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A Week of Relaxation in Kerala

Saturday October 21: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your relaxing journey by arriving in Kochi. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, known for its colonial-era buildings and Chinese fishing nets. Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque seaside promenade and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace, a Portuguese palace famous for its stunning murals. As the evening sets in, catch a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

  • Fort Kochi: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Mattancherry Palace: INR 10 (approx. $0.13), 1-2 hours
  • Kathakali Performance: INR 300-500 (approx. $4-7), 1-2 hours
Sunday October 22: Munnar Tea Plantations

Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station known for its sprawling tea plantations. In the morning, explore the tea gardens and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride in Kundala Lake and indulge in the serene beauty of nature. End your day with a visit to the picturesque Attukad Waterfalls.

  • Munnar Tea Plantations: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Tea Museum: INR 120 (approx. $1.6), 1-2 hours
  • Kundala Lake: INR 200 (approx. $2.7) for boat ride, 1-2 hours
  • Attukad Waterfalls: Free, 1-2 hours
Monday October 23: Alleppey Backwaters

Head to Alleppey, known as the Venice of the East, for a peaceful day on the backwaters. In the morning, board a traditional houseboat and cruise through the scenic backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy the tranquility as you glide past coconut groves and local villages. Savor a delicious traditional Kerala lunch served on the houseboat. In the afternoon, relax on the sundeck and soak in the beauty of nature. Spend the night on the houseboat for a truly immersive experience.

  • Alleppey Houseboat: Starts at INR 7,000 (approx. $94) per night, all-inclusive
Tuesday October 24: Varkala Beach

Travel to Varkala, a serene coastal town known for its stunning cliffside beaches. In the morning, relax on the golden sands of Varkala Beach and take a refreshing dip in the clear waters of the Arabian Sea. Explore the vibrant beachside markets and indulge in delicious seafood. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. As the evening approaches, witness a breathtaking sunset from the cliffside viewpoint.

  • Varkala Beach: Free, all day
  • Janardhana Swamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday October 25: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Head to Thekkady, home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. In the morning, take a guided boat safari on Periyar Lake and spot wildlife like elephants, tigers, and various bird species in their natural habitat. Enjoy a nature walk through the spice plantations and learn about the diverse flora and fauna. In the afternoon, visit the Elephant Junction and have an unforgettable experience of interacting with gentle giants. End your day with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage.

  • Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 450 (approx. $6), 3-4 hours
  • Elephant Junction: INR 600-1,500 (approx. $8-20) for various activities, 2-3 hours
  • Ayurvedic Massage: Starts at INR 1,000 (approx. $13), 1-2 hours
Thursday October 26: Kovalam Beach

Make your way to Kovalam, a popular beach destination known for its crescent-shaped sandy shores. Spend the morning relaxing on the pristine beaches and soak up the sun. Engage in water sports activities like swimming, surfing, or parasailing. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. Indulge in a traditional Ayurvedic spa treatment to rejuvenate your senses.

  • Kovalam Beach: Free, all day
  • Vizhinjam Lighthouse: INR 20 (approx. $0.27), 1-2 hours
  • Ayurvedic Spa Treatment: Starts at INR 1,500 (approx. $20), 2-3 hours
Friday October 27: Cochin Cultural Experience

Return to Kochi for a cultural immersion. In the morning, visit the Jewish Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in the Commonwealth. Explore the bustling markets of Jew Town and shop for souvenirs. In the afternoon, indulge in a traditional Kerala Sadhya, a delectable feast served on a banana leaf. Visit the Kerala Folklore Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. End your day with a Kathakali dance performance.

  • Jewish Synagogue: INR 5 (approx. $0.07), 1-2 hours
  • Kerala Sadhya: Starts at INR 200 (approx. $2.7), 1-2 hours
  • Kerala Folklore Museum: INR 100 (approx. $1.3), 1-2 hours
  • Kathakali Performance: INR 300-500 (approx. $4-7), 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a truly off the beaten path experience, head to Marari Beach near Alleppey. This secluded beach offers tranquility and stunning natural beauty. Another hidden gem is the Eravikulam National Park near Munnar, where you can witness the endangered Nilgiri Tahr in its natural habitat. Locals also love the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, where you can enjoy houseboat stays and birdwatching.

For more travel planning, check hotel and flight prices on KAYAK.

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