Welcome to Kerala, a land of pristine natural beauty! After arriving at the airport, check into your hotel and take some time to relax and settle in. In the afternoon, you can visit the beautiful Athirapally Waterfalls, one of the most picturesque waterfalls in India. Spend the evening exploring the nearby Vazhachal Forest Gardens, known for their lush greenery and tranquil surroundings.
For breakfast, head to Café Coffee Day located near Athirapally Waterfalls. They offer a wide variety of hot and cold beverages along with sandwiches and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Bamboo Cafe situated in the Vazhachal Forest Gardens. They serve delicious South Indian dishes like dosas and idlis. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Rainforest Restaurant which is known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Enjoy dishes like Malabar fish curry and appam. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Friday December 29: Backwater Cruise and Wildlife Safari
Start your day by enjoying a serene backwater cruise in Alleppey. Marvel at the picturesque landscapes, traditional houseboats, and local village life along the backwaters. In the afternoon, head to the Periyar National Park for an exciting wildlife safari. Keep an eye out for elephants, tigers, and other exotic wildlife as you explore the lush forests.
Backwater Cruise in Alleppey: Estimated cost - INR 1,500 ($20) per person, Time spent - 4 hours
Periyar National Park Wildlife Safari: Estimated cost - INR 2,000 ($27) per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Alleppey backwaters is Shantha's Cafe, known for its delicious local cuisine and cozy atmosphere. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Fusion Resto Bar located near Periyar National Park. This restaurant offers a variety of fusion dishes and a beautiful view of the surroundings. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit Spice Land Restaurant in Alleppey. This restaurant serves exquisite Kerala cuisine with authentic flavors. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday December 30: Tea Plantations and Hill Station
Embark on a journey to the enchanting hill station of Munnar, known for its sprawling tea plantations. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, where you can witness the tea-making process and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Mattupetty Dam and take a boat ride on the serene Kundala Lake.
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate: Estimated cost - INR 300 ($4) per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake: Estimated cost - INR 150 ($2) per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Sunday December 31: Beach Relaxation and Sunset Delight
Spend your last day in Kerala by unwinding at the beautiful Kovalam Beach. Enjoy the golden sands and clear waters while basking in the warm sun. In the evening, head to the iconic Lighthouse Beach and witness a mesmerizing sunset that paints the sky with hues of orange and pink. Celebrate New Year's Eve and bid farewell to Kerala in style!
For nature enthusiasts seeking off the beaten path attractions, the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is a hidden gem. Located near Kochi, it offers a paradise for birdwatching with its diverse avian population. Another local favorite is the Silent Valley National Park, known for its untouched wilderness and rare wildlife sightings. If you're up for an adventurous trek, consider exploring the Meesapulimala Peak, the second highest peak in the Western Ghats, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and tea plantations.
Now, let's plan your accommodation and flights. Check out the best hotel and flight deals in Kerala here.