7-Day Adventure and Nature Itinerary in Kerala

Thursday, October 12: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Arrive at Kochi International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Spend the morning exploring Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace and explore the vibrant Jew Town with its spice markets. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

• Fort Kochi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Mattancherry Palace: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
• Jew Town: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Kathakali Performance: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Friday, October 13: Munnar - Tea Gardens and Trekking

Head to Munnar, a hill station known for its tea gardens. Start your morning with a visit to the stunning Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the afternoon, go on a trek in the tea plantations and enjoy the breathtaking views. End your day with a visit to the Tea Museum to learn about the tea production process.

• Eravikulam National Park: Estimated cost - INR 120 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
• Trek in Tea Plantations: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1 hour

Saturday, October 14: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Travel to Thekkady and visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Start your morning with a thrilling bamboo rafting experience in Periyar Lake, surrounded by lush forests. In the afternoon, take a guided nature walk to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the sanctuary. End your day with a spice plantation visit to learn about the region's famous spices.

• Bamboo Rafting in Periyar Lake: Estimated cost - INR 1,500 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
• Guided Nature Walk: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
• Spice Plantation Visit: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, October 15: Wayanad - Caves and Waterfalls

Head to the scenic district of Wayanad. Start your day with a visit to the Edakkal Caves, famous for its ancient rock carvings. In the afternoon, explore the stunning Soochipara Waterfalls and take a refreshing dip. End your day with a visit to the picturesque Pookode Lake.

• Edakkal Caves: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
• Soochipara Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Pookode Lake: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Monday, October 16: Athirapally - Waterfalls and Jungle Safari

Travel to Athirapally and explore the majestic Athirapally Waterfalls, known as the "Niagara of India." Take a thrilling jungle safari in the nearby Sholayar Forests in the afternoon. End your day with a visit to the scenic Vazhachal Waterfalls.

• Athirapally Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 15 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
• Jungle Safari in Sholayar Forests: Estimated cost - INR 1,500 per jeep, Time spent - 3 hours
• Vazhachal Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, October 17: Varkala - Beach and Cliff Views

Head to the coastal town of Varkala. Spend your morning relaxing on the golden sands of Varkala Beach and taking a dip in the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, climb the stunning Varkala Cliff for panoramic views of the coastline. End your day by watching the spectacular sunset over the Arabian Sea.

• Varkala Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 4 hours
• Varkala Cliff: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, October 18: Alleppey - Backwater Houseboat Experience

Travel to Alleppey and embark on a memorable houseboat experience in the backwaters. Spend the day cruising along the serene canals, enjoying the lush greenery and picturesque villages. Indulge in delicious Kerala cuisine prepared on board and savor the tranquility of the backwaters.

• Houseboat Experience: Estimated cost - INR 10,000 per night for a 6-person houseboat, Time spent - Overnight

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers, the lesser-known Meesapulimala Peak near Munnar offers a challenging trek with stunning views. Nature lovers can explore the Silent Valley National Park, home to rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes. For a unique experience, try bamboo rafting in the tranquil Kuruva Island in Wayanad. Don't miss the offbeat destination of Thenmala, where you can enjoy eco-tourism activities like trekking, wildlife spotting, and boating.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.