Five-Day Nature Itinerary in Kerala

Tuesday, October 10: Exploring Kochi

Start your trip in Kochi, a vibrant city known for its rich history and scenic beauty. In the morning, visit Fort Kochi, a charming neighborhood with colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Explore the Old Spice Market and Jew Town in the afternoon, immersing yourself in the local culture. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

• Fort Kochi: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Spice Market: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Jew Town: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kathakali Performance: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, October 11: Exploring Munnar

Head to Munnar, a hill station known for its sprawling tea estates and breathtaking landscapes. Start your day with a visit to Eravikulam National Park, where you can spot endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the afternoon, explore the tea museums and learn about the tea-making process. Enjoy a peaceful evening boating in the serene waters of Mattupetty Dam.

• Eravikulam National Park: Cost estimate - INR 1250 (foreigners), INR 400 (Indians), Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Tea Museums: Cost estimate - INR 120 (foreigners), INR 75 (Indians), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mattupetty Dam: Cost estimate - INR 10 (entry fee), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, October 12: Exploring Thekkady

Visit Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. In the morning, take a boat safari on Periyar Lake, where you can spot wildlife such as elephants, deer, and birds in their natural habitat. Afternoon can be spent experiencing the spice plantation tours and learning about the diverse spices of Kerala. In the evening, witness a traditional martial arts performance called Kalaripayattu.

• Periyar Lake Boat Safari: Cost estimate - INR 450 (foreigners), INR 150 (Indians), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Spice Plantation Tours: Cost estimate - INR 100-150, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kalaripayattu Performance: Cost estimate - INR 200-300, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, October 13: Exploring Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Experience the magical backwaters of Kerala in Alleppey. In the morning, embark on a houseboat cruise along the tranquil backwaters, witnessing the scenic beauty and local life. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch served on the houseboat. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Marari Beach and relax by the shores. For the evening, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage.

• Houseboat Cruise: Cost estimate - INR 6000-10000 (approx.), Time spent - 4-6 hours
• Marari Beach: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, October 14: Exploring Wayanad

Head to Wayanad, a picturesque district known for its lush forests and wildlife. Start your day with a visit to the amazing Edakkal Caves, known for their prehistoric rock carvings. In the afternoon, explore the stunning Soochipara Waterfalls and enjoy a refreshing dip. For the evening, go on a wildlife safari in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

• Edakkal Caves: Cost estimate - INR 80 (foreigners), INR 40 (Indians), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Soochipara Waterfalls: Cost estimate - INR 50 (foreigners), INR 20 (Indians), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost estimate - INR 1100 (foreigners), INR 360 (Indians), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature enthusiasts, don't miss a visit to the enchanting Athirapally Waterfalls, often called the "Niagara Falls of India," located in Thrissur district. The serene Vagamon Hill Station is another hidden gem offering spectacular views, meadows, and pine forests. Finally, the peaceful backwaters of Kumarakom, known for its bird sanctuaries, provide a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility amidst nature.

Learn more about hotel and flight options in Kerala on KAYAK.