Kochi is a great first stop on your trip to Kerala.s You can start your day by visiting the Mattancherry Palace, which features some of the best preserved Dutch murals and portraits. After that, take a walk around the Fort Kochi to explore the colonial influences in the city, which were left over during the 300-year long rule of the Portuguese, Dutch, and English. A visit to Fort Kochi's famous landmark St. Francis Church is highly recommended, which is the first European church in India and has historical importance in Vasco da Gama's story. Finally, Plaza cinema is an excellent option for movie lovers to watch in vintage-style cinema.
Munnar, known for its tea plantations, is an enjoyable destination for families with scenic views and activities. Start your day with a visit to the Mattupetty Dam, which offers activities like boating and horse riding - great for kids. Then head to the Echo point, a beautiful spot for capturing family photographs. Children will love the Eravikulam National Park, especially for the sightseeing of the Nilgiri Tahr. And for adults, a visit to the Tea Museum and adjacent plantations for tea-tasting sessions to understand the process of tea making will be ideal.
For more leisurely travel, travellers can extend their days to explore more of Kochi's colonial heritage such as the Dutch Cemetery and Jewish Synagogue or activities like a kathakali performance. Particularly adventurous families may explore much of Kerala's backwaters by boat on day 2.