5-Day Itinerary for Kerala in May 2024

  1. Day 1: Kochi
    30 minutes (25.7 km) from Cochin International Airport

    Kochi is a coastal city in Kerala known for its diverse history and culture. Start your day by visiting the iconic Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi beach. Next, explore the historic St. Francis Church, which dates back to the early 16th century. In the afternoon, take a ferry ride to the picturesque Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort. End your day by enjoying a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

  2. Day 2: Alleppey
    1 hour 40 minutes (54.2 km) from Kochi

    Alleppey, also known as the Venice of the East, is famous for its backwaters and houseboats. Start your day with a scenic boat ride along the tranquil Alleppey backwaters. Next, visit the historic Krishnapuram Palace, known for its beautiful murals and architecture. In the evening, take a stroll through the bustling Alleppey market, where you'll find everything from fresh seafood to handmade crafts.

  3. Day 3: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
    3 hours 20 minutes (139.5 km) from Alleppey

    The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and birds. Start your day with a jungle trek through the sanctuary, and keep an eye out for wildlife. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Periyar Lake, where you can spot elephants bathing and drinking. End your day by exploring the nearby spice plantations and learning about the local spices that make Kerala cuisine so unique.

  4. Day 4: Kovalam
    4 hours 30 minutes (218.5 km) from Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

    Kovalam is a beautiful coastal town known for its pristine beaches and laid-back vibe. Start your day by relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Vizhinjam Lighthouse, which offers stunning panoramic views of the coast. End your day by enjoying a seafood dinner at one of Kovalam's many beachside restaurants.

  5. Day 5: Thiruvananthapuram
    30 minutes (15.9 km) from Kovalam

    Thiruvananthapuram, also known as Trivandrum, is the capital city of Kerala. Start your day by visiting the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance. Next, explore the nearby Napier Museum, which houses a vast collection of historic artifacts and artwork. In the evening, take a stroll through the lush gardens of the nearby Kanakakunnu Palace.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Chinese fishing nets (15 minutes, free)
  • St. Francis Church (30 minutes, free)
  • Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort (2 hours, INR 2,000)
  • Kathakali dance performance (1 hour, INR 500)
  • Boat ride along Alleppey backwaters (2 hours, INR 2,500)
  • Krishnapuram Palace (1 hour, INR 100)
  • Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary jungle trek (3 hours, INR 1,500)
  • Boat ride along Periyar Lake (2 hours, INR 1,000)
  • Visit to spice plantations (1 hour, INR 500)
  • Kovalam beach (2 hours, free)
  • Vizhinjam Lighthouse (1 hour, INR 100)
  • Seafood dinner in Kovalam (1 hour, INR 1,000)
  • Padmanabhaswamy Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Napier Museum (1 hour, INR 20)
  • Kanakakunnu Palace (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 9,820
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