Additional Activities and Approximate Charges

 Kathakali is a classical dance-drama from Kerala, India — famous for its elaborate costumes, vibrant face makeup, expressive gestures, and storytelling through movement rather than spoken dialogue. Originating around the 17th century, it traditionally depicts stories from Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, brought to life with rhythmic music, drums, cymbals, singing, and highly stylised acting. 

• A makeup demonstration (showing how performers prepare) 
• Live music (instruments like chenda, madhalam) 
• Facial and hand gestures to narrate mythological tales. 
• Duration: usually 1–2 hours for tourist shows, though full traditional plays can be several hours long.
• Standard daily shows: ~₹300 – ₹500 per person (often includes makeup demonstration and performance). 

 Kalaripayattu is one of the oldest martial arts in the world, originating in Kerala, India, around the 3rd century BCE (according to tradition). It combines combat techniques, physical training, flexibility, weapon mastery, and healing practices. 

 Training Arena: Practice takes place in a traditional gymnasium called a kalari.
 

• Physical Training: Includes stretches, leaps, kicks, and animal-inspired movements to build strength and agility.
   
• Weapons Training: Students learn to use weapons such as sticks, swords, shields, spears, and the flexible sword (urumi).
   
• Bare-Hand Combat: Advanced stages focus on unarmed fighting and pressure-point techniques (marma).
   
• Healing System: Incorporates traditional Ayurvedic massage and treatments for injury recovery.

• Show duration: Usually 45 minutes to 1 hour
   
• Ticket price: Typically ₹300–₹600 per person, depending on venue and seating

 The Kolukkumalai Jeep Safari is a popular off-road adventure experience near Munnar (Kerala) that takes you to Kolukkumalai, a high-altitude hilltop (around 7,130 ft above sea level) known for spectacular views, sunrise panoramas, and the world’s highest tea plantations.  

• Off-road jeep ride: A rugged journey through tea gardens, forests, and steep paths — typically starting from Suriyanelli village near Munnar.
   
• Sunrise Views: Many trips start very early (around 3:30 – 4:30 AM) so you can witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Western Ghats from the hilltop.
   
• Tea Estate & Tea Factory: You often get to visit the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate and its traditional factory, with the option to buy fresh organic tea.
   
• Scenic Photography: Panoramic vistas of misty valleys, rolling hills, and tea gardens make this a favourite among nature lovers and photographers. 
•  3–6+ hours depending on pickup location (Suriyanelli or Munnar town) and itinerary. 

• Jeep safari from Suriyanelli: ~₹2,300 – ₹3,500 per jeep (up to 6 people).
   
• Jeep safari from Munnar Town: ~₹4,500 – ₹5,000+ per jeep (up to 6 people). 

• Weather is cool and can be windy bring jackets or warm clothing.
   
• 📷 Camera/Phone for sunrise and landscape photos.
   
• Road can be bumpy: Not ideal for people with back issues, pregnant travellers, or small children. 
•  Carry water/snacks; facilities are limited at the top.
   

 Eravikulam National Park is a famous wildlife sanctuary located near Munnar in Kerala. It is known for its rolling grasslands, shola forests, rare wildlife, and scenic mountain views. 

• Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat species. 
• Includes Anamudi, the highest peak in South India (2,695 m).
• Famous for the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every 12 years (next expected in 2030). 
• Beautiful trekking views of the Western Ghats (UNESCO World Heritage region). 
• Park visit duration: 2–3 hours 
• Entry is usually by government-operated buses from the entrance to Rajamalai area 
• Entry fee: Approx. ₹200–₹250 for Indian adults (extra for camera/foreign nationals) 
• Best time to visit: September to March 

It is one of Kerala’s most popular eco-tourism destinations, ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers.

 Periyar boating is a popular wildlife boat safari conducted on Periyar Lake inside Periyar National Park, located in Thekkady 

• A guided boat cruise through the scenic lake surrounded by forests of the Western Ghats. 
• Chances to spot wildlife such as elephants, deer, wild boar, bison (gaur), and occasionally otters near the waterbanks. 
• Beautiful views of submerged tree trunks rising from the lake — a signature sight of Periyar. 
• Ideal for wildlife photography and peaceful nature experiences. 
• Around 1.5 hours per ride 
• Usually conducted in morning (7:30 AM), mid-morning, afternoon, and evening slots 
• Indian adults: ₹255–₹300 
• Foreign nationals: ₹500–₹600 
• September to March for pleasant weather 
• Early morning or evening rides offer better wildlife sighting chances 

Periyar boating is one of Kerala’s most famous eco-tourism activities and is a must-do while visiting Thekkady.

 Elephant rides in Thekkady are a popular tourist attraction near Periyar National Park, offering visitors a chance to experience the forest and spice plantations from atop an elephant. 

• A guided ride on a trained elephant, usually lasting 30–60 minutes. 
• Routes pass through forest trails, spice plantations, and open meadows, giving a glimpse of Kerala’s rich flora. 
• Great for photos and a close-up experience of elephant behavior and natural surroundings. 
• Optional add-ons: short cultural demonstrations or photo opportunities with elephants. 
• Typical rides last 30–45 minutes, though some packages may go up to 1 hour. 
• ₹500–₹700 per person (depending on operator and duration) 
• Extra charges may apply for photo sessions or longer rides. 
• Not recommended for pregnant women or very young children.
   

 Bamboo rafting is a unique eco-adventure activity offered in Thekkady, typically on the Periyar River or its tributaries near Periyar National Park. It combines nature, adventure, and wildlife sightseeing. 

• Ride on a bamboo raft, often with a local guide navigating the calm river waters.
•  Opportunities to spot birds, elephants, deer, and other wildlife along the riverbanks. 
• Floating through lush forests, spice plantations, and scenic landscapes of the Western Ghats. 
• Ideal for photography enthusiasts seeking tranquil natural settings. 
• Typically 1–2 hours, depending on the package and route. 
• Around ₹500–₹800 per person, varying by operator and season.
  
   

 Trekking in Thekkady is a popular adventure activity for nature enthusiasts, offering opportunities to explore the Western Ghats, spice plantations, and wildlife-rich forests of Periyar National Park. 

• Nature Trails & Short Treks: 1–3 hours, suitable for beginners and families, passing through forests, streams, and spice gardens
   
• Adventure Treks: Half-day or full-day treks into the park’s protected forest areas, sometimes including viewpoints, hills, and river crossings. 
• Sunrise / Sunset Treks: Early morning or evening treks to capture panoramic views of the Western Ghats. 
• Spot wildlife such as elephants, deer, monkeys, and a variety of birds. 
• Experience the rich flora and spice plantations unique to Thekkady. 
• Guided treks provide insights into local ecology, medicinal plants, and forest conservation. 
• Ranges from 1 hour to 6–8 hours depending on the trek type. 
• Guided treks: ₹500–₹1,500 per person, depending on duration and whether transport is included. 
• Private or custom treks may cost more.

 The Jeep Safari in Thekkady is an adventure activity that lets visitors explore the hilly terrains, forests, and wildlife areas around Periyar National Park and nearby plantations. It’s a great alternative for those who want off-road adventure combined with wildlife and nature sightseeing. 

• Ride in open or closed jeeps along forest tracks, hills, and rural trails. 
• Chance to spot wildlife such as elephants, deer, monkeys, and exotic birds. 
• Pass through tea, coffee, and spice plantations, scenic viewpoints, and local villages. 
• Ideal for photography, nature watching, and adventure lovers. 
• Typically 2–3 hours, though some full-day safari packages are available.  
• Shared jeep per person: ~₹500–₹800 
• Private jeep (up to 6 people): ~₹2,500–₹4,000 depending on duration and operator.

 A houseboat day cruise is a signature Kerala tourism experience, especially popular in Kerala’s backwaters, such as Alleppey and Kumarakom. It allows visitors to explore serene waterways, villages, and lush landscapes in a traditional houseboat. 

• Cruise along canals, lagoons, and rivers aboard a traditional wooden houseboat (kettuvallam). 
•  Pass by paddy fields, coconut groves, and small villages, experiencing local life along the water. 
• Sight birds, fish, and sometimes water buffaloes grazing near the banks. 
• Optional Kerala-style meals served on board, usually including fresh fish, rice, and vegetarian dishes. 
• Some day cruises include traditional music or local cultural performances. 
• 4–6 hours for a typical day cruise 
• Usually includes pickup and drop-off from the nearest town or jetty. 
• Standard day cruise: ₹3,000–₹5,000 per boat for 2–4 people. 
• Luxury houseboats: ₹6,000–₹10,000+ per day (for larger groups or premium services)
• The houseboat day cruise offers a relaxing, scenic, and cultural experience, giving a glimpse of Kerala’s backwater life without an overnight stay.

 A Shikara boat ride is a serene and intimate way to explore Kerala’s backwaters, especially in Alleppey. Unlike large houseboats, a shikara is a smaller, narrow wooden boat, often accommodating 2–6 people, offering a quiet and close-to-water experience.

• Glide through canals, lagoons, and narrow waterways, passing paddy fields, coconut groves, and quaint villages. 
• Spot water birds, fishermen, and wildlife, with unobstructed views of nature. 
• 🌾 Experience the daily life of locals, including small market activity, washing clothes by the riverbanks, and fishing. 
• 📸 Perfect for photography and peaceful sightseeing. 
• Optional meal or snack service on some private rides. 
• Typically 1–2 hours, though longer rides (3–4 hours) can be arranged depending on the operator.  
• Shared shikara ride: ₹500–₹800 per person. 
• Private shikara ride: ₹1,200–₹2,500 per boat (2–6 people). 
• Prices vary by duration, season, and whether refreshments are included.
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 Kovalam, a famous beach town in Thiruvananthapuram, is renowned for its golden sand beaches and vibrant water sports activities along the Arabian Sea. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy thrilling and safe experiences suitable for beginners and experienced participants. 

1. Jet Skiing – High-speed rides along the coast for adrenaline seekers. 
2. Parasailing – Fly above the beach for breathtaking aerial views of the coastline. 
3. Banana Boat Rides – Fun group activity, bouncing over waves on a banana-shaped inflatable. 
4. Kayaking / Canoeing – Paddle through calmer waters, suitable for families and beginners. 
5. Surfing / Bodyboarding – Seasonal waves provide ideal conditions for beginners and intermediate surfers. 
6. Scuba Diving & Snorkeling – Explore the underwater marine life near Kovalam and nearby Kovalam rocks (available through certified operators). 
7. Wind Surfing / Stand-Up Paddleboarding – Balance and glide across the sea for a mix of sport and leisure. 

• Most rides: 15–60 minutes per activity 
• Full packages (multiple activities) can last 2–4 hours 
• Individual rides: ₹300–₹1,200 per person depending on activity 
• Combo packages: ₹1,500–₹3,500 per person for multiple activities