Relaxation Tour through Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Varkala, Munroe Island, and Trivandrum
Tuesday, October 31: Arrival in Kochi
Start your trip in Kochi, also known as Cochin, by exploring the Fort Kochi area. In the morning, visit the famous Chinese Fishing Nets and take a stroll along the picturesque Fort Kochi Beach. Enjoy a traditional Kerala-style lunch at one of the local eateries. In the afternoon, explore the charming streets of Mattancherry and visit the iconic Mattancherry Palace. In the evening, witness a captivating Kathakali dance performance.
Chinese Fishing Nets: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Fort Kochi Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Mattancherry Palace: Estimated cost - INR 5 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners, Time spent - 1-2 hours
On the second day, head to Munnar, a serene hill station known for its tea gardens and breathtaking landscapes. Start your day with a visit to the Mattupetty Dam and enjoy a boat ride amidst the scenic surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the lush green tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process at the Tata Tea Museum. Wrap up the day by witnessing a mesmerizing sunset from the Top Station viewpoint.
Mattupetty Dam: Estimated cost - INR 15 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Tata Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100 for adults, INR 75 for children, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Top Station: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, a popular South Indian restaurant in Munnar. Indulge in their crispy dosas and steaming hot filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
For lunch, head to Rapsy Restaurant and try their authentic Kerala cuisine. Enjoy a flavorful meal of fish curry, appam, and payasam. Average cost for a meal is about INR 250 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Eastend Munnar. This restaurant offers a variety of dishes ranging from Indian to continental cuisine. Don't miss their aromatic biryanis and mouthwatering desserts. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
Thursday, November 2: Wildlife Adventure in Thekkady
Embark on a wildlife adventure in Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park. Take a morning boat safari on Periyar Lake to spot animals like elephants, deer, and various bird species. After the safari, explore the spice plantations and experience the scents and flavors of Kerala. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kalaripayattu performance, a traditional martial art form of Kerala.
Periyar Lake Boat Safari: Estimated cost - INR 475 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
For breakfast, head to Cafe Papaya, a cozy cafe known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at Fusion Bay, a restaurant specializing in fusion cuisine with a stunning view of the backwaters. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at The Grill House, a seafood restaurant famous for its grilled catch of the day and mouthwatering seafood platters. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, November 3: Backwaters of Alleppey
Experience the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey on a houseboat cruise. Board your private houseboat in the morning and indulge in the tranquility of Kerala's backwaters as you sail through the scenic canals. Enjoy delicious traditional meals prepared on the houseboat and spend the day relaxing amidst the picturesque surroundings. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali performance on the houseboat.
Alleppey Houseboat Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 8,000-12,000 per night for a houseboat, Time spent - Overnight
Kathakali Performance on Houseboat: Estimated cost - INR 2,000-3,000, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, November 4: Leisure at Varkala Beach
Head to Varkala, a laid-back coastal town with beautiful cliffs and sandy beaches. Spend your day at the Varkala Beach, relaxing on the golden sands, and taking a dip in the sparkling waters of the Arabian Sea. Indulge in some Ayurvedic spa treatments to rejuvenate your mind and body. In the evening, catch a breathtaking sunset from the famous Varkala Cliff.
Varkala Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Full day
Ayurvedic Spa Treatments: Estimated cost - Varies based on services, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Coffee Temple, a cozy cafe known for its freshly brewed coffee and mouthwatering sandwiches. A meal here costs about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Abba Restaurant, a popular seafood joint offering a wide range of fresh and flavorful dishes. Try their famous fish curry and rice for an average cost of 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Clafouti Restaurant, known for its delectable Italian cuisine and cozy ambiance. Enjoy a scrumptious pasta dish or a wood-fired pizza for around 500 INR per person.
Sunday, November 5: Explore Munroe Island
Discover the hidden gem of Munroe Island, a scenic island located in the backwaters of Kerala. Take a morning canoe ride through the narrow canals and witness the local way of life. Visit the Munroe Island Heritage Village to learn about the island's rich history and culture. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch with fresh seafood. In the evening, relax and enjoy the calmness of the backwaters.
Canoe Ride in Munroe Island: Estimated cost - INR 400-500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Munroe Island Heritage Village: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day, known for its range of coffee blends and delectable pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Hari's Curry House, a popular eatery serving authentic Kerala cuisine such as fish curry and appam. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at The Harbour Restaurant, located by the backwaters. Savor delicious seafood dishes while enjoying the serene ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, November 6: Sightseeing in Trivandrum
Conclude your trip in Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala. Start your day by visiting the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its stunning architecture and religious significance. Explore the beautiful Napier Museum and stroll through the lush green gardens of the Kanakakkunnu Palace. In the evening, take a relaxing walk along the shores of Kovalam Beach and enjoy a farewell dinner with traditional Kerala cuisine.
For breakfast, head to Hotel Saravana Bhavan which offers a delicious South Indian breakfast spread. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 150 per person.
For lunch, try the seafood delicacies at Villa Maya. The restaurant is known for its elegant ambiance and traditional Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
For dinner, dine at Buhari Restaurant, a popular spot for North Indian and Mughlai dishes. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and indulge in their lip-smacking biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly relaxing experience, consider visiting Marari Beach near Alleppey. This pristine beach is less crowded and offers a peaceful ambiance. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Poovar Island, located near Trivandrum. It is a hidden paradise with picturesque backwaters and tranquil beaches. Locals love spending time at these serene locations to unwind and rejuvenate.