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Kerala Train Journey: Nature Lovers' Delight

Viewed by 53 travelers
Friday, December 29: Arrival in Kochi

Morning: Begin your Kerala adventure by arriving in Kochi, the vibrant port city. Spend your morning exploring the historic Fort Kochi area. Marvel at the intricate Chinese fishing nets, visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum, and take a stroll along the picturesque streets filled with colonial architecture and colorful buildings.

Afternoon: Head to Mattancherry and visit the famous Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace. Admire the impressive murals and discover a collection of artifacts from the region's rich history.

Evening: Enjoy a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of storytelling through dance, music, and elaborate costumes.

  • Fort Kochi: Free entry, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Mattancherry Palace: Entry fee: INR 5 (Indian nationals) / INR 100 (foreign nationals), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Kathakali Performance: Ticket prices vary, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 30: Munnar, the Hill Station

Morning: Board an early morning train to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its lush green tea plantations and breathtaking views. Enjoy the scenic journey through the Western Ghats.

Afternoon: Arrive in Munnar and relax at your hotel. Visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and processes involved in tea production. Take a leisurely walk through the tea gardens and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.

Evening: Explore the local markets and indulge in some shopping for exquisite tea varieties and handicrafts.

  • Train ticket cost from Kochi to Munnar: INR 100-150 (approx.), estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Tea Museum: Entry fee: INR 120 (adults) / INR 90 (children), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 31: The Backwaters of Alleppey

Morning: Travel to Alleppey, famous for its serene backwaters. Experience a scenic boat ride through the interconnected canals, surrounded by coconut groves and paddy fields. Enjoy the tranquility and spot colorful birds along the way.

Afternoon: Indulge in a delicious traditional Kerala lunch served on a houseboat. Relish the flavors of local cuisine as you glide through the backwaters.

Evening: Bid farewell to the year with a New Year's Eve celebration at your resort, complete with cultural performances, music, and fireworks.

  • Train ticket cost from Munnar to Alleppey: INR 100-150 (approx.), estimated time spent: 5-6 hours
  • Houseboat experience: Prices vary, estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
Monday, January 1: Wildlife Exploration in Thekkady

Morning: Travel to Thekkady, home to the renowned Periyar National Park. Embark on a thrilling boat safari on Periyar Lake, where you might spot elephants, tigers, and various species of birds amidst the dense forests.

Afternoon: Visit the Spice Plantations and learn about the rich diversity of Kerala's spice trade. Enjoy a guided tour while immersing yourself in the fragrant aroma of spices.

Evening: Attend a traditional martial arts performance known as Kalaripayattu.

  • Train ticket cost from Alleppey to Thekkady: INR 100-150 (approx.), estimated time spent: 5-6 hours
  • Boat safari in Periyar National Park: Entry fee: INR 1130 (adults) / INR 375 (children), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Spice Plantation tour: Entry fee: INR 100 (adults), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Kalaripayattu performance: Ticket prices vary, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Tuesday, January 2: Exploring Athirapally Waterfalls

Morning: Depart for Athirapally, known for its majestic waterfalls and lush greenery. Witness the breathtaking beauty of Athirapally Waterfalls, cascading from a height of 80 feet. Capture mesmerizing photographs and enjoy the soothing sound of the water.

Afternoon: Visit the nearby Vazhachal Waterfalls and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pools if the weather permits.

Evening: Return to Kochi and unwind by taking a leisurely walk along Marine Drive, a picturesque promenade offering stunning views of the backwaters.

  • Train ticket cost from Thekkady to Athirapally: INR 100-150 (approx.), estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Athirapally Waterfalls: Entrance fee: INR 40 (adults) / INR 10 (children), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Vazhachal Waterfalls: Entrance fee: INR 10 (adults) / INR 5 (children), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, January 3: Kovalam Beach Bliss

Morning: Travel to Kovalam, a coastal town known for its pristine beaches and serene ambiance. Spend your morning relaxing at the famous Kovalam Beach, enjoying the golden sand and clear blue waters.

Afternoon: Visit the Lighthouse Beach and climb up the lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy water sports activities or simply bask in the sun.

Evening: Indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage to unwind and relax.

  • Train ticket cost from Kochi to Kovalam: INR 150-200 (approx.), estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Ayurvedic massage: Prices vary, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday, January 4: Trivandrum City Exploration

Morning: Explore the capital city of Kerala, Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram). Visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a stunning temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Marvel at the intricate architecture and the golden idol.

Afternoon: Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Kerala at the Napier Museum and Zoo. Explore the museum's extensive collection of artifacts and enjoy a walk through the zoo's lush green surroundings.

Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along Shangumugham Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

  • Train ticket cost from Kovalam to Trivandrum: INR 50-100 (approx.), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free entry, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Napier Museum: Entry fee: INR 20, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Trivandrum Zoo: Entry fee: INR 20 (adults) / INR 5 (children), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala's natural beauty, don't miss out on off the beaten path attractions like Vagamon, a serene hill station known for its meadows and pine forests, or the enchanting village of Kumarakom, famous for its backwaters and bird sanctuaries. For a unique culinary experience, try the traditional Sadhya meal, a lavish feast served on a banana leaf. Locals also recommend taking a spice plantation tour near Thekkady to immerse yourself in the scents and flavors of Kerala's spices.

For hotel and flight options, check out KAYAK.

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