Fort Kochi is a historic neighborhood built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. It is filled with colonial-style architecture, charming streets, and cozy cafes. Visit the Dutch Palace to view murals and artifacts from Kerala's rich cultural past, and the St. Francis Church, where the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was buried.
Munnar is a charming hill station in the Western Ghats famous for its tea plantations, mountains, and waterfalls. Visit the Mattupetty Dam and Lake, which offer stunning views and wildlife sightings, and the Top Station viewpoint for the best panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Take a relaxing nature walk in the Eravikulam National Park to see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, an endemic goat species found only in the Western Ghats.
Thekkady is famous for its wildlife sanctuary, boat rides, and spice plantations. Take a scenic boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. Visit the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre to see a traditional martial arts performance and learn about its history. Take a guided tour of the spice plantations and get to know about the region's spicy richness and significance.
Alleppey, also known as the 'Venice of the East, is a charming backwater town famous for its houseboat rides and lagoons. Get aboard a houseboat for a serene cruise through tranquil backwaters while enjoying the scenic beauty and local cuisine. Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is important as storks, cranes, and other birds gather here in flocks, a rare sight in other parts of the country.
Kovalam is a picturesque beach town with crescent-shaped beaches, swaying palm trees, and laid-back vibes. Visit the famous Lighthouse Beach, which boasts a beautiful lighthouse perched atop a rocky promontory. Take a dip in the crystal clear waters of Hawa Beach, also known as the Eve's Beach. Visit Vizhinjam Fishing Harbor to catch a glimpse of the local fishermen catching their daily bounty, and also visit the ancient rock-cut temple
Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is a perfect blend of heritage and modernity. Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and also visit Kuthira Malika, the museum located within the palace displays paintings and artifacts from the royal family. Visit Varkala Beach for stunning cliff views and outstanding restaurants.
If you have more time, add a visit to Wayanad, a beautiful district known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. If you have less time, skip Alleppey and head straight to Kovalam to save time. Make sure to carry comfortable walking shoes, sunblock lotion, and a hat. Carry a raincoat or umbrella during the monsoon season, which runs from June to August.