7-Day Itinerary: Exploring Kochi, Munnar, Alleppey, and Thekkady
Wednesday, October 4: Arrival in Kochi
Start your trip by arriving in Kochi and checking into your hotel. In the morning, explore Fort Kochi, known for its charming colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace to admire its murals and explore the Jewish Quarter. As the evening sets in, take a sunset cruise on the scenic Kochi backwaters.
Head to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea gardens. In the morning, visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to endangered Nilgiri Tahr. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll through the tea gardens and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Eravikulam National Park: Entrance fee - 400 INR, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Tea Garden Walk: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Situated in the heart of Munnar, Rapsy Restaurant is a popular breakfast spot known for its delicious South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
If you're looking for a great spot for lunch, Nandus Food Court is a must-visit. This restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, including Indian and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Copper Castle Restaurant. This restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and serves delectable Indian and Continental cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, October 6: Relaxing in Alleppey
Travel to Alleppey, also known as the Venice of the East, famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. In the morning, embark on a houseboat cruise along the backwaters, marveling at the serene waterways and lush greenery. After a delicious onboard lunch, spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. As the evening sets in, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters.
Houseboat Cruise: Cost - 8,000-15,000 INR (depending on the boat type), Time spent - 6-8 hours
Restaurants
Palazhi Restaurant: Enjoy a traditional Kerala breakfast at Palazhi Restaurant. Indulge in piping hot appam and egg curry, accompanied by a steaming cup of filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Mullapanthal Toddy Shop: For a delicious lunch, head to Mullapanthal Toddy Shop, known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Try their flavorful fish curry with a side of tapioca. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
Dreamers Cafe: End your day with a dining experience at Dreamers Cafe. This rooftop restaurant offers a wide range of Indian and Continental dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering seafood platter. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Saturday, October 7: Wildlife Encounter in Thekkady
Head to Thekkady, famous for its Periyar National Park and wildlife sanctuary. In the morning, take a boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and various bird species. In the afternoon, explore the spice plantations and learn about the region's rich spices. As the evening approaches, enjoy a cultural Kathakali dance performance.
Periyar National Park: Entrance fee - 575 INR, Boat ride - 215 INR, Time spent - 4-6 hours
Spice Plantations Tour: Cost - 100-200 INR (depending on the tour), Time spent - 1-2 hours
Cafe Coffee Day is a popular breakfast spot in Thekkady. They offer a variety of breakfast options such as sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Silver Tips Restaurant is a great place for lunch in Thekkady. They serve delicious Indian and Continental cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Pepper Vine Restaurant is a recommended dinner option in Thekkady. They specialize in traditional Kerala cuisine and offer a cozy dining experience. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, October 8: Leisure Day in Thekkady
Spend the day at leisure in Thekkady. You can choose to explore the beautiful surroundings of Periyar Tiger Reserve for wildlife spotting or indulge in Ayurvedic treatments and rejuvenation therapies. Enjoy the tranquility and unwind amidst nature.
Monday, October 9: Return to Kochi
Return to Kochi and spend the day exploring the city's vibrant markets and shopping areas. Visit Jew Town, known for its antique shops and spice markets. Explore the Broadway Market for a variety of local shopping experiences. In the evening, savor traditional Kerala cuisine at a local restaurant.
Jew Town: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Broadway Market: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Dinner at a local restaurant: Cost - 500-1,000 INR per person
Tuesday, October 10: Departure
On your last day, check out of your hotel in Kochi and depart for your onward journey with beautiful memories of your Kerala trip.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kochi, don't miss out on visiting the iconic St. Francis Church, the burial place of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. In Munnar, venture off the beaten path and explore the scenic Top Station viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views. In Thekkady, take a nature walk along the unspoiled trails of Gavi, an eco-tourism spot known for its untouched forests and wildlife.