Kerala Luxury Getaway

Friday, December 1: Arrival in Kochi

Morning: Start your luxury trip in Kochi by visiting the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, showcasing exquisite murals and artifacts. Afternoon: Explore Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood with charming streets, Chinese fishing nets, and art galleries. Evening: Witness a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of Kerala dance drama.

• Mattancherry Palace: INR 100 ($1.35), 1-2 hours
• Fort Kochi: Free, 2-3 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: INR 500-1000 ($6.75-$13.50), 2 hours

Saturday, December 2: Munnar

Morning: Head to Munnar, a scenic hill station known for its tea plantations. Visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Evening: Enjoy a leisurely walk through the aromatic tea gardens.

• Tata Tea Museum: INR 100 ($1.35), 1-2 hours
• Eravikulam National Park: INR 120 ($1.60), 2-3 hours
• Tea Garden Walk: Free, 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 3: Alleppey Backwaters

Morning: Experience the luxury of cruising through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey on a houseboat. Enjoy the serene surroundings and indulge in delicious traditional Kerala cuisine on board. Afternoon: Explore the village life along the backwaters and witness the charming coir-making process. Evening: Relax and soak in the breathtaking sunset views.

• Houseboat Cruise: INR 10,000-20,000 ($135-$270), 6-8 hours
• Backwater Village Tour: INR 500-1000 ($6.75-$13.50), 2-3 hours
• Sunset Views: Free

Monday, December 4: Thekkady

Morning: Embark on an adventurous wildlife safari in Periyar National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Afternoon: Visit a spice plantation and learn about the cultivation and processing of various spices. Evening: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Periyar Lake.

• Periyar National Park Safari: INR 450-500 ($6-$6.75), 3-4 hours
• Spice Plantation Visit: INR 100 ($1.35), 1-2 hours
• Periyar Lake Boat Ride: INR 225-350 ($3-$4.75), 2 hours

Tuesday, December 5: Kumarakom

Morning: Head to Kumarakom, a picturesque backwater destination. Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a haven for bird lovers. Afternoon: Relax and rejuvenate with a luxurious Ayurvedic spa treatment. Evening: Take a sunset cruise on Vembanad Lake.

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: INR 50 ($0.68), 2-3 hours
• Ayurvedic Spa Treatment: INR 2000-5000 ($27-$67.50), 2-3 hours
• Vembanad Lake Sunset Cruise: INR 500-1000 ($6.75-$13.50), 2 hours

Wednesday, December 6: Departure from Kochi

Morning: Visit the Jew Town area in Kochi and explore the antique shops and local markets. Afternoon: Enjoy a sumptuous seafood lunch at a luxury waterfront restaurant. Evening: Bid farewell to Kerala with a memorable sunset walk along Marine Drive.

• Jew Town: Free, 2-3 hours
• Seafood Lunch: INR 1000-2000 ($13.50-$27), 1-2 hours
• Marine Drive: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While enjoying a luxury trip in Kerala, consider exploring the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the offbeat village of Varkala, famous for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches. Indulge in the traditional ayurvedic treatments and yoga retreats offered in the coastal town of Kovalam. The tranquil village of Mararikulam is another hidden gem known for its pristine white sandy beaches and luxurious resorts. These destinations offer a perfect blend of luxury, tranquility, and natural beauty.

For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit KAYAK.