In the morning, visit the iconic Fort Kochi, known for its colonial buildings and Chinese fishing nets. Afternoon, explore the Mattancherry Palace and the Jewish Synagogue, which are both steeped in history. In the evening, stroll along Marine Drive, a picturesque promenade with stunning views of the backwaters.
Fort Kochi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Mattancherry Palace: Estimated cost - INR 5 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Jewish Synagogue: Estimated cost - INR 5 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
For breakfast, head to Pepper House Cafe and enjoy their delicious traditional Kerala appam with egg curry. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Kashi Art Cafe, a charming art gallery and cafe. They offer a variety of salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, try Oceanos Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and beautiful views of the sea. Indulge in their tandoori prawns or an authentic Kerala fish curry. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, December 21: Journey to Munnar
In the morning, embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, which is known for its tea plantations. Afternoon, explore the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Munnar town.
Tea Museum: Estimated cost - INR 150 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
For breakfast, try the Cafe Diem in Munnar. They offer a variety of freshly baked pastries and an extensive breakfast menu. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Rapsy Restaurant in Munnar. This vegetarian restaurant serves delicious South Indian meals, including dosas and thalis. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Copper Castle Restaurant in Munnar. This multi-cuisine restaurant offers a wide range of dishes, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Friday, December 22: Exploring Thekkady
In the morning, visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and take a boat safari to spot various wildlife species. Afternoon, enjoy a spice plantation tour to learn about the region's spice trade. In the evening, participate in a traditional Kathakali dance performance.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 35 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Spice Plantation Tour: Estimated cost - INR 100-200 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Kathakali Dance Performance: Estimated cost - INR 200-300 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to "Cafe Papaya" which offers a wide range of delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200-300 INR per person.
For lunch, try "Pepper Grove Restaurant" known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400-500 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at "The Fusion Kitchen" that offers a fusion of Indian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 700-800 INR per person.
Saturday, December 23: Backwater Experience in Alleppey
In the morning, take a scenic drive to Alleppey and board a houseboat for a backwater cruise. Spend the afternoon cruising through the serene backwaters, enjoying the lush greenery and peaceful surroundings. In the evening, indulge in a delicious traditional Kerala-style dinner on the houseboat.
Houseboat Backwater Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 7000-10000 for a private houseboat (divided by 3 people), Time spent - 6-7 hours
Traditional Kerala Dinner on Houseboat: Estimated cost - Included in houseboat price, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Alleppey is the Kerala Cafe, known for its authentic South Indian breakfast dishes such as dosa, idli, and appam. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to the Curry House located near the backwaters. They offer a variety of Kerala-style curries including fish curry, chicken curry, and vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal here is about 250 INR per person.
For dinner, try the Lakeview Restaurant which offers a stunning view of the backwaters while you enjoy a range of seafood delicacies, traditional Kerala thalis, and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, December 24: Discovering Trivandrum
In the morning, visit the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance. Afternoon, explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing a collection of ancient artifacts and artwork. In the evening, spend time at the beautiful Kovalam Beach.
In the morning, take a trip to the enchanting Poovar Island and enjoy a boat cruise through the picturesque backwaters. Afternoon, visit the Sree Chitra Art Gallery, showcasing works of famous Indian artists. In the evening, explore the vibrant Connemara Market for souvenir shopping.
Poovar Island Boat Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 500-1000 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Sree Chitra Art Gallery: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Explore the off the beaten path attractions in Trivandrum by visiting the tranquil Shanghumugham Beach, which is popular among locals. Discover the charm of Vizhinjam Village, known for its fishing harbor and ancient cave temples. Experience the local cuisine at a traditional Kerala restaurant, trying dishes like appam and fish curry.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Trivandrum has some hidden gems and local favorites worth exploring. Pay a visit to Vellayani Lake, a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Take a walk in the beautiful Kanakakunnu Palace grounds, known for its tranquility. Don't miss out on trying traditional snacks like banana chips and machine-made ice creams at local food stalls.
For hotel and flight booking options, check out kayak.com.