Kerala Nature Exploration - 7-Day Itinerary

Restaurants
  • Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan. This popular restaurant offers a wide range of traditional breakfast dishes like idli, dosa, and vada. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
  • For lunch, head to Sree Krishna Inn, a cozy restaurant known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Indulge in some mouthwatering dishes like Malabar fish curry and appam. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
  • In the evening, dine at Curry Leaf Restaurant for a scrumptious dinner experience. This restaurant specializes in traditional Kerala delicacies like Karimeen Pollichathu (stuffed fish) and Kerala-style biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to the charming Cafe River Retreat, located near the Athirapally Waterfalls. With its cozy atmosphere and breathtaking views of the river, this restaurant offers a delicious breakfast menu that includes freshly baked pastries and traditional Kerala breakfast dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
  • For lunch, visit the Riverside Restaurant, which is nestled on the banks of Chalakudy River. This restaurant serves a variety of cuisines ranging from Indian to Continental, with a focus on fresh seafood dishes. Enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful river views. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
  • For dinner, try the exquisite Bamboo Grove Restaurant, located in the serene surroundings of Vazhachal Falls. This restaurant offers a unique dining experience in traditional bamboo huts. Indulge in a delectable array of Kerala cuisine, including succulent seafood and aromatic spices. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Café Coffee Day located near Athirapally Waterfalls. Enjoy a variety of breakfast options such as sandwiches, pastries, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
  • For lunch, visit the Rainforest Restaurant situated near Vazhachal Falls. Indulge in a delightful dining experience amidst the lush greenery and serene atmosphere. The restaurant offers a wide range of Indian and international cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
  • For dinner, try the Bamboo Hut Restaurant in Chalakudy. This charming restaurant specializes in traditional Kerala cuisine, including delicious seafood dishes. Enjoy a cozy ambience and authentic flavors of Kerala. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
Restaurants
  • Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day, located 15 minutes away from Athirapally Waterfalls. Indulge in their delicious pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
  • For lunch, head to Saravana Bhavan, a popular vegetarian restaurant situated near Vazhachal Falls. Enjoy their authentic South Indian thali and a variety of flavorful dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
  • Enjoy a scrumptious dinner at Rain Forest, a multi-cuisine restaurant just a short drive from Chalakudy River. Savor their delectable seafood dishes and exotic cocktails. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Saravana Bhavan which offers a delicious South Indian spread. Enjoy crispy dosas and fluffy idlis with chutney and sambar. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 150 per person.
  • If you're looking for a tasty lunch, visit Kayees Biryani. They serve flavorful biryanis cooked with fragrant rice and tender meat. Don't miss out on their succulent kebabs. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 300 per person.
  • For dinner, dine at Cassava Restaurant which specializes in traditional Kerala cuisine. Try their seafood dishes cooked with authentic local spices and flavors. End your meal with a mouthwatering payasam. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 400 per person.
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Cafe Noir, a charming cafe known for its freshly baked pastries and delicious coffee. A meal here costs around ₹200 per person.
  • For lunch, try Krishna Inn, a popular vegetarian restaurant that offers a wide range of South Indian delicacies. You can enjoy a hearty meal here for approximately ₹300 per person.
  • For dinner, visit Grand Pavilion, a fine dining restaurant known for its delectable Kerala cuisine. The average cost for a meal here is around ₹600 per person.
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to the quaint Café Troika located near Athirapally Waterfalls. Enjoy a delicious spread of freshly baked bread, pastries, and local Kerala dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
  • For lunch, visit the River Retreat Restaurant which offers a stunning view of Chalakudy River. Indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine including traditional fish curries and vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
  • For dinner, try the Bamboo Village restaurant nestled in the lush greenery of Athirapally. Experience a delightful mix of Chinese and Indian flavors with their popular bamboo biryani and other delectable dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Café Del Mar, a cozy little café located near Athirapally Waterfalls. Enjoy a delicious spread of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
  • For lunch, try the traditional Kerala cuisine at Waterside Restaurant, which offers a picturesque view of the Vazhachal Falls. Indulge in mouthwatering seafood delicacies like spicy prawns and fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
  • For dinner, dine at The Rainforest Restaurant, a unique establishment nestled in the heart of the lush forest. Delight in a fusion of Indian and Continental cuisine, along with a cozy ambience and live music. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Friday, October 20: Arrive in Kochi

Welcome to Kerala! Start your trip in Kochi, a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history and scenic beauty. In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, filled with charming colonial architecture and visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. In the afternoon, take a relaxing backwater cruise in the beautiful Alappuzha region, surrounded by lush greenery. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala.

  • Fort Kochi & Chinese Fishing Nets: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Backwater Cruise in Alappuzha: Cost: $50-100, Time: 3-4 hours
  • Kathakali Dance Performance: Cost: $10-20, Time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • Malabar Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Malabar Cafe, located in Fort Kochi. This cozy cafe offers a variety of South Indian delicacies such as Idli, Dosa, and Appam. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
  • Kayees Biryani: For a hearty and flavorful lunch, head to Kayees Biryani in Ernakulam. Known for its mouthwatering Biryanis, this restaurant also offers a range of other Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
  • Paragon Restaurant: End your day with a scrumptious dinner at Paragon Restaurant in Kochi. Famous for its traditional Kerala cuisine, the restaurant provides a dining experience that combines authentic flavors with a contemporary ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, October 21: Munnar - The Tea Paradise

Travel to Munnar, a picturesque hill station renowned for its sprawling tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea production process and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding valleys. Afterward, explore the Mattupetty Dam and go on a wildlife safari at Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the town and indulge in some local tea tasting.

  • Tea Museum: Cost: $2-4, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Mattupetty Dam: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Eravikulam National Park: Cost: $3-6, Time: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
  • A must-visit for breakfast is the Tea Valley Restaurant, located amidst the lush tea plantations of Munnar. Indulge in a hearty South Indian breakfast like idli, dosa, or appam. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
  • For a delicious lunch, head to Rapsy Restaurant, known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Try their traditional thali, which includes rice, sambar, aviyal, and various vegetable curries. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
  • In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner experience at Copper Castle Restaurant. Enjoy their delectable seafood dishes, such as fresh fish curry or grilled prawns, while relishing the panoramic views of Munnar. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Sunday, October 22: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Head to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for nature enthusiasts. In the morning, embark on a guided jungle trek to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Afterward, enjoy a boat ride on the tranquil Periyar Lake, where you might spot elephants, bisons, and various bird species. In the evening, discover the vibrant spice markets of Kumily and savor some delicious local cuisine.

  • Guided Jungle Trek: Cost: $10-20, Time: 3-4 hours
  • Boat Ride on Periyar Lake: Cost: $10-15, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Kumily Spice Markets: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
  • Breakfast: Try the authentic South Indian breakfast at Rama Café, located just a short walk from Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Indulge in fluffy dosas, crispy vadas, and piping hot sambar. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a delicious Kerala-style seafood lunch at Sree Krishna Restaurant, known for its fresh catch of the day. Feast on spicy fish curry, fragrant rice, and crispy fried fish. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
  • Dinner: Sample traditional Kerala cuisine at Spice Bazaar, an atmospheric restaurant in Kumily. Relish dishes like appam, seafood stew, and banana fritters. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Monday, October 23: Wayanad - Nature's Abode

Travel to Wayanad, a beautiful region blessed with scenic landscapes and rich biodiversity. In the morning, visit the majestic Meenmutty Waterfalls and take a refreshing dip in its cool waters. Afterward, explore the awe-inspiring Edakkal Caves, known for their ancient rock carvings. In the afternoon, embark on a jungle safari in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, experiencing the thrill of spotting wild animals in their natural habitat.

  • Meenmutty Waterfalls: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Edakkal Caves: Cost: $2-4, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost: $10-20, Time: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day, a popular chain known for its delicious sandwiches and aromatic coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
  • For lunch, try Hotel Woodlands, a local favorite serving authentic Kerala cuisine. Don't miss their flavorful biryani and mouthwatering seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
  • In the evening, dine at The Willow Tree, a charming rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the surrounding nature. Indulge in their delectable continental and Indian delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Athirapally Waterfalls & Vazhachal Falls

Experience the grandeur of Athirapally Waterfalls, often referred to as the Niagara Falls of India. Spend the morning exploring the stunning waterfalls and the surrounding lush forests. Afterward, visit the nearby Vazhachal Falls, known for its picturesque beauty. In the afternoon, take a thrilling bamboo rafting adventure in Chalakudy River, immersing yourself in the serene natural surroundings.

  • Athirapally Waterfalls: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Vazhachal Falls: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Bamboo Rafting in Chalakudy River: Cost: $20-30, Time: 3-4 hours
Wednesday, October 25: Varkala - Serene Coastal Delight

Head to Varkala, a tranquil coastal town famous for its pristine beaches and stunning cliffs. In the morning, relax and soak up the sun on the beautiful Papanasam Beach. In the afternoon, explore the renowned Janardanaswamy Temple and take a refreshing dip in the holy waters of Papanasam. As the evening sets in, enjoy the breathtaking sunset views from the scenic Varkala Cliff.

  • Papanasam Beach: Cost: Free, Time: Full day
  • Janardanaswamy Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Varkala Cliff: Cost: Free, Time: Evening
Restaurants
  • For breakfast in Varkala, try Coffee Temple. This cozy cafe offers a variety of delicious breakfast options, including freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and refreshing beverages. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
  • To satisfy your lunch cravings, head to Abba Restaurant. This popular eatery specializes in seafood dishes and traditional Kerala cuisine. Don't miss their mouthwatering fish curry and appam. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
  • For an unforgettable dinner experience, visit Darjeeling Cafe. This rooftop restaurant offers a charming ambiance and serves a diverse menu of Indian, Continental, and Chinese dishes. Don't forget to try their signature chicken tikka masala. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Thursday, October 26: Kumarakom Backwaters

End your journey in the mesmerizing backwaters of Kumarakom. In the morning, cruise along the serene backwaters in a traditional houseboat, experiencing the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. Marvel at the lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and charming villages. In the afternoon, explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to a wide variety of migratory and local bird species. Enjoy the serene ambiance and bid farewell to Kerala's natural wonders.

  • Houseboat Cruise: Cost: $100-200, Time: 4-6 hours
  • Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Cost: $2-4, Time: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
  • A popular breakfast spot in Kumarakom is Grand Pavilion, known for its delicious South Indian dishes like idli, vada, and dosa. The average cost for a breakfast meal here is about 150 INR per person.
  • For a tasty lunch, head to Zuri Kumarakom, a waterfront restaurant offering a range of seafood delicacies and traditional Kerala cuisine. The average cost for a lunch meal here is about 500 INR per person.
  • In the evening, you can dine at Tharavadu Restaurant which serves authentic Kerala cuisine cooked with traditional flavors and spices. The average cost for a dinner meal here is about 800 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature enthusiasts seeking off the beaten path experiences in Kerala, I recommend exploring the beautiful Silent Valley National Park. This untouched wilderness is home to a unique range of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the Nilgiri langur and Lion-tailed macaque. Another hidden gem is the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for birdwatchers with its rich avian population. Locals also love visiting the serene beaches of Marari, known for their peaceful ambiance and stunning sunsets.

Before finalizing your travel arrangements, you can also check hotel and flight prices on KAYAK.

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