Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 54 travelers

A Week in Kerala: Exploring the Land of Backwaters and Spice Gardens

Friday, October 20: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your journey by arriving at Kochi, the vibrant coastal city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. In the morning, explore the iconic Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi and immerse yourself in the colonial charm of the area. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace, a magnificent structure showcasing traditional Kerala architecture. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing sunset cruise on the backwaters and witness the mesmerizing blend of nature and cityscape.

  • Chinese Fishing Nets at Fort Kochi: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Mattancherry Palace: Cost - INR 5, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Sunset Backwater Cruise: Cost - INR 500, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Saturday, October 21: Munnar - The Hill Station Retreat

Escape to the picturesque hill station of Munnar, known for its sprawling tea plantations and breathtaking landscapes. In the morning, visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the history and production process of tea. Enjoy a refreshing tea tasting session as you soak in the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End your day with a visit to the enchanting Attukad Waterfalls, where you can unwind amidst nature's tranquility.

  • Tata Tea Museum: Cost - INR 100, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Eravikulam National Park: Cost - INR 120, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Attukad Waterfalls: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, October 22: The Backwaters of Alleppey

Indulge in the serene beauty of the backwaters as you make your way to Alleppey. In the morning, embark on a traditional houseboat cruise and glide through the tranquil backwaters, passing by lush greenery and local villages. Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared on board. In the afternoon, explore the quaint town of Alleppey and visit the historic St. Mary's Forane Church. As the evening approaches, witness a mesmerizing sunset while relaxing on the sandy shores of Alleppey Beach.

  • Houseboat Cruise: Cost - INR 8,000 (approx.) for 24 hours, Time Spent - 6-8 hours
  • St. Mary's Forane Church: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Alleppey Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Monday, October 23: The Hills and Wildlife of Thekkady

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Thekkady, home to the renowned Periyar National Park. In the morning, embark on an adventurous wildlife safari through the dense forests of Periyar, where you might spot elephants, tigers, and various species of birds. After the safari, visit the spice gardens and learn about the different spices grown in the region. In the afternoon, take a peaceful boat ride on Periyar Lake, surrounded by lush greenery. End your day with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage to rejuvenate your senses.

  • Periyar National Park Safari: Cost - INR 450, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Spice Garden Visit: Cost - INR 100, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Cost - INR 225, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Ayurvedic Massage: Cost - INR 1,500 (approx.), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, October 24: Kovalam - Relaxation by the Beach

Head to the beautiful coastal town of Kovalam to unwind and soak up the sun. In the morning, relax on the sandy shores of Kovalam Beach and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Arabian Sea. Indulge in delicious seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the coastline. As the evening approaches, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

  • Kovalam Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Vizhinjam Lighthouse: Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kathakali Dance Performance: Cost - INR 300, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, October 25: Departure from Kochi

As your incredible journey through Kerala comes to an end, take some time to explore the bustling city of Kochi in the morning. Visit the iconic Santa Cruz Basilica, a historic church showcasing stunning architecture. Explore the vibrant spice markets of Jew Town and indulge in some souvenir shopping. In the afternoon, bid farewell to Kerala and depart from Kochi with beautiful memories of your time in God's Own Country.

  • Santa Cruz Basilica: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Jew Town Spice Markets: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the enchanting Athirapally Falls, often called the "Niagara Falls of India," located near Chalakudy. Take a trip to the tranquil village of Kumarakom, known for its backwater cruises and birdwatching opportunities. Indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine, including dishes like appam, puttu, and karimeen fry. Don't forget to try the famous banana chips and freshly brewed filter coffee. Kerala's traditional arts and crafts, such as Kathakali masks, coir products, and brassware, make for unique souvenirs to take back home.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check out this website.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version