Start your Kerala adventure by arriving in Kochi, also known as Cochin. Explore the historical Fort Kochi, known for its charming colonial architecture. In the morning, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and take a stroll along the picturesque lanes. In the afternoon, explore the Jew Town and visit the Paradesi Synagogue. End your day with a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance in the evening.
Chinese Fishing Nets: Entrance is free, approximately 1 hour
Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue: Entrance fee is INR 5 per person, approximately 1-2 hours
Kathakali Dance Performance: Ticket prices vary, approximately 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Fort Kochi is Kayees Rahmathulla Café, known for its delicious traditional South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Kashi Art Café, a cozy café showcasing local and global art alongside a mouthwatering menu. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, try The Rice Boat, located in the Taj Malabar Resort, offering an exquisite selection of seafood dishes prepared in Keralite style. Average cost for a meal is about 1,500 INR per person.
Thursday, November 23: Munnar
Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station known for its lush tea plantations and panoramic views. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea. In the afternoon, explore the expansive tea estates and indulge in a tea tasting session. End your day with a visit to the beautiful Top Station, which offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.
Tea Museum: Entrance fee is INR 170 per person, approximately 2 hours
Tea Estate Visit and Tasting: Prices vary, approximately 2-3 hours
Top Station: Entrance fee is INR 20 per person, approximately 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Saravana Bhavan. This restaurant offers a variety of South Indian dishes, such as idli and dosa. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, head to Rapsy Restaurant and Cafe. They serve a wide range of cuisine, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For dinner, dine at The Royal Plate. This restaurant specializes in traditional Kerala cuisine, with mouthwatering dishes like appam and fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Friday, November 24: Thekkady
Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park. In the morning, take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake and spot wildlife in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit the Spice Plantations and learn about the diverse range of spices grown in the region. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance showcasing local art forms.
Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Ticket prices vary, approximately 2 hours
Spice Plantations Visit: Entrance fee varies, approximately 1-2 hours
Cultural Performance: Ticket prices vary, approximately 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Caffeine, a cozy cafe with a wide variety of options including pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try Spice Garden Restaurant, a popular eatery known for its authentic local cuisine such as biryani, curries, and fish fry. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit Bamboo Village, a rustic restaurant offering delicious barbecue dishes and traditional Kerala delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Saturday, November 25: Alleppey Houseboat Experience
Embark on a memorable houseboat experience in Alleppey. In the morning, board your private houseboat and cruise through the picturesque backwaters, surrounded by coconut groves and paddy fields. Enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala lunch on the boat. Spend the afternoon relaxing and taking in the tranquil surroundings. Spend the night on the houseboat.
Alleppey Houseboat: Prices vary depending on the package, approximately 24 hours
Sunday, November 26: Kovalam Beach
Travel to Kovalam, a popular beach destination in Kerala. In the morning, relax on the golden sandy beaches and take a dip in the clear blue waters. Visit the Lighthouse Beach and enjoy water activities such as surfing and swimming. In the afternoon, explore the local markets and indulge in delicious seafood. Witness a mesmerizing sunset in the evening.
Kovalam Beaches: Entrance is free, full day
Water Activities: Prices vary, approximately 2-3 hours
Local Markets: Prices vary, approximately 1-2 hours
Monday, November 27: Trivandrum
Head to Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala. In the morning, visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its intricate Dravidian architecture. Explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery, which showcases a vast collection of art and artifacts. In the afternoon, relax in the lush greenery of the Kanakakkunnu Palace. End your day with a visit to the beautiful Kovalam Art Gallery.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Entrance is free, approximately 1-2 hours
Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Entrance fee is INR 20 per person, approximately 2 hours
Kanakakkunnu Palace and Kovalam Art Gallery: Entrance fee varies, approximately 1-2 hours
Tuesday, November 28: Departure
End your Kerala journey with fond memories and depart from Trivandrum. Take some time to stroll around the local markets and buy souvenirs before bidding farewell to this enchanting destination.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to visit the serene and less crowded Marari Beach, situated near Alleppey. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic. Additionally, the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for bird lovers, with its diverse avian species and enchanting surroundings.