Exploring the Beauty of Trivandrum, Ashtamudi, Varkala, Monroe Island, Alleppey, and Kochi

Thursday, October 5: Trivandrum

In the morning, visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a magnificent Hindu temple known for its intricate architecture. Explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery in the afternoon, showcasing a collection of historical artifacts and contemporary art. In the evening, take a stroll along Kovalam Beach, known for its golden sand and beautiful sunset views.

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 2 hours
• Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Cost: INR 20 (approximately $0.27), Time: 2 hours
• Kovalam Beach: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours

Friday, October 6: Ashtamudi

Start your day with a backwater cruise on Ashtamudi Lake, enjoying the serene and picturesque surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Ashtamudi Lake View Point for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a Kathakali performance, a traditional Indian dance-drama.

• Ashtamudi Lake Cruise: Cost: INR 1,000-1,500 (approximately $14-$21), Time: 3-4 hours
• Ashtamudi Lake View Point: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
• Kathakali Performance: Cost: INR 300-500 (approximately $4-$7), Time: 2-3 hours

Saturday, October 7: Varkala

Spend your morning exploring the famous Varkala Beach, known for its cliffs and therapeutic mineral springs. Afternoon, visit the Janardanaswamy Temple, a 2000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Varkala Cliff, lined with shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

• Varkala Beach: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
• Janardanaswamy Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
• Varkala Cliff: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Coffee Temple, located near Varkala Beach. This charming cafe offers a range of breakfast options including freshly brewed coffee, pancakes, and sandwiches. The average cost for a breakfast meal here is about 200 INR per person.
• For a tasty lunch, head to Abba Restaurant & Coffee Shop. Situated near Janardanaswamy Temple, this restaurant serves a variety of Indian and international dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering biryani or flavorful pasta. The average cost for a lunch meal here is about 400 INR per person.
• For a delightful dinner experience, dine at Trattorias The Italian Restaurant. Located on the Varkala Cliff, this restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine. Indulge in their wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, and delicious desserts. The average cost for a dinner meal here is about 600 INR per person.

Sunday, October 8: Monroe Island

Explore the rustic beauty of Monroe Island by taking a canoe ride through the narrow canals and coconut groves. Visit the Kollam Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the tranquil waters. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kerala-style dinner at a local restaurant.

• Monroe Island Canoe Ride: Cost: INR 500-700 (approximately $7-$10), Time: 2-3 hours
• Kollam Beach: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
• Traditional Kerala-style Dinner: Cost: INR 500-800 (approximately $7-$11), Time: 1-2 hours

Monday, October 9: Alleppey

Embark on a mesmerizing houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Alleppey, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional village life. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch on the houseboat. In the evening, visit the Alappuzha Beach for a relaxing walk along its sandy shores.

• Alleppey Houseboat Cruise: Cost: INR 8,000-10,000 (approximately $111-$139), Time: 6-8 hours
• Traditional Kerala Lunch: Cost: Included in houseboat cruise, Time: 1-2 hours
• Alappuzha Beach: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 10: Kochi

Start your day by exploring the historic Fort Kochi, home to colonial-era buildings and Chinese fishing nets. Visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum to delve into the rich history and heritage of the region. In the evening, watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre.

• Fort Kochi: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
• Indo-Portuguese Museum: Cost: INR 25 (approximately $0.35), Time: 1-2 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: Cost: INR 300-500 (approximately $4-$7), Time: 2-3 hours

Wednesday, October 11: Kochi

In the morning, visit the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, showcasing beautiful murals and artifacts. Explore the Jew Town, home to the famous Paradesi Synagogue and antique shops. In the evening, take a sunset cruise in the backwaters of Kochi, enjoying the tranquil beauty of the surroundings.

• Mattancherry Palace: Cost: INR 5 (approximately $0.07), Time: 1-2 hours
• Jew Town: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
• Sunset Backwater Cruise: Cost: INR 500-700 (approximately $7-$10), Time: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Trivandrum, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Kuthira Malika Palace, known for its exquisite wooden architecture and unique horse-shaped brackets. In Ashtamudi, explore the Mangrove Forests, a hidden gem offering breathtaking views and a chance to spot rare bird species. In Varkala, visit the Sivagiri Mutt, a spiritual center with serene surroundings and a memorial dedicated to the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. In Kochi, explore the charming streets of Fort Kochi and indulge in delicious local seafood at the iconic Seagull Restaurant.

For more information, you can check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.