The Best Of Kerala

When you reach Cochin, head to Munnar, a place of incredible beauty, offering peace. Munnar is high up, at 1,600 meters, where the vast tea gardens, untouched valleys, and mountains stretch out before you. Sometimes, you’ll find yourself above the clouds, watching the mist softly wrap around the mountaintops. Munnar is also home to unique plants, including the Neelakurinji, a flower that turns the hills blue every twelve years, with its next appearance in 2018. On your journey to Munnar, don’t miss the Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls. Cheeyappara flows in seven tiers, while Valara features a series of waterfalls nestled in lush forests. Your day ends with a relaxing stay at a hotel.

After your morning meal, head out to explore Munnar. First, check out Mattupetty Dam (entry fee not included). This dam, set amidst mountains, is a marvel of engineering and offers delightful views. Apart from the beautiful tea gardens and lush meadows, the nearby Shola forests are great for hiking and bird-watching.

Next, visit Kundala Dam (entry fee not included), where you can see the rare Neela Kurunji flowers that bloom once every twelve years, adorning the surrounding hills and valleys near Kundala Lake.

On the way, stop by Echo Point and Pothamedu View Point. Echo Point is known for its evergreen landscapes, while View Point offers stunning views of the area’s coffee, tea, and cardamom farms. These spots are ideal for nature lovers and trekkers. End your day with an overnight stay at a hotel.

Once you’ve had your breakfast, leave the hotel and travel to Thekkady, a place famous for its rich variety of natural spices. Nestled in the Periyar forests, Thekkady boasts one of India’s most prestigious wildlife sanctuaries, spreading across 777 square kilometres and featuring a 26-square-kilometer man-made lake.

After checking into your hotel, take some time to explore. Visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (entry fee not included), a sanctuary that is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, deer, tigers, bison, and unique monkeys and langurs. Although it can get quite crowded, the scenic mountain views and jungle treks offer a delightful experience. In the evening, consider a boat ride on the lake (extra charges apply) to watch the animals in their natural habitat. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at the hotel.

Once you finish breakfast, leave the hotel and head towards Alleppey, famously called the “Venice of the East” because of its stunning natural scenery. Alleppey is well-known for its backwater cruises and boat races. Upon arrival, check into your hotel or houseboat. If you’re on a houseboat, enjoy a cruise through the slim canals, passing by rice paddies, coconut groves, and traditional coir-making villages in Alleppey. Spend the night in Alleppey for a memorable experience.

Finish your breakfast and leave the hotel to head for Kovalam. Known worldwide for its three connected crescent beaches, Kovalam is often called the “Paradise of the South.” Once you get there, check into your hotel and spend some time relaxing in your room. In the evening, take a stroll to witness the spectacular meeting of the endless sea and sky. Kovalam transforms from golden sands in the daylight to silver sands under the moon, offering a breathtaking view against the backdrop of tall rocks and serene blue waters. This beach becomes especially magical on moonlit nights. Stay overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, move to Kochi and check into your hotel. Then, set off to explore the historic areas of Fort Cochin and Mattancherry, where the air is rich with history’s scent. Visit the Jewish Synagogue, a 400-year-old place of worship, where you’ll be captivated by a collection of ancient artefacts in its main hall, enhancing its splendour.

Next, see the St. Francis Church, famous for its exquisite design and serene environment, and noted as one of the earliest churches established by Europeans in India.

Then, explore the Santa Cruz Basilica. For an additional fee, you can visit this magnificent church, one of India’s eight basilicas, renowned for its stunning architecture and a favourite among visitors all year round.

Discover Vasco House, a structure in the Portuguese architectural style, was reputed to be Vasco Da Gama’s residence during his Kochi visits until his death in 1524.

Finally, visit Fort Kochi beach and the Chinese Fishing Nets, unique to India, displaying massive fishing nets from China. End your day with a return to the hotel for a night’s stay.

After having breakfast, leave the hotel and head to the Cochin airport to catch your flight back home, carrying lovely memories of God’s Own Country with you.