Start your trip in Kochi by visiting the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets in the morning. These unique fishing nets are a sight to behold and provide a glimpse into the city's rich maritime history. In the afternoon, explore Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood known for its colonial architecture, charming cafes, and art galleries. In the evening, catch a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional Indian dance-drama.
The Teapot Cafe is a charming breakfast spot in Fort Kochi, offering a variety of freshly brewed teas and delicious baked goods. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Nasi and Mee is a popular lunch spot in Kochi, specializing in Malaysian and Singaporean cuisine. Try their flavorful Nasi Lemak or Laksa noodles. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
The History Restaurant is a must-visit for dinner in Fort Kochi. Located inside a restored Dutch colonial building, it offers a unique dining experience with a menu featuring authentic Kerala dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, October 18: Munnar
Explore the lush tea plantations of Munnar in the morning. Take a guided tour and learn about the tea-making process while enjoying the beautiful scenery. In the afternoon, visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End the day with a visit to the Mattupetty Dam, where you can enjoy boating and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Eravikulam National Park: Cost: INR 120-360, Time: 2-3 hours
Mattupetty Dam: Cost: INR 10-20, Time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Munnar Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Munnar Cafe. This charming cafe offers a variety of options including pancakes, omelettes, and local Kerala specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Hillside Restaurant: For lunch, head to Hillside Restaurant, which offers stunning views of the tea plantations. Indulge in their authentic Kerala thali, featuring a selection of traditional curries, rice, and accompaniments. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Silver Spoon: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Silver Spoon. This fine dining restaurant serves a wide range of international and Indian dishes. Try their seafood specialties or savor their delicious biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, October 19: Thekkady
In the morning, head to Periyar National Park in Thekkady for a wildlife safari. Get a chance to spot elephants, tigers, and various species of birds in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, explore the spice plantations and learn about the different spices grown in the region. End the day with a relaxing boat ride on Periyar Lake.
Periyar National Park: Cost: INR 450-600, Time: 3-4 hours
Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Cost: INR 150-200, Time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Thekkady is Spice Garden Restaurant, known for its traditional Kerala breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try the Bamboo Hut Restaurant, located close to Periyar National Park. They offer a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, head to Spice Village Restaurant for a delicious dinner. This restaurant offers a variety of authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, October 20: Alleppey
Embark on a memorable houseboat cruise in the backwaters of Alleppey. Spend the morning cruising through the serene backwaters, enjoying the scenic beauty and witnessing the local way of life. In the afternoon, visit the Alleppey Beach and relax by the Arabian Sea. Enjoy a mesmerizing sunset view before heading back to your houseboat for the night.
Houseboat Cruise: Cost: INR 8000-12000 per night, Time: Full day
Alleppey Beach: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to the famous Indian Coffee House in Alleppey. This iconic eatery offers a variety of South Indian breakfast dishes like dosas, idlis, and appam. A meal here costs around 100 INR per person.
For lunch, try the traditional Keralan cuisine at Hotel Tamilnadu Restaurant. They serve delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including fish curry, chicken biryani, and vegetable thali. Expect to spend around 200 INR per person for a satisfying meal.
In the evening, dine at Dreamers Restaurant and Shakes. This cozy restaurant offers a diverse menu that includes Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Enjoy their mouthwatering seafood specialties or savor a plate of chicken fried rice. The average cost for a meal at Dreamers is approximately 300 INR per person.
Saturday, October 21: Kumarakom
Start your day by exploring the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers. Spot various migratory birds and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings. In the afternoon, take a relaxing backwater cruise in a traditional Kettuvallam houseboat. Experience the beauty of the Vembanad Lake and enjoy a delicious Keralan meal prepared onboard.
Backwater Cruise: Cost: INR 3000-5000 for a houseboat, Time: 4-6 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Hotel Saro Lake County. Enjoy a variety of delicious South Indian dishes like dosas and idlis. The average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Tharavadu Multi Cuisine Restaurant. Indulge in a wide range of Kerala delicacies including seafood and traditional thalis. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at the beautiful lakeside restaurant, Waterside Retreat. Savor the flavors of the local cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of the Vembanad Lake. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, October 22: Kovalam
Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Kovalam during your morning. Take a dip in the clear blue waters or simply relax on the sandy shores. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. End the day by indulging in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatment.
Enjoy a delicious South Indian breakfast at The Terrace Restaurant, located near Kovalam beach. Indulge in traditional delicacies like idli, dosa, and vada. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Treat yourself to a scrumptious seafood lunch at Curry Leaf restaurant, known for its fresh catch of the day. Try their delicious fish curry or prawn masala. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Experience a unique dining experience at Fusion Bay, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the ocean. Savor their fusion dishes combining local Kerala flavors with international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, October 23: Trivandrum
On your last day, explore the vibrant city of Trivandrum. Start with a visit to the Napier Museum and Art Gallery, which showcases a rich collection of ancient artifacts and artwork. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Kovalam Art Gallery and browse through the works of local artists. End your trip with a visit to Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest temples in the world.
Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Cost: INR 10-20, Time: 2-3 hours
Kovalam Art Gallery: Cost: INR 20-50, Time: 1-2 hours
For breakfast, head to the charming Cafe Ceylon located in the heart of Trivandrum. Indulge in their delicious variety of freshly baked pastries and enjoy a cup of aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, try Malabar Cafe located near the Napier Museum. They offer a range of traditional Kerala dishes, including mouth-watering fish curry and fluffy appams. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Villa Maya, a beautiful restaurant housed in a restored Dutch mansion. They serve a mix of Indian and European cuisine, with dishes like Malabar fish biryani and grilled tenderloin steak. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to visit the idyllic village of Varkala. This hidden gem offers a stunning beach, cliffs, and a peaceful atmosphere. Take a dip in the natural springs at Papanasam Beach or indulge in a yoga session overlooking the Arabian Sea. Varkala is also known for its Ayurvedic treatments, so pamper yourself with a relaxing massage or spa session.
Another local favorite is the picturesque town of Wayanad. Explore the lush green hills, visit tea and coffee plantations, and take a dip in the stunning waterfalls. Wayanad is also home to wildlife sanctuaries where you can spot elephants, deer, and various bird species. Don't forget to try local delicacies like Malabar biryani and banana chips during your visit.