Start your trip in Kochi, a coastal city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, huge cantilevered fishing nets that are a unique sight to behold. Explore the historic Fort Kochi area in the afternoon, with its colonial architecture and charming streets. Don't miss the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of classical Indian dance, at a local theater.
On the second day, head to Munnar, a hill station known for its tea plantations and scenic landscapes. Start your morning with a visit to the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea making. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End the day with a relaxing boat ride in Kundala Lake, surrounded by lush green hills.
On day three, travel to Thekkady, famous for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations. Start your morning with a thrilling boat safari on Periyar Lake, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation and learn about the various spices grown in the region. Enjoy an evening Kathakali and martial arts performance to experience the cultural traditions of Kerala.
On day four, head to Alleppey, known for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. Start your morning with a relaxing boat ride through the serene backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, experience the unique opportunity to stay overnight on a traditional houseboat, enjoying the tranquility of the backwaters. In the evening, savor a delicious traditional Kerala meal on board the houseboat.
On day five, travel to Kovalam, a popular beach destination. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands of Kovalam Beach and taking a dip in the clear waters of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage in the evening to unwind and experience the traditional healing practices of Kerala.
On the final day, explore Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. Start your morning by visiting the majestic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a famous Hindu temple known for its stunning architecture. In the afternoon, explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing a wide range of art and historical artifacts. End your trip with a visit to the beautiful Kovalam Art Gallery, featuring contemporary Indian art.
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Athirapally Waterfalls, often called the "Niagara of India," located near Kochi. Another hidden gem is the village of Kumarakom, known for its serene backwaters and bird sanctuary. Locals love the traditional Kerala village experience at Kumbalanghi, where you can engage in activities like fishing, crab farming, and pottery making. These unique experiences will provide a deeper insight into Kerala's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.