In the morning, arrive at Kochi International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring Fort Kochi, known for its charming colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. In the evening, watch a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of storytelling through dance and music.
Fort Kochi: Free, 4 hours
Kathakali Performance: INR 500 ($7), 2 hours
Restaurants
Mocha Art Café: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Mocha Art Café, located in Fort Kochi. Indulge in their delicious pancakes and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
The Kashi Art Café: For lunch, head to The Kashi Art Café, a cozy eatery that offers a mix of European and Indian dishes. Try their mouthwatering sandwiches and exquisite desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Fusion Bay: Treat yourself to a tasty dinner at Fusion Bay, a renowned seafood restaurant in Fort Kochi. Sample their delectable fish curry and prawn masala with traditional Kerala flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, September 23: Munnar Tea Gardens
Start your day with a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station renowned for its tea gardens. In the morning, visit the lush green tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process. Afternoon, explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the evening, take a relaxing walk along the picturesque Mattupetty Dam.
Munnar Tea Gardens: Free, 3 hours
Eravikulam National Park: INR 400 ($5.5), 4 hours
Mattupetty Dam: Free, 2 hours
Sunday, September 24: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Embark on a scenic drive to Thekkady, home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. In the morning, take a boat cruise on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife such as elephants and tigers. Afternoon, visit a spice plantation and learn about aromatic spices. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali performance.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 450 ($6), 4 hours
Spice Plantation: INR 200 ($2.75), 2 hours
Kathakali Performance: INR 500 ($7), 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Periyar Cafe for a delicious spread of traditional Kerala breakfast items. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Bamboo Cafe, a charming restaurant that serves authentic Kerala cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Spice Village Restaurant, known for its delectable selection of spice-infused dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, September 25: Backwaters of Alleppey
Travel to Alleppey, famous for its serene backwaters. Morning, embark on a houseboat cruise through the backwaters, enjoying the tranquil surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Alleppey Beach and relax by the Arabian Sea. Evening, witness an enchanting sunset over the backwaters.
Depart for Varkala, a coastal town known for its stunning cliffs and sandy beaches. Morning, relax and soak up the sun at Varkala Beach. Afternoon, take a dip in the natural spring at Papanasam Beach, believed to cleanse sins. Evening, explore the vibrant Varkala Cliff, lined with shops and restaurants.
Varkala Beach: Free, 4 hours
Papanasam Beach: Free, 2 hours
Varkala Cliff: Free, 3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Coffee Temple, a cozy cafe offering a range of breakfast options including fresh fruit bowls, pancakes, and egg dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, try the seafood specialties at Theeram Restaurant, located near Varkala Beach. Enjoy delicious fish curry, prawns, and crab dishes along with stunning ocean views. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
In the evening, dine at Abba Restaurant, a popular beachfront eatery on the Varkala Cliff. Indulge in their delectable Indian and international cuisines while enjoying the scenic sunset views. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Wednesday, September 27: Wayanad's Natural Wonders
Head to Wayanad, a picturesque district nestled in the Western Ghats. Morning, visit the breathtaking Meenmutty Waterfalls and take a refreshing dip. Afternoon, explore the Edakkal Caves, known for ancient rock art. Evening, enjoy a serene boat ride on Pookode Lake.
Meenmutty Waterfalls: Free, 3 hours
Edakkal Caves: INR 50 ($0.7), 2 hours
Pookode Lake: INR 10 ($0.14), 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Hill View Cafe, a cozy restaurant offering a range of delicious breakfast options such as steaming hot idlis and crispy dosas. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try the Spice Trail Restaurant, known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Indulge in flavorful seafood curries and aromatic biryanis. The average cost for a meal is about 350 INR per person.
For dinner, visit The Willow Tree, a charming restaurant with a beautiful garden setting. Enjoy a variety of dishes from their extensive menu, including mouthwatering grilled specialties. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, September 28: Athirappilly Waterfalls
Travel to Athirappilly, home to the majestic Athirappilly Waterfalls. Morning, witness the grandeur of the waterfalls and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Afternoon, visit the nearby Vazhachal Waterfalls for more natural beauty. In the evening, take a nature walk through the surrounding forests.
Athirappilly Waterfalls: INR 40 ($0.55), 3 hours
Vazhachal Waterfalls: INR 30 ($0.4), 2 hours
Nature Walk: Free, 2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature enthusiasts, don't miss the serene beauty of Silent Valley National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and untouched landscapes. Another hidden gem is the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, offering opportunities for wildlife sightings and jungle treks. Locals also love the beautiful beaches of Bekal, where you can relax and enjoy the coastal charm.