Nature Lover's 5-Day Kerala Itinerary

1. Day 1: Athirappilly Waterfalls
   1 hour 25 minutes (34 miles) from Cochin International Airport

   Start your morning with a drive to Athirappilly Waterfalls, a stunning natural wonder with lush green surroundings and a breathtaking cascade of water. Take a dip in the cool water and enjoy a picnic lunch by the falls. In the afternoon, head to Thumboormuzhi Dam, a scenic picnic spot with a garden, butterfly park, and hanging bridge. In the evening, visit Cherai Beach for a leisurely stroll by the serene shoreline.

2. Day 2: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
   3 hours 30 minutes (91 miles) from Athirappilly Waterfalls

   Spend the morning at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Take a guided trek through the forest to spot elephants, tigers, and other animals in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, take a serene boat ride on the Periyar Lake. In the evening, relax at your hotel and enjoy a traditional Kerala dinner.

3. Day 3: Munnar Tea Gardens
   2 hours 45 minutes (82 miles) from Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

   Start your morning early and take a scenic drive to the Munnar Tea Gardens. Take a guided tour of the tea factory to learn about the history and production of tea in the region. In the afternoon, head to Echo Point, a serene spot with beautiful views of the misty mountains and the occasional echo. In the evening, visit the Blossom Hydel Park for a leisurely walk and to enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna.

4. Day 4: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
   4 hours 40 minutes (139 miles) from Munnar Tea Gardens

   Spend the morning at the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, a dense forest with a diverse range of flora and fauna. Take a jeep safari to explore the park and spot animals such as elephants, leopards, and deer. In the afternoon, visit the Edakkal Caves, a prehistoric site with cave paintings and carvings. In the evening, take a walk through the tranquil Pookode Lake.

5. Day 5: Alleppey Backwaters
   6 hours (172 miles) from Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

   End your trip with a relaxing day at the Alleppey Backwaters, a serene network of canals and lagoons. Take a leisurely boat ride through the backwaters and admire the lush green surroundings and traditional houseboats. In the afternoon, visit the Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple, a beautiful temple with a rich history. In the evening, watch the mesmerizing sunset from the Alappuzha Beach.

Recommendations

If you have time, consider taking a side trip to the beautiful hill station of Vagamon. Other local attractions to consider include the Mattupetty Dam and the Elephant Junction.

Maximize your fun by trying some traditional Kerala cuisine such as appam and stew, puttu and kadala curry, or fish curry with rice.

Don't forget to carry comfortable shoes, insect repellent, and sunscreen for your outdoor activities.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Athirappilly Waterfalls (2 hours, free)
• Thumboormuzhi Dam (2 hours, free)
• Cherai Beach (2 hours, free)
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (5 hours, INR 450 per person)
• Periyar Lake Boat Ride (2 hours, INR 300 per person)
• Munnar Tea Gardens (3 hours, INR 200 per person)
• Echo Point (2 hours, free)
• Blossom Hydel Park (2 hours, INR 10 per person)
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (5 hours, INR 115 per person)
• Edakkal Caves (3 hours, INR 20 per person)
• Pookode Lake (2 hours, INR 10 per person)
• Alleppey Backwaters (4 hours, INR 700 per person for boat ride)
• Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple (2 hours, free)
• Alappuzha Beach (2 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1,725 per person