5-Day Kerala Itinerary: Jungle Safari, Waterfalls, Houseboat, and Beaches

  1. Day 1: Wayanad Jungle Safari
    4 hours (73 miles) from Calicut International Airport

    Experience the thrill of seeing wild animals in their natural habitat at the Muthanga or Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuaries. Go on a guided Jeep safari, spot elephants, deer, bears, and tigers among other animals. You can also visit the Edakkal Caves, the Soochipara and Meenmutty Waterfalls.

  2. Day 2: Athirapilly Waterfalls and Fort Kochi
    6 hours (216 miles) from Wayanad

    Visit the Athirapilly Waterfalls, one of the largest waterfalls in India, surrounded by lush green forests and rocks. Don't miss the nearby Vazhachal Waterfalls, Charpa and Anakkayam. Then drive to Fort Kochi, the historic town with Dutch, Portuguese and British influences. Explore the Fort Kochi beach, the St. Francis Church, the Santa Cruz Basilica, the Chinese Fishing Nets, and the Jewish Synagogue.

  3. Day 3: Alleppey Houseboating
    2 hours (52 miles) from Fort Kochi

    Board a traditional Kerala houseboat or Kettuvallam to explore the serene backwaters of Alleppey. Sail through the narrow canals, see the paddy fields, and the small villages. Enjoy a freshly prepared Keralan meal on board while admiring the sunset. You can also visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and the Pathiramanal Island.

  4. Day 4: Varkala Beach and Kozhikode
    5 hours (118 miles) from Alleppey

    Travel to Varkala Beach, a popular beach with cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea. Relax on the golden sand, swim in the clear waters, or try surfing or paragliding. Later in the day, drive to Kozhikode, the historic city known for its food and culture. Sample the local delicacies like Kozhikode Biryani, Avalose Unda and Pazham Nirachathu. Visit the Kappad Beach, the Mananchira Square, and the Beypore Fort.

  5. Day 5: Departure
    1 hour (26 miles) from Kozhikode International Airport

    Take some time to do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs like spices, tea, handicrafts, and clothing. Then, head to Kozhikode International Airport for your onward journey.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Jeep Safari in Wayanad (3 hours, INR 1,500 per person)
  • Entrance fee for Athirapilly Waterfalls (INR 50 per person)
  • Houseboat cruise in Alleppey (overnight, INR 10,000 per couple)
  • Surfing lessons in Varkala (2 hours, INR 2,000 per person)
  • Dinner at Kozhikode (INR 500 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 14,450 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary or the Marari Beach Resort. If you have less time, skip Kozhikode and go straight to the airport. Don't forget to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable shoes. Make sure to cover your shoulders and legs when visiting temples or mosques.

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