3 day itinerary for Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady

Itinerary

A trip with friends to Cochin, Munnar, and Thekkady sounds like a fantastic adventure! Let’s dive into an exciting 3-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and a bit of adventure.

## Day 1: Cochin (Kochi) – The Gateway to Kerala

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try some traditional Kerala dishes like appam and stew or puttu and kadala curry.
• Explore Fort Kochi: After breakfast, head to Fort Kochi. Stroll along the picturesque streets, visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets, and check out the St. Francis Church, where Vasco da Gama was originally buried.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Seafood Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant. The fresh catch of the day is a must-try!
• Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue: Post-lunch, explore Jew Town, famous for its antique shops and the beautiful Paradesi Synagogue. Don’t forget to check out the spice market!

Evening:

• Sunset at Marine Drive: Head to Marine Drive for a leisurely walk along the waterfront. It’s a great spot to relax and take some group photos.
• Dinner and Kathakali Show: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view, and then catch a Kathakali performance to experience Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.

## Day 2: Munnar – The Hill Station Escape

Morning:

• Travel to Munnar: After breakfast, set off for Munnar (about a 4-hour drive). The scenic drive through the Western Ghats is breathtaking!
• Check-in at Your Hotel: Once you arrive, check into your hotel and freshen up.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Eatery: Grab lunch at a local eatery and fuel up for the adventures ahead.
• Tea Gardens and Museum: Visit the famous tea gardens and the Tea Museum. Take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy some fresh tea!

Evening:

• Eravikulam National Park: Head to Eravikulam National Park for a chance to see the Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy stunning views of the rolling hills. If time permits, take a short trek.
• Dinner and Bonfire: Return to your hotel for dinner. If your accommodation allows, gather around a bonfire with your friends to share stories and enjoy the cool mountain air.

## Day 3: Thekkady – Wildlife and Adventure

Morning:

• Travel to Thekkady: After breakfast, set off for Thekkady (about a 3-hour drive). Enjoy the scenic views along the way!
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Once you arrive, head to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. You can opt for a boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife like elephants, deer, and various bird species.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some Kerala-style biryani or fish curry.
• Spice Plantation Tour: After lunch, take a guided tour of a spice plantation. Learn about the various spices grown in the region and even participate in some activities like harvesting.

Evening:

• Kalaripayattu Show: In the evening, catch a Kalaripayattu performance, a traditional martial art of Kerala. It’s thrilling and a great way to end your trip!
• Dinner and Reflection: Enjoy your final dinner with your friends, reminiscing about the adventures you’ve had over the past few days.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Consider hiring a private vehicle for convenience, especially when traveling between locations.
• Stay Hydrated: The weather can be humid, so keep water handy.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t hesitate to try local dishes; Kerala is known for its rich culinary heritage!

This itinerary is packed with fun, adventure, and relaxation, perfect for a trip with friends. Enjoy your journey through the beautiful landscapes of Kerala! 🌴✨