Welcome to Kochi, the gateway to Kerala! Start your trip by visiting the historic Fort Kochi, where you can explore its charming streets, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, and witness the beautiful Indo-Portuguese architecture. In the afternoon, take a relaxing backwater cruise in the nearby village of Alleppey. End the day with a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.
A popular breakfast spot in Kochi is Kayees Rahmathulla Café, known for its delicious Malabar cuisine. The average cost for a breakfast here is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Dal Roti, a cozy restaurant offering a variety of Indian and international dishes. A meal here will cost you around ₹400 per person.
In the evening, dine at the Oceanos Restaurant for a memorable dinner experience. This waterfront restaurant serves fresh seafood and has a lively atmosphere. Expect to spend approximately ₹800 per person for dinner.
Wednesday, October 25: Munnar's Tranquil Beauty
Travel to Munnar, a breathtaking hill station famous for its tea plantations and scenic beauty. Start your morning with a visit to the lush tea estates where you can learn about tea production and enjoy panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Witness the mesmerizing Mattupetty Dam and indulge in a boat ride on the serene Kundala Lake during the evening.
Munnar Tea Estates: INR 100 ($1.50), 3 hours
Eravikulam National Park: INR 400 ($5.50), 4 hours
Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake: INR 300 ($4.00), 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Munnar's Cafe Blend, a cozy cafe known for its delicious freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, visit Rapsy Restaurant, a popular eatery serving a variety of Indian and international dishes. Their flavorful seafood options are a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a dinner with a view, dine at the Silver Spoon Restaurant located in Munnar. Enjoy a wide range of delectable Indian and Chinese dishes while overlooking the picturesque tea estates. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, October 26: Exploring the Backwaters of Kumarakom
Head to Kumarakom, a picturesque village known for its backwaters and bird sanctuary. In the morning, take a houseboat cruise along the tranquil Vembanad Lake, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings. Discover the rich biodiversity of Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary in the afternoon. Experience the peaceful village life and savor delicious seafood in the evening.
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Cafe Paradiso, located near Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Indulge in freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Waterside Restaurant, situated lakeside with breathtaking views of Vembanad Lake. Treat yourself to authentic Kerala cuisine, including delicious seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, head to Tharavadu Heritage Restaurant, renowned for its traditional Kerala flavors and warm ambiance. Sample mouthwatering curries and grilled delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, October 27: Thrilling Adventures in Thekkady
Travel to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park. Embark on a morning wildlife safari where you can spot various species including elephants, tigers, and exotic birds. Experience the unique Elephant Junction in the afternoon, where you can interact with elephants and even go for an elephant ride. Enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance in the evening.
Periyar National Park Safari: INR 500 ($7.00), 4 hours
Elephant Junction: INR 1,000 ($14.00), 3 hours
Kathakali Performance: INR 300 ($4.00), 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hotel Ambadi. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of South Indian breakfast items such as idli, dosa, and vada. The average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Periyar Cafe. This casual eatery serves authentic Kerala cuisine including seafood dishes, biryani, and vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Spice Village. This upscale restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu featuring traditional Kerala delicacies and international cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, October 28: Serenity in Varkala
Head to the coastal town of Varkala, known for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands of Varkala Beach and witnessing the majestic cliffs. In the afternoon, rejuvenate yourself with an Ayurvedic spa treatment. During the evening, visit the 2,000-year-old Janardanaswamy Temple and enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at Cafe Del Mar, a charming beachfront restaurant offering a variety of tasty traditional Kerala dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Abba Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delicious seafood and authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at The Sky Lounge, a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy a fusion of international and Indian flavors. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Sunday, October 29: Unwind in Kovalam
Travel to the coastal paradise of Kovalam. Begin your day by exploring the lighthouse and enjoying the panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Relax on the pristine beaches of Kovalam, swim in the warm waters, and indulge in water sports. Witness the mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance during the evening.
Kovalam Lighthouse: INR 20 ($0.30), 2 hours
Kovalam Beaches: Free, 4 hours
Kathakali Performance: INR 300 ($4.00), 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the quaint Cafe Coffee Day. Enjoy a variety of breakfast options like sandwiches, pastries, and hot beverages. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head to the iconic Curry Leaf Restaurant. Indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine including traditional thali meals and freshly prepared seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at the elegant Bait Restaurant. Savor a delectable seafood spread amidst stunning ocean views. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Monday, October 30: Departure from Kochi
On your last day, bid farewell to the enchanting land of Kerala. Spend your morning exploring Kochi's famous Jewish Synagogue and the bustling markets of Jew Town. In the afternoon, visit the Hill Palace Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of Kerala. Depart from Kochi with beautiful memories of your Kerala adventure.
Jewish Synagogue and Jew Town: INR 50 ($0.70), 3 hours
Hill Palace Museum: INR 100 ($1.50), 2 hours
Restaurants
Savour the authentic Kerala breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, known for its delicious dosas and idlis. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
Indulge in a seafood extravaganza at Oceanos Restaurant for lunch, serving fresh catch of the day with a touch of Kerala spices. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Experience the traditional flavors of Kerala at Malabar Junction for dinner, serving delectable Malabar cuisine in a charming setting. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to visit the enchanting Athirapally Waterfalls, located near Kochi. These majestic waterfalls are a hidden gem, offering a stunning sight amidst lush greenery. Another local favorite is the beautiful Marari Beach, situated near Alleppey. It is less crowded than other beaches in Kerala and provides a serene atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful family day out.