A Cultural and Natural Odyssey: Varanasi to Munnar to Thekkady and Devikulam

Day 1: Spiritual Sojourn

Varanasi, India

6:00 AM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Start your day with an early morning boat ride on the Ganges River. Witness the serene beauty of sunrise and observe pilgrims performing rituals along the ghats.
Head to the Ghat area where the boats are stationed, 10 minutes from the city center.
INR 200, 2 hours

8:30 AM

Breakfast at a Local Cafe

Enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast at a local cafe; try stuffed parathas and chai (tea) to fuel your morning.
Cafe will be accessible near the ghats.
INR 150, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered temples in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The temple is within walking distance from the Ghat area.
Free entry, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Stroll through the Old City

Wander through the winding alleys of Varanasi's Old City, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, local shops, and unique architecture.
Walking tour, starting from the temple.
Free, 2 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Thali Restaurant

Delight in an authentic Varanasi thali featuring assorted local dishes, served on a platter.
Local restaurants are easily found throughout the Old City.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the breathtaking Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat as the sun sets, with lamp offerings and chanting invoking the spirit of Mother Ganga.
Dashashwamedh Ghat is a short walk from your lunch spot.
Free (donations welcomed), 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Hill Station Retreat

Munnar, India

9:00 AM

Travel to Munnar

Fly from Varanasi to Kochi and then take a taxi to Munnar, a beautiful hill station known for its tea plantations and scenic views.
Taxi ride from Kochi Airport to Munnar takes about 4-5 hours.
INR 1500 for taxi, 5 hours

2:00 PM

Check-in and Lunch at Hotel

After arriving in Munnar, check in to your hotel and enjoy a delicious lunch featuring regional specialties.
Hotels are located throughout Munnar.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Tea Museum

Explore the Tea Museum and learn about the history of tea production in Munnar. Sample some freshly brewed tea while enjoying stunning views.
The museum is a 15-minute taxi ride from your hotel.
INR 125, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Relax at Blossom Hydel Park

Unwind in the peaceful Blossom Hydel Park, surrounded by vibrant flowers and stunning landscapes, perfect for an evening stroll.
Located a short drive from the museum.
INR 30, 1 hour
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Day 3: Nature's Serenade

Munnar, India

8:00 AM

Visit Mattupetty Dam

Be captivated by the serene beauty of Mattupetty Dam. Enjoy a boat ride or simply soak in the views of the emerald waters.
Mattupetty is a 30-minute drive from Munnar town.
INR 20, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Trek to Meesapulimala Peak

Spend the morning on an exhilarating trek to Meesapulimala Peak, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.
Guided treks depart from the base camp in Munnar.
INR 2000 for trekking, 6 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, trying authentic Kerala dishes like appam and stew.
Restaurants are widely available in Munnar.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Wildlife Encounters

Thekkady, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Thekkady

Take a scenic drive to Thekkady, known for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations.
Thekkady is about a 3-hour drive from Munnar.
INR 1000 for taxi, 3 hours

11:00 AM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Discover the rich biodiversity at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Go on a jungle safari for an opportunity to spot elephants and various wildlife.
Book a safari at the entrance of the sanctuary.
INR 450 for safari, 3 hours

2:30 PM

Lunch at a Spice Plantation

Enjoy a delicious Kerala-style lunch at a local spice plantation while learning about the spices grown in the region.
Spice plantations are located near the wildlife sanctuary.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Boat Ride on Periyar Lake

Experience the tranquility of Periyar Lake on a relaxing boat ride, a great way to see wildlife up close.
The boat jetty is within the sanctuary.
INR 150 for boat ride, 1 hour
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Day 5: Scenic Heights

Devikulam, India

8:00 AM

Travel to Devikulam

Depart for Devikulam, a serene hill station, famous for its beautiful meadows and emerald hills.
Devikulam is approximately a 30-minute drive from Thekkady.
INR 600 for taxi, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Explore Sita Devi Lake

Visit Sita Devi Lake, a tranquil spot surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a peaceful morning walk or a picnic.
Lake is easily accessible by car.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at a Hilltop Restaurant

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a hilltop restaurant with a view, sampling local cuisine and enjoying the fresh mountain air.
Restaurants are dispersed throughout Devikulam.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Rajamalai National Park

Explore the natural beauty of Rajamalai National Park and catch sight of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr in its natural habitat.
The park entrance is a short drive from the restaurant.
INR 100 for entry, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Travel Back to Varanasi

Return to Varanasi from Devikulam, preparing for your onward journey home.
Taxi back to Kochi Airport will take about 3-4 hours. Fly back to Varanasi.
INR 1500 for taxi and flight costs vary, 4-5 hours
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