Thursday, October 19: Exploring Kochi's Colonial Charms
Start your trip in Kochi by immersing yourself in its colonial charm. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, which offer a picturesque view of the coastline. Afternoon calls for a visit to Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to admire its exquisite murals and artifacts. As evening sets in, explore the bustling lanes of Jew Town and visit the Paradesi Synagogue, one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Kashi Art Cafe, located near the Chinese Fishing Nets. This charming cafe offers a variety of breakfast options including pancakes, sandwiches, and fresh juices. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, head to Fusion Bay, a popular restaurant known for its delectable seafood dishes. Located in Jew Town, this restaurant offers a fusion of Indian and international flavors. Average cost for a lunch meal is about ₹600 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at The Rice Boat, a waterfront restaurant that specializes in traditional Kerala cuisine. Enjoy a range of seafood delicacies cooked in aromatic spices. Average cost for a dinner meal is about ₹1000 per person.
Friday, October 20: Backwaters Bliss in Alleppey
Indulge in the serenity of Kerala's backwaters by heading to Alleppey. Morning calls for a soothing houseboat cruise through the picturesque backwaters, where you can witness the local village life and marvel at the lush greenery. Afternoon is the perfect time to explore the enchanting Alleppey Beach and enjoy the cool sea breeze. In the evening, take a stroll along the bustling Alleppey Canal and savor some delicious local seafood.
Start your day at Indian Coffee House, a charming breakfast spot known for its delicious South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Hotel Savoy, where you can enjoy a delectable spread of Kerala's traditional cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cassia Restaurant, which offers a fusion of Indian and international flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Saturday, October 21: Wildlife Safari in Periyar National Park
Embark on a thrilling wildlife adventure in Periyar National Park. Begin your day with a morning boat safari on Periyar Lake, where you can spot various endemic species of animals and birds. Afternoon is the ideal time for a guided trek through the dense forest, where you might encounter elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. During the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
Sunday, October 22: Exploring the Tea Gardens of Munnar
Discover the tranquil beauty of Munnar's tea gardens. In the morning, visit the lush Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and sample some aromatic brews. Afterward, explore the sprawling tea estates, taking in the breathtaking views of the rolling hills. In the afternoon, visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. As evening approaches, go for a calming stroll around the serene Attukad Waterfalls.
Tea Museum: INR 150 (approx. $2.05), 1-2 hours
Tea Estate Visit: Free, 2-3 hours
Eravikulam National Park: INR 125 (approx. $1.71), 2-3 hours
Attukad Waterfalls: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Audacity Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Audacity Cafe, located near Munnar's tea gardens. They offer a variety of dishes including pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Mountain View Restaurant: For lunch with a view, head to Mountain View Restaurant. Situated amidst the tea estates, this restaurant offers panoramic vistas of the rolling hills while serving tasty Kerala cuisine like fish curry and appam. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
The Pavilions: When evening rolls around, treat yourself to a dinner at The Pavilions. This restaurant provides a cozy ambience along with a diverse menu featuring both Indian and international dishes. Don't miss their delectable seafood options. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, October 23: Sandy Bliss in Kovalam
Relax and soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches of Kovalam. Start your day by unwinding on the pristine Lighthouse Beach, where you can enjoy swimming and sunbathing. Afternoon calls for a visit to the stunning Hawa Beach, known for its alluring crescent shape and calm waters. As the evening sets in, head to the vibrant Kovalam Beach to witness a breathtaking sunset and indulge in some delicious seafood.
Lighthouse Beach: Free, 3 hours
Hawa Beach: Free, 2 hours
Kovalam Beach: Free, 1 hour
Tuesday, October 24: Cultural Heritage in Thrissur
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Thrissur. Start your morning by visiting the Vadakkumnathan Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and famous for its stunning architecture. In the afternoon, explore the Kerala Kalamandalam, an esteemed institution promoting traditional dance and music forms. As evening sets in, witness the awe-inspiring Pooram Festival at Thekkinkadu Maidan, a grand display of fireworks and elephant processions.
Vadakkumnathan Temple: Free, 1 hour
Kerala Kalamandalam: INR 30 (approx. $0.41), 2 hours
Pooram Festival at Thekkinkadu Maidan: Free, 3 hours
Wednesday, October 25: Beachside Bliss in Varkala
End your trip with some beachside relaxation in Varkala. Morning calls for a visit to the serene Varkala Beach, known for its dramatic coastline and natural mineral springs. Afternoon is the perfect time for a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage session at one of the many spas along the cliffside. In the evening, explore the bustling Varkala Cliff and indulge in some delectable seafood.
For breakfast, head to Cafe del Mar which is known for its delicious pancakes and fresh fruit smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Abba Restaurant where you can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes including fish curry and grilled prawns. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Darjeeling Cafe which offers a mix of Indian, Tibetan, and Continental cuisine. Don't miss their famous momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kerala, make sure to visit the charming village of Kumarakom, nestled on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Experience the tranquility of the backwaters by taking a traditional canoe ride and savoring authentic Kerala cuisine at a local homestay. Another hidden gem is the village of Fort Kochi, renowned for its colonial architecture, vibrant art scene, and aromatic spice markets.
For more adventurous travelers, a trek to the picturesque hill station of Munnar offers breathtaking views of tea gardens, mist-covered mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The Athirapally Waterfalls, often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India," are another must-visit spot for nature lovers.