Kerala Jan 2009 - where to stay how long?

Bebee

Hello,

I am a bit arguable regarding to the itinerary of my planned trip. I am not sure about where to stay for how long.
This is my current idea:

01.01.2009 Arrival at Bombay Airport at 4:15 am in the morning
02.01. Flight to Cochin and directly further to Alleppey
02.01.-04.01. Alleppey (including 24h Backwatercruise)
04.01. by Train to Varkala
04.01.-10.01. Varkala relaxing
10.01. by Train to Cochin
10.01.-12.01. Cochin
12.01.-13.01. Bombay

It would be very helpful for me, if you could give some comments or any suggestions for improvement.
Especially in case of Cochin an Allepppey. How long to stay there? Would it be profitable to stay in Alleppey for one day longer? And what about Cochin? Are 2 days profitable or is it just enough? And the last.... Bombay? Two hole days is fine, or better only one?
We have only 13 days in India/Kerala, so I would be very thankful, if you could help me a bit.

Regards
Bebee

prashshir

Hi BeBee,
I would like to share my opinion about your 13days trip to South India. First of all Kerala state is part of southern India. So at best one can say you wish to explore Kerala rather than South India. Congratulations you have selected the most tourist friendly state among all southern states of India.
Cochin is a very nice city and there are some sections such as Fort Kochi which i would like you to explore at leisure. Alleppy is close by around 80 to 90 k.ms from Cochin. Either you can choose to have a overnight backwater cruise on a Houseboat or explore backwaters on your own, both are recommended. It's a nice idea and if your budget permits you to spend time at some of the nice backwater resorts. Alleppy is unique in many ways and in Jan the weather shall be nice, if you are keen birdwather you'll sure enjoy it. If you love treks then i would suggest Munnar or Thekkady/Perriyar for forest reserves and mountain trakes. 5 to 6 days in Varkala is too much according to me but if you love sea and surf it's the place to spend time and relax.
Mumbai is like any other metro cities of world, fast,busy and crowded. But it has lot of history and due to its magnificant buildings and monuments it's worth spending some time. But don't expect too much. also hotels are expensive in Mumbai. Hope you shall have nice time in India..

rikko

If you are looking for quiet, relaxing and unhurried resort stay, I would recommend Marari Beach Resort. Excellent beach location and great seafood....no crowds. We were there in March this year.

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Amrik

CliveG

If you don't want to travel too far for a beach try Cherai beach which is 45 minutes from Cochin - quiet during the week, good accommodation and food available. Only downside to Marari beach is there can be strong currents and undertows - O.K.for strong swimmers.