Exploring the Best of Kerala in 5 Days

1. Day 1: Kochi
   40 minutes (22.1 km) from Cochin International Airport

   Start your day with a visit to the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace. This 16th-century palace features exquisite murals and artifacts that depict Kerala's history. Afterward, head to the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, which houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama. In the evening, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and witness fishermen at work.

2. Day 2: Munnar
   4 hours 20 minutes (120 km) from Kochi

   Start your day with a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and other exotic flora and fauna. Afterward, head to the tea plantations of Munnar and learn about the art of tea-making. Then, visit the Rose Garden and enjoy a stroll amid the fragrant blooms. End your day with a visit to Top Station for a breathtaking view of the Western Ghats.

3. Day 3: Thekkady
   3 hours 30 minutes (91 km) from Munnar

   Start your day with a visit to Periyar National Park, which boasts a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. Take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake and spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. In the afternoon, head to the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre to watch a thrilling martial art performance. End your day with a visit to the stunning Mangala Devi Temple.

4. Day 4: Alleppey
   3 hours 20 minutes (150 km) from Thekkady

   Start your day with a visit to the Alleppey Beach and enjoy a relaxing stroll along the shoreline. Then, head to the Punnamada Lake and take a leisurely backwater cruise on a traditional houseboat. Afterward, visit the Alleppey Lighthouse and climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city. In the evening, visit the Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple.

5. Day 5: Kovalam
   3 hours 30 minutes (160 km) from Alleppey

   Start your day with a visit to the Kovalam Beach and enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. Then, head to the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium and learn about the fascinating marine life of Kerala. Afterward, visit the Halcyon Castle, a beautiful seaside palace that showcases a mix of European and traditional Indian architecture. End your day with a visit to the Napier Museum and Art Gallery to admire the exquisite art and artifacts.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, you can consider visiting the Athirappilly Waterfalls, the Thrissur Pooram Festival, and the Kalaripayattu Centre. You can also take a side trip to the picturesque hill station of Wayanad. To make the most of your trip, we recommend hiring a local guide who can take you off the beaten path and show you hidden gems.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mattancherry Palace (1-2 hours, INR 5-10)
• St. Francis Church (30 minutes - 1 hour, INR 5)
• Chinese Fishing Nets (30 minutes - 1 hour, INR 50-100)
• Eravikulam National Park (3-4 hours, INR 120-475)
• Tea Plantation Tour (2-3 hours, INR 500-1500)
• Rose Garden (1-2 hours, INR 30-50)
• Top Station (1-2 hours, INR 20)
• Periyar National Park (3-4 hours, INR 300-1500)
• Martial Art Performance (1-2 hours, INR 250-500)
• Mangala Devi Temple (1-2 hours, INR 100)
• Alleppey Beach (1-2 hours, free)
• Houseboat Cruise (3-4 hours, INR 5000-15000)
• Alleppey Lighthouse (1-2 hours, INR 20)
• Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Kovalam Beach (1-2 hours, free)
• Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium (1-2 hours, INR 20-50)
• Halcyon Castle (1-2 hours, INR 50)
• Napier Museum and Art Gallery (1-2 hours, INR 20-100)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 7,215-19,605 per person