Discovering the Natural Beauty of Kerala in 2 Days

1. Day 1: Varayadumotta
   35 minutes (15.2 miles) from Cochin International Airport

   Start your trip at Varayadumotta, a beautiful hilltop located in Peermade, Idukki. The uphill drive through aromatic tea plantations to the top of Varayadumotta offers a mesmerizing view of the surrounding hills on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other. You can enjoy trekking, birding, and get a taste of the local flavors from the nearby spice plantations. Make sure to visit Parunthumpara View Point to catch a magnificent view of the valley.

2. Day 1: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
   2 hours 30 minutes (88.6 miles) from Varayadumotta

   Next, head to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary located in Thekkady. This sanctuary is home to over 1800 flowering plant species, 143 bird species, including a wide variety of mammals, including Bengal tigers and Indian elephants. You can take a guided trek, go boating, or enjoy a jeep safari ride to catch a glimpse of the wildlife. There is a lake which is the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of the place.

3. Day 2: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
   3 hours 20 minutes (88.5 miles) from Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

   Begin your second day at the iconic Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary located in Idukki. This sanctuary is famous for its biodiversity, and you can spot numerous species of birds and mammals like the Indian bison, Nilgiri langur, and many more. You can trek through the forest, visit the park's interpretation center, and watch beautiful waterfalls.

4. Day 2: Athirappilly Waterfalls
   1 hour 45 minutes (40.6 miles) from Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

   Finally, get spellbound by the stunning Athirapally Waterfalls located in Thrissur district. This majestic waterfall, with its roar and beauty, will take your breath away. You can soak in the scenic beauty or take a bath under the cascading falls. The surrounding areas of the waterfall also have a rich variety of flora and fauna and are ideal for late afternoon walks.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Varayadumotta (2-3 hours, Free)
• Parunthumpara View Point(1-2 hours, Free)
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary(4-5 hours, INR 50 per person)
• Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary (3-4 hours, INR 10 per person)
• Athirapally Waterfalls (2-3 hours, INR 15 per person)
Total Estimated Costs: INR 75 per person(excluding transport and accommodation costs)

Useful Tips

If you are an animal lover, you could visit the Elephant Junction in Thekkady, which is about 10 km from the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Get ready to get awed by the gentle giants, as you watch them taking a bath, or enjoying their meals. You can also visit the Kallar Vattiyar Falls, which is located en route to the Athirappilly Waterfalls. If you are looking for a longer trip, you can head to Munnar and enjoy the tea trails or visit the Silent Valley National Park.