Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Discover the Enchanting Land of Kerala

Sunday, December 3: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your journey in Kochi, the vibrant port city known for its colonial heritage and picturesque backwaters. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi, with its charming streets lined with Dutch, Portuguese, and British architecture. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. In the afternoon, take a relaxing cruise along the backwaters to marvel at the serene landscapes. In the evening, experience a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a classical Indian dance form.

  • Fort Kochi: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Backwater Cruise: Cost Estimate - INR 500 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Kathakali Dance Performance: Cost Estimate - INR 300 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Kashi Art Cafe, a charming cafe in Fort Kochi known for its delightful menu of sandwiches, pancakes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
  • During lunchtime, try Oceanos Restaurant, a popular seafood restaurant offering a variety of delicious seafood dishes, including fresh fish curry and lobster. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
  • For dinner, dine at Malabar Junction, a beautiful restaurant serving traditional Kerala cuisine in a courtyard setting. Enjoy dishes like Malabar fish curry and chicken biryani. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Monday, December 4: Munnar's Tea Estates

Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station renowned for its tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea cultivation in the region. Enjoy a refreshing cup of tea amidst the lush green tea gardens. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Mattupetty Dam and go boating on the serene lake. As evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting tea estates and immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes.

  • Tata Tea Museum: Cost Estimate - INR 100 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Mattupetty Dam: Cost Estimate - INR 10 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Tea Estate Walk: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Tuesday, December 5: The Backwaters of Alleppey

Travel to Alleppey, also known as the Venice of the East, renowned for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. In the morning, embark on a mesmerizing houseboat journey through the tranquil backwaters, passing by lush paddy fields and quaint villages. Enjoy a delicious Keralan lunch prepared onboard. In the afternoon, visit the Alleppey Beach and witness a breathtaking sunset. Indulge in a delectable seafood dinner at a local restaurant by the backwaters.

  • Houseboat Cruise: Cost Estimate - INR 6,000 per night for a private houseboat (shared options available), Time Spent - Overnight
  • Alleppey Beach: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Seafood Dinner: Cost Estimate - INR 800 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Serenity of Varkala

Travel to Varkala, a coastal town known for its stunning cliffside beaches and ancient Janardanaswamy Temple. In the morning, relax on the beautiful Varkala Beach and soak up the sun. Take a dip in the natural spring waters of the Papanasam Beach believed to have healing properties. In the afternoon, visit the Janardanaswamy Temple and witness its architectural marvel. As the day winds down, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage at one of the renowned wellness centers.

  • Varkala Beach: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Papanasam Beach: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Janardanaswamy Temple: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Ayurvedic Massage: Cost Estimate - INR 1,500 onwards, Time Spent - 1 hour
Thursday, December 7: Wildlife Safari in Thekkady

Proceed to Thekkady, home to the renowned Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. In the morning, embark on a thrilling wildlife safari through the dense forests, offering opportunities to spot elephants, tigers, and various species of birds. Explore the spice plantations of Thekkady and learn about the aromatic spices grown in the region. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the scenic Periyar Lake, where you may encounter herds of elephants quenching their thirst. In the evening, witness a cultural performance showcasing the rich traditions of Kerala.

  • Wildlife Safari: Cost Estimate - INR 450 per person, Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Spice Plantation Visit: Cost Estimate - INR 100 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Cost Estimate - INR 150 per person, Time Spent - 1.5 hours
  • Cultural Performance: Cost Estimate - INR 250 per person, Time Spent - 1.5 hours
Friday, December 8: Cultural Delights of Thrissur

Head to Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala, renowned for its temples and vibrant festivals. In the morning, visit the Vadakkunnathan Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and admire its stunning architecture. Explore the Thrissur Zoo and get up close with various animal species. In the afternoon, learn about the traditional art forms of Kerala at the Kerala Kalamandalam, a prestigious institute for performing arts. As evening approaches, attend a Kathakali or Mohiniyattam dance performance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.

  • Vadakkunnathan Temple: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Thrissur Zoo: Cost Estimate - INR 40 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Kerala Kalamandalam: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Kathakali or Mohiniyattam Performance: Cost Estimate - INR 200 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
Saturday, December 9: Departure from Kochi

Head back to Kochi for your departure. Spend the morning exploring the bustling markets of Kochi, such as the Jew Town and the Spice Market. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and shop for souvenirs. In the afternoon, indulge in some delicious seafood at a local restaurant. Bid farewell to the enchanting land of Kerala and proceed to the airport for your onward journey.

  • Jew Town: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Spice Market: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Seafood Lunch: Cost Estimate - INR 500 per person, Time Spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, make sure to visit the hidden gem of Marari Beach, a peaceful stretch of golden sands perfect for relaxation. Experience a traditional Kerala homestay and relish homemade authentic cuisine. Also, venture into the lesser-known village of Kumarakom to witness the serene beauty of the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, where you can spot migratory birds in their natural habitat.

For more travel information and to check hotel and flight prices, click here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version