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A Week in Kerala: Exploring the Gems of South India

Saturday, May 11: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your journey in the historic city of Kochi. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along the coastline. Experience the rich cultural heritage at Fort Kochi, where you can explore the St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, and the Dutch Palace. Enjoy a sunset cruise in the tranquil backwaters. In the evening, indulge in local delicacies at one of the many seafood restaurants.

  • Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, 1 hour
  • Fort Kochi: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Backwater Sunset Cruise: INR 500-1000 per person, 2 hours
Sunday, May 12: Munnar - The Hill Station Paradise

Leave Kochi and head to Munnar, a breathtaking hill station famous for its tea estates and lush green landscapes. In the morning, visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. Afternoon is the perfect time for a nature walk in the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the evening, enjoy a serene boat ride in Kundala Lake.

  • Tata Tea Museum: INR 100 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Eravikulam National Park: INR 125 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Kundala Lake Boat Ride: INR 200-300 per person, 1 hour
Monday, May 13: Alleppey - The Venice of the East

Travel from Munnar to Alleppey, known as the Venice of the East for its intricate network of backwaters and houseboat cruises. Start your day with a visit to the Alleppey Beach, where you can relax and soak in the coastal charm. In the afternoon, embark on a mesmerizing houseboat cruise through the backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and savoring traditional Kerala cuisine.

  • Alleppey Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Houseboat Cruise: INR 5000-10000 per night, 5-6 hours
  • Local Markets: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • Start your day with a delicious Indian breakfast at Café Catamaran, located near Alleppey Beach. Their menu offers a variety of traditional Kerala dishes like Appam and Puttu, with an average cost of about ₹200 per person.
  • For a satisfying lunch, head to Mushroom Restaurant & Cool Corner, a popular choice among locals. Treat yourself to their mouthwatering seafood specialties like fish curry and prawns masala, with an average cost of about ₹300 per person.
  • Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at The Grand Pavilion, known for its elegant ambiance and delectable food. Try their signature dishes like Malabar biryani and Alleppey fish curry, with an average cost of about ₹500 per person.
Tuesday, May 14: Thekkady - Wildlife and Spice Plantations

From Alleppey, head to Thekkady, famous for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations. In the morning, explore the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary on a guided jungle safari where you might spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit a spice plantation and learn about the aromatic spices grown in the region. In the evening, take a leisurely boat ride on Periyar Lake.

  • Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 500 per person, 3-4 hours
  • Spice Plantation Visit: INR 100-200 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Periyar Lake Boat Ride: INR 150-200 per person, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, May 15: Varkala - Beach Bliss and Cliffs

Travel to Varkala, a coastal town known for its pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs. Start your day with a relaxing beach walk along the golden sands of Varkala Beach. In the afternoon, visit the famous Janardanaswamy Temple, a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site. Enjoy stunning views of the Arabian Sea from the cliffside restaurants and indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage in one of the many wellness centers.

  • Varkala Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Ayurvedic Massage: INR 1000-3000, 1 hour
Thursday, May 16: Kovalam - Sun, Sand, and Lighthouses

Head to Kovalam, a popular beach destination known for its crescent-shaped coastline and iconic lighthouses. Start your day with a refreshing swim or sunbathing at Lighthouse Beach. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant local markets and indulge in seafood delights. Visit the Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Spend the evening relaxing by the beach, enjoying the stunning sunset.

  • Lighthouse Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Local Markets: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Vizhinjam Lighthouse: INR 20 per person, 1 hour
Friday, May 17: Kochi - Farewell to Kerala

Return to Kochi for your departure. Spend your last morning exploring the bustling markets of Broadway, where you can shop for spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. In the afternoon, visit the famous Jew Town in Mattancherry and explore the antique shops and the iconic Paradesi Synagogue. End your day with a memorable Kathakali dance performance, showcasing the traditional art form of Kerala.

  • Broadway Market: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • Jew Town: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Kathakali Dance Performance: INR 300-500 per person, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the beautiful Athirapally Waterfalls, often referred to as the Niagara Falls of India. Explore the offbeat village of Kumarakom and experience the tranquil beauty of the Vembanad Lake. For adventure enthusiasts, trekking in the picturesque hills of Wayanad is a must-do. Kerala's backwaters offer a unique opportunity to stay in a traditional homestay and experience the authentic village life.

Looking for Hotels and Flights?

Check out the best deals on hotels and flights in Kerala on Kayak. Plan your trip in advance and make the most of your visit to this enchanting destination!

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