Morning: Start your Kerala trip by exploring the historic Fort Kochi area. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, which were introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan in the 14th century. Then head to St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Continue your walk towards the picturesque Jewish Quarter of Mattancherry, where you can visit the Paradesi Synagogue, built in 1568.
Afternoon: Try some local cuisine at one of the many street vendors or restaurants in the area, like the popular Dal Roti or Kashi Art Café. Then visit the Dutch Palace, also known as Mattancherry Palace, known for its stunning murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
Evening: Take a stroll along the beach, or watch the sunset at the Mahatma Gandhi Beach and the nearby Vasco da Gama Square. Attend a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional Hindu dance-drama, at the Kerala Kathakali Centre or the Cochin Cultural Centre.
Morning: Travel to the scenic hill station of Munnar, known for its tea plantations and misty mountains. Visit the Tea Museum at the Nallathanni Estate to learn about the history and production of tea in the region. Take a tour of the tea factory and taste some of the finest teas.
Afternoon: Trek to the top of the Meesapulimala Peak, the second highest peak in the Western Ghats, for a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and forests. Alternatively, you can go on a guided hike to the nearby Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India.
Evening: Visit the nearby Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and a variety of other flora and fauna. Take a stroll along the Echo Point, named after its natural echo phenomenon.
Other attractions and experiences you may want to consider include:
- Backwater cruises in Alleppey or Kumarakom
- Ayurvedic spa treatments in Kovalam or Varkala
- Wildlife safaris in Periyar National Park or Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
- Beaches in Kovalam, Varkala, or Cherai
- Side trips to the hill stations of Wayanad or Thekkady
Maximise your fun by trying out the local cuisine, like appam and stew, puttu and kadala curry, or fish molee. Don't forget to haggle at local markets like the Jew Town Antique Market or the Lulu Mall for souvenirs and mementos. And most importantly, enjoy the scenic beauty and warmth of Kerala's people and culture.