Welcome to Kochi, the gateway to Kerala! Start your trip by exploring Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood with charming colonial buildings. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and stroll along the picturesque promenade. In the afternoon, explore the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, showcasing beautiful murals and artifacts. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Ginger House Restaurant, offering a variety of Indian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a dinner at Malabar Junction, serving delectable Kerala specialties in a charming ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, November 29: Munnar's Tranquil Beauty
Embark on a scenic journey to Munnar, a hill station renowned for its tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding estates. In the afternoon, explore the breathtaking Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and picturesque waterfalls. Spend the evening strolling through Munnar's vibrant market and sampling local delicacies.
Eravikulam National Park: INR 120 (Approx. $1.64), 3-4 hours
Exploring Munnar Market: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Saravana Bhavan. This popular South Indian restaurant offers a wide range of traditional dishes like idli, dosa, and vada. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Rapsy Restaurant and try their authentic Kerala cuisine, including specialties like appam with stew and fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Copper Castle, known for its cozy ambiance and delectable North Indian and Chinese dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering biryanis and tandoori kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, November 30: Backwaters of Alleppey
Head to Alleppey, known for its serene backwaters and houseboat cruises. In the morning, embark on a relaxing houseboat journey through the picturesque backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a delicious traditional lunch on board. In the afternoon, explore the quaint villages along the backwaters and witness rural life. Spend the evening enjoying the sunset by the backwaters.
Houseboat Cruise: INR 5,000-10,000 (Approx. $68-136) per night, 6-8 hours
Exploring Backwater Villages: Free, 2-3 hours
Sunset by the Backwaters: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Alleppey's backwaters is The Grand Café, serving a variety of Indian and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For a tasty lunch option, try the Seafood Paradise Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and authentic Keralan flavors. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, head to the Pampa River Restaurant to enjoy delicious dinner with a view of the backwaters. This restaurant offers a range of local and international cuisines. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, December 1: The Rich Wildlife of Periyar
Travel to Periyar, a wildlife sanctuary nestled in the Western Ghats. In the morning, embark on an exciting jungle safari, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. Afterward, take a leisurely boat ride on the Periyar Lake, surrounded by lush forests. In the evening, visit the tribal village to learn about the indigenous culture and traditions.
For breakfast, head to Cafe Noir located in Thekkady. Enjoy a wide variety of delicious breakfast options such as freshly baked pastries and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300-400 per person.
For lunch, visit Spice Garden Restaurant in Kumily. Indulge in a flavorful South Indian meal with a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500-600 per person.
For dinner, dine at Ambadi Restaurant in Thekkady. Savor authentic Kerala cuisine including seafood delicacies and traditional curries. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800-1000 per person.
Saturday, December 2: Cultural Delights of Thrissur
Head to Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala. In the morning, visit the Vadakkunnathan Temple, an ancient Hindu temple known for its architectural beauty. Explore the Thrissur Zoo and Museum, home to a variety of animals and artifacts, in the afternoon. In the evening, witness a traditional Kathakali performance and savor the local cuisine.
Vadakkunnathan Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Thrissur Zoo and Museum: INR 20 (Approx. $0.27), 2-3 hours
For breakfast in Thrissur, head to Hotel Bharat. This popular local eatery serves a variety of South Indian delicacies like dosa and appam. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, try the Rappai's Biryani House. Known for its flavorful biryanis and other traditional Kerala dishes, this restaurant offers a satisfying lunch experience. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Paragon Restaurant, a well-known establishment offering a wide range of Indian, Chinese, and Arabian dishes. Known for its excellent quality and reasonable prices, it is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Sunday, December 3: Relaxing Beaches of Kovalam
Travel to Kovalam, a coastal paradise known for its pristine beaches. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands and taking a dip in the clear waters. In the afternoon, visit the iconic lighthouse and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the coastline. Indulge in Ayurvedic spa treatments for ultimate relaxation. End the day with a memorable beachside dinner.
The Beach Cafe: Enjoy a delicious breakfast overlooking the sea at The Beach Cafe. They serve a variety of breakfast options, including pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Kerala breakfast items. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
The Terrace Restaurant: For a scrumptious lunch, head to The Terrace Restaurant located near Kovalam Beach. They offer an extensive menu of Indian and international cuisine, including seafood specialties. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
The Lighthouse Grill: Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at The Lighthouse Grill. This rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and serves a delectable selection of grilled seafood and international dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Monday, December 4: Departure from Kochi
On your last day, travel back to Kochi. Spend the morning exploring the bustling markets and picking up souvenirs. In the afternoon, visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum to learn about the region's colonial history. Bid farewell to Kerala with a traditional Kathakali dance performance in the evening.
For a delicious breakfast, head to Pepper Cafe which offers a variety of South Indian dishes and a cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at Dal Roti where you can indulge in authentic North Indian cuisine. The restaurant also caters to vegetarian and vegan preferences. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Treat yourself to a memorable dinner experience at Oceanos Restaurant and Bar, known for its fresh seafood and waterfront views. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, visit the enchanting Athirapally Falls, where you can witness the stunning waterfall cascading amidst lush greenery. The charming village of Kumarakom offers a peaceful retreat with its serene backwaters and bird sanctuary. Families can also enjoy a visit to Wonderla Amusement Park in Kochi, offering thrilling rides and entertainment for all ages.
To check hotel and flight prices in Kerala, click here.