
• Entry to Lighthouse Beach (2 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: ₹1865 - ₹28635

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a visit to the beautiful Athirappilly Waterfalls or the tranquil Varkala Beach. If you have less time, skip the Kerala Ayurvedic massage or Marari Beach.