4-Day Kerala Itinerary - September 28 to October 1, 2023

Thursday, September 28: Arrival in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your journey by arriving in Kochi, the gateway to the state. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, known for its charming colonial architecture. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and stroll along the picturesque streets lined with art galleries and cafes. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, which showcases beautiful murals and artifacts. As the evening sets in, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

• Fort Kochi: Free entry, 2-3 hours
• Chinese Fishing Nets: Free entry, 1 hour
• Mattancherry Palace: INR 5 (Approx.), 1-2 hours
• Kathakali Performance: INR 300-500 (Approx.), 2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Kashi Art Cafe which offers a variety of delicious options in a charming art-filled setting. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For lunch, try Oceanos Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and scenic views of the Arabian Sea. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• In the evening, dine at Eighth Bastion's East Indies Restaurant, offering a fusion of Kerala and European cuisines in a contemporary setting. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Friday, September 29: Munnar - Hill Station Delights

On the second day, head to Munnar, a scenic hill station in Kerala. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and production of tea in the region. Enjoy a refreshing cup of authentic Kerala tea amidst the lush tea plantations. In the afternoon, explore the breathtaking beauty of Rajamalai (Eravikulam National Park), home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End your day by witnessing a mesmerizing sunset at the picturesque Echo Point, where the mountains echo your voice.

• Tea Museum: INR 100 (Approx.), 1-2 hours
• Rajamalai (Eravikulam National Park): INR 120 (Approx.), 2-3 hours
• Echo Point: Free entry, 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 30: Backwaters Bliss in Alleppey

Immerse yourself in the serenity of Kerala's famous backwaters by visiting Alleppey. In the morning, embark on a traditional houseboat cruise along the enchanting backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waters. Enjoy a delicious Kerala-style lunch served on board. In the afternoon, explore the quaint villages and witness the unique lifestyle of the locals. As the evening approaches, witness a mesmerizing sunset while cruising along the backwaters.

• Houseboat Cruise: INR 5,000-10,000 per night (Approx.), 4-5 hours
• Backwater Villages: Free exploration, 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 1: Kovalam Beach and Departure

Spend your last day in Kerala relaxing at the beautiful Kovalam Beach. In the morning, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, take a dip in the clear blue waters, or simply relax under the swaying palm trees. In the afternoon, indulge in delicious seafood at one of the beachside restaurants. Bid farewell to Kerala with unforgettable memories before heading to the airport for your departure.

• Kovalam Beach: Free entry, 3-4 hours
• Seafood Lunch: INR 500-800 (Approx.), 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the offbeat destination of Varkala, known for its stunning cliffs and beautiful beaches. Explore the lush greenery of Thekkady and take a boat ride in Periyar Lake to spot wildlife. For a unique cultural experience, visit the village of Kumarakom and witness traditional art forms like Theyyam and Mohiniyattam. These lesser-known attractions will provide you with an authentic taste of Kerala's rich culture and natural beauty.