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A Week in Kerala: Munnar, Alleppey, and Varkala

Monday October 9: Arrival in Kochi

Start your journey in Kochi, also known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea." In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi, known for its Chinese fishing nets and colonial architecture. Visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the Dutch Palace, a museum showcasing Kerala's traditional art and artifacts. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride through the picturesque backwaters of Kochi. In the evening, stroll along the bustling Marine Drive and enjoy the scenic sunset views.

  • Fort Kochi: Entrance fee - INR 10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Backwater boat ride: Starting from INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Marine Drive: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday October 10: Journey to Munnar

Head to Munnar, a hill station renowned for its tea plantations and stunning landscapes. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea in Munnar and sample different varieties. Take a scenic drive to Mattupetty Dam and enjoy a boat ride amidst the beautiful surroundings. Spend the afternoon exploring the lush greenery of Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the evening, visit the local markets to buy some aromatic teas and spices.

  • Tea Museum: Entrance fee - INR 100, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Mattupetty Dam: Entrance fee - INR 10, Boat ride - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Eravikulam National Park: Entrance fee - INR 125 (Indian), INR 420 (Foreigner), Time spent - 3-4 hours
Wednesday October 11: Exploring Munnar

Spend the day exploring the natural beauty of Munnar. Start the morning with a visit to the breathtaking Top Station, the highest point in Munnar, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Trek through the scenic trails of the Echo Point, where your voice echoes back to you. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the fragrant beauty of the Rose Garden and explore the serenity of the Pothamedu Viewpoint. End the day with a visit to the picturesque Kundala Lake.

  • Top Station: Entrance fee - INR 50, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Echo Point: Entrance fee - INR 20, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Rose Garden: Entrance fee - INR 30, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Pothamedu Viewpoint: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kundala Lake: Entrance fee - INR 10, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Thursday October 12: Backwaters of Alleppey

Travel to Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East," famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. Start the day with a serene morning houseboat cruise along the intricate network of canals and lagoons. Experience the unique lifestyle of the locals living by the backwaters. In the afternoon, explore the Alleppey Beach and relax amidst the golden sands and swaying palm trees. Don't miss the mesmerizing sunset views over the Arabian Sea.

  • Houseboat cruise: Starting from INR 5,000 per night, Time spent - Overnight
  • Alleppey Beach: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Friday October 13: Relaxation in Varkala

Head to Varkala, a laid-back coastal town known for its pristine beaches and cliffs. Spend the morning relaxing on the beautiful Varkala Beach, known for its mineral-rich black sand. Take a refreshing dip in the natural spring waters of the Papanasam Beach. In the afternoon, explore the unique Varkala Cliff and enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Indulge in some Ayurvedic treatments or yoga sessions available in the town. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the cliff.

  • Varkala Beach: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Papanasam Beach: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Varkala Cliff: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Saturday October 14: Discovering Varkala

Explore more of Varkala's natural beauty. Start the day with a visit to the picturesque Sivagiri Mutt, a renowned ashram dedicated to the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the enchanting Edava Beach and marvel at its serene surroundings. In the afternoon, discover the hidden gem of Kappil Lake, a tranquil backwater lagoon surrounded by coconut groves. Take a boat ride and witness the harmonious blend of lake, river, and sea.

  • Sivagiri Mutt: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Edava Beach: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Kappil Lake: Boat ride - INR 200, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Sunday October 15: Farewell from Kochi

Return to Kochi for your departure. In the morning, visit the iconic Jewish Synagogue, adorned with beautiful hand-painted tiles. Explore the vibrant market of Jew Town and shop for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants. If time permits, take a visit to the Hill Palace Museum, showcasing the rich heritage of Kerala's royal families. Bid farewell to Kerala as you depart from Kochi.

  • Jewish Synagogue: Entrance fee - INR 5, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Hill Palace Museum: Entrance fee - INR 30 (Indian), INR 150 (Foreigner), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, don't miss visiting the charming village of Kumarakom, situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake. It offers a tranquil getaway with its lush greenery, bird sanctuaries, and traditional houseboat experiences. For adventure enthusiasts, a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady is a must. Embark on a thrilling jungle safari and spot various wildlife species, including elephants and tigers. These off the beaten path attractions and experiences are beloved by locals and offer a unique perspective of Kerala's natural beauty.

Check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Kerala, Munnar, Alleppey, and Varkala here.

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