Embark on a magical journey through the enchanting state of Kerala, known as "God's Own Country." From serene backwaters to lush tea plantations, this 7-day itinerary will take you on a memorable adventure through the natural wonders and cultural treasures of Kerala. Check out hotel and flight prices here.
Friday, August 11: Arrival in Kochi
Welcome to Kochi! Start your Kerala journey by exploring the historic city of Kochi. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and take a walk through the charming streets of Fort Kochi. In the afternoon, explore the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, and marvel at its exquisite murals. As the evening sets in, attend a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.
Chinese Fishing Nets: Cost Estimate: INR 20 per person, Time Spent: 1 hour
Fort Kochi: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Mattancherry Palace: Cost Estimate: INR 5 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Kathakali Performance: Cost Estimate: INR 200-500 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, August 12: Munnar's Tea Gardens
Leave early for Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its sprawling tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy panoramic views of the lush greenery. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the tea gardens and soak in the serene atmosphere. As the evening approaches, visit the Attukad Waterfalls and witness the cascading beauty.
Tata Tea Museum: Cost Estimate: INR 100 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Munnar Tea Gardens: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Attukad Waterfalls: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Munnar is Cafe Royale which offers a variety of Indian and continental breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Rapsy Restaurant which serves delicious and authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, head to SpiceLovers which offers a range of aromatic and flavorful Kerala dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, August 13: Backwater Bliss in Alleppey
Travel to Alleppey, known for its enchanting backwaters and houseboat cruises. In the morning, embark on a relaxing houseboat ride through the serene backwaters, surrounded by lush landscapes and traditional villages. In the afternoon, indulge in a traditional Kerala lunch served on board. As the evening sets in, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters.
Houseboat Cruise: Cost Estimate: INR 5,000-10,000 per night (shared), Time Spent: Overnight
Traditional Kerala Lunch: Cost Estimate: INR 500-1,000 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Sunset over Backwaters: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Monday, August 14: The Wildlife of Thekkady
Travel to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. In the morning, embark on a thrilling jungle safari to spot wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and various bird species. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on Periyar Lake and enjoy the serene surroundings. As the evening approaches, attend a traditional martial arts performance known as Kalaripayattu.
Periyar National Park Safari: Cost Estimate: INR 200-400 per person, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
Boat Ride on Periyar Lake: Cost Estimate: INR 150-200 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Kalaripayattu Performance: Cost Estimate: INR 200-500 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Thekkady is The Terrace Garden. They offer a variety of delicious South Indian dishes like dosa and idli. The average cost per person for breakfast is about ₹150.
For lunch, you can try The Bamboo Restaurant located in the heart of Thekkady. They serve an extensive menu of authentic Kerala cuisine, including flavorful seafood dishes. The average cost per person for lunch is about ₹300.
In the evening, head to Spice Village for a delightful dinner experience. This restaurant offers a unique fusion of traditional Kerala flavors with modern culinary techniques. The average cost per person for dinner is about ₹500.
Tuesday, August 15: Discovering the History of Trivandrum
Travel to Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala, and explore its rich history and vibrant culture. In the morning, visit the iconic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a stunning architectural marvel. In the afternoon, explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery to admire its impressive collection of artifacts and artworks. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the beautiful Kovalam Beach.
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Cost Estimate: INR 20-50 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Kovalam Beach: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, August 16: Serene Beauty of Varkala
Travel to Varkala, a coastal town known for its cliffside beaches and natural beauty. In the morning, relax on the pristine beaches and enjoy the breathtaking views from the cliffside. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. As the evening approaches, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the Arabian Sea.
Varkala Beach: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Sunset over Arabian Sea: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Chill Out Café. This cozy café offers a variety of traditional dishes like dosa, idli, and vada. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Abba Restaurant. Known for its seafood delicacies, this restaurant offers fresh catches of the day prepared in various flavors. Average cost for a lunch meal is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Darjeeling Café. With a serene ambiance and a delectable menu, this rooftop restaurant is perfect for enjoying beautiful views while relishing dishes from Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a dinner meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, August 17: Departure from Kochi
Return to Kochi for your departure. In the morning, visit the bustling markets of Kochi and indulge in some souvenir shopping. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Jew Town and its famous spice markets. Bid farewell to Kerala with a delightful Kathakali performance in the evening.
Kochi Markets: Cost Estimate: Based on personal spending, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Jew Town and Spice Markets: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Kathakali Performance: Cost Estimate: INR 200-500 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kerala, don't miss the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the offbeat destination of Marari Beach for a tranquil beach experience away from the crowds. Explore the charming village of Kumarakom and indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatment. Nature enthusiasts should plan a visit to the beautiful hill station of Wayanad, known for its wildlife sanctuaries and tea plantations. Kerala offers a wide range of unique experiences that will leave you mesmerized.