5-Day Adventure Itinerary for South Kerala in June 2023

1. Day 1: Trekking in the Western Ghats at Munnar
   2 hours (62 miles) from Cochin International Airport

   Begin your adventure with a trek in the Western Ghats at Munnar. The hills will take you through tea and spice plantations and provide stunning views of the landscape. In the morning, trek to the Top Station and see the cloud-topped hills. You can take a break at noon to visit the Munnar Tea Museum and have lunch. In the afternoon, visit Eravikulam National Park, where you can see the rare Nilgiri Tahr.

2. Day 2: Bamboo Rafting in Periyar National Park
   3 hours (91 miles) from Munnar

   Start your day with a bamboo rafting experience at Periyar National Park. You'll glide over the serene waters and spot the wildlife in their natural habitat. You can then explore the spice plantations in the afternoon, where you can touch, smell and even taste the different spices. In the evening, watch a Kathakali performance, the traditional dance of Kerala, at the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre in Thekkady.

3. Day 3: Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey Backwaters
   3 hours (88 miles) from Periyar National Park

   Take a leisurely houseboat cruise in the Alleppey backwaters. You'll pass through the scenic canals and lagoons and get to experience the local way of life. In the morning, you can visit the Marari Beach where you can sunbathe, swim or take a stroll. In the evening, you can visit the St Mary's Forane Church in Champakulam.

4. Day 4: Beaches and Surfing in Varkala
   3 hours (83 miles) from Alleppey

   Head to Varkala Beach, where you can try surfing and other water sports. You can also visit the Anjengo Fort, an old British fort, and the Janardhana Swamy Temple. In the evening, enjoy the sunset at the Varkala Cliff, where you can find many restaurants and cafes.

5. Day 5: Kayaking in Kollam
   1 hour 15 minutes (39 miles) from Varkala

   End your adventure with kayaking in Kollam. You'll paddle your way through the Ashtamudi Lake and explore the mangrove forests, small islands, and the local fishing villages. You can also visit the Thangassery Light House and the Kollam Beach. In the evening, enjoy the Kollam Fish Market.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, you can visit the Athirappilly Waterfalls, the Silent Valley National Park, or the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. You can also take a side trip to the Lakshadweep Islands or the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. To maximize your fun, consider hiring a local guide who can show you the off-beat trails and hidden gems. Finally, try the local cuisine and street food like appam, puttu, and dosa.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Munnar Trekking (1 day, INR 1000)
• Bamboo Rafting at Periyar National Park (1 day, INR 1500)
• Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey Backwaters (1 day, INR 5000)
• Varkala Beaches and Surfing (1 day, INR 2000)
• Kayaking in Kollam (1 day, INR 2500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 12,500