Start your Kerala adventure in the charming city of Kochi. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets that line the coastline, witnessing the traditional fishing method. Explore the historic Fort Kochi area in the afternoon, where you can admire the Dutch Palace and the famous St. Francis Church. As the evening sets in, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, showcasing the vibrant and colorful traditional art form of Kerala.
Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, 1-2 hours
Fort Kochi: Free, 2-3 hours
Kathakali Performance: INR 500-1000 per person, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Kochi is Pepper House Cafe, offering a delightful selection of freshly made pancakes, eggs Benedict, and aromatic coffee. The average cost for a meal is about INR 250 per person.
For lunch, head to Oceanos Restaurant, where you can savor a variety of seafood dishes like grilled fish, prawns curry, and lobster thermidor. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
In the evening, dine at Kashi Art Cafe which offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious options like wood-fired pizza, pasta, and refreshing beverages. The average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
Monday, December 11: Munnar's Serene Beauty
Embark on a scenic journey to Munnar, a hill station known for its tea plantations and breathtaking landscapes. Spend your morning exploring the lush green tea gardens and learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, visit the Tea Museum to delve deeper into the history of tea cultivation in the region. Enjoy a boating experience at Mattupetty Dam in the evening, surrounded by stunning hills and a tranquil lake.
Tea Gardens: Free, 2-3 hours
Tea Museum: INR 150-250 per person, 1-2 hours
Mattupetty Dam: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Royale, located in Munnar. This cozy café offers a variety of fresh baked goods and traditional Indian breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Rapsy Restaurant, a popular eatery in Munnar known for its delectable South Indian cuisine. Indulge in authentic Kerala dishes like dosa, idli, and sambhar. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
In the evening, dine at Copper Castle Restaurant, a charming restaurant offering a mix of Indian and continental dishes. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and stunning views while relishing their mouthwatering seafood specialties. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Tuesday, December 12: Wildlife Safari in Thekkady
Head to Thekkady, a nature lover's paradise, where you can experience an incredible wildlife safari. Start your day with a morning boat ride in Periyar Lake, spotting wildlife amidst the dense forests. In the afternoon, visit the Periyar Tiger Reserve and take a guided jungle trek to explore the rich flora and fauna. Wrap up your day with a visit to a spice plantation, where you can learn about the aromatic spices and even indulge in some shopping.
Periyar Lake Boat Ride: INR 150-400 per person, 2-3 hours
Periyar Tiger Reserve: INR 100-300 per person, 2-3 hours
Spice Plantation: Free (guided tour may have a nominal fee), 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Thekkady is Spice Garden Cafe, known for its tasty South Indian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
If you're looking for a great place for lunch, Thekkady Treats is a must-visit. They offer a variety of Kerala and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a delicious dinner option, Monsoon Restaurant is highly recommended. They specialize in traditional Kerala cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, December 13: Backwaters Bliss in Alleppey
Experience the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey on a mesmerizing houseboat cruise. Spend the morning sailing through the serene backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional villages. Enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala lunch on the houseboat while cruising. In the afternoon, explore the rustic charm of Alleppey by cycling through the narrow village lanes and interacting with the friendly locals. Witness a breathtaking sunset over the backwaters to end your day on a magical note.
Houseboat Cruise: INR 6,000-10,000 per night (divided among 6 people), 24 hours
Cycling in Alleppey: INR 100-200 per person, 2-3 hours
Sunset over Backwaters: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Alleppey is Cafe Paradiso, known for its delicious South Indian dishes. Enjoy a traditional breakfast of idli, dosa, and piping hot filter coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 150 per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head to Oyster Restaurant, located by the backwaters. Indulge in a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled fish and prawns. The restaurant offers a serene ambiance and the average cost for a meal here is about INR 300 per person.
For a memorable dinner, visit Dreamland Restaurant, known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Try their famous Malabar biryani or spicy fish curry. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 400 per person.
Thursday, December 14: Serenity in Kovalam
Conclude your Kerala journey by relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Kovalam. Spend the morning sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage in one of the renowned wellness centers in the afternoon. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, relishing delicious seafood dishes from the local stalls and enjoying the lively beachside atmosphere.
Kovalam Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Ayurvedic Massage: INR 1,000-2,000 per person, 1-2 hours
Beachside Stroll: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Coffee Temple, a popular café offering a variety of delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Curry Leaf, a charming restaurant known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, enjoy a memorable dinner at The Oceanic, a beachfront restaurant serving mouthwatering seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kerala, make sure to visit the hidden gem of Varkala. Known for its stunning cliff-side beaches and peaceful ambiance, Varkala offers a unique experience away from the tourist crowds. Enjoy the beautiful views from the cliff, indulge in yoga sessions, and savor delicious seafood at the local shacks on the beach. It's a family-friendly destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.