The Hill Palace Museum is set in 54 acres of lush greenery that will give you an immediate understanding of Kerala's rich history and culture. It is a 49-building complex that was once the home of the Royal family of Kochi until 1960. The museum displays the palace's collections, including royal antiquities, sculpture, paintings, weapons, and precious jewels.
Set amidst the scenic beauty of the eastern mountain range in Ernakulam, Kodanad is a unique rural riverside village where you can experience the gentle giants up close and interact with them. Since the government took over its management, the Kodanad Elephant training centre has become a perfect place to watch elephants in their natural habitat, feeding, bathing and even showing off their skills.
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is one of the most bio-diverse regions in Kerala, and is also home to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. This bird-watcher's paradise has over 300 different species of birds, including exotic migratory birds such as Siberian cranes and Night Herons.
Feast your eyes on the Athirapally waterfalls, a beautiful flowing river that forms the Chalakudy river in the Sholayar forest, a part of the Western Ghats. It is one of the biggest and most magnificent waterfalls in India, and the view from the bottom of the falls is breathtaking. The water flow is especially fierce in June, so bring your raincoat and prepare to get wet!
End your tour with a stroll on the Cherai beach, known for its 15 kilometers of golden sands that make it one of the most popular beaches in Kerala. It's a perfect place for swimming, beach volleyball, and leisurely walks on the beach. Make sure to watch the sunset and take lots of photographs.
If you have an extra day, explore the backwaters of Kerala in Kumarakom or Alleppey. If you only have four days, skip the Kodanad Elephant Training Centre, and spend more time in the Hill Palace Museum or visit Kochi fort and the Dutch Palace.