Begin your trip with a visit to Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood with Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Walk along the beach promenade to see fishing nets unique to the area, and visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Take a guided tour of the beautifully restored Dutch Palace and the nearby Jewish Synagogue.
Spend the day in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to tigers, elephants, and many other species of wildlife. Take a guided nature walk, bamboo rafting, or a boating trip on the gorgeous Periyar Lake. Later, head to Thekkady, another stunning location in the hills of Kerala, and watch a spectacular Kathakali dance performance.
End your trip by exploring the serene Alleppey backwaters, known as the "Venice of the East." Board a traditional houseboat and cruise through the tranquil waters, gazing at the lush green paddy fields and charming villages along the way. Enjoy a freshly prepared traditional Kerala meal on board the houseboat, and watch the sunset over the backwaters.
If you have more time, consider visiting Munnar, a hill station known for its tea and spice plantations. If you have less time, you can visit other popular tourist destinations like Kovalam Beach, Varkala Beach, and Kumarakom. Remember to pack comfortable shoes and light clothing, and carry sufficient water, sunscreen and mosquito repellant.