Kerala 5-Day Itinerary (September 2023)

  1. Day 1: Kochi
    30 minutes (22.4 km) from Kochi International Airport

    Kochi is a vibrant city and an interesting blend of cultures. Visit the Fort Kochi area to see the famous Chinese fishing nets and stroll through the charming streets lined with colonial architecture. Be sure to explore the Jewish quarter and the Dutch Palace, a fine example of Kerala's traditional architecture.

  2. Day 2: Munnar
    4 hours 30 minutes (130 km) from Kochi

    Munnar is a beautiful hill station known for its lush green tea plantations, rolling hills, and breathtaking views. Explore the charming tea estates and learn about the tea-making process. Visit the Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and take a nature walk in the beautiful Shola forests.

  3. Day 3: Thekkady
    3 hours (93 km) from Munnar

    Thekkady is famous for its wildlife sanctuary, which is home to diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, and rare bird species. Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake to appreciate the scenic beauty of the region, and visit a spice plantation to learn about the region's famous cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon harvests.

  4. Day 4: Alleppey
    3 hours 30 minutes (138 km) from Thekkady

    Alleppey is popularly known as the Venice of the East, thanks to its intricate network of canals, backwaters, and lagoons. Take a houseboat ride and admire the beautiful waterways and lush, green landscapes. Experience the local culture at a coir making house or a toddy tapping session, or indulge in some fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant.

  5. Day 5: Trivandrum
    2 hours 30 minutes (145 km) from Alleppey

    Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala, is home to the famous Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the wealthiest shrines in the world. Visit the Napier Museum to admire an impressive collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, and learn about the city's rich history. If time permits, take a dip in the beautiful beaches of Kovalam, located just outside the city.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Fort Kochi (2-3 hours, free)
  • Dutch Palace (1-2 hours, Rs 35 per person)
  • Tea estates in Munnar (2-3 hours, Rs 150-200 per person)
  • Eravikulam National Park (2-3 hours, Rs 125 per person)
  • Periyar Lake boat ride (2 hours, Rs 200-300 per person)
  • Alleppey houseboat ride (6-8 hours, Rs 7,000-10,000 per night)
  • Kovalam Beach (2-3 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: Rs 9,510-11,510

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to Varkala Beach or a visit to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary for some more wildlife spotting. If you have less time, consider skipping Thekkady or Alleppey, but try not to miss Munnar and Kochi. September can still be quite hot and humid, so dress comfortably and carry sunscreen and insect repellent.

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