5-Day Kerala Itinerary

1. Day 1: Kochi Fort and Beaches
   1 hour (9 miles) from Kochi International Airport

   Explore the historical Kochi Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along the scenic Fort Kochi Beach and catch a glimpse of the famous Chinese Fishing Nets. End the day with a visit to Marine Drive, one of the popular hangout spots in Kochi.

2. Day 2: Backwaters and Tea Plantations
   2 hours (42 miles) from Kochi Fort

   Take a boat ride on the serene backwaters of Alleppey and enjoy the lush greenery of the surrounding coconut trees. Experience tea-making process and taste a variety of tea at the Munnar Tea Museum. End the day with a relaxing stay at a tree house in Munnar.

3. Day 3: Wildlife Sanctuaries and Waterfalls
   3.5 hours (101 miles) from Munnar Tree House

   Explore the rich flora and fauna of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary by taking a boat ride or trekking. Visit the cascading Athirapilly Waterfalls, known as the Niagara of India. End the day with a peaceful stay at a nearby resort.

4. Day 4: Beaches and Ayurvedic Spas
   3 hours (85 miles) from Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

   Visit Kovalam Beach and enjoy the waves. Learn about the traditional Ayurvedic medicine at Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort and Spa. End the day relaxing with an Ayurvedic massage and a peaceful stay at the resort.

5. Day 5: Houseboats and Sunsets
   3 hours (91 miles) from Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort and Spa

   Experience the authentic backwater lifestyle on a houseboat in Kumarakom. Witness a mesmerizing sunset and get a glimpse of the local culture. Enjoy the night stay on the houseboat with traditional Kerala cuisine.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kochi Fort (2 hours, free)
• Boat Ride in Alleppey backwaters (3 hours, INR 1,500)
• Munnar Tea Museum (2 hours, INR 300)
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, INR 400)
• Athirapilly Waterfalls (2 hours, INR 50)
• Kovalam Beach (2 hours, free)
• Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort and Spa (3 hours, INR 3,000)
• Kumarakom Houseboat stay (overnight, INR 15,000)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 20,250 ($285)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the hill station of Wayanad or the beautiful beaches of Varkala. For a shorter trip, reduce your stay at Munnar or Kumarakom. Always check the weather conditions beforehand. You can hire a private car or use public transportation to travel around Kerala.