Start your trip in Kochi, the gateway to Kerala. In the morning, visit the historic Mattancherry Palace, known for its exquisite murals. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the picturesque Jew Town and explore the local spice markets. As the evening sets in, witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance at the Cochin Cultural Centre.
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan. Known for its authentic flavors and wide variety of dosas, idlis, and vadas, this restaurant offers a hearty meal for about ₹200 per person.
For a scrumptious lunch, head to Fort Kochi Restaurant. Serving traditional Kerala cuisine, their seafood dishes are a must-try. Indulge in a satisfying meal for about ₹500 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Oceanos Restaurant. Located by the waterfront, this restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with a range of seafood, continental, and Indian dishes. Enjoy a delectable meal for about ₹800 per person.
Monday, December 4: Backwater Cruise in Alleppey
Embark on a serene backwater cruise in Alleppey, often called the "Venice of the East." Spend the morning sailing through the enchanting backwaters, surrounded by lush green landscapes. Enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala lunch on board. In the afternoon, explore the quaint villages and interact with the local people.
Backwater Cruise in Alleppey: Estimated cost - INR 3,000 per person, Time spent - 6-8 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Alleppey is Cafe Catamaran, known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Grand Pavilion Restaurant, where you can enjoy a wide range of traditional Kerala dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 300 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Dreamers Restaurant, which offers a scenic waterfront setting and a menu featuring both local and international cuisines. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 500 per person.
Tuesday, December 5: Munnar's Tea Estate and Eravikulam National Park
Head to Munnar, a hill station known for its sprawling tea estates. In the morning, visit a tea plantation and learn about the tea-making process while enjoying scenic views. Afterward, explore the Eravikulam National Park, home to endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the charming town of Munnar.
Eravikulam National Park: Estimated cost - INR 400, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Exploring Munnar Town: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Munnar Bakers: Enjoy freshly baked pastries and traditional South Indian breakfast items at Munnar Bakers. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
Saravana Bhavan: Indulge in a traditional South Indian thali at Saravana Bhavan. Their extensive menu offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Rapsy Restaurant: Savor the flavors of Kerala with a seafood feast at Rapsy Restaurant. Known for their fresh catches and traditional preparations, this restaurant is a seafood lover's paradise. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, December 6: Fort Kochi Heritage Walk
Return to Kochi for a heritage walk in Fort Kochi. In the morning, explore the narrow lanes lined with colonial-era buildings and ancient churches. Visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets and indulge in delicious seafood at local eateries. In the afternoon, visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum and St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India.
Fort Kochi Heritage Walk: Free entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Chinese Fishing Nets: Free entry, Time spent - 1 hour
St. Francis Church: Free entry, Time spent - 30 minutes
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Fort Kochi is Kashi Art Cafe, known for its artistic ambiance and delicious breakfast options. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
Mattancherry Palace Restaurant is a great choice for lunch, offering traditional Kerala cuisine in a historic setting. A meal here costs around 500 INR per person on average.
For dinner, head to Oceanos Restaurant for a waterfront dining experience with a wide range of seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal at Oceanos is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, December 7: Thrissur's Cultural Delights
Travel to Thrissur, known as the "Cultural Capital of Kerala." In the morning, visit the Vadakkunnathan Temple, one of the oldest Shiva temples in the state. Experience a traditional Kerala lunch served on a banana leaf. In the afternoon, explore the Kerala Kalamandalam, an institution dedicated to promoting Kathakali and other traditional art forms.
Vadakkunnathan Temple: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Traditional Kerala Lunch: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Kerala Kalamandalam: Free entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a satisfying breakfast at Rasoee, a popular local restaurant known for its delicious South Indian dishes. Enjoy a variety of dosas, idlis, and traditional Kerala-style breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 100 INR (approximately $1.35) per person.
For a traditional Kerala lunch experience, head to Bharath Restaurant. This restaurant offers a wide range of authentic Kerala dishes, including fish curry, appam, and Kerala thali meals. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR (approximately $2.70) per person.
In the evening, dine at The Rice Boat, a waterfront restaurant renowned for its seafood specialties. Indulge in fresh catch of the day prepared in various traditional Kerala styles, including steamed, grilled, and curried dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR (approximately $10.80) per person.
Friday, December 8: Calicut's Historic Trail
Head to Calicut (Kozhikode), the land of spices and historic significance. In the morning, visit the Pazhassiraja Museum to explore artifacts and exhibits related to the region's history. Stroll through the bustling Sweet Meat Street for delectable local snacks. In the afternoon, explore the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, a haven for migratory birds.
A popular breakfast spot in Calicut is Paragon Restaurant, known for its delicious South Indian dishes like appam, dosa, and idiyappam. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
If you're looking for a tasty lunch option, head to Salkara Restaurant. They offer a variety of traditional Kerala dishes such as fish curry, biryani, and thali meals. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Zains Restaurant which specializes in Arabian and Mughlai cuisine. Their succulent kebabs, biryanis, and faloodas are highly recommended. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Saturday, December 9: Beach Day in Kovalam
End your trip with a relaxing day at Kovalam Beach. Enjoy the golden sands and take a dip in the Arabian Sea. Indulge in traditional Ayurvedic massages or try some adventurous water sports. In the evening, savor a delightful seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant while enjoying the stunning sunset.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The German Bakery. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly baked goods and a hearty breakfast menu. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Curry Leaf Restaurant, known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Enjoy a traditional thali meal or choose from a range of delicious curries. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Malabar Junction. This upscale restaurant serves a fusion of European and Kerala flavors, providing a unique dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For the off the beaten path experience, visit the lesser-known village of Mararikulam, nestled on the coast of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy a tranquil beach, interact with local fishermen, and witness their unique fishing techniques. Explore the village to experience the authentic rural life of Kerala.