Kerala With Friends: A Trip to Remember

Kerala Friends Tour

Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," offers a perfect destination for friends looking to explore its rich cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and vibrant traditions. With lush greenery, tranquil backwaters, pristine beaches, and misty hill stations, Kerala provides an unforgettable experience for travelers of all kinds. This Kerala Friends Tour Package is specially designed for groups of friends who want to explore the hidden gems of this beautiful state.

Day 1: Arrival in Kochi – Gateway to Kerala

Your journey begins with your arrival in Kochi, often called the "Queen of the Arabian Sea." A city steeped in history and culture, Kochi offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and modernity. After checking into your hotel, take time to visit popular attractions like:

• Fort Kochi: A historic neighborhood known for its colonial-era architecture, churches, and the famous Chinese Fishing Nets.
• Jewish Synagogue: One of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth.
• Mattancherry Palace: Also known as the Dutch Palace, this museum showcases Kerala's rich history.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a classical art form that Kerala is renowned for.

# Day 2: Munnar – The Land of Tea Gardens

After breakfast, drive to Munnar, one of Kerala's most popular hill stations, located at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level. The winding roads through the misty hills, with views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and valleys, make this a truly scenic journey.

Popular places to visit in Munnar include:

• Eravikulam National Park: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and breathtaking views of the rolling hills.
• Tea Museum: Learn about the history and art of tea cultivation in Munnar.
• Attukal Waterfalls: A perfect spot for nature lovers to relax and enjoy the serene beauty.

You can spend your evening exploring the town's local markets or simply sipping a cup of freshly brewed tea amidst the cool breeze.

Day 3: Thekkady – Wildlife and Spice Trails

On day three, head to Thekkady, famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife during a boat safari on the Periyar Lake. Thekkady is also known for its spice plantations. Visiting one of these plantations will allow you to experience the scents and flavors of spices like cardamom, black pepper, and cloves.

In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the spice gardens, and enjoy a traditional Kerala sadhya, a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf.

Day 4: Alleppey – Houseboat Stay in Backwaters

Your next destination is Alleppey (Alappuzha), the Venice of the East. Alleppey is famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. One of the highlights of any Kerala tour is staying overnight on a houseboat, drifting along the serene backwaters lined with coconut palms and paddy fields. The gentle ripples of the water and the beautiful sunset make for a peaceful evening with friends.

Day 5: Kovalam – Beach Bliss

On the final day of your tour, head to Kovalam, a coastal town known for its crescent-shaped beaches. Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach offer clean sands and clear blue waters perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. You and your friends can try water sports like surfing, swimming, and even parasailing. Don't forget to catch a stunning sunset over the Arabian Sea.

Famous Dishes of Kerala

Kerala's cuisine is as diverse and vibrant as its landscapes. A must-try dish is the Kerala Sadya, a traditional feast that includes rice, curries, pickles, and desserts served on a banana leaf. Other iconic dishes include:

• Appam with Stew: A soft pancake made from fermented rice batter, served with a rich coconut-based stew.
• Puttu and Kadala Curry: A steamed rice cake served with a black chickpea curry.
• Karimeen Pollichathu: A local fish marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaf before being grilled.

Side Seeing Places in Kerala

Kerala offers plenty of side-seeing options, including:

• Varkala Beach: A less crowded beach with high cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea.
• Athirapally Waterfalls: Known as the "Niagara of India," this is Kerala's largest waterfall.
• Vagamon: A serene hill station, perfect for paragliding and trekking.

A Kerala Friends Tour Package offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. With its scenic hill stations, serene backwaters, and golden beaches, along with mouth-watering cuisine and warm hospitality, Kerala promises an unforgettable experience for you and your friends.