A City Exploration in Kerala

Friday October 20: Exploring Cochin

Welcome to Kerala! Begin your adventure by immersing yourself in the vibrant city of Kochi (Cochin). In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along the coastline and witness the traditional fishing methods. Afterward, explore the historic Fort Kochi area with its colonial architecture and charming streets. In the afternoon, take a ferry ride to the serene Bolgatty Island and explore the beautiful Bolgatty Palace. As the evening sets in, head to the bustling Broadway Market and indulge in local street food.

• Chinese Fishing Nets: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Fort Kochi: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Bolgatty Palace: Cost - INR 150 ($2), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Broadway Market: Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2 hours

Saturday October 21: Discovering Alleppey

Embark on a scenic journey to Alleppey, known for its mesmerizing backwaters. Start your morning by exploring the picturesque Alappuzha Beach and enjoying a walk along its sandy shores. Take a backwater cruise in a traditional houseboat and witness the enchanting beauty of the interconnected canals. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Krishnapuram Palace, known for its stunning mural paintings. As the evening approaches, witness a mesmerizing sunset at the Punnamada Lake.

• Alappuzha Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Backwater Houseboat Cruise: Cost - INR 2,500 ($34) per person, Time Spent - 4 hours
• Krishnapuram Palace: Cost - INR 20 ($0.27), Time Spent - 1 hour
• Punnamada Lake: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Sunday October 22: Exploring Munnar

Set off to the charming hill station of Munnar, surrounded by lush tea plantations. Begin your day by visiting the iconic Mattupetty Dam and enjoying the breathtaking views of the nearby hills. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Tata Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process. Head to the serene Echo Point, known for its natural echo phenomenon, in the evening and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the surrounding mountains.

• Mattupetty Dam: Cost - INR 10 ($0.14), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Tata Tea Museum: Cost - INR 100 ($1.36), Time Spent - 1 hour
• Echo Point: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Monday October 23: Discovering Thekkady

Continue your journey to Thekkady, home to the famous Periyar National Park. In the morning, embark on a thrilling wildlife safari in the park, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species. After the safari, rejuvenate with a visit to the Spice Plantations and learn about the diverse range of aromatic spices grown in the region. Spend the evening exploring the bustling local market and tasting delicious Kerala cuisine.

• Periyar National Park Safari: Cost - INR 1,500 ($20) per person, Time Spent - 4 hours
• Spice Plantations: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Local Market: Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2 hours

Tuesday October 24: Enjoying Thiruvananthapuram

Travel to the vibrant city of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), the capital of Kerala. Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its architectural beauty and religious significance. In the afternoon, explore the Kanakakunnu Palace and its lush gardens. Discover the fascinating exhibits at the Napier Museum, showcasing Kerala's rich culture and history. End your day with a relaxing stroll along the Kovalam Beach, enjoying the serene coastal atmosphere.

• Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Kanakakunnu Palace: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Napier Museum: Cost - INR 20 ($0.27), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Kovalam Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Wednesday October 25: Wander in Kozhikode

Conclude your Kerala journey by visiting the vibrant city of Kozhikode (Calicut). Begin your day by exploring the historic Kozhikode Beach and enjoying the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Visit the iconic Beypore Beach, known for its traditional shipbuilding industry. Explore the enchanting Kozhikode Backwaters through a leisurely boat ride and immerse yourself in the calming natural beauty. In the evening, indulge in local delicacies at popular food joints in the city.

• Kozhikode Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Beypore Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Kozhikode Backwaters: Cost - INR 500 ($7) per person, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Local Food Joints: Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala's cities, don't miss these hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the offbeat town of Valparai, nestled amidst tea and coffee plantations, for a serene getaway. Explore the charming village of Varkala, known for its cliff-top views and vibrant beach shacks. Take a detour to the picturesque town of Athirappilly and witness the majestic Athirappilly Waterfalls. Experience the traditional art form of Kathakali by attending a performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre in Kochi.