7-Day Kerala Itinerary - February 8, 2024

Thursday, February 8: Arrival and Exploring Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your journey in Kochi, the cultural capital of the state. In the morning, visit the Mattancherry Palace, a Portuguese palace featuring exquisite Kerala murals. Explore Fort Kochi and take a stroll along the historic Chinese fishing nets as you soak in the coastal charm. In the evening, watch a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, one of Kerala's traditional art forms.

• Mattancherry Palace: ₹100, 1-2 hours
• Fort Kochi: Free, 2-3 hours
• Kathakali Performance: ₹300-500, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Saravana Bhavan: Enjoy a delicious South Indian breakfast at Saravana Bhavan, known for their crispy dosas and flavorful chutneys. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• Fusion Bay: For lunch, head to Fusion Bay, a popular seafood restaurant offering a variety of fresh seafood dishes with a fusion twist. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Rasoi Ghar: Indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine for dinner at Rasoi Ghar. This traditional restaurant serves mouthwatering dishes like appam with stew and Kerala-style fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.

Friday, February 9: Backwaters and Alleppey

Embark on a cruise through the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey. Spend your morning gliding along the serene waterways, surrounded by lush green landscapes. Enjoy a traditional Kerala-style lunch prepared on board the houseboat. In the afternoon, disembark and explore the charming village life of Alleppey. Don't miss the opportunity to witness a stunning sunset over the backwaters.

• Backwater Houseboat Cruise: ₹6,000-10,000, 6-8 hours
• Exploring Alleppey: Free, 2-3 hours
• Sunset View: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Café Paradiso, a cozy café located near the backwaters. Indulge in their delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, try out The Paddy Fields, a waterfront restaurant offering a stunning view of the backwaters. Savor their authentic Kerala thali, which includes a variety of local delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• For dinner, visit the Bamboo Lagoon, an open-air restaurant overlooking the backwaters. Enjoy their delectable seafood dishes, prepared with fresh catch of the day. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Saturday, February 10: Munnar's Tea Gardens

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Munnar's tea plantations. Begin your day with a visit to the tea gardens and learn about the tea-making process. Enjoy a refreshing cup of tea while taking in the panoramic views. Explore the beautiful Eravikulam National Park, home to endangered Nilgiri Tahr. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk through Munnar town and indulge in some local shopping.

• Tea Garden Visit: ₹100-200, 2-3 hours
• Eravikulam National Park: ₹120, 3-4 hours
• Exploring Munnar Town: Free, 2-3 hours

Sunday, February 11: Thekkady Wilderness

Visit Thekkady, known for its wildlife and spice plantations. In the morning, take a guided tour of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spot various animal species. Enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake, where you might encounter elephants, deer, and birds. In the afternoon, explore the spice markets and learn about the aromatic spices that Kerala is famous for.

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: ₹500-600, 3-4 hours
• Boat Safari: ₹150-200, 2-3 hours
• Spice Market Visit: Free, 1-2 hours

Monday, February 12: Hill Station of Vagamon

Head to the picturesque hill station of Vagamon, known for its rolling meadows, green valleys, and pristine pine forests. Spend the morning exploring the lush landscapes and scenic viewpoints. Enjoy a picnic amidst nature and take in the peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, go paragliding and experience the thrill of soaring above the hills.

• Exploring Vagamon: Free, 3-4 hours
• Picnic: ₹500-800, 1-2 hours
• Paragliding: ₹2,500-3,500, 2-3 hours

Tuesday, February 13: Beachside Relaxation in Kovalam

Indulge in some beachside relaxation in Kovalam. Spend the morning unwinding on the golden sands, swimming in the clear blue waters, and sunbathing. Visit the iconic Lighthouse Beach and enjoy panoramic views from the top. In the afternoon, treat yourself to an Ayurvedic massage and rejuvenate your body and mind.

• Kovalam Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
• Lighthouse Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: ₹1,000-2,500, 1-2 hours

Wednesday, February 14: Sightseeing in Thiruvananthapuram

Explore the capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Discover the rich history and architecture of the Napier Museum and the Kerala State Science and Technology Museum. In the evening, take a leisurely walk at the beautiful Shangumugham Beach and witness a breathtaking sunset.

• Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Napier Museum: ₹20, 2-3 hours
• Kerala State Science and Technology Museum: ₹20, 2-3 hours
• Shangumugham Beach: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Before you leave Kerala, make sure to visit the hidden gems and experience the local favorites. Explore the serene village of Marari, known for its pristine beach and tranquil backwaters. Visit the hill station of Wayanad and hike to the stunning Meenmutty Falls. Don't forget to try the authentic Kerala cuisine, including appam, puttu, and fish curry, at local restaurants.