A Week in Kerala: Exploring Cochin, Alleppey, Munnar, Wayanad, and Kovalam
Thursday, November 2: Arrival in Cochin
Welcome to Kerala! Upon arrival in Cochin, also known as Kochi, spend the morning exploring Fort Kochi. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and the historic St. Francis Church. In the afternoon, head to the Mattancherry neighborhood and explore the Dutch Palace and the Jew Town area with its famous spice markets. In the evening, catch a traditional Kathakali dance performance.
Fort Kochi: Free, 4-5 hours
Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, 1 hour
St. Francis Church: Free, 1 hour
Dutch Palace: INR 5, 1-2 hours
Jew Town: Free, 1-2 hours
Kathakali Performance: INR 250-500, 2 hours
Restaurants
Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, known for its delicious dosas and idlis. Average cost for a meal is about 150 rupees per person.
Savor the flavors of Kerala cuisine at Mahabelly for lunch, with dishes like appam and Kerala-style biryani on the menu. Average cost for a meal is about 400 rupees per person.
For a dinner with a view, head to Oceanos Restaurant and indulge in fresh seafood dishes overlooking the Arabian Sea. Average cost for a meal is about 800 rupees per person.
Friday, November 3: Backwaters of Alleppey
Head to Alleppey, famous for its serene backwaters. Start your day with a houseboat cruise along the backwaters, enjoying the beautiful landscapes and traditional village life. In the afternoon, explore the Alleppey Beach and visit the historic lighthouse. End your day with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage.
Houseboat Cruise: INR 5,000-10,000 per day (shared among 5 people), 6-8 hours
For breakfast, head to Cafe Paradiso in Alleppey. They offer a wide range of freshly baked pastries and delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try the seafood delicacies at Thaff in Alleppey. They serve fresh seafood dishes cooked in traditional Kerala style. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Mushroom Restaurant in Alleppey. They specialize in authentic Kerala cuisine with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Saturday, November 4: Majestic Munnar
Travel to Munnar, a hill station known for its tea plantations and breathtaking views. Start your day with a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Tea Gardens and visit a tea factory to learn about the tea-making process. End your day with a visit to the serene Mattupetty Dam.
Eravikulam National Park: INR 120-400 (per person), 3-4 hours
Tea Gardens: Free, 1-2 hours
Tea Factory: INR 100-200 (per person), 1 hour
Mattupetty Dam: INR 10-25 (per person), 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Rapsy Restaurant, where you can indulge in delicious South Indian dishes like dosa, idli, and appam. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, make your way to Saravana Bhavan, a popular vegetarian restaurant that serves authentic Kerala cuisine. Don't miss their thali meals and traditional desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit The Rice Boat, a waterfront restaurant specializing in seafood dishes prepared in traditional Kerala style. Enjoy fresh catch of the day and beautiful views of the backwaters. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, November 5: Exploring Wayanad
Head to Wayanad, a district known for its lush greenery and wildlife. Start your day with a visit to the Edakkal Caves, ancient rock shelters with prehistoric carvings. In the afternoon, explore the scenic Soochipara Waterfalls and enjoy a trek in the nearby Meenmutty Waterfalls. End your day with a visit to the Pookode Lake.
Head to Cafe Robusta for a delicious breakfast. This cozy cafe offers a variety of options, including freshly brewed coffee and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, try the traditional Kerala cuisine at Ente Keralam. This restaurant serves authentic dishes like appam with stew and fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
End your day with a nice dinner at Copper Castle. This restaurant offers a mix of Indian and international cuisines, with options like biryani and grilled seafood. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Monday, November 6: Relaxation in Kovalam
Travel to Kovalam, a popular coastal town with stunning beaches. Spend the morning relaxing on the beautiful Kovalam Beach. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Lighthouse Beach and explore the local markets. Enjoy a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa session in the evening.
Breakfast: Try "German Bakery" for a delightful breakfast experience with a variety of freshly baked items. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: Indulge in traditional Kerala cuisine at "Poovar Island Resort". Enjoy the serene atmosphere and delicious seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Dinner: For a romantic dinner overlooking the Arabian Sea, head to "The Leela Kovalam Beach". Feast on exquisite international and Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 INR per person.
Tuesday, November 7: Houseboat Experience in Alleppey
Return to Alleppey to experience a traditional houseboat stay. Spend the day cruising through the backwaters, enjoying the tranquillity and scenic beauty. Indulge in delicious Kerala cuisine prepared on board. Witness the mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters and spend the night on the houseboat.
Houseboat Stay: INR 5,000-10,000 per day (shared among 5 people), 24 hours
Wednesday, November 8: Departure
It's time to say goodbye to Kerala. Depart from Cochin with beautiful memories of your Kerala trip.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For those looking for off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the picturesque village of Mararikulam near Alleppey. Explore the tranquil beaches and interact with the friendly locals. Another hidden gem is the Kalpetta Tribal Museum in Wayanad, showcasing the rich tribal heritage of the region. Don't miss the opportunity to try authentic local dishes like Appam, Puttu, and Karimeen Fry during your trip.