Relaxing Getaway in Varkala, Munnar, Thekkady, and Alleppey

Saturday, November 25: Bangalore to Varkala

Start your trip by boarding a flight from Bangalore to Trivandrum. From Trivandrum, take a taxi or train to Varkala.

• Arrive in Varkala: Travel cost estimate depends on transportation mode and availability. Time spent: Approximately 5-6 hours

Sunday, November 26: Varkala

In the morning, head to Varkala Beach and enjoy a peaceful walk along the cliffside, taking in the panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Janardanaswamy Temple, a 2000-year-old shrine. Wind down the day by indulging in an Ayurvedic massage or yoga session at one of the many wellness centers.

• Varkala Beach: Free. Time spent: Flexible
• Janardanaswamy Temple: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic massage or yoga session: Cost varies. Time spent: Flexible

Monday, November 27: Varkala to Munnar

Leave Varkala in the morning and travel to Munnar, known for its tea plantations. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Western Ghats and arrive in Munnar by afternoon. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and trying some freshly brewed tea.

• Travel from Varkala to Munnar: Cost estimate depends on transportation mode and availability. Time spent: Approximately 5-6 hours
• Local markets: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours

Tuesday, November 28: Munnar

Start the day by visiting the famous Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Enjoy a nature walk amidst tea gardens and waterfalls. In the afternoon, explore the tea museum to learn about the tea-making process. End the day with a relaxing boat ride in Kundala Dam.

• Eravikulam National Park: Entrance fee - INR 120 per person (foreigners). Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Tea museum: Entrance fee - INR 150 per person (foreigners). Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Kundala Dam boat ride: Cost varies. Time spent: 1-2 hours

Wednesday, November 29: Munnar to Thekkady

Depart Munnar and head towards Thekkady, known for its wildlife and spice plantations. Take a scenic drive and arrive early afternoon. Explore the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary through a boat safari on Periyar Lake. In the evening, visit the local spice markets and indulge in a traditional Kerala meal.

• Travel from Munnar to Thekkady: Cost estimate depends on transportation mode and availability. Time spent: Approximately 4-5 hours
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary boat safari: Cost varies. Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Local spice markets: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours

Thursday, November 30: Thekkady

In the morning, embark on a guided trek through the lush greenery of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Afternoon can be spent exploring the nearby cardamom and spice plantations. For an evening of relaxation, enjoy a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatment.

• Periyar Tiger Reserve guided trek: Cost varies. Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Cardamom and spice plantations: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic spa treatment: Cost varies. Time spent: Flexible

Friday, December 1: Thekkady to Alleppey

Leave Thekkady and take a scenic drive to Alleppey, famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. Arrive in Alleppey by afternoon and embark on a relaxing houseboat cruise through the backwaters. Enjoy the serene surroundings, delicious Kerala cuisine, and overnight stay on the houseboat.

• Travel from Thekkady to Alleppey: Cost estimate depends on transportation mode and availability. Time spent: Approximately 4-5 hours
• Houseboat cruise: Cost starts at INR 5000 per night (approx.). Time spent: Overnight

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a peaceful day trip from Munnar, visit Kolukkumalai, the highest tea plantation in the world. The breathtaking views of the sunrise over the rolling hills and the freshness of the tea will leave you rejuvenated. Another hidden gem near Thekkady is the Mangaladevi Temple, nestled amidst the Periyar forests. It offers a serene and spiritual experience away from the tourist crowd.