6-Day Itinerary for Kerala

  1. Day 1: Fort Kochi
    1 hour 15 minutes (24 km) from Cochin International Airport

    Explore the historic Fort Kochi, a former Portuguese and Dutch colony famous for its Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, and Mattancherry Palace. Don't miss the colorful murals at the Jewish Synagogue.

  2. Day 2: Munnar
    4 hours 30 minutes (130 km) from Fort Kochi

    Drive through the scenic Western Ghats to reach the hill station of Munnar. Admire the tea plantations at Kolukkumalai, visit the Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and take a boat ride at the Mattupetty Dam.

  3. Day 3: Periyar National Park
    2 hours 30 minutes (91 km) from Munnar

    Go on a wildlife safari or a bamboo rafting tour at the Periyar National Park, a tiger reserve known for its elephants, leopards, and Indian bison. Don't miss the spice plantation tour and the Kathakali dance performance in the evening.

  4. Day 4: Alleppey
    4 hours (138 km) from Periyar National Park

    Relax on a houseboat ride through the backwaters of Alleppey, also known as the "Venice of the East". Marvel at the paddy fields, coconut groves, and fishing villages, and savor the traditional Kerala cuisine prepared on board.

  5. Day 5: Kovalam
    3 hours (180 km) from Alleppey

    Unwind at the pristine beaches of Kovalam, a popular seaside town. Visit the lighthouse, go surfing or parasailing, and watch the sun set over the Arabian Sea. Don't miss the Ayurvedic massage and the seafood at the local restaurants.

  6. Day 6: Thiruvananthapuram
    20 minutes (12 km) from Kovalam

    Explore the capital city of Kerala, also known as Trivandrum. Visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest temples in the world, and the nearby museums like the Kuthiramalika Palace. Shop for souvenirs at the local bazaars.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Entry fee to Mattancherry Palace: ₹10 ($0.14) per person (Day 1)
  • Tea-tasting tour at Kolukkumalai: 1 hour, ₹300 ($4.11) per person (Day 2)
  • Periyar National Park entrance fee: ₹60 ($0.82) per person (Day 3)
  • Houseboat rental at Alleppey: 24 hours, ₹10,000-25,000 ($137-342) per boat (Day 4)
  • Entry fee to lighthouse at Kovalam: ₹10 ($0.14) per person (Day 5)
  • Entry fee to Padmanabhaswamy Temple: ₹25 ($0.34) per person (Day 6)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹10,400-25,400 ($142-347) per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a day trip to the scenic village of Varkala or the pristine beaches of Marari. If you have less time, skip one or more destinations or prioritize your activities. Make sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, carry sunscreen and insect repellent, and respect the local culture and customs.

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