Kochi is a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, with peaceful backwaters, historical monuments, and charming colonial architecture. Spend the day leisurely exploring the narrow alleys of Fort Kochi. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets that date back to the 14th century. Take a ferry to Vypeen Island to enjoy some beach time. In the evening, head to Mattancherry Palace to admire the beautiful murals and paintings. Wrap up the day with dinner at Trilogi, a rooftop restaurant with a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea.
Head to the picturesque hill station of Munnar, with its sprawling tea plantations and hills shrouded in mist. Visit the Munnar Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea making. Go for a shikara ride in the serene Kundala Lake. Enjoy the sunset at Top Station, which offers a panoramic view of the Western Ghats. Have dinner at Rapsy Restaurant, which serves delicious local cuisine.
Alleppey, also known as the Venice of the East, is a network of canals, lagoons, and waterways that flow into the Arabian Sea. Spend the day floating along the backwaters on a traditional houseboat and enjoying the scenic beauty. Stop by at the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary to spot some exotic bird species. Have an evening barbecue on the houseboat while watching a Kathakali performance.
On your final day, head back to Kochi and indulge in some retail therapy. Visit the bustling Marine Drive and shop for souvenirs at the Lulu Mall, one of the largest malls in India. Have lunch at Fort House Restaurant, which has a cozy ambience and a wide variety of seafood options. As the sun sets, gather your memories and depart from the airport.
If you have an additional day, visit the Periyar National Park for a thrilling wildlife safari. Alternatively, add a day in Alleppey and experience the annual Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race which takes place in August, although it attracts a huge influx of people. If you have less time, skip the Houseboat experience or shorten your stay in Munnar so you can cover Kochi and Alleppey more leisurely.