Welcome to Kerala! Begin your journey in Kochi, a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. In the morning, visit Fort Kochi, a charming neighborhood with colonial architecture and the famous Chinese Fishing Nets. In the afternoon, explore the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, showcasing beautiful murals and artifacts. In the evening, catch a traditional Kathakali dance performance at a local theater.
Fort Kochi: Entrance fee - INR 10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
A popular breakfast spot in Kochi is "Kashi Art Cafe", offering a range of delicious dishes including homemade bread and fresh coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, "Dal Roti" is a great choice with its authentic North Indian cuisine. The restaurant offers a variety of mouthwatering vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at "Oceanos Restaurant", renowned for its seafood delicacies and stunning waterfront views. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, November 8: Munnar's Tranquil Hills
Head to Munnar, a picturesque hill station surrounded by lush tea plantations. In the morning, visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Enjoy a refreshing walk amidst nature. In the afternoon, explore the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. End your day with a relaxing boat ride at Kundala Lake.
Eravikulam National Park: Entrance fee - INR 120, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Kundala Lake: Boat ride - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Royale: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Royale, known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Munnar Cafe: For lunch, head to Munnar Cafe and indulge in their authentic Kerala cuisine. Their seafood dishes are a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Ember Restaurant: Enjoy a scrumptious dinner at Ember Restaurant, which offers a wide range of Indian and international dishes. Don't miss their flavorful biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Thursday, November 9: Backwaters of Alleppey
Embark on a memorable backwater experience in Alleppey. In the morning, board a traditional houseboat and cruise along the serene backwaters, witnessing the beauty of the surrounding villages and paddy fields. Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared onboard. Spend the evening relaxing and absorbing the tranquility of the backwaters.
Houseboat Cruise: Starting from INR 6,000 per night, Time spent - Overnight
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Paradiso, located near the backwaters in Alleppey. They offer a variety of traditional Kerala breakfast dishes such as idli, dosa, and appam. The average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Halais Restaurant, known for its delicious seafood and traditional Kerala cuisine. Enjoy fresh catch of the day prepared with aromatic spices and flavors. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a flavorful dinner at Dreamers Cafe and Restaurant. This cozy eatery offers a diverse menu including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering biryanis and grilled delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, November 10: Enchanting Thekkady
Head to Thekkady, a nature lover's paradise. Start your day with a thrilling boat safari at Periyar National Park, where you might spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. In the afternoon, visit the spice plantations and learn about the exotic spices grown in the region. Enjoy an evening cultural show showcasing traditional art forms.
Periyar National Park: Entrance fee - INR 150, Boat safari - INR 400, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Cultural Show: Ticket price - INR 200-300, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Thekkady Baker's Corner, a popular bakery known for its freshly baked bread and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 150 per person.
For lunch, visit Spice Garden Restaurant, a charming eatery serving delicious dishes made with locally sourced spices. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 250 per person.
For dinner, dine at Bamboo Grove, a cozy restaurant offering a variety of authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 350 per person.
Saturday, November 11: Scenic Varkala Beach
Travel to Varkala, a coastal town known for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches. Spend the morning relaxing on the beautiful Varkala Beach. In the afternoon, explore the famous Janardanaswamy Temple and witness the breathtaking views from the Varkala Cliffs. Enjoy a mesmerizing sunset by the beach.
Varkala Beach: Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Varkala Cliffs: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Juice Shack: Start your day with a healthy and refreshing breakfast at The Juice Shack. This cozy cafe offers a variety of fresh juices, smoothie bowls, and breakfast sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Sunday, November 12: Thrissur's Cultural Delights
Visit Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala, renowned for its vibrant festivals and temples. In the morning, explore the Vadakkunnathan Temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the afternoon, visit the Kerala Kalamandalam, an institution preserving traditional Indian performing arts. In the evening, witness a traditional Kathakali performance.
Vadakkunnathan Temple: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Kerala Kalamandalam: Entrance fee - INR 20, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Conclude your Kerala journey in Kovalam, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches. Spend the day relaxing on the sandy shores of Kovalam Beach. Enjoy water sports activities or indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatment. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset and savor delicious seafood by the beach.
Kovalam Beach: Free, Time spent - 4-5 hours
Water Sports: Starting from INR 500, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Ayurvedic Spa: Starting from INR 2,000, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Kerala, don't miss exploring the enchanting hill station of Wayanad, known for its scenic beauty and wildlife. Visit the Edakkal Caves, take a jungle safari in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and experience the serene beauty of the Soochipara Waterfalls. These off the beaten path attractions are perfect for families looking to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories.
For hotel and flight bookings, make sure to check Kayak to find the best deals and prices for your travel dates.