Welcome to Kerala! Arrive at the Cochin International Airport and check-in to your hotel. Spend the morning relaxing and acclimating to the beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, head to Fort Kochi to explore its historic charm and visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. In the evening, watch a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of storytelling.
For breakfast, head to Indian Coffee House which offers a variety of South Indian dishes like dosa and idli. The average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
For lunch, try Kashi Art Cafe, a cozy cafe known for its vegetarian and vegan options as well as delicious sandwiches and salads. The average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
For dinner, visit Oceanos Restaurant for a seafood feast with a stunning view of the Arabian Sea. Their extensive menu includes delectable dishes like grilled fish and prawns. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Saturday, October 21: Munnar - Hill Station Adventure
Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a captivating hill station. Start your day with a Jeep safari through the tea plantations and witness the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. In the afternoon, hike to the Lakkam Waterfalls and take a refreshing dip in the cascading waters. End your day with a visit to the Pothamedu Viewpoint for a mesmerizing sunset.
Jeep Safari: INR 1500 (estimated), 4 hours
Lakkam Waterfalls: Free, 2 hours
Pothamedu Viewpoint: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Breakfast: Sree Krishna Inn
A popular breakfast spot located in Munnar, Sree Krishna Inn offers a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Start your day with their delicious South Indian breakfast specialties like dosa, idli, and vada. The average cost for a breakfast meal at Sree Krishna Inn is about ₹150 per person.
Lunch: Rapsy Restaurant
For a satisfying lunch in Munnar, head to Rapsy Restaurant. This casual eatery serves a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. Enjoy their flavorful biryanis, fried rice, and curry preparations. The average cost for a lunch meal at Rapsy Restaurant is about ₹300 per person.
Dinner: Saravana Bhavan
If you're in the mood for a vegetarian dinner, Saravana Bhavan is a great choice. This famous chain of restaurants is known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Treat yourself to their flavorful dosas, thalis, and traditional curries. The average cost for a dinner meal at Saravana Bhavan is about ₹250 per person.
Sunday, October 22: Thekkady - Wildlife Adventure
Travel to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park. Morning is the perfect time for a boat safari on Lake Periyar, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. In the afternoon, go for an adventurous trek through the dense forests of the national park. End the day with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage.
Boat Safari: INR 500 (estimated), 3 hours
Trek in Periyar National Park: INR 1000 (estimated), 4 hours
Ayurvedic Massage: INR 2000 (estimated), 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Cinnamon, a charming cafe known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try Grand Spice Restaurant, which offers a variety of delicious Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, dine at Pepper Trail, a popular restaurant with a cozy ambiance and a menu featuring authentic Kerala dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Monday, October 23: Alleppey - Backwater Excursion
Head to Alleppey, also known as the Venice of the East, for a memorable backwater experience. Start your day with a houseboat cruise through the scenic backwaters, witnessing the rural charm and lush greenery. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch on board. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets and relax at the serene Marari Beach.
Houseboat Cruise: INR 5000 (estimated), 6 hours
Traditional Kerala Lunch: INR 300 (estimated)
Marari Beach: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
For a hearty breakfast in Alleppey, head to Cafe Paradiso. This cozy cafe offers a variety of delicious dishes including fresh fruit juices, fluffy pancakes, and crispy bacon. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, visit Mushroom Restaurant. Known for its authentic Kerala cuisine, this restaurant serves delectable seafood delicacies and traditional vegetarian thalis. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner, dine at Cassia, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the backwaters. Indulge in their flavorful grilled dishes and refreshing cocktails. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Varkala - Beach Bliss
Travel to Varkala, a coastal town famous for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches. Start your day with a visit to the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple. Enjoy a relaxing beach day at the beautiful Varkala Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and indulge in water sports. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the cliffside.
Janardhana Swamy Temple: Free, 1 hour
Varkala Beach: Free, full day
Restaurants
For breakfast in Varkala, head to Coffee Temple, a charming cafe known for its extensive breakfast menu. They offer a variety of options such as pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a delicious lunch in Varkala, visit Darjeeling Cafe, a cozy restaurant serving a mix of Indian, Tibetan, and European dishes. Try their mouthwatering momos or opt for Indian thali. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, check out Sky Lounge, a rooftop restaurant offering beautiful views of the Arabian Sea. They serve a range of international cuisine including grilled seafood, pasta, and Indian specialties. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, October 25: Wayanad - Nature Trekking
Explore the natural wonders of Wayanad, a lush green district in Kerala. Start your day with a trek to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, and witness the heart-shaped lake. In the afternoon, visit the Pookode Lake, a scenic freshwater lake, for boating and a nature walk. End your day with a visit to the ancient Edakkal Caves.
Chembra Peak Trek: INR 750 (estimated), 5 hours
Pookode Lake: INR 10 (estimated), 2 hours
Edakkal Caves: INR 40 (estimated), 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Bungalow Heritage Cafe, a charming cafe offering a variety of breakfast options including traditional Kerala dishes and continental classics. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, try the ClayHut Village Restaurant, which offers a unique dining experience in a traditional village setting. Enjoy delicious Kerala cuisine, including biryani and seafood specialties. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹500 per person.
For dinner, visit the Mint Leaf Restaurant, known for its cozy atmosphere and lip-smacking Indian and Chinese dishes. Don't miss their delectable seafood options. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹800 per person.
Thursday, October 26: Departure from Kerala
End your adventure in Kerala by exploring the bustling city of Kochi. Start your day with a visit to the Mattancherry Palace, known for its stunning murals and traditional Kerala architecture. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant spice markets and indulge in some last-minute shopping. Bid farewell to Kerala as you head to the airport for your departure.
Mattancherry Palace: INR 10 (estimated), 2 hours
Shopping at Spice Markets: Cost varies, 2 hours
Restaurants
Cassava: Start your day with a nutritious south Indian breakfast at Cassava. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of dosas, idlis, and appams, served with flavorful chutneys and sambar. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Ginger House Restaurant: For a satisfying lunch, head to Ginger House Restaurant, known for its delectable Kerala cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like Malabar fish curry, Kerala porotta, and coconut rice. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Pepper House Cafe: Enjoy a memorable dinner at Pepper House Cafe, located in a restored colonial building. This charming restaurant offers a fusion of Indian and international flavors, with dishes like pepper-crusted tenderloin and banana flower fritters. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adventure enthusiasts seeking off-the-beaten-path attractions, I recommend exploring the Athirapally Waterfalls, located on the Chalakudy River. These majestic waterfalls are surrounded by lush forests and offer great opportunities for trekking and photography. Another hidden gem is the Silent Valley National Park, where you can embark on a thrilling wildlife safari and immerse yourself in the untouched natural beauty of Kerala.