Day 1: Arrive in Kochi – The Gateway to Kerala

Highlights: Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, Jew Town
Start your journey in the coastal city of Kochi, a melting pot of history and culture. Known for its Portuguese and Dutch colonial architecture, Kochi gives a unique glimpse into Kerala’s past.

  1. Fort Kochi: Begin your day exploring Fort Kochi. Stroll through charming lanes lined with colonial buildings and art cafes.
  2. Chinese Fishing Nets: Head over to the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets by the waterfront, a symbol of Kochi.
  3. Mattancherry Palace: Visit this Portuguese-built palace to learn about Kerala’s royal heritage.
  4. Jew Town: End your day in Jew Town, exploring antique shops and the Paradesi Synagogue.

Evening: Savor Kerala cuisine at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Kochi to Munnar – Embrace the Hills

Highlights: Tea Plantations, Attukad Waterfalls, Eravikulam National Park
On the second day, take a scenic drive from Kochi to Munnar (about 4 hours). Munnar is a picturesque hill station surrounded by tea plantations, misty valleys, and beautiful waterfalls.

  1. Tea Plantations: Take a guided tour of a tea plantation to see the tea-making process and enjoy fresh brews.
  2. Eravikulam National Park: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park offers mesmerizing views and chances for wildlife spotting.
  3. Attukad Waterfalls: Stop by the Attukad Waterfalls, a hidden gem, for a short hike and a beautiful photo op.

Evening: Relax in your Munnar resort, surrounded by nature’s tranquility.

Day 3: Munnar to Thekkady – Wildlife and Spice Plantations

Highlights: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Spice Plantations
Travel from Munnar to Thekkady (3-4 hours), home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and lush spice plantations.

  1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Take an early morning boat safari on Periyar Lake to spot elephants, deer, and, if you’re lucky, even tigers!
  2. Spice Plantations: Tour a spice plantation and learn about cardamom, pepper, and vanilla. The fragrant fields are an experience in themselves.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Kerala-style dinner with local spices in Thekkady.

Day 4: Thekkady to Alleppey – Houseboat Experience on the Backwaters

Highlights: Houseboat Cruise, Backwater Canals, Traditional Kerala Cuisine
On day four, head to Alleppey (about 4 hours), often called the “Venice of the East,” for its extensive network of backwaters.

  1. Houseboat Stay: Board a houseboat to experience the Kerala backwaters up close. Cruise through canals, passing lush greenery, coconut palms, and local villages.
  2. Backwater Life: Watch life on the banks of the canals as locals paddle by, go fishing, and work on the land. It’s a great way to unwind and get a feel for Kerala’s natural beauty.

Evening: Enjoy a delicious meal cooked on board with local flavors and ingredients. Spend the night on the houseboat under a starry sky.

Day 5: Alleppey to Kovalam – Sun, Sand, and Sea

Highlights: Kovalam Beach, Lighthouse Beach, Sunset Views
On your last day, travel south to Kovalam (4-5 hours), a coastal town famous for its crescent-shaped beaches.

  1. Kovalam Beach: Relax and unwind on the golden sands, or take a swim in the warm waters.
  2. Lighthouse Beach: Climb the lighthouse for panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
  3. Sunset: Watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting beautiful hues across the ocean.

Evening: Enjoy a seafood feast at a beachside café, a perfect end to your Kerala adventure.