Welcome to Kochi, the vibrant gateway to Kerala! In the morning, visit the historic Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Explore the charming streets lined with art galleries, spice markets, and antique shops. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride through the serene backwaters of Kochi. As the evening sets in, witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
Fort Kochi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Pepper Café: Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Pepper Café, located in the heart of Fort Kochi. Enjoy a variety of freshly prepared sandwiches, omelettes, and pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Dal Roti: Experience the flavors of North India at Dal Roti, a popular dinner spot in Fort Kochi. Try their delicious kebabs, curries, and naans. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Saturday, September 2: Munnar - The Hill Station Haven
Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station nestled amidst lush tea plantations. Spend the morning exploring the tea gardens and visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, trek to the breathtaking viewpoints of Pothamedu and Echo Point, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant markets of Munnar.
Tea Gardens and Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 200-300, Time spent - 3-4 hours
For a delicious breakfast, head to Saravana Bhavan, a popular South Indian restaurant known for its crispy dosas and fluffy idlis. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, try Rapsy Restaurant, which offers a wide range of Indian and Chinese dishes. The restaurant is known for its authentic flavors and reasonable prices, with an average cost of ₹300 per person.
In the evening, dine at Copper Castle Restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of Kerala specialties like Malabar fish curry and appam. The restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and the average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Sunday, September 3: Thekkady - Wildlife and Spice Delights
Head to Thekkady, known for its Periyar National Park and spice plantations. In the morning, embark on an exciting jungle safari in Periyar National Park, home to elephants, tigers, and various species of birds. Afterward, visit a spice plantation to learn about the aromatic spices that Kerala is famous for. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kerala Ayurvedic massage for relaxation.
Periyar National Park Safari: Estimated cost - INR 1500-2000, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Kerala Ayurvedic Massage: Estimated cost - INR 1000-1500, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Thekkady Homestay where you can enjoy a delicious South Indian breakfast. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Spice Garden Restaurant which offers a wide variety of Kerala cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, try Bamboo Cafe for a taste of authentic Kerala seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, September 4: Alleppey - Cruise the Backwaters
Travel to Alleppey, famous for its intricate network of backwaters. Start your day with a traditional Kerala breakfast and then embark on a houseboat cruise along the backwaters. Admire the scenic beauty, observe the local way of life, and savor a delicious lunch prepared on board. In the evening, visit a local coir-making unit to witness the traditional art of coir weaving.
Coir-making Unit Visit: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A highly recommended breakfast spot in Alleppey is Cafe de Alleppey, which offers a wide range of traditional Kerala dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch experience, head to Dreamers Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and rich flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, indulge in a fine dining experience at Vembanad Restaurant, famous for its authentic Kerala cuisine and stunning lake views. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, September 5: Kovalam - Sun, Sand, and Sea
Head to Kovalam, a beautiful coastal town known for its pristine beaches and lighthouse. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands of Kovalam Beach and take a dip in the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy a mesmerizing sunset by the beach in the evening.
The German Bakery is a popular breakfast spot in Kovalam, offering delicious pastries and baked goods. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Fusion Bay is a fantastic restaurant for lunch, serving a mix of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Suprabhatham is a must-try dinner spot in Kovalam, known for its authentic South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Wednesday, September 6: Varkala - Cliffside Bliss
Travel to Varkala, a serene coastal town renowned for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches. Start your day with a refreshing dip in the mineral-rich waters of Varkala Beach. Explore the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, believed to be over 2,000 years old. In the evening, unwind and relax at one of the cliffside cafes, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
Thursday, September 7: Departure from Thiruvananthapuram
Conclude your Kerala journey in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city. Visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. Explore the Napier Museum, showcasing a vast collection of ancient artifacts and artworks. As you bid farewell to Kerala, cherish the memories of the diverse landscapes and warm hospitality of "God's Own Country".
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Arya Bhavan, a popular vegetarian restaurant in Thiruvananthapuram. They offer a variety of South Indian breakfast dishes such as idli, dosa, and vada. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹150 per person.
For lunch, head to Grand Hotel, a heritage hotel with a renowned vegetarian restaurant. Enjoy a traditional Kerala thali, which includes a variety of dishes served on a banana leaf. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
In the evening, dine at Villa Maya, a luxurious restaurant housed in a restored Dutch bungalow. Indulge in their delectable fusion cuisine that combines traditional Kerala flavors with global influences. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path experiences, venture to the lesser-known destinations of Kerala. Discover the tranquil beauty of Kumarakom, an enchanting village famous for its bird sanctuary and backwaters. Explore the historical town of Fort Kochi, where you can witness the unique blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Don't miss out on the scenic beauty of Wayanad, a hill station dotted with lush forests, waterfalls, and wildlife.