Start your trip by exploring the historical city of Kochi. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and learn about their unique mechanism. Take a boat ride to Fort Kochi and explore its colonial architecture and charming streets. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace, known for its stunning murals. As the evening sets in, watch a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of Indian classical dance.
Chinese Fishing Nets: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1 hour
Fort Kochi: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Mattancherry Palace: Cost: INR 10 ($0.14) per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Kathakali Dance Performance: Cost: INR 300-500 ($4.20-7) per person, Time Spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Anna’s Restaurant located in Fort Kochi. This local eatery offers a variety of South Indian dishes like dosas and appams. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
If you're looking for a delicious lunch spot, try Oceanos Restaurant situated near the Chinese Fishing Nets. They serve a range of seafood dishes including fresh fish curry and prawn fry. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Malabar Junction in Mattancherry. This restaurant specializes in traditional Kerala cuisine with a modern twist. Don't miss their signature dishes like Malabar fish curry and banana leaf-wrapped mussels. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 12: Munnar
On the second day, head to the picturesque hill station of Munnar. In the morning, visit the sprawling tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process. Enjoy a refreshing cup of tea amidst the lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Munnar town.
Tea Plantations: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Eravikulam National Park: Cost: INR 125 ($1.75) per person, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
Munnar Town: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Rapsy Restaurant is a popular breakfast spot known for its delicious South Indian dishes like idli, dosa, and vada. A meal for one typically costs around 150 INR per person.
Lunch: Saravana Bhavan is a highly recommended vegetarian restaurant that offers a wide range of South Indian delicacies. Enjoy their flavorful thali meals, biryanis, and dosas at an average cost of 250 INR per person.
Dinner: Alibaba & 41 Dishes is a fantastic dinner option with a variety of dishes from Indian, Chinese, and Arabian cuisines. Taste their flavorful biryanis, succulent kebabs, and delicious curries at an average cost of 400 INR per person.
Wednesday, December 13: Thekkady
Continue your journey to Thekkady, known for its wildlife and spice plantations. In the morning, embark on a thrilling boat ride in Periyar Lake, where you can spot elephants, deer, and various bird species. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation and learn about the aromatic spices grown in the region. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance showcasing the traditional art forms of Kerala.
Periyar Lake: Cost: INR 150 ($2.10) per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Spice Plantation: Cost: INR 100 ($1.40) per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Cultural Performance: Cost: INR 200-300 ($2.80-4.20) per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Coffee Temple, a charming cafe near Thekkady. They offer a variety of freshly brewed coffee and delicious baked goods. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Ambadi Restaurant, located in the heart of Thekkady. They serve authentic Kerala cuisine with a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Bamboo Cafe, a popular eatery known for its delectable seafood dishes. They offer a cozy ambience with outdoor seating options. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Restaurants
#1. Spice Garden Restaurant: A charming restaurant located within a spice plantation, serving delicious traditional Kerala breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
#2. Bamboo Cafe: An excellent choice for lunch, offering an extensive menu of fresh seafood and authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
#3. Grand Spice Restaurant: A popular spot for dinner, specializing in aromatic spices and flavorful Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, December 14: Alleppey
Experience the famous backwaters of Kerala in Alleppey. In the morning, embark on a houseboat cruise and sail through the tranquil backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch on the houseboat. In the afternoon, explore the local villages and interact with the friendly locals. As the evening approaches, witness a spectacular sunset over the backwaters.
Houseboat Cruise: Cost: INR 5,000-10,000 ($70-140) per boat, Time Spent: 6-8 hours
Local Village Exploration: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Sunset Viewing: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Friday, December 15: Kovalam
Head to the coastal town of Kovalam for a day of sun, sand, and relaxation. In the morning, relax on the beautiful Kovalam Beach and soak up the tropical vibes. Indulge in water sports activities such as surfing or parasailing. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Lighthouse Beach and climb to the top for panoramic views. As the evening sets in, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner by the beach.
Kovalam Beach: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
Water Sports: Cost: Varies, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Lighthouse Beach: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Seafood Dinner: Cost: INR 500-1,000 ($7-14) per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Sea Breeze Cafe is a popular breakfast spot in Kovalam, offering a wide variety of breakfast options including traditional Kerala cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Priyam Restaurant is a great choice for lunch in Kovalam, serving delicious South Indian dishes at affordable prices. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
The Curry Leaf Restaurant is a must-visit for dinner in Kovalam, known for its authentic Kerala flavors and a wide range of seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, December 16: Varkala
Discover the serene coastal town of Varkala. In the morning, visit the stunning Varkala Beach and enjoy a peaceful walk along its cliffside. Take a dip in the natural spring at Papanasam Beach, believed to wash away sins. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Varkala Cliff, lined with shops, cafes, and yoga centers. As the evening approaches, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the Arabian Sea.
Varkala Beach: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
Papanasam Beach: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Varkala Cliff: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Sunset Viewing: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 17: Trivandrum
End your trip with a visit to Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala. In the morning, explore the magnificent Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture. Visit the Napier Museum and Art Gallery to admire its collection of ancient artifacts and paintings. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the lush greenery of the Kanakakkunnu Palace gardens. As the evening sets in, enjoy a delicious South Indian dinner.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Cost: INR 20 ($0.28) per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Kanakakkunnu Palace: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
South Indian Dinner: Cost: INR 300-500 ($4.20-7) per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique family-friendly experience, visit the Elephant Junction in Thekkady, where you can interact with elephants, bathe them, and even take an elephant ride. Another hidden gem is the Marari Beach in Alleppey, which offers a peaceful and less crowded alternative to the famous beaches. Explore the quaint village of Kumbalangi near Kochi, known for its sustainable tourism initiatives and authentic village experiences.