7-Day Itinerary: Exploring Kerala

Wednesday, September 27, 2023: Arrival in Kochi

Start your Kerala adventure in Kochi, a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. In the morning, visit Fort Kochi, where you can explore the picturesque streets lined with colonial buildings and catch a glimpse of Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, visit the famous Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to admire its stunning murals and exhibits. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of dance-drama.

• Fort Kochi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mattancherry Palace: Estimated cost - INR 5/-. Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kathakali Performance: Estimated cost - INR 300/- to INR 500/-, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast, head to Sreeram Vada Restaurant located near Fort Kochi. They serve scrumptious vada and idli with a variety of chutneys. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, try Fusion Bay located in Mattancherry. They offer a fusion of North Indian and South Indian cuisines, with options like biryani and thali meals. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For a memorable dinner, visit The Rice Boat situated in the Taj Malabar Resort. This restaurant specializes in traditional Kerala cuisine and offers delectable seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Thursday, September 28, 2023: Munnar Tea Plantations

Embark on a scenic journey to Munnar, nestled in the lush Western Ghats. In the morning, visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the region's tea cultivation history and enjoy panoramic views of the tea plantations. In the afternoon, take a leisurely hike through the picturesque countryside and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature. In the evening, relax and unwind at your hotel, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Munnar.

• Tata Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100/-, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Scenic Hike: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Friday, September 29, 2023: Backwaters of Alleppey

Experience the tranquility of Kerala's iconic backwaters in Alleppey. In the morning, embark on a houseboat cruise along the scenic backwaters, taking in the peaceful surroundings and witnessing the local way of life. Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared on board as you glide through the palm-fringed canals. In the afternoon, explore the quaint villages and interact with the friendly locals. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters, creating a magical ambiance.

• Houseboat Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 6,000/- to INR 10,000/- (for a private houseboat), Time spent - 6-8 hours
• Village Exploration: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, September 30, 2023: Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary

Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and indulge in a wildlife adventure. In the morning, embark on an exciting jungle safari and spot diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and rare bird species. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on Periyar Lake and soak in the stunning views of the surrounding forests. In the evening, explore the vibrant spice markets and engage in some spice shopping.

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 450/-, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Boat Ride on Periyar Lake: Estimated cost - INR 225/-, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Spice Shopping: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 1, 2023: Kovalam Beach Bliss

Spend a relaxing day by the pristine beaches of Kovalam. In the morning, unwind on the golden sands and take a refreshing dip in the azure waters of the Arabian Sea. Indulge in a beachside Ayurvedic massage to rejuvenate your mind and body. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. In the evening, savor delectable seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.

• Kovalam Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Full day
• Ayurvedic Massage: Estimated cost - INR 1,500/- to INR 5,000/-, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Vizhinjam Lighthouse: Estimated cost - INR 10/-, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Seafood Dinner: Estimated cost - INR 500/- to INR 1,500/-, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, October 2, 2023: Trivandrum City Exploration

Explore the vibrant city of Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. In the morning, visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its architectural splendor and spiritual significance. Take a stroll through the lush Napier Museum and Art Gallery to admire its vast collection of artifacts. In the afternoon, explore the bustling markets and indulge in some souvenir shopping. In the evening, enjoy a serene sunset at Shanghumukham Beach.

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Estimated cost - INR 50/-, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Market Shopping: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Shanghumukham Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 3, 2023: Departure

Bid farewell to the enchanting land of Kerala. Spend your last morning indulging in a delicious breakfast and reflecting on the memorable experiences from your trip. Check out from the hotel and proceed to the airport for your departure, taking with you the warmth and beauty of Kerala.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, don't miss out on these hidden gems and local favorites. Pay a visit to the tranquil village of Varkala, famous for its pristine beaches and stunning cliffs. Explore the charming town of Fort Kochi and discover its vibrant art scene and cultural festivals. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the idyllic hill station of Wayanad is a must, with its lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries.

For checking hotel and flight prices, visit Kayak.