7-Day Adventure in Kerala

Saturday December 9: Exploring Kochi

Start your trip in the historic city of Kochi. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along Fort Kochi Beach and witness the local fishermen in action. Afterward, explore the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, showcasing beautiful murals and artifacts. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride through the serene backwaters of Kerala, immersing yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty. As the evening sets in, head to Jew Town and browse through antique shops and spice markets.

  • Chinese Fishing Nets: Budget: INR 50, Time: 1 hour
  • Mattancherry Palace: Budget: INR 100, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Backwater Boat Ride: Budget: INR 2,000, Time: 3 hours
  • Exploring Jew Town: Budget: Variable, Time: 1-2 hours
Sunday December 10: Munnar's Tea Gardens

Travel to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations. In the morning, visit the lush Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea production. Afterward, explore the scenic tea gardens and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea while soaking in the stunning views. In the afternoon, hike to the enchanting Attukad Waterfalls, surrounded by verdant forests. End the day with a visit to the Top Station viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the Western Ghats at sunset.

  • Tea Museum: Budget: INR 200, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Munnar Tea Gardens: Budget: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Attukad Waterfalls: Budget: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Top Station: Budget: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
Monday December 11: Wildlife Adventure in Thekkady

Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. In the morning, embark on a thrilling boat safari on Periyar Lake, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. Afterward, visit the Spice Plantations and learn about the diverse spices grown in the region. In the afternoon, indulge in an elephant ride through the scenic countryside. In the evening, attend a traditional Kathakali dance performance, showcasing the vibrant art form of Kerala.

  • Periyar Boat Safari: Budget: INR 400, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Spice Plantations: Budget: Variable, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Elephant Ride: Budget: INR 600, Time: 1 hour
  • Kathakali Dance Performance: Budget: INR 300, Time: 1-2 hours
Tuesday December 12: Beach Bliss in Varkala

Travel to the coastal town of Varkala, famous for its stunning cliff-side beaches. In the morning, relax on the golden sands of Varkala Beach and take a dip in the refreshing Arabian Sea. Afterward, explore the fascinating Janardanaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a local beachfront restaurant. In the afternoon, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage. As the evening sets in, witness the mesmerizing views of the sunset from the famous Varkala Cliff.

  • Varkala Beach: Budget: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Janardanaswamy Temple: Budget: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Ayurvedic Massage: Budget: INR 1,000, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Varkala Cliff Sunset: Budget: Free, Time: 1 hour
Wednesday December 13: Backwater Delights in Alleppey

Visit Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East," famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. In the morning, board a traditional houseboat and cruise along the tranquil backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery and local life. Indulge in a delicious Keralan lunch served on the houseboat. In the afternoon, visit the Alleppey Beach and witness the mesmerizing sunset. Opt for a romantic candlelight dinner on the houseboat as you float along the serene backwaters.

  • Houseboat Cruise: Budget: INR 10,000 (for 6 people), Time: 6-7 hours
  • Alleppey Beach: Budget: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Candlelight Dinner on Houseboat: Budget: INR 2,000, Time: Evening
Thursday December 14: Cultural Heritage in Thrissur

Explore the cultural heritage of Thrissur, known as the "Cultural Capital of Kerala." In the morning, visit the grand Vadakkunnathan Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, explore the Kerala Kalamandalam, an esteemed institution preserving and promoting classical art forms of Kerala. In the afternoon, visit the Thrissur Zoo and marvel at the diverse wildlife. Attend a Kathakali or Mohiniyattam dance performance in the evening for a glimpse into Kerala's rich cultural traditions.

  • Vadakkunnathan Temple: Budget: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Kerala Kalamandalam: Budget: Variable, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Thrissur Zoo: Budget: INR 20, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Kathakali or Mohiniyattam Dance Performance: Budget: INR 200, Time: 2-3 hours
Friday December 15: Hill Station Retreat in Wayanad

Visit the scenic hill station of Wayanad, surrounded by lush green forests and wildlife sanctuaries. In the morning, explore the Edakkal Caves, containing ancient rock art and offering panoramic views. Afterward, visit the serene Pookode Lake and enjoy a boat ride amidst nature. In the afternoon, hike to the stunning Meenmutty Waterfalls and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool. End the day with a visit to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary for a chance to spot elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species.

  • Edakkal Caves: Budget: INR 40, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Pookode Lake: Budget: INR 50, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Meenmutty Waterfalls: Budget: INR 100, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Budget: INR 100, Time: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those looking for off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the charming village of Kumarakom, known for its enchanting backwaters and bird sanctuary. Another hidden gem is the idyllic village of Kovalam, offering stunning beaches, Ayurvedic treatments, and delicious seafood. Locals also love exploring the lesser-known hill station of Vagamon, boasting picturesque green meadows and tranquility.

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