Step into the historic triangular fort, built by the Portuguese in 1503, and explore the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Visit the Dutch Palace with murals of Hindu temple art, and the Jewish Synagogue with antique lamps and Hebrew inscriptions. End the day with a Kathakali dance performance, an impressive cultural art form with the play of expression, culture, heritage, morality, and mythology. The performance takes place at 6 pm, so make sure to reserve your seat at least an hour before.
Experience the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat ride. Savor the authentic food served on board and don't forget to carry your camera for unforgettable views and moments. Later, take a 1-hour drive to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a unique site of migratory birds from Siberia. Take a boat ride through the sanctuary and bask in the lush greenery and the chirping sounds of birds. End the day with a pleasant evening walk at the Vembanad Lake and refresh yourself with tender coconut water before heading back to your hotel.
Begin your day with Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected Tiger Reserve known for its rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. Enjoy a boat ride in the Periyar Lake to get a closer view of the wildlife and the adjoining forests. Then, set out for a trek in Thekkady, a beautiful hill station brimming with tea plantations, cardamom hills, and dense forests. Capture the picturesque view of the sunset at the Chellarkovil viewpoint and lose yourself in the lush tea fields. End your day with a cup of hot and spicy tea from a local stall on the roadside before returning to your hotel.
If you have more time, you can add a visit to the Kovalam beach or the tea estates in Munnar.
If you have less time, you can skip the trekking in Thekkady and instead opt for an elephant ride or a spice plantation tour.