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Kerala Relaxation Retreat

Wednesday December 13: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Begin your relaxation retreat in the vibrant city of Kochi. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Afterward, visit the serene Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to admire its beautiful murals. In the afternoon, take a leisurely cruise along the peaceful backwaters of Kochi and enjoy the scenic beauty. In the evening, indulge in some delicious local seafood at a waterfront restaurant.

  • Fort Kochi: Free, 3 hours
  • Mattancherry Palace: INR 50 ($0.70), 1 hour
  • Backwater Cruise: INR 800 ($11.20), 3 hours
Thursday December 14: Munnar's Tranquil Tea Gardens

Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station famous for its tea plantations. Start your day with a visit to the lush green tea gardens, where you can take a peaceful stroll amidst the aromatic tea leaves. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Attukad Waterfall and enjoy the breathtaking views. As the evening sets in, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and tea-making process while sipping on a cup of freshly brewed tea.

  • Munnar Tea Gardens: Free, 2 hours
  • Attukad Waterfall: Free, 1 hour
  • Tea Museum: INR 135 ($1.90), 1 hour
Restaurants
  • A popular choice for breakfast is the Gopu's Café, located in the heart of Munnar. You can start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast and indulge in their fluffy dosas and aromatic filter coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
  • If you're looking for a place for lunch, head over to Rapsy Restaurant. Famous for its mouthwatering Kerala-style seafood, this restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh fish and prawn dishes. Don't miss their signature fish curry and the delectable Malabar biryani. The average cost for a meal here is about 350 INR per person.
  • For a delightful dinner experience, try the Salkara Restaurant. Known for its authentic Kerala cuisine, this restaurant offers a diverse menu of local delicacies including appam, seafood, and traditional thalis. The relaxing ambiance and friendly service add to the overall dining experience. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
Friday December 15: Backwater Bliss in Alleppey

Travel to the picturesque town of Alleppey, known for its mesmerizing backwaters. Start your day with a relaxing houseboat cruise along the tranquil canals, surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, unwind at Marari Beach, a pristine stretch of sandy shore, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the gentle sea breeze. As evening approaches, witness a stunning sunset over the backwaters before heading to a local restaurant for a delicious traditional Kerala meal.

  • Houseboat Cruise: INR 8,000 ($112), 5 hours
  • Marari Beach: Free, 3 hours
  • Backwater Sunset View: Free, 1 hour
Saturday December 16: Serenity in Thekkady

Continue your relaxation journey as you travel to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park. In the morning, embark on a peaceful boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you can spot various wildlife species in their natural habitat. Afterward, visit a spice plantation to learn about the aromatic spices grown in the region. In the afternoon, rejuvenate with an Ayurvedic massage at a wellness center. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the bustling Kumily Market and savor some local delicacies.

  • Periyar Lake Boat Ride: INR 500 ($7), 2 hours
  • Spice Plantation Visit: INR 100 ($1.40), 1 hour
  • Ayurvedic Massage: INR 2,000 ($28), 2 hours
  • Kumily Market: Free, 1 hour
Sunday December 17: Beach Bliss in Kovalam

Relaxation continues as you make your way to the serene beaches of Kovalam. Spend the morning unwinding on the golden sands of Lighthouse Beach and take a refreshing dip in the clear blue waters of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatment at one of the renowned wellness centers in Kovalam. As the evening sets in, savor a delightful seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying the calming sound of the waves.

  • Lighthouse Beach: Free, 3 hours
  • Ayurvedic Treatment: INR 2,500 ($35), 2 hours
  • Beachfront Dinner: INR 1,500 ($21), 2 hours
Monday December 18: Farewell from Kochi

On your last day, travel back to Kochi. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets and witness the local fishermen in action. Explore the bustling markets of Jew Town, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and spices. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Marine Drive promenade, enjoying the scenic views of the backwaters. Bid farewell to Kerala with a delicious traditional lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the airport for your onward journey.

  • Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, 1 hour
  • Jew Town Shopping: Cost varies, 2 hours
  • Marine Drive: Free, 2 hours
  • Farewell Lunch: INR 500 ($7), 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a truly off the beaten path experience, venture to the sleepy village of Varkala. Known for its stunning cliffside views and pristine beaches, Varkala offers a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Spend a day lounging on the secluded beaches, indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments, and witness a mesmerizing sunset from the cliffside. Don't forget to try some fresh seafood at the local beach shacks for an authentic taste of Kerala's coastal cuisine.

To check hotel and flight prices for your Kerala relaxation retreat, click here.

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