Kerala
Kerala, known as "God’s Own Country," has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It was a major spice trading hub, attracting Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Chinese. The region saw the rise of powerful dynasties like the Cheras and later came under colonial rule, first by the Portuguese (1498), then the Dutch, and finally the British. Kerala played a vital role in India's independence movement and became a state in 1956. Known for its diverse culture, Ayurveda, and classical arts, Kerala is a blend of tradition and modernity, offering breathtaking landscapes, serene backwaters, and vibrant festivals.
Itenarary
Day 1: Arrival in Cochin & Transfer to Munnar
Morning / Afternoon: Pickup from Cochin Airport or Ernakulam Railway Station. Begin your drive up to the hills of Munnar.
En-route Sightseeing: Stop by the picturesque Valara and Cheeyappara Waterfalls, followed by a brief walk through local spice gardens.
Evening: Check in at your hotel in Munnar. Relax and take a stroll through the nearby tea gardens.
Overnight: Munnar.
Day 2: Munnar Sightseeing
Morning: Head to Eravikulam National Park (Rajamalai), home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
Mid-Day: Visit the KDHP Tea Museum to learn about tea processing and history.
Afternoon: Visit Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake. You can enjoy optional boating at the dam/lake.
Evening: Explore local tea markets or the Rose Garden.
Overnight: Munnar.
Day 3: Munnar & Thekkady (Periyar)
Morning: Enjoy breakfast and check out. Drive through scenic winding roads to Thekkady.
Afternoon: Check into your hotel. Take a boat safari at Periyar Lake inside the Wildlife Sanctuary (a great chance to spot wild elephants, boars, and birds along the water).
Evening: Take a guided tour of a Spice Plantation. Optionally, attend a cultural performance of Kathakali (classical dance) or Kalaripayattu (martial art).
Overnight: Thekkady.
Day 4: Thekkady & Alleppey
Morning: Check out from Thekkady and drive towards the backwater town of Alleppey.
Mid-Day: Arrive in Alleppey by 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM to check into a traditional Kerala Houseboat (or Backwater Resort).
Afternoon / Evening: Cruise along the backwaters, palm-fringed canals, and paddy fields. Enjoy freshly prepared authentic Keralan meals on board.
Overnight: Alleppey Resort / Hotel.
Day 5: Alleppey & Cochin Drop-off
Morning: Enjoy a calm morning cruise over breakfast on the backwaters. Check out around 9:00 AM.
Mid-Day: Drive back to Cochin. If time permits before your departure flight/train, visit Fort Kochi (Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church).
Departure: Drop-off at Cochin Airport / Ernakulam Railway Station for your return trip.
Places to Visit
Alleppey
Houseboat cruises, backwaters, Vembanad Lake
Munnar
Tea gardens, waterfalls, Eravikulam National Park
Thekkady
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, boat safari
Kochi
Fort Kochi, Chinese fishing nets, Mattancherry Palace
Varkala
Cliffs, Papanasam Beach, yoga retreats
Kovalam
Lighthouse Beach, Ayurveda retreats
Kasaragod
Bekal Fort, serene beaches
Thrissur
Guruvayur Temple, Kerala Kalamandalam
Wayanad
Lush forests, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam
Trivandrum
Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum
Kumarakom
Bird sanctuary, houseboat experience
Must-Know Facts About Kerala
God's Own Country
Kerala is often called "God’s Own Country" due to its breathtaking landscapes, serene backwaters, lush greenery, and rich cultural heritage.
Highest Literacy Rate in India
Kerala has the highest literacy rate (96%) in India, making it one of the most educated states.
Birthplace of Ayurveda
Kerala is the hub of Ayurveda, with centuries-old traditions of holistic healing and rejuvenation therapies.
Home to the World’s Richest Temple
The Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum is considered the richest temple in the world, with hidden treasures worth billions.
Unique Backwaters & Houseboats
The Alleppey and Kumarakom backwaters offer a unique houseboat experience, floating through serene canals and lush landscapes.
The Only State with 100% Primary Healthcare Access
Kerala boasts world-class healthcare with the best hospitals and traditional wellness centers.
Highest Life Expectancy in India
With an average life expectancy of 75+ years, Kerala has the best health indicators in India
First State with a 100% Digital Education System
Kerala is the first Indian state to fully digitize its school education system.
A Land of Festivals
Kerala celebrates grand festivals like Onam, Vishu, Thrissur Pooram, and Boat Races, showcasing its rich traditions.
The State with the Most Elephants in Temples
Kerala has the highest number of captive elephants, often seen in temples and festivals. The famous Guruvayur Temple has its own elephant sanctuary.
