7-Day Itinerary: Munnar, Thekkady, Allepey, and Varkala

Friday, December 22: Munnar

In the morning, explore the lush tea plantations and admire the breathtaking views from the Top Station viewpoint in Munnar. Spend the afternoon visiting the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. End the day with a serene and relaxing walk around the beautiful Kundala Lake.

• Top Station: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Eravikulam National Park: Estimated Cost - INR 120 (foreigners), INR 90 (Indians), Time Spent - 3 hours
• Kundala Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Saturday, December 23: Thekkady

In the morning, embark on a thrilling wildlife safari in the Periyar National Park, known for its abundant flora and fauna. Afterward, enjoy a scenic boat ride in the Periyar Lake. In the evening, explore the lively local market and taste some delicious Kerala spices.

• Periyar National Park: Estimated Cost - INR 450 (foreigners), INR 150 (Indians), Time Spent - 4 hours
• Periyar Lake: Estimated Cost - INR 225 (foreigners), INR 50 (Indians), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Local Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours

Sunday, December 24: Allepey

In the morning, embark on a scenic backwater cruise in a houseboat, gliding through the tranquil backwaters of Allepey. Enjoy lunch onboard and take in the picturesque views of coconut groves and traditional villages. Spend the evening exploring the Allepey Beach and witness a mesmerizing sunset.

• Backwater Cruise: Estimated Cost - INR 6,000 - 10,000 per night (houseboat), Time Spent - 6 hours
• Allepey Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Monday, December 25: Allepey

On this Christmas Day, take a morning stroll through the Allepey town and visit the famous St. Mary's Forane Church. In the afternoon, indulge in some authentic Kerala cuisine at a local restaurant. In the evening, attend a Kathakali performance, a traditional dance-drama of Kerala.

• St. Mary's Forane Church: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Kerala Cuisine: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Kathakali Performance: Estimated Cost - INR 300 - 500, Time Spent - 3 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Varkala

Start your day with a visit to the Janardanaswamy Temple and witness its architectural beauty. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the stunning Papanasam Beach, known for its black sand and therapeutic properties. In the evening, explore the lively and vibrant Varkala Cliff, lined with shops, cafes, and breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.

• Janardanaswamy Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Papanasam Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Varkala Cliff: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Varkala

Embark on a morning trek to the pristine Kappil Lake and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Afterward, rejuvenate with a healing Ayurvedic massage in one of the renowned wellness centers. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the picturesque Varkala Beach.

• Kappil Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Varkala Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Thursday, December 28: Departure

Enjoy your last morning in Varkala by exploring the local shops for souvenirs and handicrafts. Bid farewell to the beautiful coastal town before departing for your onward journey.

• Shopping: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Departure

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, visit the picturesque Mattupetty Dam near Munnar, where you can indulge in boating and enjoy the scenic beauty. In Thekkady, explore the lesser-known Mangala Devi Temple, nestled amidst the Periyar Tiger Reserve. In Allepey, take a village tour to experience the local rural life and interact with the friendly locals. Lastly, in Varkala, discover the serene Varkala Tunnel, which offers a unique viewpoint of the rocky coastline.

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