3-Day Itinerary in Kerala

Saturday, August 26: Exploring Kochi

Start your trip by visiting the historic Fort Kochi. In the morning, take a walk along the picturesque Chinese fishing nets and learn about their unique mechanism. Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and explore the fascinating Indo-Portuguese Museum. In the afternoon, head to Mattancherry and explore the magnificent Dutch Palace, known for its stunning murals. Don't miss a visit to the Jew Town, where you can browse through antique shops and visit the beautiful Pardesi Synagogue. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

• Fort Kochi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Chinese fishing nets: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• St. Francis Church: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Indo-Portuguese Museum: Estimated cost - INR 50 ($0.70), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dutch Palace: Estimated cost - INR 25 ($0.35), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Jew Town: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kathakali performance: Estimated cost - INR 300-500 ($4.20-$7), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, August 27: Backwaters of Alleppey

Embark on a serene journey through the famous backwaters of Alleppey. Board a traditional houseboat and cruise along the tranquil waterways, passing by lush green landscapes, paddy fields, and small villages. Enjoy a delicious traditional lunch on the houseboat while soaking in the beauty of Kerala's backwaters. In the afternoon, explore the quaint village of Kumarakom and visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to various species of migratory birds. As the evening approaches, witness a mesmerizing sunset over Vembanad Lake.

• Alleppey Houseboat: Estimated cost - INR 8,000-12,000 ($112-$168) for a day, Time spent - 6-8 hours
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 50 ($0.70), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Vembanad Lake sunset: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, August 28: Exploring Munnar's Tea Gardens

Start your day by visiting the breathtaking tea gardens of Munnar. Marvel at the picturesque scenery as you stroll through the lush green tea plantations. Learn about the tea-making process at a tea museum and enjoy a refreshing cup of locally grown tea. In the afternoon, visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Take a guided trek to witness the stunning views of the Western Ghats. End your day by visiting the beautiful Mattupetty Dam, where you can enjoy boating and experience the tranquility of the surrounding hills.

• Munnar Tea Gardens: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100 ($1.40), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Eravikulam National Park: Estimated cost - INR 400 ($5.60), Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Mattupetty Dam: Estimated cost - INR 25 ($0.35), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the offbeat village of Mararikulam, known for its pristine beaches and peaceful ambiance. Take a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatment in Kovalam and experience the traditional healing techniques of Kerala. Don't forget to savor the delicious local cuisine, especially the seafood delicacies like Karimeen (Pearl spot fish) and Kerala-style appam with stew.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices at Kayak.