Morning: Start your trip by visiting the beautiful Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Spend the afternoon exploring the Mattancherry Palace, an elegant Portuguese-style palace with stunning murals, and the nearby Jew Town, famous for its antique shops. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of classical dance-drama.
Fort Kochi: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Mattancherry Palace: Cost: INR 5 (Approx.), Time spent: 1-2 hours
For a delicious and hearty breakfast, head to Anandhi Restaurant. They serve a variety of South Indian dishes like dosas and idlis, and the average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Oceanos Restaurant. They offer a wide range of seafood options along with other Indian and international dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, try Malabar Junction. Known for its authentic Kerala cuisine, this restaurant offers a range of flavorful dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday, November 12: Munnar
Morning: Depart for Munnar, a picturesque hill station famous for its tea plantations. Explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and enjoy the panoramic views from the Top Station. In the afternoon, visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea production in the region. End the day with a relaxing walk through the scenic tea gardens.
Eravikulam National Park: Cost: INR 120 (Approx.), Time spent: 3-4 hours
Breakfast: Saravana Bhavan - A popular South Indian restaurant serving delicious dosas and idlis. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
Lunch: Rapsy Restaurant - A cozy eatery known for its traditional Kerala cuisine, especially the mouth-watering seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Dinner: Spice Boat - A waterfront restaurant offering a wide range of delectable local and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, November 13: Thekkady
Morning: Head to Thekkady, known for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations. Take a boat cruise on Periyar Lake to spot various animals, such as elephants and tigers, in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, explore the spice plantations and learn about the cultivation of spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.
Periyar Lake Boat Cruise: Cost: INR 225 (Approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
For breakfast, head to Periyar Bakery and Cafe, located near Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary. Enjoy freshly baked breads, pastries, and a variety of sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
If you're looking for a delicious lunch option, try Spice Garden Restaurant. They offer a wide range of authentic Kerala cuisine, including seafood dishes and traditional thali meals. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Bamboo Grove Restaurant, which is known for its scenic views and tranquil ambiance. They serve a mix of Indian and international cuisines, with options like grilled seafood and vegetarian specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, November 14: Alleppey
Morning: Travel to Alleppey, famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. Embark on a relaxing houseboat journey through the enchanting backwaters, passing through serene villages and lush green landscapes. Enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine on board and witness the mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters.
For breakfast, head to Café Paradiso located in Alleppey. They serve delicious local breakfast dishes such as Appam and Puttu. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Kayees Biryani House known for their flavorful biryanis and delicious Malabar cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit the Dreamers Multicuisine Restaurant, offering a wide variety of dishes from Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, November 15: Varkala
Morning: Drive to Varkala, a coastal town known for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches. Spend the morning relaxing on the beautiful Papanasam Beach and take a refreshing dip in its natural spring waters. In the afternoon, visit the Varkala Cliff, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and a perfect spot for sunset. End the day with a delicious seafood dinner at one of the beachside restaurants.
Papanasam Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Varkala Cliff: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Seafood Dinner: Cost: INR 500-800 (Approx.), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast in Varkala, head to Coffee Temple, a charming café known for its delicious coffee and fresh, homemade baked goods. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Abba Restaurant, a popular spot offering a wide range of Indian and international dishes. Their seafood options are particularly renowned. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, check out Sutra Kitchen, a cozy restaurant known for its authentic Kerala cuisine, including delectable seafood dishes and traditional thalis. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, November 16: Kovalam
Morning: Proceed to Kovalam, a popular beach destination known for its golden sandy beaches and palm-fringed shores. Relax on the beautiful Kovalam Beach and indulge in water sports activities such as swimming and surfing. In the afternoon, visit the iconic lighthouse and explore the local markets for souvenirs.
Kovalam Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Kovalam Lighthouse: Cost: INR 20 (Approx.), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Shopping in Local Markets: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Try the sumptuous South Indian breakfast spread at Café Ginger, located near Kovalam Beach. Enjoy dishes like idli, dosa, and vada along with a hot cup of filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Lunch: Indulge in the delicious seafood preparations at Fusion Bay, a popular restaurant offering a mix of Kerala and international cuisines. Don't miss their mouthwatering prawn curry and fish fry. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Dinner: Head to Malabar Café for an authentic Kerala dining experience. Sample traditional dishes such as appam with stew and Malabar biryani while enjoying the cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Friday, November 17: Departure from Trivandrum
Morning: Explore the capital city of Kerala, Trivandrum. Visit the magnificent Padmanabhaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and marvel at its intricate architecture. In the afternoon, explore the Napier Museum, known for its collection of ancient artifacts and art. Bid farewell to Kerala with memories of its natural beauty.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Napier Museum: Cost: INR 20 (Approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Saravana Bhavan: Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, known for its authentic dosas and idlis. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Nanking: For lunch, try Nanking, a popular Chinese restaurant in Trivandrum. Indulge in their delicious dim sums and flavorful stir-fried dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Paragon Restaurant: End your day with a dinner at Paragon, a renowned seafood restaurant in Trivandrum. Savor the fresh catch of the day prepared in various local styles. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature lovers, don't miss out on a visit to the Silent Valley National Park, located in the Palakkad district. This untouched wilderness is home to rare species of flora and fauna and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Another hidden gem is the Athirappilly Waterfalls, often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India." Witness the raw power of nature as the Chalakudy River plunges down a cliff, creating a magnificent spectacle.
For a unique experience, consider visiting the backwater village of Kumarakom. Explore the serene backwaters in a traditional houseboat and engage with the locals to learn about their way of life. You can also indulge in Ayurvedic treatments and spa therapies while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
Check here to find the best hotel and flight prices for your Kerala trip.