Start your journey at Fort Kochi, which carries the remnants of colonialism with its Dutch and Portuguese influences. Visit the iconic St. Francis Church and see some Chinese-style fishing nets. Then, head to the charming Jew Town, known for its spice markets and antique shops. End your day by watching a traditional Kathakali dance performance.
Wake up early and drive to Munnar to witness the picturesque rolling hills of tea plantations that align the Western Ghats. Visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about tea-making, and then trek to the spellbinding Top Station for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. If time permits, visit the Eravikulam National Park to see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr goat.
Get up close with nature and explore Periyar National Park, a wildlife sanctuary home to Asian elephants, tigers and other rare animals. Try bamboo rafting, jungle treks, and ride an elephant through the forest. Enjoy a spice plantation tour and learn about the cultivation of vanilla, cocoa, and coffee in the area.
Relax and get pampered with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage at a luxury spa resort. Take a scenic boat ride through backwaters and see the charming villages, paddy fields, and coir factories. Head to the bird sanctuary at the edge of Lake Vembanad if you have time.
Start your day with a traditional Kerala breakfast on a houseboat as you cruise through the picturesque network of canals and lagoons that form the Alleppey backwaters. Visit the beautiful Alleppey Beach, known for its sunsets and water sports.
Soak up the sun and indulge in the sea breeze at the Kovalam beach. Take a stroll to the 30 meters tall Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the surroundings. Visit the nearby Karamana River for its serene beauty and calm boat ride. End your day with some mouthwatering seafood at local eateries.
For travelers with more time: visit Wayanad for its rural beauty, Athirappilly Waterfalls for its mesmerizing views, and Varkala for cliff-side sunsets.
For travelers with less time: skip Alleppey and Kovalam to cut short the journey. Spend more time at Munnar for its tea plantation, or Periyar for its wildlife sanctuary.