Adventure in Kerala and Karnataka

Friday, September 29, 2023: Arrival in Kochi, Kerala

Start your adventure by arriving in Kochi, also known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea." In the morning, explore Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace, a Portuguese palace featuring beautiful murals. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing sunset cruise on the backwaters of Kochi.

• Fort Kochi: Free, 3-4 hours
• Mattancherry Palace: INR 10, 1-2 hours
• Sunset Cruise: INR 500-1000, 2-3 hours

Saturday, September 30, 2023: Munnar, Kerala

Embark on a scenic journey to Munnar, a hill station famous for its tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. End the day with a visit to the breathtaking Top Station viewpoint for panoramic views of the Western Ghats.

• Eravikulam National Park: INR 400, 3-4 hours
• Tata Tea Museum: INR 100, 1-2 hours
• Top Station: Free, 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 1, 2023: Coorg, Karnataka

Travel to Coorg, also known as Kodagu, a picturesque region in Karnataka. In the morning, visit Abbey Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Afterward, explore the coffee plantations and learn about the coffee-making process. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kodava cuisine dinner.

• Abbey Falls: INR 15, 2-3 hours
• Coffee Plantations: Free, 2-3 hours
• Kodava Cuisine Dinner: INR 500-1000, 1-2 hours

Monday, October 2, 2023: Wayanad, Kerala

Head to Wayanad, an idyllic hill station in Kerala. In the morning, explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and spot wildlife such as elephants and tigers. Afternoon can be spent visiting the ancient Edakkal Caves, known for their prehistoric rock art. As evening approaches, enjoy a serene boat ride on the Pookode Lake.

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 100-200, 4-5 hours
• Edakkal Caves: INR 30, 2-3 hours
• Pookode Lake: INR 10, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Coffee Break, a charming café known for its freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• Savor a scrumptious lunch at Spice Garden, a popular restaurant that serves authentic Kerala cuisine. Don't miss their flavorful fish curry and fragrant biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Indulge in a memorable dinner at Clay Pot, a cozy restaurant offering a wide range of traditional Kerala delicacies cooked in earthen pots. Don't forget to try their signature Malabar prawn curry. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Tuesday, October 3, 2023: Cochin Departure

Conclude your adventure in Kochi with a visit to the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. Explore the vibrant Jew Town and indulge in some souvenir shopping. In the afternoon, bid farewell to Kerala and depart from Cochin.

• Paradesi Synagogue: INR 5, 1-2 hours
• Jew Town: Free, 2-3 hours
• Souvenir Shopping: Variable, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're seeking more adventure, consider visiting the Athirapally Waterfalls in Kerala, known as the "Niagara of India." This majestic waterfall offers an awe-inspiring experience. Another recommendation is exploring the Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka, where you can spot a variety of wildlife including elephants, tigers, and leopards. Both destinations will surely satisfy your adventurous spirit.

For hotel and flight prices in Kerala and Karnataka, you can check here.