Start your Kerala adventure by exploring the beautiful city of Kochi. In the morning, visit Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque promenade and visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. In the afternoon, explore the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, which houses a fascinating collection of murals and artifacts. As the evening sets in, witness a Kathakali performance, a traditional dance form of Kerala.
Fort Kochi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
For breakfast, head to Kashi Art Cafe, a charming art gallery cafe in Fort Kochi. Enjoy a variety of freshly baked goods and organic coffee. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For lunch, visit Dal Roti, a popular restaurant specializing in North Indian cuisine. Indulge in delicious curries and freshly made rotis. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
For dinner, try Oceanos Restaurant, known for its seafood delicacies. Feast on delectable prawns, crabs, and fish prepared in traditional Kerala style. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Friday, September 29:
Embark on a backwater cruise in Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha. Spend your morning cruising through the serene backwaters, surrounded by lush green paddy fields and coconut groves. Enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala lunch on board the houseboat. In the afternoon, explore the small villages and experience the local way of life. As the evening approaches, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters.
Backwater Cruise in Alleppey: Estimated cost - INR 8,000-10,000 per day (Houseboat rental), Time spent - Full day
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Aroma, located near the backwaters. Indulge in their mouthwatering South Indian dishes like idli, vada, and dosa. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 150 INR per person.
Savor a delicious lunch at Spice Harbor, a popular restaurant overlooking the backwaters. Try their authentic Kerala thali, which includes a variety of curries, rice, and traditional desserts. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, head to Seafood Junction, a seafood lover's paradise. Feast on fresh catches of the day like fish curry, prawns fry, and crab masala. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, September 30:
Head to Munnar, a hill station famous for its tea plantations and breathtaking landscapes. In the morning, visit the Tata Tea Museum, where you can learn about the history and production process of tea. Enjoy a refreshing cup of tea while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. As the evening sets in, take a stroll through the charming streets of Munnar and indulge in some local street food.
Eravikulam National Park: Estimated cost - INR 125 (Entrance fee), Time spent - 3-4 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Munnar is Green View Restaurant, known for its delicious South Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, Spice Village Restaurant is a great choice. They serve authentic Kerala cuisine with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, Rapsy Restaurant is a must-visit. They offer a wide range of Indian and international dishes in a cozy ambience. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1:
Visit Thekkady, a nature lover's paradise and home to the Periyar National Park. In the morning, take a boat safari on the Periyar Lake, where you can spot various wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, and deer. Enjoy the serene surroundings and the refreshing breeze. In the afternoon, explore the spice plantations and learn about the various spices grown in the region. As the evening approaches, watch a traditional martial arts performance called Kalaripayattu, showcasing the ancient combat techniques of Kerala.
Periyar Lake Boat Safari: Estimated cost - INR 450-700, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Spice, located near Thekkady. Enjoy a variety of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and hot beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a delicious and wholesome lunch, head to Pepper Tree Restaurant, known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like appam with stew and fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Savor a delightful dinner at Bamboo Cottages & Restaurant, offering a serene ambiance and a wide range of Indian and continental dishes. Try their signature seafood platter or opt for a mouthwatering North Indian curry. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Monday, October 2:
Conclude your Kerala adventure in Kovalam, a popular beach destination. Spend your morning relaxing on the sandy beaches and taking a dip in the Arabian Sea. Indulge in some water sports activities like snorkeling or surfing. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Lighthouse Beach and climb up to the top for panoramic views of the coastline. As the evening sets in, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the beachside restaurants.
Kovalam Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Flexible
A popular breakfast spot in Kovalam is Beach View Cafe. Enjoy a wide range of breakfast options while gazing at the beautiful sea views. The average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Curry Leaf Restaurant. They serve authentic Kerala cuisine with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
In the evening, dine at Fusion Restaurant for a memorable dinner experience. This restaurant offers a fusion of Indian and international cuisines and has a lovely ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about 800 rupees per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to visit the charming village of Varkala. Known for its stunning cliffside views and pristine beaches, Varkala offers a more laid-back and peaceful atmosphere compared to other popular tourist destinations in Kerala. Take a dip in the natural spring at the Papanasam Beach and enjoy a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage. For nature lovers, a visit to the Thenmala Eco-tourism Zone is highly recommended, where you can indulge in trekking, boating, and birdwatching.