7-Day Kerala Itinerary: Cochin, Munnar, Alleppey, Varkala, Trivandrum
Wednesday, September 27: Arrival in Cochin
Welcome to Cochin, also known as Kochi! Start your Kerala adventure by exploring Fort Kochi in the morning. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and stroll along the picturesque promenade. In the afternoon, discover the rich history of the area by visiting the Mattancherry Palace and the Jewish Synagogue. End the day with a Kathakali dance performance in the evening.
Fort Kochi: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
For breakfast, head to Pepper House Cafe which offers a cozy ambience and delicious South Indian breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Cafe Jubilee where you can enjoy a variety of local dishes like seafood curry and biryani. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Oceanos Restaurant which specializes in fresh seafood and serves it in a serene seaside setting. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, September 28: Munnar Tea Plantations
Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station renowned for its tea plantations. Spend the morning exploring the tea gardens and learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, visit the Tea Museum and indulge in a refreshing cup of tea. Enjoy a leisurely evening admiring the stunning landscapes and serene atmosphere.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, a popular vegetarian restaurant in Munnar. They offer a wide range of South Indian breakfast dishes like idli, vada, dosa, and more. The average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Rapsy Restaurant which serves a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. Their menu includes biryani, noodles, fried rice, and other flavorful options. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Indulge in a delectable dinner experience at Copper Castle, a multi-cuisine restaurant known for its cozy ambiance and delicious food. They offer a range of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, September 29: Backwaters of Alleppey
Travel to Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East," to experience the famous backwaters. Start your day with a relaxing houseboat cruise, gliding along the serene canals and witnessing the picturesque landscape. Enjoy a traditional Keralan lunch on the houseboat. In the afternoon, explore the quaint village, interact with locals, and witness the vibrant local life.
Head to Varkala, a beautiful coastal town, and spend the morning relaxing on the pristine beaches. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and indulging in delicious seafood at one of the beachside cafes. In the afternoon, take a refreshing dip in the natural spring at Varkala Papanasam Beach. Witness a mesmerizing sunset while strolling along the cliffside promenade.
A popular breakfast spot in Varkala is Cafe Del Mar, offering a variety of hearty breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and fresh fruit bowls. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch, try Abba Restaurant, known for its delectable seafood dishes and authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Darjeeling Café, a charming rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy their mouthwatering Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1: Trivandrum Temples and Museums
Travel to Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala, and explore its cultural and historical attractions. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. In the afternoon, delve into the rich heritage of the region by visiting the Napier Museum and the Kerala State Museum. End the day with a relaxing stroll at Kovalam Beach.
Monday, October 2: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Explore some hidden gems and local favorites in Trivandrum. Visit the Kuthiramalika Palace, known for its unique architectural style and intricate carvings. Discover the beauty of Veli Lake and enjoy a boat ride amidst the lush greenery. In the evening, indulge in the local cuisine at a traditional Kerala restaurant.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, head to Poovar Island, a serene and unspoiled island offering pristine beaches and backwater cruises. Explore the Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple, an ancient rock-cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Don't miss tasting the delicious regional delicacies, such as appam, puttu, and fish curry, at local restaurants.