Exploring Munnar, Thekkadi, and Alleppey in 3 Days

Wednesday, September 6: Journey from Hyderabad to Munnar

Start your trip by taking an early morning train from Hyderabad to Munnar. Upon arrival in Munnar, check into your hotel and freshen up. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea. Afterward, head to the Mattupetty Dam for breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and boating activities. In the afternoon, explore the famous Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End your day by watching a mesmerizing sunset at the Top Station viewpoint.

• Tea Museum: INR 100, 2 hours
• Mattupetty Dam: INR 20, 1-2 hours
• Eravikulam National Park: INR 120, 3 hours
• Top Station: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Rapsy Restaurant which offers a wide range of delicious South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• For lunch, try Sree Krishna Inn, a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its delectable thali meals. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For dinner, dine at Copper Castle, a charming restaurant serving a variety of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.

Thursday, September 7: Thekkadi Wildlife and Spice Exploration

On the second day, proceed to Thekkadi, a wildlife and spice heaven. Start your morning with a thrilling boat ride through the Periyar Lake in Periyar National Park, where you can spot various wildlife species. Afterward, visit a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation and processing of spices. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch and then embark on a guided jungle walk to explore the rich biodiversity of the region. In the evening, witness a captivating Kathakali dance performance, showcasing traditional Kerala art forms.

• Periyar National Park Boat Ride: INR 200, 2-3 hours
• Spice Plantation Tour: INR 300, 2 hours
• Jungle Walk: INR 200, 2-3 hours
• Kathakali Performance: INR 300, 2 hours

Friday, September 8: Backwaters of Alleppey

On the final day, travel to Alleppey, known for its serene backwaters. Start your morning by exploring the Alleppey Beach and enjoying a peaceful walk along the shoreline. Then, embark on a houseboat cruise through the backwaters, passing by picturesque villages and lush greenery. Indulge in a delicious traditional Kerala lunch served on the houseboat. In the afternoon, visit the Alleppey Lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. End your trip with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage, rejuvenating your mind and body.

• Alleppey Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
• Houseboat Cruise: Starting from INR 5,000, 4-5 hours
• Alleppey Lighthouse: INR 20, 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: Starting from INR 1,500, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Munnar, don't miss the opportunity to visit the offbeat attraction called Echo Point. Shout your heart out and hear your voice echo back from the surrounding mountains. Locals also love to visit the Pambadum Shola National Park, a lesser-known gem that offers stunning views, wildlife sightings, and peaceful hiking trails.

When in Thekkadi, take some time to explore the lesser-explored Mangaladevi Temple, located deep within the Periyar Tiger Reserve. This ancient temple is surrounded by lush forests and provides a serene and spiritual experience.

In Alleppey, venture away from the touristy spots and visit the beautiful Marari Beach. This hidden gem offers a tranquil environment and pristine sandy shores, perfect for a peaceful getaway.