5-Day Exciting Kerala Itinerary for Friends: Backwaters, Beaches, and Hill Stations

Day 1: Exploring Kochi

Kochi, Kerala on April 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Art Cafe

Start your day with a healthy breakfast in this charming café known for its fresh juices and waffles amidst artistic vibes.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fort Kochi

Explore Fort Kochi's colonial architecture including the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, Dutch Palace, and St. Francis Church. It’s a lively historical precinct.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fusion Bay

Enjoy authentic Kerala seafood and other South Indian delicacies at this cozy seaside restaurant near Fort Kochi.
INR800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue

Visit the antique shops in Jew Town and admire the architecture of the Paradesi Synagogue. A shopper’s delight for unique crafts.
INR50 entry for synagogue, 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening stroll at Marine Drive

Take a relaxing walk along Marine Drive promenade while enjoying sunset views over the backwaters.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Rice Boat

Dine on exquisite coastal Kerala cuisine in a luxurious floating restaurant setting at the Taj Malabar Resort.
INR1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Hill Station Retreat

Munnar, Kerala on April 17, 2025

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty South Indian breakfast at your Kochi hotel before departure.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Munnar

Drive approximately 4 hours through scenic Western Ghats mountain roads to reach Munnar, known for its tea plantations.
Taxi fare approx INR3000, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Rapsy Restaurant

Savor traditional Kerala meals in a friendly, budget-friendly atmosphere.
INR400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Tea Museum

Learn about the tea-making process and history of tea plantations in Munnar at this well-curated museum.
INR50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Mattupetty Dam

Engage in boating and enjoy the scenic views of the dam surrounded by hills and greenery.
INR100 for boating, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan

Indulge in authentic South Indian vegetarian dishes at this popular restaurant.
INR500, 1 hour
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Day 3: Nature and Waterfalls

Munnar, Kerala on April 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with fresh local ingredients before your day trip.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Eravikulam National Park

Explore this park famous for its endangered Nilgiri Tahr and panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Open 8:30AM to 5PM.
INR250, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel

Return to town for a relaxed lunch at your hotel or nearby cafe.
INR600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Attukal Waterfalls

Take a short drive and hike to view these beautiful waterfalls surrounded by lush forests.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Evening Tea at Town

Enjoy freshly brewed tea at a local cafe soaking in the cool hill station vibe.
INR150, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at the Copper Castle

Dine on multi-cuisine dishes with great ambiance in Munnar town.
INR700, 1 hour
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Day 4: Wildlife & Spice Plantations

Thekkady, Kerala on April 19, 2025

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Grab a quick breakfast before the road trip to Thekkady.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Thekkady

Drive 3 hours south to Thekkady, gateway to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Taxi fare approx INR2500, 3 hours

11:30AM

Check-in and Lunch at Hotel

Relax and have lunch at your hotel or resort surrounded by nature.
INR800, 1 hour

1:00PM

Spice Plantation Visit

Take a guided tour of nearby spice gardens and learn about spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.
INR150, 2 hours

4:00PM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Boat Safari

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot elephants, deer, and birds in their natural habitat. Safari runs 9AM-3PM and 4PM-5PM.
INR150, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Carmelia Restaurant

Feast on Kerala-style hot and spicy cuisine in a cozy setting in Thekkady town.
INR600, 1 hour
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Day 5: Backwater Houseboat

Alleppey, Kerala on April 20, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast before departing to Alleppey for your backwater experience.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Alleppey

Drive 3 hours to Alleppey, famous for serene backwater canals and houseboats.
Taxi fare approx INR3000, 3 hours

11:30AM

Check-in and Lunch on Houseboat

Board a traditional Kerala houseboat and enjoy lunch while cruising through scenic backwaters.
INR4000 per person for day cruise, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Backwater Cruise

Relax on the houseboat as it sails past paddy fields, coconut groves, and quaint villages.
Included in houseboat fare, 3 hours

5:00PM

Disembark and Evening at Alleppey Beach

Walk along Alleppey Beach and enjoy the fresh sea breeze and sunset.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Halais Restaurant

Sample delicious Kerala seafood and biryanis in this well-loved local favorite.
INR700, 1 hour
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