3-Day Itinerary: Exploring Alleppey and Thekkady

Saturday, December 23: Arrival in Alleppey

Welcome to the beautiful backwaters of Alleppey! Start your day by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the morning, take a relaxing backwater cruise on a traditional houseboat. Glide along the serene backwaters, passing through lush green landscapes and witnessing the local way of life. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Alleppey Beach, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the sandy shores and indulge in some delicious seafood. In the evening, head to the Alleppey Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding areas.

• Backwater Cruise: Prices vary depending on the type of houseboat. Approximately 4-5 hours.
• Alleppey Beach: Free entry. Spend 2-3 hours.
• Alleppey Lighthouse: Entry fee is around INR 20. Spend 1-2 hours.

Sunday, December 24: Thekkady Wildlife Experience

After breakfast, get ready to explore the wildlife wonders of Thekkady. Start your day with a visit to Periyar National Park, known for its lush forests and diverse wildlife. Enjoy a thrilling boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you might spot elephants, deer, and various bird species. In the afternoon, you can participate in a guided jungle trek to get closer to nature. If you're interested in spices, don't miss the opportunity to visit a spice plantation and learn about the cultivation and processing of various spices. End your day with a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance in a local theater.

• Periyar National Park: Entry fee is around INR 50 for Indians and INR 450 for foreigners. Boat ride costs approximately INR 225. Spend 4-5 hours.
• Jungle Trek: Prices vary depending on the duration and level of difficulty. Approximately 3-4 hours.
• Spice Plantation: Entry fee is around INR 100. Spend 1-2 hours.
• Kathakali Performance: Tickets range from INR 200 to INR 500. Show lasts for 1-2 hours.

Monday, December 25: Exploring Thekkady's Beauty

On your last day, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Thekkady. Start your morning with a visit to the picturesque Mangala Devi Temple, located amidst dense forests. Take a serene boat ride through the Mullaperiyar Dam and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests. In the afternoon, embark on a nature walk through the Periyar Tiger Reserve, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will introduce you to the flora and fauna of the region. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the vibrant local market, where you can shop for spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

• Mangala Devi Temple: Entry fee is around INR 100. Spend 1-2 hours.
• Mullaperiyar Dam: Boat ride costs approximately INR 50. Spend 2-3 hours.
• Nature Walk in Periyar Tiger Reserve: Prices start from INR 200 per person. Approximately 2-3 hours.
• Local Market: Prices vary depending on your purchases. Spend 1-2 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have some extra time, consider visiting the beautiful hill station of Munnar, known for its tea plantations and scenic landscapes. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride and witness the rich birdlife. Locals also recommend exploring the Chellarkovil Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats and nearby valleys. Don't forget to try the local delicacies such as appam, puttu, and karimeen fry for an authentic culinary experience.

Ready to plan your trip to Alleppey and Thekkady? Check hotel and flight prices here.