Welcome travel enthusiasts! Sanmoi is here!!! As I began my week-long adventure in Kerala, South India, I was thrilled to uncover its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Our plan led us to discover picturesque spots like Munnar’s verdant hills and Alleppey’s tranquil backwaters.
Route to Kerala:
Our trip started by taking a flight for Rs. 25,662 for two people. After landing at Kochi Airport, we were greeted by our cab driver, who took Rs. 18,600. On day one, we set off on the winding roads towards Munnar, stopping at a few waterfalls and spice gardens along the way. The entry fee was Rs 100 per person.
For breakfast, we tried the traditional Kerala dish of Kadala Curry with Puttu and Masala Dosa at Clay Oven. Our first night was spent at the Hotel Grand Plaza in Munnar.
Accommodation in Kerala:
- Our first night was spent at the Hotel Grand Plaza in Munnar for Rs. 11,170.
- We spent the night at The Elephant Court Resort, which cost us Rs. 10,149 in Thekkady.
- Also, we stayed at the Elixir Cliff Beach Resort and Spa, which cost us Rs. 14,150.
- In Alleppey, our homestay, Neela Waters Homestay, was for Rs. 3,920 and was located right on the beach.
Places to visit in Kerala
- Jeep Safari, Munnar:
On day two, we started our day with a Jeep Safari for Rs. 4,000. Due to the crowds at Munnar’s popular locations, we opted for off-beat locations instead. Our Jeep Safari took us to Ripple Waterfall, Hanging Bridge, Ponmudi Dam, and Nadukani ViewPoint.
- Tea Museum:
After lunch at Annapurna, a pure vegetarian restaurant, we visited the Tea Museum. The entry fee was Rs. 125 per person, and we watched a documentary, learned about the tea-making process, and tasted different varieties of tea.
- Gap Road:
On our third day, we left Munnar and headed towards Thekkady. We visited the tea gardens on Gap Road and Anayirangal Dam View Point on the way.
- Periyar Tiger Reserve:
After reaching Thekkady, we went straight to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, where entry was Rs. 45 per person, and boarded the shuttle service. We sailed through the Periyar Tiger Reserve Lake with a Rs. 255 per person entry fee on a ferry and witnessed Indian bison and deer.
- Kathakali and Kalaripayattu show:
We tried traditional Kerala lunch and then watched a Kathakali and Kalaripayattu show, which gave us a glimpse of Kerala’s traditional arts. The entry fee was Rs. 400 per person.
- Varkala:
On day four, we left from Thekkady and made our way to Varkala. After a lunch break, we explored Jatayu Earth’s Centre, where the entry fee was Rs. 250 + GST per person. Then, we rode around on a rented bike for Rs. 600 per day, checking out the North Cliff and cafes. With the beautiful sunset in the evening, we went back to the hotel.
- Surfing:
On our fifth day, we joined a surfing session, which cost Rs 1,500 per head. They taught us how to pop on the board. After lunch, we rented a bike and explored the North Cliff and its cosy cafes. In the evening, we headed back to our resort and caught the sunset at South Cliff.
- Alleppey:
On our sixth day, we left our resort for Alleppey. We went on a Shikara ride, paying Rs. 3500 for three hours. After a lunch of Karimeen fish fry and Madhya by the backwaters, we explored more. Then, we caught the sunset at the beach and had dinner at Cafe Catamaran, close to our homestay.
- Boat ride, Kochi:
On our last day, we had breakfast, checked out, and did some saree shopping at a local store. Then, we visited the lighthouse before bidding farewell to the city. Heading to Kochi, we enjoyed a boat ride through the backwaters and mangroves, paying Rs 3500 per boat.
- Fort Kochi & Museum:
Next, we toured Fort Kochi, stopping by a renowned church and grabbing lunch at a nearby café. With heavy rain pouring down, we rushed to catch our flight back to Pune. We left, but on the way to the airport, we went to the Kerala Folklore Museum, which helped us escape the rain.
After navigating through heavy traffic, we reached the airport and flew back to Pune, concluding our wonderful seven-day journey in Kerala.
Best time to visit Kerala:
The best time to visit Kerala is during the winter season, from September to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity levels. If you want to experience Kerala’s beautiful lagoons, serene canals, and aromatic plantations, winter is the ideal time for your trip.
Necessary things to pack:
- Prepare for Kerala’s unpredictable weather with an umbrella or raincoat.
- Beat the heat with loose cotton clothes, and protect your eyes with sunglasses.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and essential medicines.
- Stay hydrated with water bottles.
- Pack snacks, candies, and a power bank for your journey.
Tips for Kerala travellers:
- Avoid late-night journeys.
- Smoking is banned in public areas.
- Temples often have strict dress codes, and some may not allow entry to non-Hindus.
The total expense for Kerela’s trip was around INR 1.20 Lac. We promised ourselves to return to this enchanting land, where time seems to stand still and every moment is a cherished adventure.For more captivating travel tales visit https://sowl.in/stories.
Happy Travel!!! Safe Travel!!!
