Exploring Kerala in 5 Days

1. Day 1: Kochi Fort and Mattancherry
   20 minutes (8 km) from Kochi International Airport

   Explore the historic Kochi Fort, constructed in 1503 and walk along the beach promenade. Visit Mattancherry for the iconic Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace and the spice market.

2. Day 2: Munnar Tea Plantations
   4 hours (125 km) from Kochi

   Visit the Munnar tea plantations and learn about the production process, followed by a tea tasting session. Trek to Anamudi peak, the highest peak in South India and watch waterfalls en route.

3. Day 3: Periyar National Park
   3 hours 30 minutes (123 km) from Munnar

   Enjoy a boat cruise through the Periyar National Park and spot elephants, tigers and deer. Experience the traditional martial art form Kalaripayattu and Kathakali dance performance in the evening.

4. Day 4: Varkala Beach and Cliff
   4 hours (170 km) from Thekkady

   Spend a day relaxing at the picturesque Varkala beach and cliff, surrounded by coconut palms and watch the sunset in the evening. Try some fresh seafood at the beach shacks.

5. Day 5: Alleppey Backwaters
   2 hours 30 minutes (114 km) from Varkala

   Cruise through the scenic Alleppey backwaters in a houseboat and enjoy the traditional lunch served. Visit the St. Mary's Forane Church, one of the oldest churches in Kerala and leave for Kochi or Thiruvananthapuram for the return flight.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kochi Fort (2 hours, Free)
• Mattancherry (3-4 hours, ₹500 per person)
• Munnar Tea Plantations (10 hours, ₹2,500 per person)
• Periyar National Park (6 hours, ₹1,200 per person)
• Varkala Beach and Cliff (5-6 hours, Free)
• Alleppey Backwaters (5 hours, ₹8,000 per night for a houseboat)
• Total Estimated Costs (Per Person): ₹12,500 (excluding accommodation)

Useful tips

For those who have more time, consider visiting Wayanad and Athirapally waterfalls, or spending an additional day exploring Munnar. Those with less time can skip Varkala beach and Alleppey backwaters.