Start your Kerala adventure by arriving in Kochi, the gateway to this beautiful state. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace and the Paradesi Synagogue. In the evening, catch a traditional Kathakali dance performance.
A popular breakfast spot in Kochi is Cafe Papaya, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Rice Boat, a waterfront restaurant offering a variety of seafood dishes. Don't miss their famous fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Oceanus, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. They serve a wide range of international and Indian cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 1200 INR per person.
Sunday, December 24: Munnar
Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station renowned for its tea plantations. Start your morning with a visit to the Tea Museum to learn about the history and production of tea. Afterward, explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the picturesque tea gardens or indulge in a relaxing Ayurvedic massage.
Tea Museum: ₹100 (entrance fee), 1-2 hours
Eravikulam National Park: ₹120 (entrance fee), 3-4 hours
Ayurvedic Massage: ₹1000 onwards, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Hillview Cafe: Enjoy a hearty breakfast with stunning views of the tea plantations. The menu offers a variety of dishes including traditional South Indian breakfast items. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Rose Garden Restaurant: Indulge in a delicious lunch at this quaint restaurant known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Try their mouthwatering seafood specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
RAPSy Restaurant: Savor a delightful dinner at this popular eatery known for its fusion of Kerala and continental cuisine. Don't miss their signature dishes like Alleppey Fish Curry. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Monday, December 25: Alleppey Backwaters
Experience the serene beauty of the famous backwaters of Alleppey. Board a traditional houseboat in the morning and cruise along the tranquil canals, witnessing the lush green landscapes and local village life. Enjoy a delicious Keralan lunch prepared on the houseboat. Spend the afternoon relaxing and taking in the breathtaking views. In the evening, savor a traditional dinner while enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the backwaters.
Houseboat Cruise: ₹8000-15000 (approximate cost for 24 hours), full day
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the quaint Cafe Delight, located near the Alleppey backwaters. Indulge in delicious South Indian dishes like dosa and idli. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to the popular Green Leaf Restaurant, known for its authentic Keralan cuisine. Try their flavorful seafood specialties like fish curry or prawn masala. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at the elegant Oyster Bay restaurant. Enjoy a wide range of delectable dishes including traditional Malabar biryani and mouthwatering desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 26: Thekkady
Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park, a renowned wildlife sanctuary. Start your day with a thrilling jungle safari in the morning, where you might spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. Afterward, explore the spice plantations and learn about the aromatic spices grown in the region. In the evening, enjoy a cultural show showcasing traditional music and dance forms.
Periyar National Park: ₹500 (entrance fee + safari), 4-5 hours
For breakfast, head to Spice Garden Restaurant which offers a variety of traditional Kerala breakfast dishes like appam, idiyappam, and puttu. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, try Cafe Carpediem, a cozy cafe known for its delicious sandwiches, wraps, and pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in the flavors of Kerala cuisine at Peppermint Restaurant. They serve authentic Kerala delicacies like Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish) and Chicken Roast. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, December 27: Varkala
Visit the coastal town of Varkala, known for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands and taking a refreshing dip in the Arabian Sea. Afterward, explore the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a beachside restaurant. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset from atop the cliffs.
Janardhana Swamy Temple: No entrance fee, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Enjoy a hearty South Indian breakfast at Coffee Temple, known for its delicious dosas and fluffy idlis. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 150 per person.
Treat yourself to a traditional Kerala lunch at Abba Restaurant, offering a wide range of seafood delicacies and local dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Clafouti Restaurant, renowned for its fusion cuisine and exquisite seafood preparations. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Thursday, December 28: Kochi
Return to Kochi for a day of exploration. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, an ancient fishing technique. Explore the bustling markets of Jew Town, known for its antique shops and spice stalls. In the afternoon, visit the Hill Palace Museum, showcasing a fine collection of artifacts. In the evening, take a relaxing sunset cruise along the Kochi backwaters.
For breakfast, head to Kayees Rahmathullah Hotel located near the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. This popular spot offers a delicious spread of traditional Kerala breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try the Malabar Junction, a charming restaurant in Jew Town known for its fusion of Kerala and international cuisine. The menu features a variety of seafood and vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at Fort Kochi Restaurant, situated by the waterfront. This restaurant offers a delightful blend of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, December 29: Departure
It's time to bid farewell to the beautiful state of Kerala. Depending on your flight departure time, you may have the morning to relax or do some last-minute souvenir shopping. Check out of your hotel and proceed to the airport for your journey back home.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to visit the charming village of Kumarakom, nestled on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Experience the tranquility of the backwaters by staying in a traditional homestay or explore the bird sanctuary to catch glimpses of migratory birds. Another hidden gem is the quaint town of Thrissur, renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals and impressive Vadakkunnathan Temple. Immerse yourself in the local traditions and witness the grandeur of the temple architecture.