Nature-Focused Kerala Itinerary for July 2023

  1. Day 1: Munnar
    2.5 hours (80 kilometers) from Cochin International Airport

    Start your trip in the scenic hill station of Munnar, located in the Western Ghats mountain range. Visit the Eravikulam National Park to see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and hike up to the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India. Learn about the tea-making process at the Tata Tea Museum and take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful tea plantations.

  2. Day 2: Thekkady
    3 hours (90 kilometers) from Munnar

    Head to the charming town of Thekkady, located on the border of the Periyar National Park. Take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake to spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Visit the Mangala Devi Temple and hike through the dense forests to reach the ancient temple. End the day with a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

  3. Day 3: Alleppey
    4 hours (140 kilometers) from Thekkady

    Drive to the picturesque town of Alleppey, known for its serene backwaters and houseboat cruises. Explore the backwaters by taking a leisurely canoe ride or a sunset cruise on a traditional houseboat. Visit the Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, known for its delicious milk-based dessert called 'palpayasam'.

  4. Day 4: Kovalam Beach
    3.5 hours (150 kilometers) from Alleppey

    Relax and unwind at the beautiful Kovalam Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Kerala. Take a dip in the Arabian Sea and enjoy the stunning sunset views from the lighthouse. Visit the nearby Halcyon Castle and the Vellayani Lake, known for its annual boat race.

  5. Day 5: Wayanad
    7 hours (290 kilometers) from Kovalam Beach

    Drive to the enchanting hill station of Wayanad, located in the Western Ghats. Visit the Edakkal Caves, known for its pre-historic rock carvings and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to tigers, elephants, and other wildlife. Trek to the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, for stunning views of the surrounding hills.

  6. Day 6: Cochin
    6 hours (250 kilometers) from Wayanad

    End your trip in the vibrant city of Cochin, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Visit the famous Chinese fishing nets, the historic Mattancherry Palace, and the Jewish Synagogue in the charming neighborhood of Jew Town. Watch a Kathakali dance performance and indulge in some delicious seafood at one of the city's many seaside restaurants.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Eravikulam National Park (3 hours, INR 1200)
  • Anamudi Peak Hike (4 hours, Free)
  • Tata Tea Museum (1 hour, INR 250)
  • Periyar Lake Boat Ride (2 hours, INR 400)
  • Mangala Devi Temple Hike (3 hours, Free)
  • Kathakali Dance Performance (1 hour, INR 300)
  • Alleppey Houseboat Cruise (5 hours, INR 8000)
  • Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple (1 hour, Free)
  • Kovalam Beach (3 hours, Free)
  • Halcyon Castle (1 hour, INR 200)
  • Edakkal Caves (2 hours, INR 40)
  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, INR 500)
  • Chembra Peak Trek (5 hours, INR 750)
  • Chinese Fishing Nets (1 hour, Free)
  • Mattancherry Palace (2 hours, INR 50)
  • Jewish Synagogue (1 hour, INR 10)
  • Seafood Dinner (1 hour, INR 500)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 12,910
0