Welcome to Kerala! Start your journey by arriving at Kochi, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. In the morning, visit the iconic Fort Kochi Beach and witness the beautiful Chinese fishing nets in action. Explore the charming streets of Fort Kochi, lined with colonial-era buildings and vibrant art galleries. In the afternoon, visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and admire its historical significance. As the evening sets in, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional Indian dance form. Estimated cost: INR 500 per person. Estimated time spent: Morning (3 hours), Afternoon (2 hours), Evening (2 hours).
On day two, head to Munnar, a hill station known for its breathtaking landscapes. In the morning, visit the Mattupetty Dam and take a boat ride amidst the misty hills and tea plantations. Afterward, explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Witness the vibrant hues of the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every twelve years. In the evening, enjoy a cup of aromatic tea at a local tea estate. Estimated cost: Boat ride - INR 500 per person, National Park entry - INR 200 per person. Estimated time spent: Morning (4 hours), Afternoon (3 hours), Evening (2 hours).
Experience the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey on the third day of your trip. In the morning, embark on a traditional houseboat cruise along the backwaters and witness the beauty of the surrounding villages and lush greenery. Enjoy a delicious Keralan lunch prepared on board. In the afternoon, explore the small island of Pathiramanal, a haven for migratory birds. As the sun sets, indulge in a relaxing Ayurvedic massage to rejuvenate your senses. Estimated cost: Houseboat cruise - INR 6,000 per night, Ayurvedic massage - INR 2,000 per person. Estimated time spent: Morning (6 hours), Afternoon (4 hours), Evening (2 hours).
On the final day, head to the picturesque beach town of Kovalam. Spend the morning relaxing on the pristine beaches and taking a dip in the clear waters of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, visit the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, known for its intricate architecture. Explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing a vast collection of historical artifacts and artwork. In the evening, indulge in delicious seafood at a beachfront restaurant while enjoying a stunning sunset view. Estimated cost: Padmanabhaswamy Temple - Free, Napier Museum entry - INR 100 per person. Estimated time spent: Morning (4 hours), Afternoon (4 hours), Evening (3 hours).
While exploring Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to visit the charming village of Kumarakom, nestled along the backwaters. Experience the unique lifestyle of the locals, take a boat ride through the narrow canals, and visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to a variety of migratory and resident birds. Another hidden gem is the hill station of Wayanad, where you can explore lush tea and coffee plantations, visit breathtaking waterfalls, and trek through the scenic Western Ghats. These off the beaten path attractions will give you a glimpse into the authentic beauty of Kerala.
For hotel and flight bookings, check out Kayak for the best prices.