A Magical Journey Through Kerala

Friday October 13: Cochin

Start your adventure in Cochin, also known as Kochi, by exploring the vibrant streets of Fort Kochi in the morning. Marvel at the unique Chinese fishing nets that line the waterfront, visit the beautiful St. Francis Church, and take a walk through the historic Jew Town. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by watching a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala. As the evening sets in, head to the Marine Drive promenade and enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise along the backwaters.

• Fort Kochi: Free, 3-4 hours
• St. Francis Church: Free, 30 minutes
• Kathakali Performance: INR 500-1000 per person, 2 hours
• Marine Drive: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Kayees Rahmathulla Hotel, a local favorite known for its fluffy appams and mouthwatering beef curry. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Dhe Puttu, a popular restaurant famous for its traditional Kerala delicacy, puttu. Enjoy a variety of puttu dishes, including the classic rice puttu and the flavorful wheat puttu. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• In the evening, indulge in a delectable dinner at Malabar Junction, an upscale restaurant serving a fusion of Kerala and international cuisines. Try their signature Malabar fish curry or the tender coconut prawn curry for a truly memorable dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Saturday October 14: Munnar

Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. Start your morning by visiting the beautiful tea gardens that Munnar is famous for. Take a leisurely walk through the lush green plantations and learn about tea production. In the afternoon, explore the Mattupetty Dam and enjoy boating amidst the serene surroundings. End your day with a visit to the Top Station viewpoint, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats at sunset.

• Tea Gardens: Free, 2-3 hours
• Mattupetty Dam: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
• Top Station: Free, 1-2 hours

Sunday October 15: Alleppey

Experience the tranquil beauty of Kerala's backwaters with a visit to Alleppey. In the morning, board a traditional houseboat and cruise along the serene canals, witnessing the picturesque landscape and local life. Enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala lunch on board. In the afternoon, explore the charming villages and visit the ancient temples in the area. As the evening approaches, witness the mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters.

• Houseboat Cruise: INR 8000-15000 per night (for the entire boat), 6-8 hours
• Exploring Villages: Free, 2-3 hours
• Sunset Viewing: Free, 1-2 hours

Monday October 16: Thekkady

Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park, famous for its wildlife and spice plantations. Start your day with a thrilling boat safari on the Periyar Lake, where you might spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of a spice plantation and learn about the cultivation and processing of different spices. End your day with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage to rejuvenate your senses.

• Boat Safari: INR 225 per person, 2-3 hours
• Spice Plantation Tour: INR 200-300 per person, 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: INR 1000-2000 per person, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Explore the hidden gem of Varkala, a coastal town known for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, indulge in delicious seafood at local restaurants, and rejuvenate your mind and body with yoga and Ayurvedic treatments. Don't miss a visit to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, one of the richest temples in the world, showcasing exquisite architecture and spiritual significance. Lastly, indulge in a traditional Kerala meal served on a banana leaf, savoring the authentic flavors of the region.