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Unforgettable 10 Days Kerala Itinerary: see the Best of Kerala

Planning a trip to God’s own country?? read my 10 days Kerala Itinerary which will allow you to see the best that Kerala has to offer. I also included a few Kerala travel tips.

Kerala, India’s southernmost state is known as God’s own country and for every right reason. The state is blessed with backwaters, lagoons, tea and spice plantations, wildlife as well a vibrant culture. There are so many things to do in Kerala!!

It is an extremely safe state for family tours, group travelers, as well as women, and solo travelers. That is one of the reasons why it is popular not only in India but also with international travelers. Kerala or Rajasthan is generally the first choice of visit in India.

So here is the Perfect 10-day Kerala itinerary by road to explore the lush greenness and the lovely countryside.

Note: This itinerary starts in Kochi(Cochin International Airport) and finishes in Varkala (leaving from Trivandrum International Airport).

• 1 10 days Kerala itinerary & Kerala Travel Tips
• 2 What is the best way to cover this 10-day Kerala itinerary?
• 3.1 Things to do in Kochi: Kochi Sightseeing
• 4.1 Things to do in Munnar
• 5.1 Things to do in Thekkady-Periyar
• 6.1 Things to do in Kumarakom
• 7.1 Things to do in Alleppey
• 7.2 Should you go to Alleppey or Kumarakom?
• 8.1 Things to do in Varkala
• 9.1 Things to do in Thiruvananthapuram
• 10 Best time to visit Kerala
• 11 Must visit activities in Kerala
• 12 Must try the food in Kerala
• 13 How to reach Kochi, Kerala for 10 days Kerala Itinerary
• 14 Getting around Kerala

10 days Kerala itinerary & Kerala Travel Tips

What I love most about Kerala is lush greenery, amazing backwaters, rolling hills with tea plantations, varying landscapes throughout the state, amazing temples, beautiful beaches, a blend of cultures, and amazing food- it offers everything one can ask for! Every place has its charm and Kerala is special on its own.

In this article, I have covered the Best places to visit in Kerala, must-visit attractions how to get there, and what to do. I have covered most of the things to do in Kerala in this 10-day Kerala itinerary article which may help you to plan your perfect Kerala trip.

What is the best way to cover this 10-day Kerala itinerary?

It is ideal to hire a car or self-drive to cover the maximum number of places possible. However, this itinerary can be covered using public transportation such as a bus.

Ideally, you can fly or ride a train up to Kochi or Thiruvananthapuram which are the major cities in Kerala, and driving from here to other places is ideal. The plus side is both are on the coast so one can cover the entire state either from north Kerala which is Kochi to south Kerala which is Thiruvananthapuram or vice versa.

This itinerary will cover various places from Kochi to Thiruvananthapuram(Trivandrum).

Day 1 of 10 Days Kerala Itinerary : Explore Vibrant Kochi

Kochi is the major airport in Kerala and is connected to the country’s most important domestic airports as well as many international ones. Kochi is the economic capital of Kerala and is the perfect Keralean city to orient you towards the state and what to expect. In its modern lanes still lies the traditional heart.

You can see the fort, and Kochi beach, enjoy a traditional meal, and cultural dance, or enhance your senses with a spice market, all in one city. But I suggest that you experience each of these in various places across Kerala.

To make the most of your 10-day Kerala Itinerary , make sure you arrive early in the morning so that you can freshen up and start exploring Kochi right away! I suggest spending one day in Kochi and then moving towards the hills of Munnar.

Things to do in Kochi: Kochi Sightseeing

Thankfully, most of the sightseeing places are all located in one part of the city. Spend the half-day at Fort Kochi and the rest of the day visiting other Places in Kochi. In Fort Kochi, you can visit the Mattancherry Palace and Pardesi Synagogue. Mattancherry Palace is also known as the Dutch Palace which has beautiful mural paintings.

There are so many amazing places to visit in Fort Kochi as it is known for Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture. The famous bamboo Chinese Fishing Nets are still being used for 500 years, it is interesting to learn how they still work! St Francis and Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica are also must-visit Places while in Kochi.

Also, check out souvenir shops on Princess Street. Kochi is a good place to watch the Kathakali Dance show which is an ancient dance form of India. If you have more days in hand, I would recommend spending 2 days in Kochi and exploring its cafe scene. One must visit Kashi Art Cafe to see the unique art creations.

Day 2-3 of 10 Days Kerala Itinerary: Munnar – Hill Stations and Spice Plantations

Munnar is Kerala’s favorite hill station. Famous for its tea gardens, it is indeed a tourist paradise. Chosen by people of all ages, there is a lot to do or not in Munnar. Ideally, you need 2 days in Munnar.

Leave early from Kochi for a 5-hour road trip to Munnar- One of the Best Hill Stations in India. The city traffic will slowly reduce towards this hill town as the cool breeze will welcome you.

As you go closer to Munnar, the straight roads will turn into zig-zag rods and all you will see around are acres and acres of tea plantations across the valleys.

Things to do in Munnar

Munnar is one of the most popular places to visit in Kerala. It is a great location to spend 2 days amidst the tea plantations and hills. The temperature remains cool throughout the year in Munnar. One of the most popular things to do in Munnar is take a stroll in one of the many tea plantations that are open to visitors.

India produces the best tea in the world and you can take guided tea-tasting tours that explain the history and manufacturing process, you can even taste different varieties of tea at the end of the tour. You can buy what you taste from the retail shop.

Related Read: Ooty- the Tea Capital of India

The next day, pay a visit to one of the many wildlife parks in Kerala. Eravikulam National Park which is situated close to Munnar is famous for the goat species known as Nilgiri Tahr. These mountain goats exclusively roam in the hills of Munnar and it is amazing to catch a glimpse of them in their natural habitat.

It is best to book the tickets online to avoid waiting in line. If you want to cover more wildlife parks, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is 2 hours away from Munnar and has sightings of birds, elephants, and spotted deer.

The park will take up most of the morning so you should head towards Mattupety Dam and Tea Estate , Echo Point, and Top Station which are some of the most touristy places in Munnar. These are good places for a photo-op and have a nice relaxing atmosphere.

Apart from this, there are so many places to visit near Munnar and you can even take do many adventure activities in Munnar.

There exist many hiking trails which can be covered with the help of local tour operators or guides. Rock climbing, rappelling, and many such adventure camps also exist in Munnar which offer activities from a few hours to days.

Day 4-5 10 Days Kerala Itinerary : Thekkady-Periyar

Thekkady is another hill station in Kerala. While it is okay to give this a miss if you are visiting Munnar,I will highly recommend you to visit Thekkady. Thekkady is 4 hour driving distance and the roads from one hill station to another are nothing short of breathtaking.

Things to do in Thekkady-Periyar

After reaching Thekkady, relax for a bit and then take a stroll in the many spice plantations in the area. Kerala is the largest producer of spices such as black pepper, small cardamom, and cloves.

It is also the largest producer of rubber. Many spice plantations allow visitors and take them on a guided tour where each of these fruits and spice trees is shown and their life cycle is explained.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the cultural event of the Kathakali dance . Kathakali is a religious dance that draws inspiration from the Ramayana and stories from Shiva traditions. It is performed by men in traditional attires with face paints.

It takes hours to perfect the art of getting ready for the performance. All of this is showcased during the show. There are many places where this takes place.

On the next day, get ready to visit Periyar. One of the top things to do in Thekkady is visit the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Thekkady is home to the stunning Periyar river which hosts the elusive Tiger in its forests.

To experience the best of Periyar Tiger Reserve, opt for Bamboo Rafting which includes a trek through the Jungle and a Boat ride. A boat ride on the Periyar River is therapeutic with beautiful and peaceful surroundings.

The ride paints a beautiful picture with broken tree barks in the river, deers drinking water from the riverbank, and cormorants trying to catch a fish. Catching a glimpse of a tiger or elephant is difficult on a boat ride but not impossible.

If you are a serious wildlife enthusiast, you can choose to take up a gypsy ride in the forest or even decide to stay in the forest guesthouse. This whole experience of exploring the untouched beauty of  Periyar Tiger Reserve may take 6-7 hours.

Day 5-6 of 10 Days Kerala Itinerary : Kumarakom

After the boat safari in Periyar, it is time to move to Kumarakom. Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a refreshing change from the hills to the lake.

It is located 3 hours from Munnar so by the time you reach Kumarakom it will be evening. So relax and chill on the banks of Vembanad Lake watching the sunset.

Things to do in Kumarakom

Kumarakom is a popular destination lined with resorts for a relaxing stay. There are some resorts located on the banks of Vembanad Lake while some are in the backwaters.

There is an option of choosing a houseboat here. You can choose to stay in Kumarakom and explore Alleppey the next day or choose to spend 2 nights in 2 different places. You can read about my one day in Kumarakom along with many recommendations.

Day 7: Alleppey : Cruising Through Coconut Groves

Kumarakom and Alleppey are located on opposite sides of the Vembanad lake and both have backwaters, which Kerala is famous for.

Things to do in Alleppey

Other than exploring the country life in Alleppey, relaxing by the backwaters, or experiencing ayurvedic massages, there are not many activities to do in Alleppey. If you want to cruise the backwaters and stay a night on a houseboat you might want to choose Alleppey.

The boats leave from both locations but Alleppey has by far the biggest choice for a backwater cruise. You can either choose Kumarakom or Alleppey in this itinerary and save a day. If I had to choose, I would choose Alleppey over Kumarakom for the rugged country life.

If you choose to go for the houseboat cruise, note that the boat sails only for 6 hours. Local regulations reserve the lake for the fishermen at night and all houseboats have to dock by 5:30 pm.

Instead, choose a hostel on the backwater and hire a shikara or narrowboat to navigate through narrow channels. The Shikara boats are available around the backwaters and if you request them they will show you many birds around the area.

Should you go to Alleppey or Kumarakom?

This depends on your choice and what you want to do! If you want to cruise the backwaters and want to spend the night in a houseboat, choose Alleppey. There are more choices to choose houseboats for Alleppey. You will not find many resorts for the stay for the Alleppey.

If you want to experience both the resorts and overnight Stay in a Houseboat or cruise, Kumarakom would be the better choice. Many resorts offer packages for the same.

Day 8-9 of 10 Days Kerala Itinerary : Explore the beaches of Varkala

The day is the 8th day of the Kerala itinerary to visit the beach town of Varkala. Varkala is approximately 4 hours from Alleppey and is famous for stunning and clean beaches all across. Varkala is one of the most popular tourist destinations of Kerala and for good reasons.

firstly, the iconic cliff beach and the shops, and cafes around the cliff make it one of the hippiest places in Kerala. Secondly, it has a beach that is perfect for surfing in India. Thirdly, it has many Yoga ashrams and is known for its Ayurveda. These reasons are enough to include Varkala as one of the must-visit destinations in your 10-day Kerala itinerary.

Things to do in Varkala

Enjoy the evening sipping coconut water overlooking the sunset on Papanasham beach or Bekal beach. Taking a dip in the beach water will relax you from all the driving you have been through in the week! Or perhaps some yoga by the beach may calm your nerves?

On the next day, visit the Varkala cliffs. Varkala is the only place in Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the sea. It is a perfect place to take a stroll, play some volleyballs or simply chill in the many cafes set up on the cliff. Do visit the red laterite cliff which is one of the most popular tourist places in Varkala.

If you want to drive away to do something else, Kappil Pozhi Lake is a serene lake that is approximately 6 kilometers from Varkala town. It is surrounded by coconut and palm trees which makes it tranquil. If an adrenaline rush is on your mind, Varkala offers Paragliding adventure activity over the cliffs, overlooking the ocean.

Anjengo Lighthouse is another place you can visit while in Varkala. Climbing a good 250 stairs from the lighthouse offers a stunning panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.

You can try surfing, visit Yoga Ashram, or visit the beaches of Varkala, there are so many things to do in Varkala that keep you relaxing.

Day 9-10 of 10 Days Kerala Itinerary : Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram (or Trivandrum) is the capital of Kerala and is distinguished by its British colonial architecture and art galleries. Thiruvananthapuram is the last leg of the journey which is located 2.5 hours away from Varkala.

Things to do in Thiruvananthapuram

One of the most popular places to visit in Trivandrum is the Shri Padmanabhaswamy temple. The temple is said to be built as an amalgamation of Dravidian and Kerala-style architecture with tall Gopuram.

After visiting the temple, visit the museum complex which is something not to be missed. Also known as Palayam, the Museum Complex houses a museum (Napier Museum), an art gallery (Chitra Art Gallery), churches, a botanical garden, and a few markets. The museum and art gallery inside the complex are known to have restored many historic artifacts and selective paintings.

Next day head to Kovalam, a small beach town located 30 minutes from Thiruvananthapuram. Kovalam is most famous for its iconic Kovalam beach and Vizhinjam Lighthouse , a must-visit while in Thiruvananthapuram. Kovalam Beach will certainly remind you of one of the North Goa beaches if you have been to one!

Water sports, beachside shacks, people sunbathing on the beach, and overall a lot of crowds will welcome you to the beach. But it has a vibe not to be missed!

The Vizhinjam Lighthouse and promenade along the beach which is lined with stores, cafes, and restaurants are a few of the distinctive features of the beach. After climbing 150 stairs of the lighthouse, you will come across beautiful landscapes not to be missed!

Either go for a swim on the beach, laze around in the lounge chairs or sit back in one of the cafes and read a book. And end your trip by just chilling out by the beach.

Best time to visit Kerala

Kerala enjoys a tropical climate across the year but the best period to visit Kerala is from November to March when the weather is much more pleasant. Most visitors prefer the Indian winter period because it’s warm but not too hot and fewer chances of rain in Kerala.

From April, the temperatures start rising towards 30 degrees and more. Most tourists avoid Kerala during these months but it is a great time to explore the region if the heat doesn’t bother you and the hotel rates are lower with fewer crowds.

June, July, and August are the monsoon season in Kerala which is extremely hot and humid. There are heavy showers and floods are common during this time of the year.

Must visit activities in Kerala

• Kumarakom Boat race which takes place in September and October
• Cochin Carnival which is widely celebrated in January

Must try the food in Kerala

Kerala food deserves a blog of its own because it is influenced by so many different cuisines across the world and has developed a unique flavor that is hard to get anywhere. The distinct curry leaves and coconut used in the local food will keep you coming back for more. Kerala cuisine has an abundance of rice, tapioca, and spices like black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available in plenty here! These dishes are available in humble roadside restaurants as well as resorts.

Some of the must-try vegetarian dishes are:

• Malabar Parotta with Kadala Kurma
• Appam with curry – a soft thin pancake made from rice batter and served with curry
• Puttu and kadala curry – Rice Cake made out of steamed rice flour; cylindrical in shape
• Idiyappam with curry – Noodles made out of rice batter
• Erissery (Lentil & Pumpkin Stew) – a kind of dal curry
• Payasam (Rice kheer) – a dessert made out of milk and rice
• Sadya – a feast consisting of many vegetarian dishes served on Banana leaf

Some of the must-try non-vegetarian dishes are:

• Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu (Spicy Fried Chicken)
• ​Kerala Prawns Curry
• Karimeen pollichathu (fish)
• Malabar Parotta with Kerala beef curry
• Fish moilee

If you are fussy about the food then you can find so many cafes and restaurants that serve vegetarian, nonvegetarian, and regular continental dishes. Most hotels and resorts serve a variety of food at their restaurants.

How to reach Kochi, Kerala for 10 days Kerala Itinerary

Kochi has an international airport and is well-connected with most major cities of India and the world. Here is how to reach Kochi.

Reaching Kerala by Air

Cochin International Airport is 25 km away from Kochi city at Nedumbassery. Visitors can board direct flights from Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, etc.

There is also good air connectivity to Kochi from most Gulf countries and South Asian countries. Most people prefer to fly in and out of the Kochi International Airport as Kochi is near most of the sightseeing places to visit in Kerala.

Train to Kerala

Most of the major tourist places of Kerala are well connected by train. Also, India has a heavily connected train network that covers all major cities of India. The state capital of Kerala- Kochi has train connectivity to Ernakulam Junction which is the busiest rail junction in Kerala.

You can board direct trains from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Mangalore, Bangalore, and many others. Internal state connectivity is also good from here. You can reserve a seat in the AC or Sleeper class via the IRCTC website . For shorter journeys, you can travel in a general compartment.

Kochi is well-connected to neighboring cities and states. The NH-17 connects the city to Mumbai, Kozhikode, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Goa. Deluxe Volvo buses, AC sleepers, as well as AC normal buses, are also available right from the cities to across the major destinations.

Kerala KSRTC runs numerous buses within Kerala to reach major tourist destinations. You don’t require any prior reservations to board these Buses. Check the Bus timings online on the KSRTC Website. You can show up at the station and board the bus as per your route. If you want to do a long-duration trip, you can always book the Bus via Red Bus or any other online website.

Getting around Kerala

To reach one destination to another, you can travel via Kerala KSRTC buses. It’s a reliable and convenient option. Trains are also a popular option for transportation around Kerala.

Within cities, you can rely on tuk-tuks or auto rickshaws which are a common way to get around in the cities in India. You can hire an auto for a full day at lower prices than taxis.

If you are a luxury traveler and want a comfortable trip without budget issues, hire a car with a driver throughout your stay in Kerala for your 10-day Kerala trip.

If you like my 10 days Kerala itinerary Post, Pin it for the later:

Mayuri Patel, owner of the fernwehrahee Blog loves to travel and helping you to plan your Next Trip! She is full time Travel Blogger, dreaming about her next adventure! Join her Journeys where she takes you to destinations around the world with the pinch of history & culture!

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10 days road trip in Kerala: An itinerary and Guide

Last Updated on December 5, 2023 by admin

Planning a Kerala Itinerary across the state? This blog on 10 days road trip in Kerala covers all the Kerala highlights for first-time visitors. This classic Kerala tour covers Central and South Kerala tourist destinations.

The first thing that comes to mind when someone says Kerala is the backwaters against the swaying coconut and palm trees. However, there is much more to Kerala than that – the beautiful architecture and heritage of Fort Kochi , tea estates of Munnar , spice plantations of Thekkady , wildlife sanctuaries in Shola forests , landscapes filled with coffee farms and virgin beaches. 

The God’s own Country is power-packed with a plethora of things to do in Kerala , see and experience for all kinds of travellers. Dive into this ultimate Kerala travel guide to assault your senses as I help you plan a 12-day road trip across some of the popular destinations.

In this 10 days Kerala itinerary, I’ll be covering Central Kerala locations such as Kochi, Munnar, Kumarakom and Alleppey and South Kerala locations such as Varkala and Trivandrum.

Kochi – 1.5 days

Munnar – 3 days

Thekkady – 2 days

Kumarakom – 1 day

Alleppey – 1 day

Varkala – 2

Trivandrum – 1.5 day

Table of Contents

HOW TO GET AROUND KERALA

This Kerala road trip is based on a self-driven car so as to save time while travelling from one place to another. Ideally, it is best to hire a car that services the 10 days in Kerala trip from point to point.

If you are on a budget and have more days in hand, you can spread out the itinerary to suit your travel style. Public buses serviced by Kerala State Road Transport Services (KSRTC) ply between each town of Kerala and are comfortable and affordable. 

WHERE TO START THE 10 DAYS ROAD TRIP IN KERALA?

It is ideal to start at Kochi (formerly Cochin) which is on the southwest coast of India. All modes of transport – domestic and international are easily available to reach here.

DRIVING OR RENTING A CAR FOR A ROAD TRIP IN KERALA?

While many would feel like driving by themselves during the entire journey but be mindful that this itinerary involves going on mountain roads. I would recommend driving on hills, only if you have done this before. Also, you would probably be too tired driving all-around to actually enjoy the entire journey. 

Car through many rental services like Zoom Cars, Revv, Mychoize, etc. can be received at the Kochi airport. 

If self-drive is not your thing, hire a local guide who will take care of everything for you. On my latest trip to Kerala, everything was taken care my tour guide – C Satish. Car booking, accommodation, kind of places I want to stop at, food preferences and a detailed itinerary. He made the entire trip to Kerala extremely effortless and seamless. His knowledge of his home state is commendable (architecture, heritage culture, flora, food and the list goes on). I highly recommend him for arranging accommodation, planning a Kerala itinerary or even for food recommendations. He is based in Kochi and is a great resource for Fort Kochi Heritage Tour as well.

C Satish can be reached at +91 9495690929

Day 1: Kochi

How to get from kochi airport to fort kochi.

Kochi Airport is around 36 kilometres from Fort Kochi, so having a car to pick up is a must. In my 3 visits to Kochi, I always requested my hotel or tour guide to arrange for a car pick-up. This guarantees that the car driver is genuine and you don’t have to keep checking your phone if you are being taken in the right direction!

App-based taxi and auto services are also available. You can simply download Ola or Uber and book a taxi. However, many times these taxis are not available so charge more for unforeseen reasons.

Pre-paid taxis are also available from the booking counter in the Kochi Airport arrival hall.

Bus service is available for transfer from Kochi airport into Kochi city.

Things to do in Kochi in one day

Kochi, the largest city in Kerala, has historically been an important port city from earlier times. Reach Kochi by late evening so as to start the next day with a visit to Fort Kochi. With a history of the European spice route trade, there are many places in Fort Kochi reminiscent of that bygone era.

Fort Kochi is one of the most happening places in Kochi and has many architectural and heritage places. Beautiful artsy cafes, wall arts and heritage homestays line up the Fort Kochi area.

Fort Kochi Heritage walk

Kochi Beach, Mattancherry Palace, Pardesi Synagogue and St Francis Church are the must-visit places in Fort Kochi. Do not miss out on the working of Chinese Fishing Nets which have been functional for decades.

Shopping is a must while in Fort Kochi so head over to Jew Street for spices, handicrafts, Kerala souvenirs, traditional Kasavu sarees and snacks.

Day 2 in Kochi should be spent at the beautiful Cherai Beach as well as learning about the Chendamangalam Handlooms .

Where to eat in Fort Kochi

Kashi Art Cafe, Oy’s cafe, and Loafer’s corner are some of the best cafes in Fort Kochi and are open for breakfast too.

For lunch, try the traditional Kerala sadya (meal on banana leaf) at Bharath Hotel.

Where to stay in Kochi

For a luxurious experience: Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty

For a heritage experience: Ginger House Museum and Hotel

Medium budget: Abad Atrium , Niko Hotels

If you are a backpacker choose: Zostel, Kochi

Kashi Art Cafe, Fort Kochi

Day 3: Kochi to Munnar

On day 2 start early for the 5-hour road trip to Munnar. For Munnar, it is not about the destination, but the journey. Enjoy the hot and humid air giving way to chilly winds as the car passes the road with tea gardens on both sides.

Famous for the lush tea estates which you can romance along the way while hoping that there is no roadblock due to elephants crossing the highway. Relax and enjoy the valley views while sipping on Chai after reaching! If you are not too tired, you can go for a short hike.

Things to do in Munnar

A short hike is possible to Echo point which is 15 km one way. Trekking in Munnar is also a great way to explore the tea gardens and Shola forests. Or you may choose some adventure sports like rock climbing and rappelling in other nearby towns of Munnar. Other trekking trails in Munnar include Top Station Trek, Chokramudi Trek, Meesapulimala Trek and Lakshmi Hills Trek amongst others.

Exploring the Munnar tea plantations during Road trip in Kerala

Next, head towards the Eravikulam National Park to sight the endangered Nilgiri Tahr or the mountain goat. The 15 km journey, the waiting line and a small hike up the Kannan Devan hill will consume over 4 hours. On the way back you may stop at the Mattupetty dam and head towards its catchment area if you want to try some water sports.

Other things to do in Munnar include visiting Attukal Waterfalls, Lakkum Waterfalls and paying a visit to Lockhart Tea Factory & Museum.

Where to stay in Munnar

For a luxurious experience: Spice Tree Munnar, Blackberry Hills Spa and Resort

Medium budget: Hotel Cloud Valley

If you are a backpacker choose: Vedanta Wake up

Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam National Park Munnar

Day 5: Munnar to Thekkady

Gear up for another hill station of Kerala which is 4 hours away from Munnar.  

Things to do in Thekkady

After reaching Thekkady, the most important place to visit is the Periyar National Park. Thekkady offers boat safari on Periyar and one can see wild animal gets on the river banks. The river has barren tree logs and the landscape across the mountains looks breathtaking. Bird and animal sighting is possible here and in the 2 visits so far, I have got some great shots! Read in detail about Periyar National Park .

After the national park visit, the evening can be spent attending a cultural program – Kalaripayattu or Kathakali at the Kadathanadan Kalari, Mudra Cultural Centre.

Kathakali performance in Thekkady

Ayurvedic massage in Thekkady is also one of the things to experience. In Thekkady there are many resorts offering ayurvedic retreats offers that are month-long ayurvedic treatment solutions for people suffering from chronic ailments. It is like a resort where people can stay for long durations and get their treatments done with consultation from an in-house doctor.

On the next day before moving to the next destination, spend some time in spice gardens knowing and sniffing the organic produce. A guided tour of Thekkady spice gardens is the awe-inspiring experience of how each spice that we use in Indian cooking is made. 

Read in Detail: Places to visit in Thekkady

Where to stay in Thekkady

For a luxurious experience: Greenwoods Resort , Cardamom County, Thekkady

If you are a backpacker choose: Jungle Paradiso Homestay

Periyar National Park Boat Safari

Day 6: Thekkady to Kumarakom

Move over to lakes from the hills by visiting the town of Kumarakom. Leave early morning from Thekkady and drive 4 hours to reach the idyllic village of Kumarakom

Things to do in Kumarakom

Popular as a spa destination, Kumarakom is lined with luxurious resorts along the Vembanad lake. Kumarakom is gorgeous thanks to the lake and backwaters. Spend the evening watching the sunset by the Vembanad Lake, go on a river cruise or choose to visit the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary.

Sunset on Vembanad lake, Kumarakom

One of the most interesting ways to spend time here is to know and experience the activities under Responsible Tourism in Kumarakom . Learn some crafts and ways of living of the local villagers, interact with them and how easy it is to lead an ethical lifestyle.

Where to stay in Kumarakom

For a luxurious experience: Kumarakom Lake Resort , Aveda Kumarakom  

If you are a backpacker choose: Nallathanka Nest Homestay

Coir rope making in Kumarakom

Day 7: Kumarakom to Alleppy or Alappuzha

Alleppey is the backwater town of Kerala and can be reached from Kumarakom by driving for 1.5 hours.

Things to do in Alleppey

The backwaters paradise of Kerala should be experienced by not spending the time on a houseboat which is expensive but by choosing a homestay on its banks! Take a canoe ride which will take you to small alleys wherein you can also do a village tour and watch the sunset over paddy fields.

Watch the sunrise and chill at the backwaters and watch the boats go by listening to the birds sing on the coconut tree near you. Read in detail: Kerala Backwaters of Alleppey

Where to stay in Alleppey

For a luxurious experience: Sterling Lake Palace Resort

If you are a backpacker choose: Nomad’s Hostel

Canoe ride in Alleppey Backwaters

Day 8: Varkala

This is Day 8 and time for some Vitamin Sea! 

Things to do in Varkala

Varkala is a famous beach town with beautiful virgin beaches – Papanasham and Bekal. Take a dip or just relax by the beach listening to the waves crash.

Visit the picturesque Kappil Pozhi Lake which is approximately 6 kilometres from Varkala town. It is surrounded by coconut trees that give this peaceful and tranquil lake some serious wanderlust vibes. On the way back visit the red laterite cliff which is one of the most popular tourist places.

Where to stay in Varkala

For a luxurious experience: Gateway Varkala

If you are a backpacker choose: Mad about Coco

Kappil Pozhi Lake Varkala

Day 9-10: Trivandram or Thiruvananthapuram

Drive from Varkala to Trivandrum, the Kerala state capital which is a 2 hours journey. 

Things to do in Trivandrum

Trivandrum has a lot of influence of British architecture and can be seen in many buildings. You may choose to visit Napier museum which has historical artefacts, Kerala science and technology museum or Kanakakkunnu Palace.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the most important temples of Lord Vishnu and is now the world’s richest temple too. The temple has a sleeping Vishnu idol, which is a unique feature.

Spending a night in the Kovalam houseboat is one of the most popular tourist activities in Thiruvananthapuram. Book a traditional houseboat that is made out of reed, cork, and bamboo. Cruising with Kovalam Houseboat Tours is a great way to spend time in Kovalam backwaters. One can lounge around watching the sunset or villagers going about their way. The cruise offers unparalleled views of backwaters.

Where to stay in Trivandrum

For a luxurious experience: Vivanta Thiruvananthapuram

If you are a backpacker choose: Bed Pods

Kanakakunnu Palace Trivandrum

This sums up the 10 days road trip in Kerala, India. This road trip offers a plethora of landscapes, sights, and cultural experiences which is bound to leave you rejuvenated!

FAQs related to Kerala road trip

Best time to visit kerala.

The Winters months (November to February) are ideal to visit Kerala. The temperatures are moderate and humidity is less (read: bearable). The hills can get chilly in the morning and night but maintain a comfortable temperature during the day.

However, winter is also the time when most people travel to Kerala. So expect to pay higher charges for cars and hotels. 

Kerala monsoon can be uncomfortable for some but the months of July and August are popular with local tourists who want to chase waterfalls and enjoy a rainy vacation.

Is the weather in Kerala good for a road trip in Kerala?

The average summer temperature is 24°C-37°C; while the average winter temperature range from 17°C-33°C. It rains quite often around the year.

Must try food of Kerala?

Kerala food is a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals mostly cooked in coconut oil. Do try the delicacies like ‘ appam-stew ’, ‘ puttu-kadala curry’, ‘ Avial ’ and ‘ iddiyappam ’ for breakfast or lunch. Just like the North-Indian thali, the Kerala thali is called sadya and is served traditionally on a banana leaf.

You will find the regulars like Idli, Dosai and Uttapam or even Punjabi and Indian-Chinese dishes in most of the places.

Traditional Kerala Sadya

What to wear in Kerala?

Comfortable clothing like a t-shirt and jeans is recommended. Women can choose a knee-length dress. Try to wear camouflaged colours during safaris.

Is Kerala safe for travellers/solo travellers/female travellers?

Kerala is extremely safe for all kinds of travellers, even solo women.

Sustainable tips for an ethical Road trip in Kerala

• Kerala is one of the cleanest states in India, in spite of the tourist influx so let’s try to maintain the same and be disciplined.
• If you come across a wild animal crossing the road/highway, give them time and space. Do not encroach on it by trying to get a selfie.
• Do not write on the palace walls or rocks at the beach. Let’s maintain the pristine heritage.
• Avoid wearing perfumes while going in the seawater or national parks.
• Blend in the culture by wearing the right clothes and eating the local food.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Ketki Gadre

Ketki is an environmental consultant and a sustainable travel blogger, who loves nature, wildlife and heritage. She enjoys bringing places to life through her informative blogs to inspire readers to travel sustainably and become responsible travellers.

10 Best Things to do in Kandy

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The backwaters of Kerala sound beautiful. I love the idea of taking a canoe ride and village tour. Seeing sunsets over the paddy fields would just be icing on the cake.

Kerala has always intrigued me ever since the program to bring bloggers there has been on. I can see some of the beauty through your exceptional photos of unique scenes.

I love that you drove to each destination. My husband and I think that you see so much more of an area by driving yourself from place to place. I’m glad that there are plenty of outdoor activities like hikes and canoeing. Seems like a great trip!

I have always wanted to go to Kerala and your guide reminds me that it is still I destination I want to get to! I was wondering if this is an itinerary that you could do via public transportation as I prefer not to rent a car when I travel solo. Would that be a viable option?

Hi Alison, yes this itinerary is very much doable in public transportation. Luckily public transport is super efficient and safe in Kerala and you shouldn’t face any problem. I hope you have a good time whenever you are in India 🙂

This is a great itinerary. Kerala looks beautiful. I’d love to visit the beaches and the spice plantation. Your sustainable tips are spot on for many locations. My daughter keeps asking to visit India …. perhaps this should be our destination.

I always recommend Kerala as the first place international tourists to go. Northern states tend to be very overwhelming and relatively not safe. I am sure you and your daughter will have an amazing time in Kerala 🙂

This is an area of India that is VERY high on our bucket list of places to visit. Therese has a friend who live near Trivandrum and has shared how wonderful the region is with us. I love that you can do this via public transport too though I have to imagine having a vehicle would offer much more freedom to explore … is driving relatively easy? And by that I mean for a someone not used to India. 😉

It would be difficult to drive on Indian roads if you are not used to it. But you can easily hire a taxi for the duration and it would work out to be cheaper.

This looks stunning, I’d love to get lost in Kerala for a week or so. I’ve never been to India, but I hope to get there soon.

That sunset in Kumarakom is so pretty that I would have to go there just for that shot over the water! Glad to know that the winter is the best time to visit because I’m not a huge fan of summer. Is it still pretty hot or does it actually get cool?

Thank you for showing another side of the country that I might have not known otherwise. This looks so well taken care and peaceful. What I love is that you can experience it as a backpacker as well as on the luxury side. I cant wait to visit India!

This Kerala travel guide is an absolute gem! It’s packed with all the information I need to plan my trip. From the picturesque backwaters to the lush tea plantations, every aspect is beautifully covered. I especially appreciate the detailed itinerary suggestions—it’s like having a local guide right at my fingertips. Thanks for sharing such valuable insights and making my Kerala travel dreams a reality!

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The Best Kerala Itinerary for 7 Days or More

Last Updated on May 9, 2024

In this post, I’ll share with you the best road trip itinerary for Kerala based on my experience of travelling to the state again and again in the last 6 years.

Kerala is a culturally rich, liberal, and breathtakingly beautiful state of southern India. It's vastly different from the northern side of India both in landscape and cuisine. So, planning what to do here on a limited time can be overwhelming.

I will help with your Kerala trip planning with an itinerary for Kerala for 7 days with ideas to modify it for longer or even shorter durations.

If you already have a basic knowledge about the state, then jump to the Kerala itinerary .

I' ve tried to cover all bases in the post to help you plan a trip to Kerala . Expand the table of contents below and jump to the relevant section if you want to.

The post contains affiliate links for tours, hotels etc. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

The Best 1-week Kerala Itinerary at a glance

While you can tweak as per your liking after reading the full article, this is the plan I recommend for your first vacation in Kerala.

Day 1: Reach Kochi via train or flight and then hire a cab (or rent a self-drive car) for your Kerala trip. Explore Kochi and end the day with a Kathakali performance.

Day 2: Drive to Alleppey or Kumarakom and stay in a houseboat. It's time to rejuvenate in luxury after the hectic sightseeing at Kochi.

Day 3 & 4: Drive to Munnar on day 3 and explore the exceptional beauty of nature. You will need to stay at-least 2 nights in this resplendent hill station.

Day 5: Drive to Thekkady for wildlife safari and to witness the Kalarypayattu performance.

Day 6: Drive to Kovalam for some luxury experiences, much needed after the hectic sightseeing in the hills

Day 7: Drive to Trivandrum for exploring the historic charms and shopping before you depart.

In a 10-day Kerala itinerary you can include a day-trip to the Athirapally waterfalls from Kochi. From Thekkady you can drive to Varkala – an offbeat coastal paradise.

From Varkala you can easily visit the Jatayu Earth center – a new landmark in Kerala. Then drive to Kovalam the next day and depart from Trivandrum on the 10th day.

You can go slightly off-the-beaten track even in a packed 7-day Kerala tour. Skip the wildlife experience in Thekkady for a day trip to Athirapally waterfall. Or stay near the Varkala beach instead of Kovalam.

First time in Kerala? I recommend booking Kerala tour with Sangine Holidays . You can ask them to customise based on your preferences.

2 Weeks Itinerary for Kerala Roadtrip

Most of the tourist destinations and international airports are concentrated in the southern part of Kerala. So, most of the shorter Kerala tours are also designed to explore the south. Entire northern half of Kerala is therefore left out in my 7 and 10-day itinerary above.

If you can plan 2 weeks in Kerala , you could see how the culture and cuisine transform as we move from north Kerala towards the south, even in this rather tiny state.

Northern Kerala towards the Karnataka border has a strong Arabic influence in their culture, architecture and cuisine. Here you're more likely to get the best type of non-vegetarian dishes like Keralite biryani, chicken curry etc.

As you move towards the south you notice a distinct change. Towards the hills in the south there is a dominant influence of Hinduism. You'll find a plethora of pure vegetarian restaurants serving Appam-ishtew, idli, iddiyappam etc . 

On the coastline, there is a larger European influence in the monuments but also a blend of old Hindu culture as seen in the attire and performances. So, here's how I'd plan a longer itinerary of Kerala for 2 weeks .

Day 1: Take a train or overnight bus to Kasargod from Bangalore or anywhere else.

Day 2: Explore Bekal Fort , beaches and backwaters of Kasargod

Day 3: Drive (or take a bus) to Sultan Bathery in Wayanad . Take a wildlife safari there

Day 4: Visit Edakkal Caves and Banasura Sagara Dam in Wayanad

Day 5: Trek to Chembra Peak in the morning. Have a brunch and drive to Palakkad

Day 6: Explore Palakkad – Palakkad Fort, Malampuzha Dam and Hanuman Temple

Day 7: Drive to Kochi via Athirapally falls

Day 8: Exploring Kochi

Day 9: Drive 126 km to Alleppey and take a houseboat tour

Day 10: Explore Alleppey and drive to Munnar

Day 11: Exploring the best of Munnar and Chinnakanal

Day 12: Skip Thekkady and drive to Varkala

Day 13: Take a memorable day trip to Munroe Island

Day 14: Explore Varkala and drive to Kovalam

Day 15: Drive to Trivandrum for departure

🙋‍♀️Want to custom-design your Kerala itinerary and have some questions? Join the awesome Backpack & Explore Facebook community – a safe place to discuss all your queries and concerns about traveling in India

A quick note on name of the places

Because of the colonial history of India, many popular destinations have an anglicized name that were coined by the European colonizers. The names have been reversed to their original form post indepedence.

However, because of the complex pronunciation, people unofficially refer to them by their anglicized names. So, before you get confused by these names, here is a short lexicon of Kerala's cities for you.

• Cochin is the anglicized name for Kochi (which is not at all difficult to pronounce)
• Calicut is the anglicized name of Kozhikhode (pronounced as “koh-ree-kode”)
• Trivandrum, the capital of the state of Kerala is the anglicized name of Thiruvananthapuram (a proper tongue-twister challenge for foreigners)
• Alleppey is the anglicized name of Alappuzha , city in the namesake district

One Week in Kerala – The Plan in Details

So, let's dive deeper into the wilderness of Kerala and take a virtual tour that will make you fall in love with the state.

Day 1 in Kerala – Arrive at the Historic Kochi

Kochi is the unofficial tourism and cultural capital of Kerala. It has a well-connected railway station as well as an international airport. So, this is a great place to start your trip.

As soon as you arrive, bargain the rates for a local cab. Normally the rates start from Rs. 12/km for lower-end 4-seater cars, and the fares would go up for the type of car, number of seats, travel season, night rates etc.

You can check the rates here to have a fair idea of the current rates and avoid being scammed.

Kochi is a bustling modern city haunted by a long, intriguing history. It's the place believed to be Vasco da Gama's passage to India .

Then there's the oldest Jewish quarters in India that you can find in Kochi, the Pardesi Synagogue standing as a tall testimony to the thousand years of religious tolerance in India.

There are the Dutch Palace , Portuguese churches as well as remnants of the Bristish colonialism. And thriving despite centuries of brutal invasions and colonial atrocities are the age-old pagan art forms that you can witness through dance performances, artefacts in the markets and music.

Kochi's beauty lies not in its architectural grandeur but in the unique stories behind the buildings, the streets and corners.

Kochi Sightseeing Plan

Assuming you reached Kochi at around 10 am, you can drive directly to Mattancherry Palace . The Mattancherry Palace also known as the Dutch Palace was actually a monument gifted by the Portuguese to the Indian raja. It was later extended and renovated by the Dutch in 17th century.

After a tour of the palace, enjoy a walking tour of the Jew Town and visit the Pardesi Synagogue .

Then drive back to Fort Kochi . There are some amazing places here for having a delicious lunch.

I have created a map here for a walking tour of Kochi.

The best way to explore Kochi in one or two days is with a local tour guide. Check our my recommendations below.

🌟A guided walking tour of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry with a local

🌟A private tuktuk tour with hotel pickup. This is suitable for people of all ages and small families

Stay near Fort Kochi , so that you can easily walk to the beach to see the photogenic Chinese fishing nets in the evening during the golden hour. Then return to Fort Kochi for dinner and an enthralling Kathakali dance performance in the Kerala Kathakali Center. It is one of the eight classical dance forms in India and also one of the most difficult dance forms in the world.

Best places to Stay in Kochi

Hotel Marine Inn – A 5-star luxury hotel located at the Marine Drive, in close proximity to Kochi's highlights Casino Hotel – CGH church – A sustainable 5-star luxury property located midway between Marine Drive and the Dutch Palace. In the mid-range and budget category, Fort Bridge View hotel located in Fort Kochi is the perfect place.

Check out other options and get best prices below.

Day 2 – Relax in the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarkom

After an exhausting, yet fulfilling day exploring Kochi, it's time to relax in the backwaters of Kerala. Today we will drive 55km to Alleppey, often touted as the Venice of India .

But before that we can wake up early and walk to the beach to catch a glimpse of the sunrise and explore the morning markets.

After a wholesome breakfast at hotel, we set out for Alleppey or Kumarakom. They are on two sides of the Vembanad lake – the largest natural lake in India.

You can either stay in a houseboat or in a hotel on the banks of Vembanad lake . 

A day in Alleppey

Assuming that you started from Kochi at around 10 am you will reach comfortably by 11:30 am. Kochi is a bustling city with heavy traffic, so we need to account for that time.

Take a boat-ride for 3-6 hours to explore the beauty of canals, watch the birds enjoying the sun and the blossoms of the lake, and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

While on your boat or Shikara, visit the Pathiramanal island to say “hi” to the thousands of birds that flock into the magical backwaters during winter.

Stop midway at a village, to relish on sea-food prepared with fresh catch of the day mixed with Kerala's spices. If you book a houseboat for stay you can have a traditional fish-meal for lunch in the boat itself.

On our trip, we stayed in a lakeside cottage and hired a shikara for maneuvering through the narrow canals and have lunch at one of the villages on the lakeside.

After the soulful trip, take some rest in the afternoon to avoid the scorching sun. Then drive to explore the beaches, churches and temples of Alleppey.

Next visit the Alleppey lighthouse, Alleppey beach and the loveliest Marari beach at sunset.

Once again, a paid trip will help you optimize your short time in Alleppey. These are the best-rated tours.

🌟 A 6-hour private Shikara cruise through the canals and lakes of Alleppey

🌟 There's a popular 2-day houseboat trip from Kochi to Alleppey to explore the backwaters of Alleppey and then return to Kochi Port.

Best places to Stay in Alleppey

Lemontree Vembanad Resort

☑️Affordable luxury ☑️Houseboat and Cottages

A 4-star luxury hotel on the banks of Vembanad lake, with options to stay in houseboat as well as lake-view cottages. You can read my full review here

Xandari Riverscapes

☑️Organised houseboat tours

A fleet of luxurious houseboats floating in the backwaters of Kerala.

Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey

While I haven't stayed here, I have always been impressed by the hospitality at Sterling properties in India. They are great options for affordable luxury accommodations .

Day 3 in Kerala trip plan: Drive to Munnar

Munnar is one of my favorite places in India. I think it is the best hill station in south India which despite the hype, manages to leave you awestruck at its raw natural beauty.

Speckled with waterfalls, adorned by lush green tea gardens, and pine forests, and surrounded by lofty hills, Munnar does seem like God's own country.

While most people stick to places near the Munnar town, the outskirts, especially the Chinnakanal region is breathtaking.

On Day 3, you have to drive about 180 km from Alleppey to reach Munnar. While driving you will bid goodbye to the coastal warmth and move higher towards the hills.

As you enter the serpentine roads of the Western Ghats , turn off the AC and wind down the windows of your car.

The temperature has suddenly dropped, and the scenery has completely changed within a 4-hour drive. Watch out for the scenic viewpoints at every turn.

Try not to stop everywhere you want to, lest you get late, or the driver gets annoyed.

Don't have a fixed itinerary for the day. Rather just stop and absorb the beauty around you wherever you can.

I highly recommend staying away from the city center and close to some tea garden. Keep an eye for the numerous waterfalls as well while driving to your hotel.

Best places to Stay in Munnar

Sterling Munnar

☑️Family Activities ☑️Best Location

Located in Chinnakanal area right opposite to the Tata Tea Garden, this is where we stayed on our second trip to Munnar. A perfect place to stay on a family vacation, with great activities for kids as well as the elderly.

Elephant Passage Resort

☑️5-star luxury ☑️Great Views

Located 25km from city center, this is the most affordable 5-star luxury you can get in Munnar. There's jacuzzi rooms, infinity pool and great views of nature.

Day 4 – Exploring Munnar

After a fulfilling brunch at hotel or outside, you can set off for a long exhausting tour of Munnar. One day may not be enough, but here's an itinerary covering the most memorable places in Munnar.

Drive to Eravikulam National Park right after breakfast. You need to set aside at least 2-3 hours for the trip, because of the long queue for tickets, the safari bus-ride and exploring on foot.

The beauty of this sensitive Nilgiri-biosphere is awe-inspiring. You will lose the idea of time while exploring the waterfalls and spotting the Niligiri tahr (an endangered species of animal found here) while walking in the forest. 

After this, head to Kanan Devan hills for a tour of the Tea factory

Then drive to Mattupetty Dam . If it is too crowded (which likely it will be), then drive to Kundala lake for a boat ride. 

And then, skip Top Station and save yourself some time for the other spectacles.

Similarly, if you want to watch the elephants, Carmelagiri is a touristy location where you can ride on them. But a more offbeat place for Elephant sighting is the Anayirangal Park (aka the Elephant Abode) in Chinnakanal . For more such tips and detailed guidance on your Munnar trip, check out my Munnar itinerary .

Like any other hill stations, most places close by 5pm. Stop at the Lockhart viewpoint on your way back to the hotel.

Shall I tell you a secret?

Skip the tea factory tours in Munnar and instead head to Kolukkumalai in the early morning.

Technically it's in Tamil Nadu state, but Chinnakanal is the closest getway to this hidden paradise on earth which also has one of the world's oldest and higest tea-factory .

Take a tea factory tour here instead after a bumpy jeep-ride.

Day 5 – Thrilling Thekkady

Thekkady is situated only 90 km away from Munnar, but it can take about 2.5 – 3 hours to reach because of the hair-pin belts. It is the home to Periyar National Park, the abode of Royal Bengal tigers among many other stealthy predators.

It's also significant for religious pilgrims as this is where the trek to the Ayappa Temple of Sabrimala begins.

Make sure you stay close to the Periyar National Park which is the center of all the activities in Thekkady itinerary.

Thekkady Sightseeing Plan

Assuming you started from Munnar at 9-9:30, it will be almost noon by the time your reach Thekkady.

Head to the reception of the Periyar National Park and get the brochure for all activities they offer and their timings

First you can go on a jeep ride through the tea and spice plantations. It will also take you to Ottakathalamedu, a hill-top from where you cans see magnificent panoramic views.

Then, after a quick lunch it will be time for the unmissable Periyar Lake Cruise . You will see a host of migratory birds in the lake, deer and antelopes on the banks, and, if lucky, you have a chance to spot elephants here too. 

Spend the evening shopping in Kumily and then head on to Mudra Cultural Centre to witness Kalaripayattu . This is an ancient martial art form which is both brave and beautiful.

If you have the energy, you can also book a thrilling night safari in the forest. Or simply rest at night; you've had a long day already.

Best places to Stay in Thekkady

Abad Green Forest Resort ☑️Best Location

Located in the Periyar National Park area, this 4-star property is the best place for luxury jungle experience.

Chrissie's hotel ☑️Pocket-friendly

This is one of the most popular pocket-friendly property near Periyar National Park. It's also pet-friendly!

Day 6 – Pamper yourself at Kovalam

Our trip is coming to an end soon. But don't be sad as it's time to drive to Kovalam. Located approximately 215 kilometers (134 miles) from Thekkady, it will take around 5-6 hours by road.

While like everywhere else in Kerala there's a plethora of options available for different budget types, I highly recommend booking a beach-side spa resort in Kovalam.

In most places in Kerala you can easily stay in budget hotels and explore outdoors all day. But Kovalam and the Alappuzha regions are famous for Ayurvedic Spa and medicinal treatment. Why not pamper yourself a bit here?

Kovalam itinerary for the day

Assuming you started from Thekkady at 9 am, it will be almost 3pm by the time you reach Kovalam.

You can stop for lunch on your way to the hotel, or have lunch immediately after checking in.

You can then head off to the  three beautiful beaches of Kovalam  – the  Lighthouse beach , the  Hawah beach  and the  Samudra beach . You can trek to the short cliffs for capturing amazing views.

You can spend the entire evening strolling in the beaches or go for an  Ayurvedic spa massage .

Best places to Stay in Kovalam

🥇 Raviz Kovalam (formerly Leela Kovalam)

☑️Stunning Location ☑️5-star Luxury

Located at the cliff-top the views from this hotel is heavenly. The water looks vanilla-blue from here.

Samudra Leisure beach resort

☑️Pocket-friendly☑️Spa available

At nearly half the rate of Raviz or Taj, you can enjoy luxury at pocket-friendly rate . This also has a wellness center for Ayurvedic spa.

Day 7: Bidding goodbye from Trivandrum

The last day of a vacation always makes your heart heavy. But don't worry, we still have a lot to do today before we depart from Trivandrum in the evening. 

It is located only 19 km away from Kovalam and you can reach easily within 30 minutes through the smooth coastal road. But before that we will take a detour to Poovar, a floating town in the Poovar lake near Kovalam.

After a delectable lunch in the Poovar island you can drive to the airport for final departure.

A guide to Kerala Trip Planning

Now that you have your Kerala trip plan and a detailed 7-day itinerary of Kerala, I want to share some practical information to help you travel. Here are a few travel tips and trivia about Kerala that you need to know before going on this vacation.

How to reach Kerala?

Kerala is well-connected by air, rail, and road. There are three main international airports located in Kochi , Trivandrum , and Calicut respectively. Several railway stations connect Kerala to other parts of India.

All the destinations mentioned here can be covered on the most scenic road trips from Bangalore , the city where I live in.

🚙 🚗 Rent a  Zoomcar  for self-driving all the way in Kerala 🚔

Going around in Kerala

While I'm all for exploring India solo, I get that it can be a bit overwhelming if you're not a local. So, your best bet is to rent a cab with an English-speaking driver.

But hey, if you're up for a little adventure, local transport like KSTDC buses work great for inter-city travel, and tuk-tuks are your go-to for getting around town.

If you're the kind who likes to take the wheel, you can also book a self-drive car. Just make sure to download the maps and have an online translator app handy.

📲 Getting simcard is difficult in India for foreign nationals. The easiest way to stay connected is with an India e-sim . 🤳

Cuisine and Dining in Kerala

While you have a plethora of “safe” options in most hotels in India, Kerala's authentic cuisine is a must-try.

Rice is the staple food of Kerala and most of the dishes are just the most innovative, mind-boggling ways you can use rice. These are my favorite Keralite dishes.

• Kerala porotta aka Malabar porota(a white-flour Indian bread) with fish-curry
• Appam-stew ( Appam is a type of pancake made of fermented rice flour and coconut milk which is usually had with a vegetable stew)
• Iddiyappam with curry (looks like idli made of rice noodles)
• Puttu with curry (Putti is a cylindrical shaped steamed rice cake)
• Karimeen Fry
• Bamboo chicken biriyani

Although known for sumptuous sea food and one of the few states in India where beef preparations are mainstream, Kerala is actually a great place for vegans.

Many of the authentic dishes as you can see in my list above use only vegan ingredients sourced locally.

If you have time, and want to do something memorable, take a home cooking class of Kerala cuisine

What is the best time to visit Kerala?

The best time to visit Kerala is between November to January . This is the winter season, when coastal Kerala is still hot but comfortable. Rest of the year is extremely hot and humid, except for the Western Ghats region.

If you want to spend most of the time in the Western Ghats of Kerala, you can visit any time of the year.

In fact, if you want to see the famous boatrace in Alapuzha , you should plan your trip around August . This is the peak monsoon season, so temperatures cool down significantly. It will still be humid in the coastal region, but the hills will look spectacular.

The boat races are held as part of the “Onam” celebrations. It is the harvest festival of Kerala, and one of the most important days in Malaylam Calendar.  ( Malaylam is the native language of Kerala, also the native culture).

Just check for the weather reports before embarking on road-trip in the monsoon . 

A few more Frequently Asked Questions Answered

How many days are enough for kerala.

You cover the best of Kerala on a tight schedule in 7 days. This is usually the most practical time-frame most people have for spending in one state of India.

If you can extend your stay to 10 days, you will have more time to explore some of the destinations and enjoy some excursions.

If you are on an India tour and can't afford a week for Kerala , 5 days should be enough to enjoy the unmissable experiences – natural beauty of Munnar, the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom and the pristine beaches of Kovalam along with some cultural performances.

Ofcourse the longer you stay the better.

How to explore Kerala in 5 days?

A Kerala trip plan for 5 days should ideally have 1 day in Kochi for historic sightings, 1-day Alleppey for experiencing the backwaters and some amazing clean beaches and 2 days in Munnar for blissful Western Ghats experience.

On day 5, drive from Munnar to Kochi via Athirapally Falls. That's what I suggest because I love Munnar. However, you can squeeze in Thekkady on Day 3 and skip Athirapally Falls.

If you are visiting Kerala for the first time and have only 5 days, I highly recommend this packed 5-day Kerala trip by Saffron India Tours .

What souvenirs can I bring back from Kerala?

You can bring the best quality of Indian spices – cardamom, cloves, cinnamon etc. What most people would ask me to bring whenever I travel to Kerala is “ Banana chips “. These thinly slices dried bananas deep-fried in coconut oil is a delicacy that can travel with you back to your home easily.

Besides I highly recommend buying Kerala cotton or Kerala silk sari. You can also buy “ Mundu ” for men in the same material. The white saris or mundu with golden border is a specialty.

Is Kerala safe for solo travelling?

Kerala is one of the safest states in India for tourists. Women usually don't face lecherous stares or bad behavior in public places in Kerala. You are less likely to be scammed as a tourist. Only thing that scares me is the speed at which people drive in the hills in Kerala.

How expensive is Kerala?

In my experience I have found Kerala more expensive than the other states of south India when it comes to tourism. It is certainly the most famous tourist destination in south, and the tariff for cabs, fun-activities, etcetera is relatively higher.

Having said that it is completely affordable for budget backpackers with good hostels and homestays starting from Rs. 1000/- per day.

You cover the best of Kerala on a tight schedule in 7 days. This is usually the most practical time-frame most people have for spending in one state of India. If you can extend your stay to 10 days, you will have more time to explore some of the destinations and enjoy some excursions. If you are on an India tour and can't afford a week for Kerala , 5 days should be enough to enjoy the unmissable experiences – natural beauty of Munnar, the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom and the pristine beaches of Kovalam along with some cultural performances.

Closing Thoughts

I hope this article inspires you to travel to this amazing state and make memories of a lifetime. I will leave you with a list of my favorite travel sites for travel planning in India. 

If you liked this post, you may also find these articles interesting.

Best of Karnataka – One state, many worlds

Best of Enchanting Tamil Nadu

I have already linked detailed itineraries to the places mentioned in my post. But here they are again for you to read and save for later.

Munnar travel guide

Thekkady travel guide

Wayanad itinerary

Kasargod (Bekal) travel guide

Top Travel Sites in India for 2024

🏨 Booking.com  for the best hotel prices (Price match and free cancellations)

🚗Get discounts on package tours and special experiences with Viator

🚶🏼‍♂️ Free walking tours on Freetour

🛏️ For free accommodations, use Trusted House Sitters

Liked the post? Please share with your friends and family, and plan the trip now. Or you can save this guide to plan later.

Let’s stay connected on  Facebook ,  Instagram , and  Twitter . You can also  subscribe  to get notified by email when a new post comes in.

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17 Comments

Wow! I never realized all there is to do in this region, and I love the itinerary. Thanks for the pointers and great list of things to see and do!

Thanks a lot Meggie.

I have been to Kerala 23 years ago! I really loved it but I was only there for a very short time. I remember seeing the houseboats on the backwaters and thinking I’d like to come back someday and do that. This is excellent information you have provided. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you so much for reading. Hope you come for another trip.

That’s a long time. I hope you come again to see what has changed and spend a night in the houseboat

I’ve had the opportunity to visit Kerala on four occasions within the past three years, and each visit brings forth a fresh allure. My most recent visit o Kovalam refreshed me for at least the next couple of months.

Thanks for this comprehensive post. Now I know what exactly to look for in my next trip.

Great post! The thing that draws me to Kerala is how lush, green and gorgeous the natural landscape can be. Places like the waterfalls at Munnar are just stunning and it would be fantastic to see all the wildlife. Oh, and then the food! 😀

Thank you so much. I hope you visit soon

Wow that beach view is amazing – did you have a favorite one? I have never heard of Kerala but have enjoyed reading about it as I am trying to learn more about the different states of India. Will be saving this for my trip to India!

Thanks a lot Natalie. My favorite beach in Kerala is Kovalam. I love the Marari beach too. Glad to help further if you’re planing a trip to Kerala

What a stunning place to visit- those waterfalls are amazing. And I would definitely love to take a boat ride to see elephants, how awesome!!

What a wonderful guide — so much excellent information!

And the history of the region — I never knew! Thank you!

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts

Munnar and tea gardens are sooo on my list! I was planning a visit in 2019 while working remotely from Pune, but didn’t get around to it, as work got too busy. But looking at your recommendations, definitely a must-visit!

thanks a lot Alina Hope you get to take this trip soon

I love the Munnar waterfall as well as the idea of a 6 hour cruise! The animals look cute and so glad you can see them from the bus.

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Breathedreamgo

The transformational travel guide

Ideal two-week Kerala itinerary

Table of Contents

Ideal two week Kerala itinerary

Kerala is a tropical state in South India known for white sand beaches, languid Backwaters, the Western Ghats mountain range, spice gardens, tea plantations, and Ayurveda. It’s got a rich, and unique culture — there’s nowhere else like it in India — and it’s a gentle place that makes for a great place to land on your first trip to India. This two week Kerala itinerary covers all of the highlights of the state, from historic cities, to the network of Backwaters, to the spice and tea gardens of the mountains, to the most popular tiger reserve, to tropical beaches and finally to a relaxing and healthy Ayurvedic treatment experience at a luxury resort.

Why visit Kerala?

You can visit Kerala all year ‘round as it’s lush in the monsoon season (June to September) and is an ideal tropical vacation destination for escaping from cold winters from November to March. The beaches of Kerala are among the best beaches in India , and there are lots to choose from — from the quiet, secluded beaches of the north to the busy beach towns of the south that are popular with foreign tourists. When you get tired of relaxing on the beach, you can do a deep dive into the unique culture of Kerala, and try the spicy cuisine, featuring rice and fish, visit some of the most beautiful temples in India, and enjoy traditional dance performances such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. And there’s much more … which I have tried to cover in the two-week Kerala itinerary.

All photos in post by Andrew Adams Photography . Andrew is a superb chronicler of India in image. Check out out his photography here on his website AndrewAdamsPhoto .

Kerala featured on Amateur Traveler Podcast

This post was created for my appearance on the Amateur Traveler Podcast with Chris Christensen. You can listen to our conversation and the details of the itinerary here.

Two week Kerala Itinerary

• Cochin / Fort Kochi (3 days)
• Kumarakom Backwaters (3 days)
• Thekkady (3 days)
• Beaches (4-5 days)
• Ayurveda (additional 2 weeks extension for Panchakarma)

Why visit Cochin / Fort Kochi?

Most visitors fly into either Cochin (which is in central Kerala) or Trivandrum (which is in south Kerala) airports. In this two week Kerala itinerary we are going to start from Cochin and head south, and up into the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats. (Though we are not including North Kerala, it’s also a very special area, less popular with tourists, and well worth visiting. Wayanad especially is a great offbeat destination in India .)

Cochin is a historical city on the Malabar Coast — famous for hundreds of years as a spice trade port. It also saw several colonial invasions, most notably the Portuguese and the Dutch. The Portuguese and Dutch took turns ruling Cochin for 444 years (from 1503 until India’s independence in 1947). Though the historic section of Cochin is actually quite small, it’s packed with things to see and do — and very walkable. Tree-lined avenues, colonial architecture, cafes, and art galleries abound.  There are two main areas of Cochin to focus on. You could spend one-two days getting to know each.

1. Vasco da Gama square and River Road. 

This historic area runs along the coast, facing the harbour, and it’s where you find the famous Chinese fishing nets. These nets were said to have come to India in about 1400 from traders from the court of Kubla Khan.

At Vasco da Gama square there’s a beachfront promenade where food stalls are set up. You can pick the fresh seafood you want to eat, and they will cook it for you. The ideal time to be here is sunset, especially for photographers. 

St Francis Church was built by the Dutch in the 15th century and it’s where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was originally buried. This church is supposedly the oldest in India. From here, you can walk along Church Road to Princess Street. This area is full of shops, cafes, and guest houses for tourists. One street over is Burger Street where you will find the delightful, and hip, Kashi Art Cafe.

In this region, at the tip of the peninsula, you will find some of the best hotels the city has to offer. My favourites are Brunton Boatyard at the very high end, or the boutique hotels Eighth Bastion or The Malabar House. For a romantic dinner, eat in the courtyard of The Malabar House. There are lots of homestays in Cochin, as well.

2. Mattancherry

The other main historic area, about 2-3 kilometres from Vasco da Gama Square, is Mattancherry. The central focus is the 16th century Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese in 1555 (and renovated by the Dutch in 1663, which is why it is sometimes referred to as the Dutch Palace). The star attractions are the sublime paintings that depict scenes from the Hindu epics.

Next to the palace is the small area known as Jew Town, where Jewish people settled in the 16th century. The Paradesi Synagogue was built in 1568, and well worth seeing, and a walk along Synagogue Lane will take you through the historic spice trading area. At the end of the lane is the Spice Market.  There are great places to stop such as the Mocha Art Cafe along the way. On the waterfront, you will find the Ginger House Museum, which is also a hotel. Ginger house was where — you guessed it — ginger was traded.

Why visit Kumarakom and the Backwaters?

The Backwaters of Kerala are one of the state’s star tourist attractions, and for a reason. It’s a very unique 900 kilometre network of canals, home to traditional farming communities that make or grow products such as coir (coconut fibre), copra, (dried coconut kernels) and cashews. There are several centres from where you can rent a fully staffed rice barge, or houseboat, to languidly cruise the Backwaters. The main one is Alleppey (also known as Alappuzha), which has become very busy and congested. I much prefer quieter and more laid-back Kumarakom. Here, you can both relax and witness a traditional culture that is largely unchanged.

It’s about an hour-and-a-half drive from Cochin to Kumarakom. In Kumarakom you can stay in a mid-range or luxury resort, and enjoy boat cruising during the day; or rent a houseboat, and stay on the houseboat. This area includes Vembanad Lake, the biggest lake in the Backwaters. The thing to do in Kumarakom is relax, eat fresh seafood, watch sunsets, and enjoy soaking up the local atmosphere. 

My recommendation is to stay in a resort, and go on a sunrise boat ride, in a small, local boat, through the narrow canals. You can also do a day trip on one of the big houseboats, for the experience. There are places where you can go ashore and meet the locals and see the traditional lifestyles and farming methods. Or just relax on the boat. On the big boats, staff will make you a lunch of local specialties. 

Kumarakom Lake Resort and Coconut Lagoon are the two top resorts in this area and you can’t beat them for atmosphere, service, and amenities. Coconut Lagoon is one of my favourite properties in India. It’s location, at the meeting point of a canal and Lake Vembanad is ideal, and makes for amazing sunsets. Coconut Lagoon has painstakingly captured and preserved the local culture by buying up traditional wooden Kerala homes and rebuilding them onsite. It’s also one of the most sustainable properties in India. They have many systems in place to preserve and conserve, such as rain water harvesting and a biogas plant. 

Why visit Thekkady?

It’s a three-hour drive from Kumarakon to Thekkady — a bit long, but very interesting and beautiful as you drive up into the Western Ghats. This mountain range is one of the world’s top biodiversity hotspots, and an important region for spices, tea, and coffee. In fact, Kerala is called the spice bowl of India. The mountains in the Thekkady region are called The Cardamom Hills, a romantic name that conjures visions of spice scented plantations and misty mornings. In Kerala, humans and nature coexist in harmony.

Thekkady is beautiful and worth seeing for the mountain vistas and rolling tea plantations, and it’s also a good spot to stay while you explore one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in India, Periyar. 

There are a lot of resorts, hotels, and wildlife lodges close to the entrance to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, within one to four kilometres, in a town called Kumily. My favourite is Spice Village , a destination lodge unto itself, built on 12 acres and patterned after a local village. You stay in a thatched roof cottage, and can wander the grounds and see spices and tea growing in profusion. There’s also a large organic garden, an in-house naturalist (who you will find at The Tiger Club), and The 50 Mile Restaurant where, you guessed it, everything served comes from within 50 miles. 

Your time in Thekkady will be very active, there’s so much to do — from a sunrise walking safari in Periyar, to visiting local tea plantations and spice gardens. The cooler air and misty mornings help invigorate your days.

Why visit Kerala’s beaches?

After a busy time at the higher-altitudes of Thekkady, you will be ready for some time relaxing on Kerala’s famous beaches. A four-hour drive down to sea level and out to the coast takes you directly to Marari Beach on the Arabian Sea. This is one of Kerala’s many well-known beaches, and from here we will be travelling south down the coast to hit a few other top beaches.

Marari Beach is popular because it’s so close to the Backwaters. Here, you can experience both beach life and boating in the Backwaters. I stayed at the Marari Beach Resort , which is gorgeous. A huge property, designed to replicate a fishing village, it features cosy, upscale cottages, a fabulous swimming pool, a beachside seafood restaurant and a long, palm-tree lined beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing and watching glorious sunsets.

Varkala is about a three-hour drive directly south down the coast of Kerala. It’s a popular hang-out town for foreigners … the type of place you could find yourself not wanting to leave. In fact, there are lots of foreigners who spend months at Varkala.

Varkala is famous for dramatic red cliffs and surfing beaches. In some places, the surf is quite strong here, so you do have to be careful. All along the north cliff top is a row of small cafes, restaurants, guest houses and resorts. It’s a busy place, bustling with tourists. 

At the south end of town, however, it’s much less busy and peaceful, and you can walk along to beach and get away from the crowds. Here you will also find an ancient temple and a sacred beach, where pujas are performed for families who have lost loved ones. This area has less tourists and more locals, so in Varkala you can get the best of both worlds: amenities for tourists and authentic local culture. I like to stay at Kaiya House partially because it is located at the meeting point of these two areas (and partially because it’s a great guest house!). 

Varkala also has a thriving Yoga and Ayurvedic culture, so you can have a health conscious vacation here, too.

South from Varkala you come to Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) the capital of Kerala (it’s only about a one-hour drive). Trivandrum is not particularly recommended for tourists, but south of Trivandrum are some of the best beaches in the state, as you head towards the bottom tip of Kerala. The area around Kovalam Beach (which has become too touristy for my liking) is also home to some lovely Ayurveda resorts, especially if you travel south about eight kilometres. 

Here you can find a number of good places that hit the sweet spot for being both authentic and reliable, as well as lovely resorts with varying degrees of luxury.

More reading about Kerala on Breathedreamgo

• Best Places to visit in Kerala
• CGH Earth: The Best hotels and resorts in Kerala
• My top travel tips for Kerala, India’s soft landing
• Kairali Ayurveda Resort
• Chasing India’s Monsoon

Why try Ayurveda treatment in Kerala?

Ayurveda is the science of life — that’s literally what it means — an ancient Indian system of healthcare based on observations of nature, and using all natural healing methods such as oil massage and herbal medicine. Kerala is the acknowledged centre for Ayurveda in India, and here you can find a very wide range of places that offer Ayurvedic treatment — from hospitals to luxury resorts.

The first thing you need to know about Ayurveda is that it’s a serious healthcare system. Going for Ayurvedic treatment is not like going to a spa. It is ideally suited for people who have some health issues that need addressing — anything from weight-loss, to diabetes management, to digestive issues, to hormone imbalances. 

A treatment package usually runs about two-to-three weeks (and longer for serious illnesses), so it is a commitment. First you meet with an Ayurvedic doctor for a consultation, and they design your program, which includes all aspects of life such as diet and exercise. You will eat Ayurvedic foods (fresh, bland, and healthy) prescribed specifically for you and spend a couple of hours each day getting treatments that almost always include oil massage. Prepared to be hot and oily for the duration!

The point of Ayurveda is to cleanse the body and help it regain balance. When in balance, we don’t succumb to illness. It’s a preventative approach that can really help invigorate you, boost your immunity, and increase energy. 

Make sure that you thoroughly research any place you decide to take Ayurvedic treatment. You want well-trained doctors and therapists, a hygienic environment, fresh food, and safe, comfortable accommodations. 

Depending on your situation and state of health, you can choose from a very wide range of places that offer Ayurvedic treatment — from hospitals to luxury resorts. I can recommend two lovely resorts from personal experience (Shin Shiva and Kairali), and several places by reputation. These are all resorts that provide authentic Ayurveda. For an Ayurvedic hospital, you would need to research and ask professionals in the field.

• Shin Shiva Ayurvedic Resort, Kovalam
• Kairali, Palakkad
• CGH Earth Kalari Kovilakom
• Somatheeram, Kovalam
• Soma Manaltheeram Ayurveda Beach Village, Kovalam

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In Kerala, humans and nature coexist in harmony

Guide to the absolute best beaches in India

Best places to visit in Kerala, India

About Mariellen Ward

Professional travel writer Mariellen Ward is the founder of award-winning Breathedreamgo. Mariellen has a BA in Journalism and has been travel writing and blogging since 2005. She has won many awards, including a National Tourism Award from Incredible India Tourism, and writes for some of the world’s leading publications including BBC Travel and NatGeo Traveller India.

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The Ultimate 7 Day Kerala Itinerary and Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure to Kerala and make it the best one yet with this 7-day vegan and eco-friendly  Kerala itinerary . 

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide a small commission to me at no cost to you if you decide to make a purchase. You can read more in my disclaimer here . 

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Kerala 

The best time to visit Kerala depends on what type of experiences you are looking for and what your preferences are. That said, below are 3 seasons that are the most popular for visiting.  

​ Winter season is generally considered the best time to visit Kerala. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C. It’s an ideal time for beach vacations, houseboat cruises, and exploring hill stations like Munnar.

Summers in Kerala can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. While it might be warm in the lowlands, the hill stations like Munnar offer a cool escape.

The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Kerala. The southwest monsoon (June to September) is the primary rainy season. While the rain can create lush landscapes, it may hinder outdoor activities. 

 Unique Experiences by Season:

• Winter:  Best for general sightseeing, beach vacations, and houseboat cruises.
• Summer:  Ideal for hill station retreats and wildlife exploration in national parks.
• Monsoon:  Great for Ayurvedic  retreats , and indoor cultural excursions without the crowds.

Explore Ayurvedic Retreats in Kerala

Getting to kerala.

Kerala is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible from various parts of India. However, the most common entry point for both domestic and international flights is through  Cochin International Airport (aka Kochi Airport). 

This is the best way to get to Kochi, the hill stations of Munnar, and the Alleppey backwaters. It’s also a great place to land before heading south to the beaches of Varkala.

However, if you choose to start your trip on the southern end, you can always fly into Trivandrum International Airport. From there, you can work your way up north and fly out of the Cochin Airport. 

​I recommend conducting an Expedia or Skyscanner search to find the best flight deals from your starting point. 

Recommendation for safe travel

If flying into Trivandrum on a late flight, spend the night near the airport or the nearest train station. Otherwise,  grab a transfer  from the airport directly to Varkala. 

Get the app  for quick transfer scheduling access. This will come in handy!

Traveling By Train

Trains to Kochi (Ernakulam Junction):  Kochi has a major railway station known as Ernakulam Junction (ERS) and is well-connected to major cities throughout India.

Trains to Thiruvananthapuram:  Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) is the capital city and has a central railway station (Thiruvananthapuram Central) with frequent train services from various parts of the country.

Trains to Kozhikode (Calicut):  Kozhikode is another important railway station in northern Kerala, offering good connectivity.

Traveling By Road

National Highways:  Kerala is well-connected by a network of national highways. The National Highway 66 (previously NH47) and National Highway 544 (previously NH 212) are two major highways connecting Kerala with other states.

State Highways:  Kerala also has various state highways, making road travel convenient with options like buses, taxis, and private vehicles.

Interstate Buses:  Several state-run and private buses operate between Kerala and neighboring states. Major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Coimbatore have regular bus services to Kerala.

Self-Drive:  You can also opt for a  car rental  if you want to drive yourself. With scenic routes through Kerala, a road trip can often lead to your best experience.

Visa for Kerala, India

Foreign travelers are required to obtain a  visa  before visiting Kerala. However, if you’re a citizen from any of the following 11 countries, you can obtain a VoA (Visa on Arrival) from either the Kochi or Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) Airport.

Countries Eligible for VoA:

• New Zealand
• The Philippines

Where to Stay (Kerala Accommodations)

To find the best option and prices for your stay in Kerala, I suggest cross-checking between Booking.com  and  Agoda .

If you prefer a vacation rental for a more comfortable “at-home” experience,  VRBO  is a great option. 

If you’re a backpacker, I recommend exploring hostel options on  Hostelworld . Another option is searching for a homestay on  Homestays  which are similar to an Airbnb but more economical. 

India’s Currency

India uses the official currency of the country, which is the Indian Rupee (INR). The Indian Rupee is abbreviated as “₹” and is often represented by the symbol ₹. It is the official legal tender throughout the entire country.

I recommend carrying some Indian currency for local transactions as credit and debit cards may not be accepted at all establishments. Especially in rural areas. 

Exchanging Your Currency

Before exchanging currency, compare rates and fees across different options to get the best deal. 

You’ll also want to be aware of any commissions, service charges, or fees associated with the exchange service you choose. Additionally, always use authorized and reliable sources to avoid potential scams or counterfeit currency issues. 

​ Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and authorized currency exchange centers. Getting this taken care of in your home country and preferably NOT at the airport, will help minimize fees. 

Click on the image below to use the Currency Converter and check conversion rates. 

How to Get Around Kerala

I would suggest using  Google Maps  or  Mappls MapmyIndia  to research your itinerary routes. It will show you the fastest way to get around whether it’s by car, train, or bus. However, for these apps to work successfully, you’ll need a  pocket WiFi  or SIM Card such as a  DrimSim SIM card  or an  Airalo eSIM card . 

Primary ways to get around Kerala:

By Bus:  Kerala has an extensive network of state-run and private buses connecting major cities, towns, and remote villages. State-run KSRTC buses and private operators offer regular services.

By Car:   Getting a ride  or  renting a car  is an option for more flexibility, especially when exploring remote areas.

By Taxis and Auto-rickshaws:  Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available for shorter distances and within cities. Negotiate fares before starting your trip or use meters if available.

​ There are various taxi options in Kerala. To ensure you select the best and most affordable service, view the different options and their reviews  HERE . 

​ By Train:  With a railway system that connects the entire state, getting around by train is fairly easy. For both short and long distances. Cities like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Alappuzha all have major railway stations.

Staying Connected in Kerala

Kerala has widespread mobile network coverage and available Wi-Fi in urban and tourist areas. Plus you can get free WiFi at most hotels and cafes but speeds may vary. 

Consider your data needs and explore SIM card options for a more reliable and efficient connection during your Kerala trip. This way you can be sure to consistently stay connected as needed throughout your stay. 

In addition to staying connected via WiFi, a good VPN service is essential. This will ensure your internet connection is secure and safe from intrusions. Especially while in a foreign country. 

With  ExpressVPN , you’ll be able to safely secure your connection online. Whether you’re streaming, browsing, or using free public WiFi, encrypting your internet connection is critical. 

Safety in Kerala

The state has strict safety guidelines and protocols in place to ensure visitors feel comfortable and safe during their stay. 

However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to exercise common safety precautions. Pay attention to your belongings, use reliable transportation services, and be cautious in crowded or unfamiliar areas. 

Helpful Kerala Phrases 

Learning a few basic phrases in the local language,  Malayalam  can greatly enhance your experience during your trip. 

Here are 10 helpful phrases:

Hello / Hi:

• English: Hello
• Malayalam: ഹലോ (halo)
• English: Thank you
• Malayalam: നന്ദി (nandi)
• English: Yes / No
• Malayalam: അതെ (athe) / ഇല്ല (illa)

Excuse me / Sorry:

• English: Excuse me / Sorry
• Malayalam: ക്ഷമിക്കണം (kshamikkanam) / ക്ഷമിക്കണം (kshamikkam)
• English: Please
• Malayalam: ദയവായി (dayavayi)

Good morning / Good evening / Good night:

• English: Good morning / Good evening / Good night
• Malayalam: സുപ്രഭാതം (suprabhatam) / ശുഭ സന്ധ്യ (shubha sandhya) / ശുഭ രാത്രി (shubha raathri)

How much does it cost?:

• English: How much does it cost?
• Malayalam: ഇത് എത്ര ആയിരിക്കുക? (ithu ethra ayirikkuka?)

Where is…?:

• English: Where is…?
• Malayalam: … എങ്ങനെ പോകുന്നു? (… engane pokunnu?)

I don’t understand:

• English: I don’t understand
• Malayalam: ഞാൻ പരിഭാഷ ചെയ്യുന്നില്ല (njan paribhasha cheyunnila)

Help! / Emergency:

• English: Help! / Emergency
• Malayalam: സഹായം (sahayam) / അപകടം (apakadam)

These basic phrases should help you communicate and navigate common situations during your travels in Kerala. The locals will likely appreciate your efforts to speak their language, even if it’s just a few words. 

For more help, download the Google Translate app . It works like a charm!

7 Day Vegan and Eco-Friendly Kerala Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive in Kochi

The first stop is Kochi City. After you get settled into your hotel, head over to  Loving Earth Cafe  in Fort Kochi to grab something to eat. Here you'll find plenty of delicious cruelty-free, plant-based food options on the menu. They even have a yoga studio if you want to unwind and stop in for a class. 

If you're up for a cultural experience you can grab a  skip-the-line  ticket and head over to the Kathakali Dance Show. This show takes place in the city of Kochi so it's a perfect option for staying local on your first night. 

Unless you would rather opt for a more low-key, eco and nature-infused kinda stay. In which case, I would recommend heading to  Coconut Lagoon . 

Next up, is Alleppey which is a little over an hour drive.  

Day 2 - Explore the Kerala Backwaters in Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Begin your day out in nature with a backwater cruise along the iconic Lake Vembanad. The largest lake in Kerala. Glide through the labyrinth of interconnected canals, flanked by emerald-green paddy fields and swaying palm trees. 

You'll paddle through a scenic canvas of rural life, amidst traditional houseboats and vibrant wildlife along the tranquil waters. 

This Kerala tour will allow you to immerse yourself in nature as you navigate the network of waterways. All while gaining a profound appreciation for the unique ecosystem and cultural richness of the  Kerala Backwaters . 

The good thing about Kerala is that it's predominantly vegetarian so you shouldn't have a hard time finding vegan-friendly places to eat. You can also use the  HappyCow app  to explore nearby eateries. 

The next destination is Munnar.   A highly popular destination that is surrounded by nature’s beautiful dense forests, rolling hills, and mountain terrain. It’ll take around 4 hours and 18 minutes to get there so leave bright and early!

Day 3 - Explore the Tea Plantations in Munnar 

Getting here is a bit longer but well worth the time. I recommend staying at the  Kaivalyam Wellness Retreat  (aka  Sitaram Mountain Retreat ) to enhance your travel experience.

The retreat sits amidst spice plantations and has an in-house restaurant with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. 

>>READ KAIVALYAM'S TRIPADVISOR REVIEWS

Today is all about enjoying the day exploring the tea gardens, tea museum, waterfalls, and observing the elephants in their natural habitat. This will be an exciting adventure!

Be sure to book either of the tours below (or both) to secure your spot ahead of time. If you want to do both, you can opt for doing the Elephant Tour on Day 3 and adding on the Tea Trail Tour to Day 4. 

Both are immersive experiences that involve exploring Kerala's unique culture and providing insights about its rich history. 

In addition, with the tea tour, you'll have the opportunity to walk amidst aromatic rolling hills, while breathing in the purest of air. You can also interact with the tea pluckers and experience tea tasting at the tea museum factory. 

Something a bit different (and healthier) than the typical wine tasting. 

Day 4 - Discover more of Munnar!

Embark on a trekking adventure through Eravikulam National Park , home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. ​Anamudi Peak (the highest peak in the Western Ghats), and the Attukal Waterfalls add to the experience.

Take some  hiking snacks  with you so you stay fueled throughout your hike and don't forget to stay  hydrated !

After returning from your hiking exploration, spend the afternoon relaxing and retreating at the resort.

Take advantage of all that  Kaivalyam Wellness Retreat  has to offer. Maybe even pamper yourself with an  Ayurvedic treatment or massage to help unwind from your trek. 

The next stop is located  2 hours and 48 minutes away in Thekkady.

Day 5 - Head to Periyar National Park in Thekkady

This is a great stop for wildlife enthusiasts. Here you'll have the option to choose from many ecotourism adventures at  Periyar Tiger Reserve . 

I would suggest a nature walk or trek through the jungle amidst the lush green hills and dense forests, a boat safari adventure, or bamboo rafting with a camping overnight stay. That's if you don't mind roughing it for one night! ​

If you want to skip the overnight camping experience, the reserve has other  accommodations  to choose from. Or, you can stay at  any of these amazing eco-resorts  in Thekkady. 

Other  wildlife sanctuaries include:

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

The next day will be a 4-hour and 34-minute trip to Varkala.

Day 6 - Kayak the Mangroves in Varkala 

The final stop is the beautiful Varkala Beach which borders the Arabian Sea. Today will be more about connecting with nature and exploring the mangroves on kayak. 

This hidden gem offers an ideal setting for a serene paddling experience. With motorboats prohibited in the area, the calm waters provide the perfect setting for a quiet exploration of the mangrove forests. 

You will be led by a professional guide who will not only ensure your safety but also provide valuable insights into the unique ecosystem surrounding you.

>>CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT

The trip is 4 hours long so it's best to catch the 6:30 AM trip to make the most of your day. Plus, it makes for a more tranquil and meditative experience through nature. 

Spend the rest of the day relaxing along Varkala Beach, take in the views from the Varkala Cliffs, or wind down with a relaxing, scenic boat trip to Ponnumthuruthu Island. 

To get to Ponnumthuruthu Island you would need to head over to  Nedunganda Village to catch a boat ride. It's about 19 minutes from Varkala Beach. 

Day 7 - Prepare for Your Return Flight

If you're flying out of Trivandrum Airport, you could spend time lounging by your resort pool and grab something to eat at one of the local vegan/vegetarian restaurants before you leave. Depending on what time your flight takes off. 

On the contrary, if you're flying out of Cochin Airport, you will need to head out early to make your flight. Cochin International Airport is about 4-1/2 hours from Varkala so you want to give yourself enough time. 

Planning a Longer Trip?

If you want to plan for a 10 or 15-day trip, you can add on the following destinations. They are among the most popular places to visit in the state of Kerala. 

Gavi Forest Mattancherry Palace – Commonly known as the Dutch Palace Paradesi Synagogue  St. Francis Church – The oldest European church Padmanabhaswamy Temple Napier Museum

Trip Essentials

A part of the trip planning process is ensuring your trip is insured so you are covered in every way that matters. 

It’s your safety net against the uncertainties that can disrupt your trip, from sudden cancellations to unexpected medical emergencies or lost belongings.

With travel insurance, you gain peace of mind, knowing that you’re financially protected and supported in unforeseen situations. 

It’s a small investment that ensures you can focus on the joys of travel while leaving the worries behind. So, before you set off on your Kerala adventure, be sure to secure your trip with a plan that best fits your needs. 

It’ll make for smoother and stress-free travels!

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• Mar 28, 2020
• 12 min read

Kerala Itinerary: The best of Kerala experience for 9 days

Updated: Apr 17, 2020

Are you planning for a trip to Kerala soon and looking for an itinerary for your trip? Here we have put together a 9-day itinerary filled with what we consider to be the highlights of Kerala.

Ah Kerala, a state in India that you might have not heard much about. It is different from what you would imagine India to be. It is nothing similar from what you have seen from the typical shots of Ganges River, and neither we will talk about rats, monkeys or the stereotypical dangers.

What is the most striking about this southernmost Indian state of Kerala is its myriad shades of green. Along the way we could see how these shades of green transform from the dark green leaves of the forests that surround the backwaters, to the lighter green of the tea leaves, seamlessly followed by the blue green waters along the coast to the yellow green of the paddy fields.

Edmund and I travelled for 578 km from Kochi, Munnar, Alappuzha all the way to Varkala, and eventually headed back to Kochi for a total of 9 days last November 2019.

We first visited India on January of the same year, we were in Rajasthan for 10 days and it was one of the most unforgettable trips we had! So, we thought we should pay another visit to this incredible land on the same year, considering we were still having our Indian Visa of multiple entries with one year of validity. Hoping that we could get totally different experience as compared to Rajasthan in north of India, Kerala was not disappointing at all!

Well, we had a total of 9 days to explore this southernmost Indian state and we cherry-picked 4 spots that sufficiently gave us the best of Kerala. The longer the better of course, but you can work with 9 days (8 full days actually) in Kerala.

But, before we go further into the itinerary, let us have the first quick list of the 4 best places to visit in Kerala for 9 days or 8 full days, with each offers completely distinct experience for your trip.

First – Kochi , the colonial city of Kerala

Second – Munnar , the hill station of Kerala

Third – Alappuzha , the heart of Kerala backwaters

Lastly – Varkala , the cliff beach town of Kerala

Day 1: Arriving in Kochi, the getaway of Kerala

Depending on what time you arrive, spend one or two nights in Kochi so that you get a full day to explore this charming colonial city of Kochi, a great starting point of our Kerala adventure.

We took AirAsia direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kochi. We landed safely at Cochin International Airport (COK) after 4 hours of flight journey. It is important to note that Terminals 1 and 2 handle domestic arrivals, and Terminal 3 is dedicated to international flights like ours.

Location is a crucial factor when we choose for the location of the accommodation. We chose to overnight at FortKochi Beach Inn where it is centrally located in the middle of Fort Kochi. Expect the journey to be more than an hour as the airport is located more than 40 km away from Fort Kochi. An hour pre-paid taxi or Uber ride from the airport to Fort Kochi would cost approximately INR 1200.

Day 2: Exploring the historical heart of Kochi – Fort Kochi & Mattancherry

It will be your real first day of exploring Kochi. We highly recommend Fort Kochi as a base to explore the city. The neighbouring Mattancherry is located in less than 3 km away. Rest assured, one full day is sufficient to explore both neighbourhoods consisting of almost all important tourist spots in Kochi itself.

We started our early morning walk to Chinese Fishing Nets , or Cheena Vala as how they called it in Malayalam. Unique to Kochi, but my personal advice is not putting high expectations with this sight. We kept our expectation quite low after reading many negative feedback from different bloggers and travellers, even to the extent of labelling the place as a tourist trap and not authentic. Fortunately, it turned out we enjoyed our morning walk along the promenade and cannot deny we were impressed on how much energy needed from a group of fishermen to lift and submerge such a huge fishing net.

We continued our walk to Bastian Street in order to visit one of the most beautiful churches in Kochi, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica .

Few blocks away lies Church of Saint Francis , where the explorer Vasco da Gama, who died in Cochin in 1524, was buried in this spot for 14 years before his remains were taken to Lisbon.

The city is like no other city in India that we have been to and wandering around through the narrow streets makes you even forget that you are in India. Princess Street and Burger Street are worth checking at given plenty of cafes and souvenir shops to stop by.

Before heading to Mattancherry, I highly recommend dining at Mary’s Kitchen . The restaurant provides traditional Kerala food experience in a homely local family rooftop restaurant. Highly recommended dishes are Fish Pollichathu and Fish Mango Curry.

We headed to Mattancherry via Uber in which Paradesi Synagogue as our first stop. Remember to observe the daily visiting hours from 10 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 5 pm, from Sunday to Thursday. Visitors are expected to enter the synagogue barefoot. Paradesi Synagogue is located within Jew Town , full of antique shops where Kashmiri carpet salesmen take advantage of the newer trade with international tourists, trying to greet each in their guessed mother tongue.

Close by is Mattancherry Palace where the murals form the highlight of the palace. It was built by the Portuguese as a present to King Veera Kerala Verma of Kochi Dynasty. It came to be known as the Dutch Palace as it underwent major repairs at the hands of the Dutch. Adjacent to the palace lies the Dutch Palace Pond . With beautiful palm trees around it and blue-tailed bee-eater visiting in large numbers to this little pond, it was a pleasant pond to spend some time at.

Head back to Fort Kochi in order to catch the classical Kathakali performance at Kerala Kathakali Centre . For us, a real treat is the application of the makeup by the dancers an hour before the show starts. So, remember to be there an hour before!

Day 3: From Kochi to Munnar, the hill station of Kerala

Munnar is a world away from the rest of Kerala. While most part of Kerala beneath an eternal tropical summer, the uplands bask in a perpetual European spring, turning to a crisp autumnal chill at higher elevations. It is the place where tangled green mountains rise from every quarter, their lower slopes swathed in millions of verdant tea bushes.

My suggested Day 3 is the light one and it is going to take at least half of your day, so it might be a good idea to split it in two if you can add a day. That way, you would get more time at each of the places as well as some extra time in case of any problem. This applicable to the subsequent places that we visited in Kerala. If you follow our footsteps, make sure to leave each place for the next destination very early in the morning.

We took Uber Go Intercity from Kochi to Munnar in hoping to shorten the journey. It cost us less than INR 2700 for a total of 125 km journey from Kochi to our hotel in Munnar called Tea Harvester . Staying in Tea Harvester is a unique experience by itself. We were aware with the fact that it is quite a distance from Munnar Town, but all we wanted was seclusion amidst the tea plantation from the busy town. We spent a half day of doing nothing while sipping our hot cups of masala tea upon arrival.

Day 4: Exploring Munnar in a day

Another busy day of exploring. We highly recommend hiring a private driver for a full day, you will have convenient rides anywhere you want to go for you and your party. With this, you have nothing to fuss about, just plan your itinerary and set off for a day of adventure.

Make sure to plan your itinerary in accordance of the direction to the furthest destination that you want to go.

We started our journey towards the direction to Top Station with Mattupetty Dam as the first stop. It is a storage concrete gravity dam built in the mountains of Kerala to conserve water for hydroelectricity, the location has a beautiful scenery.

A conveniently situated rest house at Echo Point , halfway between Mattupetty Dam and Top Station, makes a good stop. This picturesque spot earns its name because of the natural echo that one can hear resonating from the surrounding mountains.

We continued our journey along Munnar-Kodaikkanal Road to the furthest end to Top Station , the highest point in Munnar. As the road ascends, the air grows cooler and the clouds get thicker and closer. Upon reaching the Top Station, you will see a road signboard indicating that you are at the state border of Kerala-Tamil Nadu. Here you can enjoy the panoramic view of Western Ghats and the valley of Theni district of Tamil Nadu. Unfortunately it was misty and cloudy when we were at the peak, but we managed to take a few pictures before descended to the next destination.

We descended back to the earlier direction back to Munnar town which we stopped at Kundala Dam , Asia’s first arch dam.

We went back to Munnar town for lunch in where we stopped at Saravana Bhavan for authentic South Indian dishes on banana leaves. We are from Malaysia in which South Indian cuisine forms an integral part of Malaysian culture because the vast majority of Malaysian Indian community are of South Indian descent. Hence, we wanted to try how different the banana leaf rice served in Kerala as compared to Malaysia’s.

North of Munnar town lies Eravikulam National Park . This is the national park in Kerala where both the wildlife and the scenery are the principal attractions. The park is home to an estimated 700-800 rare Nilgiri Tahr and houses a fascinating variety of flora and fauna. Visitors are restricted to the 2 km trail within the park called Rajamalai. We were so lucky that we were able to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr along the first 0.5 km of the trail.

Day 5: From Munnar to Alappuzha, the heart of Kerala backwaters and its exploration through a sunset shikara ride

A trip to Kerala is not complete without experiencing the Kerala backwaters. From Kochi all the way to Kottayam, approximately 900 km of backwaters run through the state of Kerala. It is basically a network of inland waterways parallel to the coast of Arabian Sea and extending virtually half the length of Kerala state. If there is one stereotypical image of the tropical state of Kerala, the backwaters would be it. The main point to see the Kerala backwaters is Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey.

Descending downhill from Munnar to Alappuzha, expect a longer but scenic journey. We left as early as 8 am in the morning and reached our hotel in Palmgrove Lake Resort just before lunch. We hired a private driver for a total journey of 160 km from Munnar to Alappuzha with a cost of INR 4500.

We chose to stay at Palmgrove Lake Resort due to its strategic location. Situated on the banks of Punnamada Lake, it gave us a chance to stay along the trail of the backwaters.

There are many ways of manoeuvring the backwaters. As we fancy ourselves of exploring the backwaters in different ways, we decided to ditch the houseboat and chose to hire both shikara and canoe for two different days.

We hired a shikara ride in a late afternoon and evening to watch the sunset over the backwaters of Kerala. We paid INR 1500 for 2-hour shikara ride started from 4 pm and ended at 6 pm. The only con of taking a shikara is that you will not be able to get into narrow canals inside the villages.

The sunset view was breathtaking and unforgettable. The only ugly side was, as much as the journey of the ride along the backwaters was calm and soothing, we passed by several houseboats with their loud dance music in which most of it were rented by a big group of friends and families.

Day 6: Exploring the unseen beauty of the backwaters in Alappuzha through a sunrise canoe ride

We got up very early in the morning and hired a canoe ride to watch the sunrise over the backwaters. I cannot recall the price, but we paid much lesser for 4-hour canoe ride started from 6 am. Hands down, cruising down the backwaters by a canoe was one of the most memorable experiences that we had during our 9-day trip in Kerala.

The old boat man paddled us to the Vembanad Lake to catch the sunrise. Being the longest lake in India, it certainly feels like a sea. The sunrise ride was a lot calmer than the sunset ride that we had.

We continued our journey to the smaller canals that our shikara ride was not able to get in, passing by many villages while witnessing the local life along the river banks. It was slow, peaceful and relaxing, everything we needed and wanted in Alappuzha.

Other than it is able to get into the smaller canals, o ne of the pros of taking the canoe ride is that you can request the boat man to stop anywhere and anytime you want. We stopped in several occasions whenever there was something that caught our attention along the way.

We walked along the canals and we could not believe everything was so green. This was exactly the Kerala of my dreams. This is how I had imagined it to be.

As we had half of the day to spare, we requested our hotel to arrange for a tuk-tuk ride to Alappuzha town which we had the scrumptious Biryani rice at Halais Restaurant !

Frankly speaking, Alappuzha town was not exactly quiet and peaceful. But, the Alappuzha Beach worth a visit to spend your last day in Alappuzha. Not that far from the coastal road stands the striking Alappuzha Lighthouse . We however did not have the chance to visit it as it was closed on Monday.

Day 7: From Alappuzha to Varkala, the cliff beach town of Kerala

Situated 108 km further south from Alappuzha, not too far from the state capital city of Thiruvananthapuram lies a coastal town of Varkala. What is unique with this coastal town is the 15 m high cliff adjacent to both Varkala Beach and Arabian Sea. Some people even refer Varkala as the hippie paradise of Kerala.

We took an early morning intercity train which was scheduled at 6:25 am, but it was delayed for more than an hour. It took us around 2 hours to arrive Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station.

Remember to check out Privasea , the main highlight of our 2-night stay in Varkala. If you want to splurge which we highly recommend, it was the best Airbnb property that we stayed so far! It is a private villa with all-inclusive meals prepared by the caretaker of the property named Jobin. Jobin gave us a complimentary pick-up and drop-off with their private tuk-tuk. Location wise, the accommodation is quite a distance from the main Varkala Beach, but all we wanted was seclusion from the busy cliff of Varkala yet it is accessible by foot. Imagine yourself waking up to the sound of crashing waves with sea breezes together with the unshared serenity of the magnificent sea, we could not ask for more as Privasea truly lives up to its name!

As Privasea smacked in between the Varkala Beach and Edava Beach, you can walk to either direction along the cliff. We chose to walk along the cliff leading towards the Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach. The cliff here is lined with a superb string of boutiques hotels and chic beachside restaurants and bars, ideal places for your relaxing sunset watching.

Day 8: Exploring Kappil Beach near Varkala

Varkala is still a great place to watch the days slowly turn into weeks, and it is easy to escape the crowds further north or south where the beaches are cleaner and quieter.

Further north beyond Varkala, we took the chance to request for the caretaker to drop us at Kappil Beach for several hours as it was not accessible by foot from our accommodation.

Still flying under the tourist radar, Kappil Beach is one of the few beaches in Kerala that is still pristine, underdeveloped and virtually deserted. The unique feature of this palm-fringed beach is its location at the confluence of the Kappil Lake and the Arabian Sea.

Day 9: Heading back to Kochi on the final day in Kerala

Most of the international flights arriving and leaving India are scheduled in the evening and at night. So, we took early morning intercity train ride from Varkala back to Kochi. There are several train stations in Kochi and depending on where you want to go right after your arrival, we highly recommend alighting at the railway station called Ernakulam Junction.

We spent our last day in Kerala hanging out at Fort Kochi again. We had our brunch at Kashi Art Café at Burger Street. The foods were great and tasty, but we found the coffees to be below mediocre.

If you have few extra hours, consider to include Athirappilly Falls for your day trip from Kochi. It is notably the largest waterfall in Kerala. Yet, it is commonly overlooked by foreign tourists. Unfortunately, we did not go as we wanted to have some relaxing time at the end of our trip.

Guess what, we ended our trip in Kerala at the same place we started, which was the Chinese Fishing Nets.

There you go, our recommended 9 days Kerala travel itinerary. As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Kerala. From a charming colonial city, a majestic hill station, a relaxing backwater to a quaint coastal town, Kerala has it all! That makes Kerala truly lives up to its name as God's Own Country .

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The Part-Time Traveller

Part-time traveller, full-time lawyer, hi, i’m gus a 1991-born, qualified lawyer and travel addict originally from malaysian borneo city of kuching. i speak 5 languages - english, malay, mandarin, iban and basic thai. having practised law for 3 years in kuala lumpur, i quit my job as a practising lawyer and moved to the philippines' capital of manila with my partner since january 2020. .

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7 Nights 8 Days Kerala Tour Plan – Escape To Kerala With This Awesome Itinerary!

What not in Kerala? This beautiful destination has got everything! From spellbinding hill stations to stunning beaches, from tea gardens to traditional dances, from houseboats to amusement parks , from thrilling adventure activities to temples , Kerala has got everything. There is no wonder that Kerala is one of the famous destinations in India . Also, how about planning a vacation to Kerala? Interested? Well, then you are going to love this 7 nights 8 days Kerala tour plan. In addition, this 7 nights 8 days Kerala tour plan can be really exciting as you will be covering most of the famous places in Kerala. Also, get ready to soak in the beauty of God’s own country.

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7 nights 8 days Kerala tour plan

This Kerala tour plan is one of the best plans you will find. Interestingly, this plan covers Cochin, Munnar , Thekkady, Alleppey and Kovalam. Isn’t that an amazing list of places to visit on your 7 nights 8 days Kerala tour plan? It is, right? Also, this is one of the best tour plans for families. The tour starts from Cochin which is followed by sightseeing in Munnar. Also, you will get to explore the wildlife sanctuary in Thekkady and get ready to stay at a houseboat in the backwaters of Alleppey.

Once you are done enjoying the backwaters in Alleppey, the coastal paradise welcomes you to enjoy the beautiful beaches and temples. After visiting Kovalam, you will be heading to Trivandrum to end your beautiful 7 nights 8 days Kerala tour plan. That was an amazing tour plan to Kerala, right? Also, have a read and find out everything you need to know about this tour plan.

Also Read: Kerala in South India

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Lush Green Rice Fields. Ornate Temples. Pristine Beaches. Spectacular Beach Clubs. Perfect itineraries

Day-wise itinerary for 7 nights 8 days Kerala tour plan

• Day 1 – Arrive at Cochin and continue with sightseeing
• Day 2 – Transfer from Cochin to the mesmerizing Munnar
• Day 3 – Sightseeing in Munnar
• Day 4 – Transfer to Thekkady to enjoy nature
• Day 5 – Transfer to Alleppey and witness the real beauty of Kerala
• Day 6 – Transfer to Kovalam
• Day 7 – Enjoy the coastal world in Kovalam

Day 8 – Depart from Trivandrum

1. day 1 – arrive at cochin and continue with sightseeing.

Your 7 nights 8 days Kerala tour plan starts from Cochin with a warm welcome. After all the procedures, you can take a cab from the airport and check into your hotel. Once you are done with refreshing, make sure you fill your stomach with the traditional breakfast. Also, get ready to explore the beautiful Cochin. You can hire a cab and explore Cochin. Some of the best places in Cochin are Mattancherry Palace, St. Francis Church, Fort Cochin, Cherai Beach, Cochin marine drive and many more. You can end your day by having the mouthwatering dinner at your hotel. Also, make sure you have enough rest to start your day-2 with a bang!

Cochin is loved for its unique culture. So, make sure you get to experience the culture of Cochin by witnessing a Kathakali performance.

Also Read: Top things to do in Cochin

2. Day 2 – Transfer from Cochin to the mesmerizing Munnar

After a beautiful day 1 in Cochin, Day 2 welcomes you to the chill moments. Have your breakfast and drive to the lush green hills & valleys of Munnar. Complete your check-in formalities and relax for a while. Don’t be in a hurry as you have Day 3 also in Munnar. So, make sure you rest for a while and enjoy the ambience of the hotel. You can enjoy your time in Munnar by visiting the flower garden and tea plantation areas. You can also walk through the roads and admire the beauty of Munnar. End up the second day by enjoying an overnight stay at the hotel.

Taste the famous tea which is available in Munnar. I am sure the hot tea will rejuvenate your soul.

Also Read: Cochin to Munnar

3. Day 3 – Sightseeing in Munnar

Your Day 3 is to completely enjoy Munnar. After having your yummy breakfast, begin your day with sightseeing. In addition, you can cover places such as Eravikulam National Park , boating in Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake.

Never miss experiencing the Jeep Safari to Kolukkumalai for a thrilling experience.

Also Read: Top 7 things to do in Munnar

4. Day 4 – Transfer to Thekkady to enjoy nature

Interestingly, the 7 nights 8 days Kerala tour plan takes you to Thekkady on your Day 4. You can have your breakfast and start moving to Thekkady. The spellbinding hills and valleys will make you feel as if you have transferred to a new world. Once you have landed, check into your hotel and continue your day by visiting the Periyar National Park with the Periyar Lake , Thekkady rose park and many more. You can end the day by relaxing overnight at the hotel.

Visit the elephant camp and enjoy playing with baby elephants.

Also Read: Munnar to Thekkady

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5. Day 5 – Transfer to Alleppey and witness the real beauty of Kerala

You will be spending your Day 5 in Alleppey. Sounds cool, right? Post breakfast, check out from your hotel and move towards Alleppey for a fantastic day. In addition, you can check into the houseboat upon your arrival in Alleppey. Have the best experience by enjoying a day in the houseboat. Also, you will find a variety of meals and modern amenities in the houseboat. In addition, try the fish fry which is the best part of lunch. Also, the day ends with an overnight stay in the houseboat.

Also, make sure you wake up on time to experience the stunning sunrise for a lovely start.

Also Read: Houseboats in Alleppey

6. Day 6 – Transfer to Kovalam

7 nights 8 days Kerala tour plan takes you to Kovalam on your Day 6. You can proceed to Kovalam via Kollam and Trivandrum. The coastal paradise will welcome you with a lovely breeze on your face. As you are nearing to the end of your Kerala tour plan, it’s time for some shopping. Kovalam has some of the amazing places to shop. So, make sure you make the best of this place on your Day 6. Also, you can end the day by an overnight stay in Kovalam.

You can head to the ayurvedic centre and enjoy a refreshing spa.

Also Read: 21 places to visit in Kovalam

7. Day 7 – Enjoy the coastal world in Kovalam

Day 7 is to completely enjoy in Kovalam. After having your breakfast, get ready and explore the lovely places in Kovalam. Also, some of the must-visit places are Samudra Beach, Lighthouse Beach, Poovar Beach and Vizhinjam Beach. In addition, Kovalam is also loved for its temples. So, make sure you spend some time and visit the temples too.

Visit the German bakery which is located on the Lighthouse beach for lip-smacking dishes. Imagine tasting the best dishes and enjoying a lovely beach view. Cool, huh?

Also Read: Romantic beaches in Kerala

Well, I know you won’t be liking this part in your itinerary being the last day of your 7 nights 8 days Kerala tour plan. Kerala is a wonder in India and will make every traveller come back again. But for now, it’s time to bid adieu to this beautiful state. You will end your tour in Trivandrum by starting your onward journey back home.

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5* Properties. Pristine Beaches. Exciting Itineraries

Absolutely! That 7 nights 8 days Kerala tour plan sounds incredible. Ready to kickstart the vacation to Kerala? Prepare for a delightful journey! Don’t forget to visit the Pickyourtrail website and explore the holiday packages from Kochi for an unforgettable travel experience!.

Also Check: International tour packages

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HOW TO PLAN YOUR KERALA ITINERARY

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: July 11, 2022

Kerala is indeed a paradise for the nature lovers which is why we have created this guide to planning the perfect Kerala itinerary!

Why Kerala?

The southern state located way down in India is bursting with tropical jungles, lively rainforests and spice plantations. One feels relaxed as soon as they step inside “God’s own country” with a slower and calmer pace of life and pure nature around. It is no wonder to see the tropical paradise attracting millions of tourists from all over the world.

Kerala has something for everybody, whether it is those glorious palm-fringed beaches for beach lovers, favourite hill stations for nature lovers or colonial traditions and seafood. Go through the Kerala travel guide that can help you to plan a great trip to the popular state.

When to go to Kerala

Although winters are the best time to visit Kerala, it is also the peak time. The temperatures are just perfect, and this is an ideal time for beach activities. For those who love monsoons, can plan a trip from July to September. Nature is at its truly best during these months. One should avoid the hot and humid months of summers from March to June.

How to reach Kerala

You can easily reach Kerala by air, train or road as it is well connected to other cities and states. The major railway stations in India are connected to Cochin, and the Kochi International airport caters to domestic and international flights. There are State Run Volvo buses to and from cities within India.

Getting around Kerala

One can make use of the extensive network of buses that connect to major cities and towns within the state. Auto Rickshaws are available in most cities, and another great way to travel is a ferry.

What to Pack for Kerala

As the temperatures are warmer in Kerala, pack light cotton clothes as well as loads of sunblock. As you would be walking a lot, do not forget to pack comfortable shoes for walking. Do carry bug and mosquito repellent especially if planning to visit some areas like Periyar. Do not forget to pack a camera as there would be many splendid places and moments to capture.

Where to stay in Kerala

There are many different and impressive places to stay in Kerala, and a lot relies on what one looks for and the budget. There are humble homestays, eco beach resorts, colonial estates, and a whole lot of other options. There are affordable lodgings as well as luxurious resorts available to suit every type of traveller.

What to do in Kerala

Kerala is diverse in every sense and creates unique experiences for the tourists who arrive here. One can visit the thriving port town of Kochi to look at the brightly painted houses and the oldest existing synagogues. Munnar is world-famous for beaches and tea plantations in South India. Alappuzha is home to famous backwaters of Kerala and is best experienced on a houseboat. Kovalam is the most popular beach destination.

Tourists can take a lazy ride on winding backwaters of Alleppey or cruise along the Periyar River. Explore the jungles of Periyar that are home to popular wildlife species like bison, sambars, langurs, and tigers. Enjoy the ancient form of storytelling through dance at the Kathakali Centre. Jatayu Earth Centre is also popular place to visit whilst in Kerela.

What to shop in Kerala

Kerala is not just a touristy place but is a haven for shopaholics too. Get ready for a great shopping experience here, and the first item on your list should be tea and coffee that can be obtained from local certified counters. Kerala spices are world-famous, and you must shop for those fresh spices like turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, cloves, and more. Banana chips and cashew nuts are amongst the most popular items, and other famous handicrafts include coconut and coir products as well as aroma oils.

What to eat in Kerala

There are many different local cuisines to try on your trip to Kerala, and some of the most popular with locals and tourists include Appam with Stew, Kerala Beef Fry, and Prawn Moilee. Appams are fluffy pancakes made of rice and served with meat and vegetable stew. Kerala beef fry is enjoyed with flakey Malabar paratha and Prawn moilee made from coconut and kokum is simply delicious.

There are a lot of other things to do, places to visit and other information which can make your Kerala experience memorable. Sites like eKerala Tourism have very comprehensive travel information to help you explore more information about Kerala.

Helpful resources

Travel essentials:

• We LOVE this camera for our travel photography.
• For a cheap, easy and compact camera, we use this to vlog and take photographs.  
• We use this travel drone (but make sure to check drone laws in your chosen destination first).  
• This is our favourite travel insurance because it covers so many activities and travel situations that could arise on longer trips but also offer year coverage.

What to pack

• No matter where we travel to, I always take these trusty hand sanitizers and a mini first aid kit.  
• We love these toiletry bags (especially great for smaller bathrooms) and choose a laptop bag like this as our hand luggage. 
• We keep our devices charged on long travel days with these lightweight battery packs  and bring these worldwide travel adaptors on all our trips. 
• I still struggle not to overpack so stick to using an expandable suitcase like these and always take my trusty luggage scales to avoid being charged at the airport. 

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arhaholidays

Tuesday 25th of February 2020

Good article regarding keral Itinerary with best ideas in detail

Wednesday 26th of February 2020

Thanks so much! We are glad to hear you found this post helpful

Top Thekkady places to visit on your next trip | SweetAnnu

Wednesday 21st of August 2019

[…] People Also Read – How to Plan your Kerela Itinerary […]

The Ultimate KERALA Itinerary Guide 2021 – 7 Days / 14 Days / 24 Days Guide

Since the travel sector is slowly opening up, I decided to finally embark on a long-awaited trip to Kerala that was on my list for quite some time, taking all the safety precautions. If you want to read the post COVID-19 lockdown guidelines for Kerala, check THIS post out. After traveling in Kerala for about a month, I understand why this place is called “God’s own country”.

If the idea to explore Kerala has been on your mind too, I would highly recommend you to go for it. And to make the planning portion easier for you, here are three different kinds of suggested itineraries to cover most of the must-visit gems in the state that you’ll cherish forever.

7 day Kerala backpackers’ itinerary guide

Vagamon – Alleppey – Varkala

Day 1 – Land at Cochin airport. It will take you three hours to reach Vagamon from Cochin. Watch the sunset from Justin’s peak. Day 2 – Go for a sunrise trek to Ginamala or Moonmala. Roam around the hilly town to enjoy the grandeur of nature. Visit Marmala waterfalls in the afternoon. Also, you may do sunset paragliding if you want to indulge in some adventure. Day 3 – After an early breakfast, leave for Alleppey . After a three-hour journey, head to the floating bazaar for local food and shopping. Day 4 – Have breakfast and go for a 3-4 hour Shikara ride with Oscar cruise (personal recommendation). Have lunch at Taste of India. Head back to the city and go to Marari beach to chill. Roam around the beautiful city and yes, don’t miss the food (shappu meen curry, or Kerala Sadhya)! Day 5 – After breakfast, head towards Varkala . Walk around the cliff beach and enjoy the lit coastal street. Try cafes like Inda cafe or True Thomas. Day 6 – Try surfing in the morning. Chill by the beach/ hire a scooter and explore the small town of Varkala. Lunch at Babu farm (near the black sand beach) for garlic butter prawns. See the black sand beach, go shopping for junk jewelry, Itra, cork yoga mats etc. Have dinner at God’s own country kitchen. Day 7 – Have breakfast and head to Thiruvananthapuram airport to depart (1 hour away from Varkala).

14-day Kerala rejuvenation itinerary guide

Athirappilly – Vagamon – Varkala – Alleppey – Kochi

Day 1 – Arrive at Cochin airport, travel to Athirappilly for two hours. Spend the night in Athirappilly. Day 2 – Go to the falls in the morning for a beautiful view and then after lunch head to Vagamon (4 hours journey). Relax during the night and watch the starry skies. Day 3 – Go for a sunrise hike to Justin’s point and chill there for a while. Have lunch and head for an offroad experience or a sunrise trek to Moonmala or Ginamala. Day 4 – Chill in the morning and head to Marmala waterfalls. You can take a tour of the Uluppuni Tunnel. After lunch, go for a paragliding experience and watch the classic Vagamon sunset skies. Day 5 – Spend the morning walking through Murugan Hill before lunch. After lunch, head to Varkala (4.5 – 5 hours road journey). Visit God’s own country for dinner. Day 6 – Start your day in Varkala, with a yoga session by the beach, and have breakfast at Inda Cafe. Roam around the Varkala coastline and explore local shops. Day 7 – Go to Babu farm for breakfast and go to the black sand beach nearby. Next, hire a scooter and cover the insides of the town. Have food at Darjeeling cafe or bait and hook. Day 8 – Spend your morning on the bright sunny beaches of Varkala. Leave for Alleppey (3-hour journey) after an early lunch. Once you reach Alleppey, go to the floating bazaar or canal bazaar for a local dinner. Day 9 – Start your day with a light breakfast and taking a walk through the Marari beach. Go for a Shikara ride (lasts 3-4 hours) and go to Taste of India for a local food experience. Head back to the hotel/place of stay and relax by the beach sunsets of Alleppey.

Day 10 – Learn about the art of Kalaripayattu and go to Cafe Catamaran by the beach for lunch. Canal Bazar in Alleppey is a wonder and you should not miss it. Go there for food and shopping for spices, oils, decor items, etc, and have dinner at the Canal Bazaar with a local street food shop. Try what they suggest (I suggest crab roast or puttu kadala).

Day 11 – Head to Kochi after breakfast (1.5 hours drive). Take a ferry ride in Kochi and then head to Sri Muruga Cafe for a local style early dinner. Day 12 – Start your morning exploring the Chinese fishing nets of Kochi. For lunch, go to Jew town and visit the Paradesi synagogue or jew synagogue. Must have biryani at Kayees Rahmathullah cafe for lunch and go to fort house restaurant for a beautiful relaxing dinner with a view. Day 13 –  Take a beautiful sunrise walk by Cherai beach in the morning and then have some local breakfast. Head to princess market for shopping and lunch at Qissa Cafe. Explore Mattancherry Palace and St. Francis church or spend time by the marine drive. Day 14 – After breakfast, head to the Cochin airport and depart.

24 Day Ultimate Kerala Itinerary Guide

Kozhikode – Wayanad – Thrissur – Athirappilly – Munnar – Thekkady – Vagamon – Varkala – Alleppey – Kochi

Day 1 – 3: Kozhikode

Day 1 – Arrive at the Calicut International Airport and introduce yourself to the lively city of Kozhikode . Have lunch/ dinner at the popular S.M. (sweet meat) street. Day 2 – Go for a backwater ride in the morning and visit Lions’ Park. Head to the Kozhikode beach in the evening to hang out and enjoy the soothing sunset. Day 3 – Go to Kappad beach in the morning and then head towards Wayanad (3-hour drive).

Day 3 – 6: Wayanad

Day 3 – Arrive in Wayanad by the evening. Stargazing in Wayanad is one of the most amazing experiences of the little hilly town. Day 4 – Head to Wayanad tea gardens in the morning. Have lunch at the Clay Hut restaurant. Go to the Banasura dam before 4 p.m. to catch a view of the sunset. Don’t forget to shop for coffee beans and grab a local payasam. Day 5 – Start your day with a bamboo boating experience in Kuruva island (closes at 4 p.m.). Roam around the tea gardens and hike to the beautiful Chembra Peak. Day 6 – Rent cycles in the morning and bike along the Nilgiris. Post an early lunch, head towards Athirappilly (a 9-hour drive).

Day 6 – 8: Athirappilly

Day 6 – Reach Athirappilly by the night and relax through the evening. Day 7 – The main attraction in Athirappilly is the iconic Athirappilly waterfalls. You can also visit the Vazhachal waterfalls. Day 8 – Have a hearty breakfast and leave early for Munnar (a 4-hour drive).

Day 8 – 10: Munnar

Day 8 – Arrive at Munnar , a slightly colder town in Kerala. Visit Anayirankal/Mattupetty Dam and Lake. Day 9 – The tea capital of Kerala, Munnar, has a lot to offer when it comes to splendid vistas. Start your day with visiting the Munnar tea plantation and estate. After lunch, drive to the Top Station and Echo Point for a sunset view. Day 10 – Just before leaving for Thekkady, drive up to the Anamudi Peak. Start your journey to Thekkady after lunch. (a 3 hour drive)

Day 10 – 12: Thekkady

Day 10 – Arrive in Thekkady , a town that offers many green hikes and treks. Day 11 – Spend a day in Periyar National Park among the flora and fauna. (I suggest you to check whether the safari is open with the hotel/accommodation you have chosen for your stay.) Day 12 – Explore spice plantations and don’t forget to visit the Chellarkovil waterfalls. After lunch, leave for Vagamon. (a 2 hour drive)

Day 12 – 15: Vagamon

Day 12 – Arrive at Vagamon and don’t miss the night sky full of stars. I recommend to stay at Zostel Vagamon or Winter Vale Green Stay Resorts. Day 13 – Vagamon has hikes and viewpoints that offer some of the best sunrise experiences. Head for an afternoon hike/drive to Marmala Waterfalls, where you can cliff jump into a pool which is 30-40 ft deep. Spend your evening gawking at the beautiful falls among the lush green. You can also go for a sunset paragliding experience. Day 14 – Start your morning with breakfast and an optional off-roading experience with Zostel Vagamon. Trek up to the Ginamala or Moonmala trek. Day 15 – Have an early breakfast and say goodbye to Vagamon. Start your journey to Varkala. (a 4.5 hours drive)

Day 15 – 18: Varkala

Day 15 – Welcome to Varkala , the bohemian land of rejuvenation and delicious food. Once you reach Varkala in the evening, spend time by the Cliff beach. Don’t forget to have dinner at God’s Own Country. Day 16 – Start your morning early and rent out a scooty/bike. Ride through the coastal street of Varkala and enjoy the best of both worlds. I highly recommend going to @inda_cafe and @truethomas.in for wholesome meals, the first one for continental food and the second for Indian/Kerala cuisine. Continue your scooty ride to the Black Sand beach and bask in its serenity. Day 17 – Two must-have adventures await you in Varkala – surfing through the day and or a sunset backwaters ride at the Kappil beach. Day 18 – Go to North Cliff beach in the morning and walk along the boardwalk, filled with shops that sell antiques to itras and junk jewellery to hippie clothes. Leave from Varkala post lunch and head to Alleppey. (a 3 hr drive)

Day 18- 21: Alleppey

Day 18 – Arrive in Alleppey by the evening and relax at your accommodation. I stayed in a homestay called Lemon Dew which is right by the beach. You can also opt for a homestay which is next to the backwaters or closer to the boat jetty. Or a nice resort by the backwaters. Day 19 – Begin your journey in Alleppey with a Shikara ride. (lasts 3-4 hours) You may opt for @oscar_cruise for the same. Don’t forget to take a stop at Taste of India for some delectable local food. Spend your evening in the Canal Bazar or Floating Bazar for shopping and local experiences. Garlic Butter Prawns and Shappu Meen Curry should be dishes on your bucket list. Day 20 – Visit the serene town of Kumarakom for the bird sanctuary, backwater lakes and the unbeatable sunsets. Alternatively, you can opt for a Houseboat experience in Alleppey. Houseboats are beautiful from the inside, but they only sail through bigger channels of the backwaters, so you miss out on the smaller ones. But having said that, it is still very relaxing and enjoyable to be inside one and sailing in one of Kerala’s largest lakes called Vembanad lake. If you want to opt for an eco-friendly houseboat experience (a boat that runs on solar power as opposed to diesel), find Thara Eco Boat on booking.com or alternately contact @oscar_cruise ! Day 21 – Spend your morning chilling by the Marari beach. Leave for Kochi after lunch and shopping (a 1 hour journey).

Day 21 – 24: Kochi

Day 21 – Arrive in Kochi and head to Sri Muruga Cafe for a local style dinner. Day 22 – Start your day in the Jew Town of Kochi, that adorns the iconic art and culture of the state. Don’t forget to visit Paradesi Synagogue while in Jew Town. Day 23 – Take a walk to the Cherai Beach in the morning for a beautiful south sunrise. Spend some time by the iconic Chinese fishing nets of Kerala. A biryani meal at Kayees Ramathulla cafe is a must! Day 24 – Soak in the end of your trip through Kerala because it’s time to head back home!

That’s it – now you have a base to start planning your trip according to your preference of time period. Kerala is undoubtedly a gem of a place that offers unmatched sights, experiences, and memories. If you have any other query related to traveling in Kerala, ask away in the comments section!

Planning to cover places mentioned in this itinerary?

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4 Day Trip in Kerala, India – The Best Kerala Itinerary

By: Author Raymond Cua

Posted on Last updated: July 30, 2020

Planning a trip to Kerala, India? This travel guide features how you can spend a 4 day trip in Kerala.

One of the best ways to explore a new country is by going on a road trip, and that’s exactly what I did for my trip to South India which included a 4 day trip in Kerala.

Did you know? Kerala is often called God’s own country. Based on Hindu mythology, Hindu god Lord Parasurama created Kerala by throwing his axe across the sea to create new land.

I visited India for the very first time, and it was a memorable 12-day tour of South India with Travel XS , starting from the west end of Kochi in Kerala all the way to the east end of Chennai in Tamil Nadu.

If you’re looking to visit India, here’s an ultimate guide to 4 days and 3 nights in Kerala with some of the best things to do, restaurants and accommodations in Kochi, Alleppey and Thekkady.

Also Read: 4 Indian Recipes For An Authentic 3 Course Indian Meal

Planning A Trip To India

Things you should know when going to india, do i need a visa to visit india.

Visa is required for all foreign nationals visiting India. Luckily, you can apply online for an eVisa (USD$81.99), which is very convenient.

Once you submit the application, it only takes a few days to get the result.

When approved, you’ll receive a PDF document for your eVisa to print and show at customs in India.

What currency is used in India?

Indian currency is Indian rupee (INR or Rs) . Most hotels/resorts can exchange currency, but check with them prior to make sure your foreign currency is accepted.

Most accommodations also accept credit cards.

You’ll need cash for any street food, buying from local vendors, or tipping.

Can I drink tap water in India?

Unfortunately, tap water in India is not drinkable.

You’ll need to find bottled water, or at least filtered water, to make sure you won’t have any problems.

Even the locals don’t drink tap water. Hotels would typically provide bottled or filtered during your stay.

I highly recommend bringing a reusable water bottle when you’re going on a road trip, and carrying it around in your bag .

Will I be able to stay connected online while in India?

Surprisingly, Wi-Fi signal is pretty good in India. All the hotels I stayed in had Wi-Fi.

You can use a local SIM Card so it includes calls, texts and data.

Alternatively, I used a pocket wifi for the entire trip and was surprised that I had Wi-Fi signal majority of the time, even in very remote places like my overnight stay on a boat!

What’s the weather like in India?

The weather in India depends on which region you’re visiting (North or South), and the time of the year. From what I learned, South India is generally hotter than North.

The best time to visit is September to February where the temperature is cooler.

I visited in April and temperatures went as high as 40Cs (104Fs) with humidity.

During summertime, be sure to pack properly for hot weather: Bring a change of clothes because you will sweat a lot.

Bring sunscreen and lots of water.

Should I tip in India? How much?

Tip at your discretion. Tip culture is quite ambiguous in India. From what I learned, back in the day, tipping wasn’t expected.

However, due to foreigners from strong tipping culture like North America, the locals have started expecting tips from tourists.

No-Footwear Zones in India

Certain attractions, usually temples, don’t allow footwear inside.

Unless you’re fine leaving your footwear outside or paying for storage/security to locals, here are some tips:

• Make sure you bring a bag to put your shoes in before going inside.
• Bring old footwear that you’re ready to lose and is less prone to being stolen.

Do people speak English in India?

Yes, English is the second official language in India after Hindi.

Literacy is a high priority in India so almost all locals can speak English even in remote areas.

However, though people speak English, things around the city may sometimes be in Hindi only like signs, menu, etc.

Is it left- or right-side driving in India?

It is left-side driving in India. This means the driver sits on the right side of the car.

Do I need to get vaccinated before going to India?

The Government of Canada provides a list of vaccinations to consider when travelling to India.

Note though that this is only for consideration – it is not a requirement.

It is really up to you if you think you should get it. I had friends who went to India and took the vaccinations.

They can be costly, adding up to at least $1000 in total.

Personally, I didn’t take the vaccinations.

Why? Coming from the Philippines , I checked what the recommended vaccinations are to travel to the Philippines and they were exactly the same as India’s.

Since I never had any problems in the Philippines without the vaccinations, I just assumed I’d be fine in India.

Why You Should Do A Tour Package in India

When going to an exotic destination like India, especially for the very first time, I highly recommend going on a tour package.

Why? Doing a tour package helps alleviate the stress of trip planning and the nitty-gritty details of being in the destination including accommodations, transportation, food, attractions, language-barriers, etc.

I did the 12-day Splendid South India Tour with Travel XS , one of the best tour companies in India, having operations and tour packages worldwide.

I decided to go with an Indian company because they would know India and be the best people to design a tour of India.

They are locals after all.

During and after the trip, I knew I made the right decision.

Maybe if you are just visiting one city, then it’s fine to plan it on your own.

But, doing a road trip like I did is definitely much better and stress-free with a tour package.

I didn’t have to worry about transportation to/from the airport, and all throughout the road trip.

Since India is left-side driving, having not to drive is a big relief!

Also Read: Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India

You’ll be with one driver/guide throughout the tour and he speaks English.

I recommend asking for Mr. Mahesh, who made my tour extra special.

The driver also doubles as a local guide, being knowledgable of the history, culture, and places you’re visiting on the tour.

He made extra stops en route for points of interests.

With so much driving throughout the trip, you will learn a lot from the guide which makes the drive less boring.

Trust me, you and the guide will become friends after the tour.

There was always water handy in the car as well as an umbrella if you want shade from the heat or rain.

The tour is flexible and the guide will accommodate necessary changes in itinerary.

When he drops you off for the night, he will confirm schedule and timing with you for the next day.

For example, we shifted some of the activities to before lunch or after afternoon to avoid the extreme heat in the afternoon.

Everything is just more convenient and smooth because he would pick you up and drop you off in all the places in the itinerary.

You won’t worry about getting lost or being late.

With the No-Shoe attractions, I would often leave my shoes in the car then walk to the place.

Because you’re with a trusted local tour company, they have deep ties to the communities and their partners are very accommodating and helpful.

There was an incident where I left behind some clothing after checking-out at Brunton Boatyard in Kochi.

The resort actually called Travel XS about it and they shipped the clothing for me to pick-up in Mamallapuram on my last night of the trip.

Lastly, a really important thing is that Travel XS tours are private and highly customizable.

It’s not one of those big group tours where you are with strangers and dependent on their travel habits.

Since it’s a customizable tour, they can design the tour to fit any budget and to help you find the activities you want to experience that suits your travel style.

Also Read: 4 Day Food Trip in Saint John & Fredericton, New Brunswick

Common Misconceptions about India

We all have preconceived notions about destinations we haven’t been to.

I find this is even more so for India, where mainstream media has depicted a bad picture in news.

Here I’ll shed some light on the top 3 misconceptions about India that I noticed from news and what people told/asked me.

India is dangerous

Perhaps the most prevalent misconception about India is it’s dangerous, and that’s because of the news we see or read online that mainly talks about terrorism, fights and rapes in India.

As a traveller, I strongly believe danger can happen anywhere you go.

Throughout the India tour, I never felt that safety was a concern, and this includes wandering around the streets at night for street food with just myself and a guide.

It’s the precautions you take that makes the difference.

You’ll always want to research places known for crimes, or make sure to lock your doors, or not leave important belongings behind.

India is a rather conservative country, and that includes clothing.

Though the weather can be hot, I highly recommend as a precaution that women not wear revealing clothes.

Indians are all Hindus and they discriminate other religion

Though Hinduism is the largest religion in India at 80%, other religions exist and are widely accepted like Islam, Judaism and Catholicism.

Unlike what is widely portrayed in media, people with varying religion live harmoniously together.

In Kochi alone, you’ll find Catholic Churches, Jewish Synagogues and Muslim temples.

India smells

After my trip, a lot of people asked me if it smells in India.

Honestly, it wasn’t.

Obviously, depending on the places you visit, it might be, but this is true for any other country.

There is no lingering scent of curry or anything that’s prevalent.

If you go to busy market streets with food/trash on the ground or cows walking amok, then you might smell something.

But I never felt the need to cover my nose or wear a gas mask.

I felt the smell was mostly amplified due to the heat and humidity.

If you go on cooler times, then it probably won’t even be evident.

South India Travel Guide: 4 Day Trip in Kerala

For the 4 day trip in Kerala with Travel XS , we visited Kochi (Cochin), Alleppey and Thekkady before heading to Tamil Nadu.

Did you know? Kerala actually means Land of Coconuts Trees. “Kera” means coconut tree, and “Alam” means land.

Kerala is one of the largest producers of coconut in India so you’ll commonly find the use of coconuts in Kerala cuisine, mostly for curries.

Aside from coconuts, Kerala’s industries involve exporting seafood (especially fishes and prawns from the river and sea), tourism, and steel and aluminum production.

From here, you’ll learn a detailed itinerary on how to spend 4 Days in Kerala with what to do, where to eat and stay in Kochi, Alleppey and Thekkady!

Everything covered in this guide was part of my Travel XS South India Tour. I also made a YouTube video here .

Kerala Itinerary Day 1: Kochi

Welcome to Cochin, South India! Kochi is a colonial port town of Kerala since 1341 when a flood carved out its harbour.

Kochi’s population is 3 million out of the 33 million in Kerala.

Did you know? The Cochin International Airport is 100% solar-powered since 20 years ago.

From the Cochin International Airport, it takes 1.5 hours by car to Kochi Proper.

The city of Kochi has 3 parts: Ernakulam, Willingdon Island and Fort Kochi.

The district of Ernakulam is the business district of Kochi and considered to be the commercial capital of Kerala.

The Willingdon Island is the largest artificial island in India, made by British harbour engineer Robert Bristow in 1930s.

It is fully owned by the government: half of which is used for the navy and the other for business.

Fort Kochi is a sea-side neighbourhood with a mix of residential and businesses. It is the oldest European settlement in India.

You’ll find Portuguese, Dutch and British influences are evident in the architecture, a reminder of the foreign traders who came over the centuries to buy spices.

Here’s the Kerala guide with 11 of the best things to do, restaurants and accommodations in Kochi for one night!

One Night in Kochi

Do a tour Fort Kochi by wandering the old districts of Mattancherry and Fort Cochin.

Dutch Palace

Also known as Mattancherry Palace, the 16th-century Dutch Palace was built and gifted by the Portuguese to the King of Kochi Veera Kerala Verma in 1555.

During the 15th century AD, the Kochi Royal family shifted their capital from Mahodayapuram to Kochi as a precaution against the attacks of Zamorin of Kozhikode.

The Portuguese who landed in Kochi were permitted by the rulers to build factories in Kochi for their trade activities and in return sought military assistance against Zamorin of Kozhikode.

Did you know? Though it was built by the Portuguese, it is called Dutch Palace because of the major repairs made by the Dutch.

Inside one of the best attractions in Kochi, you’ll find a vast collection of life-size portraits, various artifacts and murals depicting popular Indian stories like the epic Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Note: Photography and videos are not allowed inside.

Website / Address : Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002, India Hours: 10am-5pm on all days except Friday Price: 2 Rs/person at least 15 years old

Paradesi Synagogue

Built in 1568 by the Jewish community of Cochin, the Paradesi Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in India as well as the entire British Commonwealth.

One of Fort Kochi’s best things to do, the Paradesi Jewish Synagogue is the only functioning synagogue in Kochi, located in Jew Town next to the Dutch Palace.

Did you know? In most Indian languages, “Paradesi” means foreigner.

From the entrance, you’ll find a museum on the right where you’ll find historical artifacts and artwork.

Straight from the entrance is the synagogue where you’ll find rare antiques, 19th-century glass chandeliers, hand-painted blue willow patterned tiles (each tile is unique), and the famous carved teak art that contains the four scrolls of the Torah encased in silver and gold.

Note: Photography and videos are not allowed inside. No shoes are allowed inside the Cochin Synagogue.

Website / Address : Synagogue Ln, Jew Town, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002, India Hours: 10am-1pm, 3pm-5pm on Sunday to Thursday. 10am-1pm on Friday. Closed on Jewish Holidays. Price: 5 Rs/person above 5 years old

Dhobi Khana Public Laundry

One of the most unique things to do in Kochi is to check out the Dhobi Khana, a historic community laundry space run by Tamils in the Vannan Community.

Here you’ll learn about natural washing and drying for laundry.

You’ll find washing “cells” with concrete washbasin and a stone slab to clean the fabric by slapping.

You’ll also find a big field of clotheslines made with braided coir fiber to hang the clothes for drying.

Did you know? This Dhobi Khana in Veli Road in Kochi was built in 1976 .

They use heavy charcoal irons for ironing. It’s quite interesting to see them heat the charcoal with fire before ironing.

Quite a big difference from today’s electric irons.

This laundry service is an extensive operation: there are about 40 families in the community who use the Dhobi Khana to wash for houses, hospitals, hotels and government firms.

Address : Veli, Kochi, Kerala 682001, India

Armoury Restobar at Brunton Boatyard

Head to lunch at Armoury Restobar inside the Brunton Boatyard in Fort Kochi, where I also stayed the night.

Decked with guns and various weaponry inside, the Armoury restaurant offers both continental and South Indian options.

It was my first time having spicy version of papadum (thin crispy Indian flatbread/cracker) and it’s highly addicting if you love spicy.

I really enjoyed the Kerala Seafood Meal, which has a good sampling of Kerala cuisine served as a Thali.

Going clockwise from the first bowl on the left, you’ve got the following:

• Mango pickle
• Coconut chutney
• Pulissery (yogurt yellow curry)
• Thoran (vegetable with crushed coconut)
• Ularthiyathu (clams cooked in thick gravy)
• Calamari cooked with crushed coconut
• Konju curry (tiger prawns cooked with raw mango gravy fished with coconut paste)
• Fish fillet (with salad)
• Rice and Papad

Address : 1/498, Calvetty Road, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001, India

Also Read: Instant Pot Beef Biryani

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica

One of eight Basilicas in Kerala, the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is one of the heritage edifices of Kerala, serving as the cathedral church of the Diocese of Cochin.

Did you know? The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica’s history begins with the arrival of Portuguese missionaries when the first Portuguese Viceroy Dom Francisco de Almeida got permission from the Cochin Raja to build a church.

The interior has Gothic style architecture with ceilings that have paintings depicting scenes from the Via Crucis of Christ (Stations of the Cross).

Address : Bastian St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001, India

Fort Kochi Beach

The Fort Kochi Beach, often known as “Queen of the Arabian Sea”, is a scenic beach frequented by both tourists and locals.

Certain points of interests can be found near the beach like the Chinese Fishing Nets, the Vasco da Gama Square and a lighthouse.

On New Year’s Eve, the Cochin Carvinal, one of the best festivals in Kochi, is held at Fort Kochi Beach.

Did you know? You cannot swim on Fort Kochi Beach because the waves are so strong.

If you enjoy beaches, you might also like Daytona Beach in Florida !

Address : Fort Kochi Beach, Kochi

St. Francis Church

One of Fort Kochi’s best attractions is St. Francis Church, the first and oldest European church in India and a centrally protected monument under the control of Archeological Survey of India since 1923.

This major landmark was built in the 16th-century AD, reflecting the struggle of the European powers in India from 15th to 20th centuries.

The east-facing St. Francis Church has a frontage that reflects the typical Portuguese style: arched opening, one of the tiers has flanking windows between the pilasters, a belfry over the gabled front and stepped pinnacles on the sides.

Did you know? The first Portuguese explorer and the first European to reach India, Vasco da Gama’s mortal remains was buried in St. Francis Church. Later on, his son, Pedro da Silva da Gama took his remains back to Portugal in 1538 AD.

Website / Address : Saint Francis Church Road Opp, Head Post Office, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001, India

Chinese Fishing Nets

One of the most photographed attractions in Kochi is the Chinese Fishing Nets, also called Cheena Vala.

They are stationary fishing nets that are on fixed land installations that go up and down to catch fish and crustaceans.

The Chinese Fishing Nets are aptly named because they were introduced by Chinese explorers in the 14th century since these nets are used throughout coastal southern China and Indochina.

Travelling Foodie Tip: When a local asks if you want to go up-close with the Chinese Fishing Nets, you are expected to pay.

When I was walking around the Chinese Fishing Nets, a local who owned one called me down and asked if I wanted to see the nets up close.

There was no sign for fees or anything so I thought it was just a nice gesture for tourists.

After I finished checking it out, he then asked me for money.

Address : Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001, India

Kathikala Show at Greenix Village

One of the best cultural things to do in Kerala is to watch the Kathakali, the famous dance drama of Kerala.

In the evening at 6PM, head to the Greenix Village to watch the hour-long dance that’s characterized by storytelling of Hindu epic stories, elaborate costumes and colorful make-up.

Did you know? It takes the artists years to prepare for their roles before they can go on stage.

If you’re interested to see the Kathakali Make-up session, head over at 5PM where you’ll see the actors preparing, applying make-up and posing for some photos.

Travelling Foodie Tip: I feel that coming between 5:30-5:45pm is good enough so you get a sense of how the make-up is done without having to wait long for the actual show.

Make-up is a huge factor in Kathakali as each color denotes a particular quality.

For example, green denotes godliness and red denotes turmoil.

On top of that, the usage of each color represents specific types of characters e.g. male or female, good or bad.

For example, Taadi, or beard, makeup is for both godly and demonic characters. Red Taadi is for evil characters like Sugriva and Baali.

Website / Address : C.C. 2/481, Calvathy Rd, Calvathy, Aspinwall Junction, Kunnumupuram, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001, India

Fort House Restaurant at Fort House Hotel

For dinner, walk across the street to Fort House Restaurant which specializes in seafood dishes, a hallmark of the Kerala Latin Christian cuisine.

Fort House Restaurant is one of the best restaurants with waterfront views in Fort Kochi.

And since Kochi is a colonial port town, dining with views of the Arabian Sea is not to be missed! 

Aside from coconuts, both mango and jackfruit are also commonly used in Kerala cuisine due to their abundance.

Definitely try a bit of Kerala curry and mango curry while you’re here and you won’t be disappointed!

They even have Kerala Pancakes which is really more liked crepe stuffed with shaved coconut.

Website / Address : No.2/6A, Calvathy Rd, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001, India

Brunton Boatyard

Where to stay in Kochi? Stay the night at one of the best hotels in Kochi, the Brunton Boatyard, which overlooks the Arabian Sea.

This five-star hotel is a former shipyard in British times and restored as a colonial building with wooden high ceilings, terracotta floors, lime plastered walls and old teak wood furniture.

Did you know? The name Brunton Boatyard came from the erstwhile boatyard started by Geo Brunton in the 19th century.

On the courtyard, you’ll find a rain-tree (Samanea saman) that was brought to Cochin by the Europeans. This tree is native to South and Central America.

I stayed at the Sea Facing Room which has a balcony and bathtub with views of the sea.

Perfect to watch the sunrise or sunset.

You’re also provided with complimentary tea and pure bottled rainwater.

The bottled rainwater is a nice touch to reduce plastic waste and also conserve water.

The stay comes with breakfast which includes continental breakfast, sugar-free breakfast and local breakfast.

Obviously being in India, I highly recommend going with the local breakfast.

Their local breakfast is either a daily changing Mattancheri breakfast choice or Dosa, crispy pancake-like preparation made of fermented rice and lentil batter that’s a popular Indian street food .

I love dosa but don’t get to eat it much in Toronto so I opted for Masala Dosa, which is stuffed with potato and onion, and cooked in mild spices.

Check for prices and availability on Booking.com / Agoda

Website / Address : 1/498, Calvetty Road, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001, India

Kerala Itinerary Day 2: Alleppey

After breakfast, you are headed to Alleppey (Alappuzha) which takes 1.5 hours from Kochi.

Alleppey is a very unique city because the population’s whole life takes place on the waters.

Did you know? With its 900-km of canals, backwaters, beaches, and lagoons, Alleppey is known as the “Venetian Capital” of Kerala. It was called the “Venice of the East” by Lord Curzon, a British statesman and Viceroy of India.

The best thing to do in Alleppey is staying overnight in a houseboat (or kettuvallam) which takes you on a tour through the backwaters, a splendid area full of canals, lakes and coves.

One Night in Allepey

Your entire time in Alleppey will be on the houseboat.

Seriously, this is one of the best things to do in Kerala and India.

Did you know? There are around 3,000 houseboats in Alleppey and its neighbor across, Kumarakom.

This is definitely one of the most unique experiences I’ve done in my travels, and I’m so glad I got to do it! Watch the video below to see what I mean.

Check out this unique experience I did in California!

Xandari Riverscapes

Xandari Riverscapes is one of the best houseboat tour operators in Alleppey.

I stayed in one of their ten hand-stitched traditional houseboats, built with wood harvested from local jackfruit tree plantations.

Throughout the tour, there were 3 staff members with me the entire time: the captain, the chef and the engineer.

My houseboat had one bedroom, an upper deck and dining room.

The common areas are all open air to enjoy the fresh air of the backwaters.

The tour takes you through areas full of palm trees, rice fields and floating water plants that surround the boat.

Lunch, dinner and next day’s breakfast are all included in the stay.

The meals are all authentic local cuisine made fresh by the chef on board.

Food is farm-to-table as all produce, seafood and meat are supplied by local farmers and fishermen.

Beautiful dining with a view here!

You’ll get to try their famous local fresh water whitefish called Karimeen (pearl spot in English).

After lunch, you’ll be going on a one-hour wooden canoe excursion exploring the backwater canals where you’ll see how the locals live life on the waters.

The people sail, fish, swim and bathe here. They do their washing and their washing up too.

By sunset, you’ll be docking for the night at a village which you’re free to explore.

Dinner had more variety of food.

You’ll also get to try traditional Kerala rice that’s grown exactly in the location where the houseboat ply the waters.

The bedroom is 14 square-meters and has a bathroom and shower. Only the bedroom is air-conditioned.

Breakfast was toast and fruit platter.

Their fruit and vegetable produce comes from plots of land that farmers tend to throughout these waters.

Website / Address : Pallathuruthy Bridge, Pallathuruthy, Alappuzha, Kerala 688003, India

Kerala Itinerary Days 3-4: Thekkady

After breakfast, you are headed on a 4.5-hour drive to Thekkady, where you’ll be spending the last two days of your 4 day trip in Kerala.

Did you know? Thekkady is also called Periyar or Kumily. The local name is Kumily, and both Thekkady and Periyar are “tourist names”.

The drive to Thekkady goes high up in the Cardamom Hills mountain range to an elevation of 4,500-ft above sea level.

Cardamom Hills is known for spice and tea plantations because the elevation is better for their growth.

Did you know? The name Cardamom Hills comes from the cardamom spice grown in much of the hills’ cool elevation.

Here are 6 of the best things to do, restaurants and accommodations in Thekkady for two days.

One Night in Thekkady

Since the drive is quite long, you’ll be stopping at two of the best attractions in Pambanar before Thekkady.

Pattumala Matha Church

Built entirely of granite, the Pattumala Matha Church is dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health.

Did you know? This popular Roman Catholic church is nestled on top of a mountain surrounded by tea plantations.

Address : मार्केट मार्ग, Peermade, Pambanar, Kerala 685532, India

Parunthumpara Hill Viewpoint

The Parunthumpara Viewpoint is located in one of the beautiful mountain top near Peermade.

Did you know? Parunthumpara is also known as Eagle Rock: Parunthu means Eagle and Para means Rock.

The Parunthumpara Hill Viewpoint provides a spectacular 360-degree eagle’s eye view of Peerumedu hills and the surrounding plains. 

Address : Parunthumpara, Pambanar, Kerala 685532, India

All Spice Restaurant at Cardamom County

When you arrive at Thekkady, head to Cardamom County Resort for lunch at their All Spice Restaurant.

This all-day restaurant has a menu focused on flavours and spices comprising of Continental, Chinese, South Indian and North Indian dishes.

Obviously, I would recommend going with South Indian dishes like this Kerala Style Pepper Chicken, which was quite different from the usual coconut-based curry.

You’ll want to try their Prawn Moilee which is a different kind of curry dish, where curried prawn is stewed in coconut milk.

My favourite Indian dessert is Gulab Jamun, fried sweet balls which are made of dried milk soaked in rose syrup with cardamom.

Address : Kumily Thekkady Road, Thekkady, Periyar, Kerala 685536, India

Follow on Instagram @TravellingFoodie for more food inspirations

Green Land Spice Garden

One of the most educational things to do in Kerala is a Spice Plantation Tour.

Note, all the tours are included in the Travel XS Splendid South India Tour.

Kerala is often called the Land of Spices after all.

And Thekkady is the best place to do it since it is surrounded by tea and spice plantations!

After lunch, you’ll be heading to Green Land Spice Garden for a spice plantation tour.

I learned so much about herbs, spices and flowers from experienced naturalist, Prasad.

In the tour, you’ll be exploring the 3-acre family garden that grows all sorts of things like cardamom, pepper, clove, all spice, vanilla, turmeric, banana.

All 100% organic.

Did you know? The ink used for Hena tattoos come from crushing the leaves from a Hena tree.

Not only will you learn what it looks like and how to grow them, but you’ll also get the chance to smell them fresh and even get to taste some.

It’s a great way to better understand the things we use in our food.

Heliconia is also known as lobster-claw, wild plantain or false bird-of-paradise because of its appearance.

Did you know? Heliconia is the National Flower of Bolivia.

Green, black, red and white peppers all come from the same pepper tree. Its color is based on its maturity harvested and how it is dried.

Green peppers are harvested before maturity and dried in a dark room, whereas black peppers are dried the sun instead of the dark room.

White peppers are dried in the sun without their skin, and red peppers are dried in dark room after maturity (unlike green pepper).

Unlike other flowers that gets pollinated by bees, vanilla requires self-pollination by hand.

And every day for 45 days, they are dried for four hours before taken into the dark room.

Did you know? Vanilla is the second most expensive spice in the world, after Saffron.

The bird’s eye chili, or piri piri chili, is 60 percent spicier than big chilis we normally see. It is the spiciest chili in India.

It was my first time seeing rose apple. They are much smaller than the regular apples we’re used to.

You can only harvest it once a year. The redder it is, the sweeter.

And it is also used to make wine in India.

Website / Address : Kottayam-Kumily Rd, Springvalley Springvalley Periyar, Kerala 685533, Springvalley, Periyar, Kerala 685509, India

Cardamom County

Where to stay in Thekkady? One of the best luxury resorts is Cardamom County situated on a hill overlooking the Periyar Hills.

You can have dinner at the All Spice Restaurant.

I stayed at the 33 square-meter Periyar Cottage Bedroom with a private verandah facing the bamboo forest.

The room is fully furnished and has air conditioning.

Travelling Foodie Tip: Don’t leave your bedroom door open as monkeys may tend to go in and grab things. They have warning signs for that.

Visit the Ayur Spa where you’ll find this Spice Chest with over 65 pockets of different herbs and spices for different uses in medicine, ayurvedic massage therapy and cooking.

Website / Address : Kumily Thekkady Road, Thekkady, Periyar, Kerala 685536, India

One Day in Thekkady

The 4 day trip in Kerala has finally come to an end.

On your last day, you’ll be doing the most popular attraction in Thekkady and also a cooking demonstration on some of the most popular food in Kerala.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Cardamom Hills is home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a reserve on the Kerala/Tamil Nadu border.

It’s also referred to as Periyar National Park or Periyar Tiger Reserve.

Periyar actually means big river.

And the aptly named Periyar River is the longest river in Kerala at 244-km!

In the morning, you’ll be going on an early boat cruise on Periyar Lake at the heart of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Travelling Foodie Tip: At the waiting area, be sure to secure your belongings. Wild monkeys are quick to grab things it sees in plain sight. When you hear the roof rumbling, monkeys are coming.

You’ll enjoy the tranquility of the lake with lush greenery and wildlife abound.

The tour guides are knowledgeable and quite keen on spotting wildlife.

They can even help you take photos with your phone or camera.

Unless animals are on the water near you, most of the animals will be quite far.

Bring binoculars or a zoom lens if you want to see them up close.

Note: You need to pay extra to bring an actual camera or a backpack.

Address : Kumily Thekkady Road, Thekkady, Kumily, Kerala 685536, India

Tamarind Restaurant at Spice Village Resort

After the cruise, you’ll be heading over to Spice Village Resort for cooking demonstration and lunch at Tamarind Restaurant.

A great benefit of the Travel XS Tour is you get VIP arrangements.

The scheduled cooking demonstration at Spice Village usually happens at night (6:45pm), but, with the tour, you get the private cooking demo along with your lunch.

At the cooking demo, you’ll learn the intricacies of the Indian spices and the secrets of traditional Kerala cuisine.

It’s eye-opening to see how much fresh herbs and spices are used here. A typical masala is made of at least 10 ingredients.

In North America, most Indian curry dishes are made using curry powder.

You might also like the only Michelin star Indian restaurant in Singapore !

I learned how to make Coriander Chicken Curry (Malliyila Chicken Curry) and Avial (Kerala mixed vegetable curry). You’ll get the recipes for these after too.

Watch the full video of the cooking demonstration here .

Lunch is buffet at Tamarind Restaurant along with the dishes made on the cooking demo.

In India, locals eat bread more than rice. They typically dip the bread in some sauce.

One of the most common bread is chapati, an unleavened flatbread made of wheat flour, salt and water.

Did you know? chapat means “slap” or “flat” in Hindi.

Luckily, the Tamarind Restaurant at Spice Village has live open cooking of roti and chapati so you can see how they’re made and can taste it fresh.

Watch how the chapati balloons here .

Following lunch, I recommend going on a property tour of Spice Village Resort.

Built since 1991, Spice Village focuses on sustainability in everything they do from serving treated drinking water in bottles instead of plastic to creating paper from bio-waste (old newspaper and magazines) and utilizing solar energy for 75% of their power.

They are also converting waste as nutrient-rich compost for their soil.

Website / Address : Kottayam-Kumily Rd, Thekkady, Kumily, Kerala 685509, India

Elephant Court

For dinner, head over to the restaurant at Elephant Court Resort for a multi-cuisine menu with extensive flavours.

Be sure to get dosa! They have a dosa stove in the dining room so you can see how it’s made fresh. Watch the video here .

They also have dinner buffet with an array of popular South Indian dishes like Aloo and Curd Rice.

Interestingly, the only non-Indian dish I had in Kerala was pretty good!

This beef teriyaki, though targeted for non-Asians, is quite delicious!

They have different chutneys to accompany the dosa, or opt for a curry dish instead like the shrimp coconut curry which came wrapped in pandan leaves.

End the meal on a sweet note with the Ice Cream Brownie Sandwich, which is uncommon to find since it’s typically with cookies instead of brownies.

It’s my first time seeing it served on a sizzling plate.

And they use Indian cashews instead for the brownies which were deliciously sweet.

Website / Address : Thamarakandam Rd, Thekkady, Kumily, Kerala 685509, India

MAP: 4 Day Trip in Kerala, India Guide

Hope this South India Travel Guide helps give you an idea on the best things to do, places to eat and stay in Kerala for a 4 day trip!

There is so much to discover in this vast state. Please let me know what you find are the best attractions, restaurants and accommodations in Kerala.

Huge thanks to Travel XS for hosting me on the Splendid South India Tour. As usual, 100% of reviews and opinions are entirely my own.

Enjoy the content and want to support? Buy me a coffee ☕

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Updated: July 30, 2020 by Raymond Cua

Our Kerala itinerary – amazing 10 day trip in southern India

Head to the south west tip of India to enjoy the lush green state of Kerala, with golden beaches, tropical palms and sleepy lagoons, living up to its name of God’s own country . We offer ideas for a Kerala itinerary, based on our 10 day trip, with additional suggestions for those who want to stay longer.

From the atmospheric trading port of Old Kochi, we headed inland to the cooler tea plantations of Munnar, then floated around on the backwaters near Alappuzha, ending with a laid back beach stay at Varkala.

The slower pace and natural beauty of Kerala makes a relaxing change from the overwhelming experience in other parts of India. It’s one of the most prosperous regions of India, historically wealthy from trade, and more recently from a well educated population who go to work overseas, especially in the Gulf States.

If you are an independent traveller, this article will help with your planning. For those taking an organised tour we hope you’ll get a flavour of what to expect on the journey.

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Our Kerala 10 day itinerary – overview

Here’s a quick summary of our Kerala itinerary. The accommodation suggested below is our top pick for a mid-range budget, but there are lots more options later in the article.

Day 1 – arrive in Kochi by train or plane – explore or relax in your hotel (book 2 nights here – boutique waterfront hotel)

Day 2 – explore Kochi

Day 3 – Drive to Munnar (book 2 nights here – heritage tea planter’s bungalow)

Day 4 – Explore Munnar

Day 5 – Drive to Alappuzha and join your houseboat (book 1 night here – luxury eco-houseboat)

Day 6 – check out of your houseboat and into a lakeside hotel (book 1 night here – luxury lakeside eco-resort)

Day 7 – check out of hotel and drive to Varkala (book 3 nights here – stylish guest house)

Day 8 – Explore and relax in Varkala

Day 9 – Explore and relax in Varkala

Day 10 – Drive to Thiriruvananthapuram airport to fly home or to another part of India

A 14 day Kerala itinerary – if you have more time

If you have more time and wish to make a 14 day Kerala itinerary, we suggest adding a couple of days in either the Periyar Wildlife sanctuary near Thekkady, or the Parambikulam Reserve near Palakkad, as well as an extra day in Kochi. You could also add an extra day in any of the locations mentioned, as there’s so much to see.

Where is Kerala?

Kerala is the state within India, that’s located in the south west tip of the country. The principle cities in Kerala are Kochi (Cochin) located in the centre of the state, and the state capital of Thiruvananthapurum (Trivandrum) to the south.

Much of the state runs along the coast, with lush green vegetation and golden beaches, backed by inland lakes and waterways known as the Backwaters.

Moving inland towards the border with Tamil Nadu, are the Western Ghats, a mountain range offering tea estates and cooler temperatures. Heading north you’ll pass through the state of Karnataka, whose principle city is Bengaluru (Bangalore), and beyond to the reach the beaches of Goa.

Arriving in Kochi

Arriving by air.

Many travellers arrive at Kochi Airport, on an internal flight from one of the larger airport hubs in India or via the Gulf States. Cochin international airport is located outside the city, around 45 minutes drive from Fort Kochi.

If you want to take a taxi to your hotel, go to the pre-paid taxi stand outside the airport. Here you will be informed of the price and be given a ticket with this rate to give to the driver. You then pay the driver directly at the end of your journey. Buses are also available from the airport to both Fort Kochi and Ernakulum.

Arriving by train

Another common way to arrive in Kochi is by long distance train, from other major cities in India. We travelled on the overnight train from Bangalore, which arrived in Kochi early in the morning.

Be aware that seats and sleeper compartments in 1st and 2nd class for long distance trains tend to book up well ahead. It’s best to either use your travel agent to book a seat / sleeper compartment in advance, or to make a reservation at any major station, as soon as you arrive in India.

About Kochi

The second city of Kerala, Kochi (formerly Cochin) is a collection of islands and peninsulas on the coast, surrounded by lakes and inland waterways. Most of the tourist attractions are in the peninsula of Old Kochi , while across the water is the bustling modern city and port of Ernakulam .

As a tourist you’ll spend most of your time in the Old Kochi neighbourhood, with layers of Dutch, Portuguese, British and Jewish influence. In Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, old mansions and waterfront warehouses have been converted into hotels and restaurants, with charming views over the open sea and harbour on either side of the peninsula.

Need help to design your dream holiday? We’ve partnered with UK travel advisor Luxeco Holidays to create your personalised itinerary

Things to do in Kochi

In fort kochi:.

If you are short of time, we recommend this 3 hour walking tour covering the highlights of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry that we mention below.

Chinese fishing nets

See the fishermen at the Chinese nets , and help to operate them if you are happy to offer a tip. These fishing nets are lowered from jetties along the shore, but the most photographed ones in Fort Kochi operate mainly for the benefit of the tourists. There are stalls selling fresh fish, which you can buy and take to a nearby food stall to be cooked.

Sunset walk on the beach promenade

Walk along the beachfront promenade between Vasco da Gama Square where the Chinese fishing nets are located and Old Lighthouse Beach. This is one of the top things to do in Kochi at sunset, with street food stalls and cafes open near the beach.

Unfortunately the beaches are not suitable for swimming, due to the large amount of weed that is washed up, and the water pollution in the busy lake channel.

A fun way to explore Fort Kochi is on this half day cycle tour that covers all the sightseeing highlights, with a chance to explore local neighbourhoods.

Historic churches in Fort Kochi

Visit the imposing Santa Cruz Basilica , built in 1887 on the site of a much older church, with pretty interiors and stained glass.

Nearby is the smaller and plainer Church of St Francis , dating back to the 16th century. Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was originally buried here, before his body was moved back to Portugal.

Art and street art in Kochi

Relax in an art cafe such as David Hall Gallery or Kashi Art Cafe , both of which have art exhibitions and sculptures on display as well as selling great coffee, brunch and lunch dishes.

As you wander around Fort Kochi, look out for street art and murals, especially around the area of Pepper House which has a great gift shop selling artisan souvenirs. This is the base for the Kochi – Muziris Biennale exhibition of contemporary art, which is held every 2 years.

Kathakali Show

Take in a Kathakali Show to experience this dance form which is traditionally performed in Hindu temples, telling the stories of the gods. One of the best and most accessible for tourists is at Kerala Kathakali Center opposite Santa Cruz Basilica, which offers nightly performances. Ask your hotel to prebook your ticket and request a seat near the front so that you get a good view during the performance.

If you are short of time, we recommend this 3 hour walking tour that covers the highlights of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.

In Mattancherry:

Mattancherry palace.

Mattancherry Palace is also known as the Dutch Palace and was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century as a gift for the Raja of Cochin. The palace is known for the gorgeous original wall murals illustrating stories from the Hindu Ramayana, as well as old maps, robes, weapons and furniture belonging to the royal family.

Jew Town and the Pardesi Synagogue

Walk along the pretty streets of Jew town , where there are numerous antique and souvenir shops. There was a large Jewish population in Kochi from the 1500s, increased by the Pardesi (literally foreign) Jews fleeing persecution in the 16th century from Spain and Portugal.

Most of the Pardesi community emigrated to Israel after Indian independence, a reason why many antique shops grew up in this neighbourhood to sell off their possessions. Visit the Pardesi Synagogue , erected in the 17th century, with its beautiful chandeliers and painted Dutch tiles.

If you are short of time, we recommend this 2 hour walking tour of Jew Town , which covers all the highlights of the vibrant neighbourhoods of Mattancherry and Jew Town.

Soak up the atmosphere of Bazaar Road

Wander from Mattancherry palace, north along Bazaar Road , with its atmospheric but crumbling riverfront warehouses and wholesalers of pepper, chillis and other spices.

A great way to see Old Kochi is on this private half day tuk tuk tour , where you’ll visit all the main sights and get the insights of a knowledgeable driver / guide.

Ferry from Old Kochi to Ernakulam

Take the ferry across the lake to Ernakulum , the modern part of Kochi. Unless you are into modern shopping malls, we don’t recommend spending much time here, but the inexpensive crossing is great fun to get views from the water. You can also stop off halfway at Willingdon Island , to wander around the lakeside park.

Tours in Kochi

Taking a tour is a great way to see all the sights, especially if you have limited time. Here are a few tours of Kochi we recommend.

This 3 hour walking tour that covers all the highlights of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.

Take this 2 hour walking tour of Jew Town to explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of Mattancherry and Jew Town.

A half day cycle tour is a fun way to explore local neighbourhoods, while covering all the sightseeing highlights.

This private half day tuk tuk tour is a relaxing way to visit all the main sights and get the insights of a knowledgeable driver / guide.

Take a half day backwaters tour starting just outside Kochi to explore the areas of backwaters closer to the city.

Where to stay in Kochi

As most visitors to Kochi will only spend a couple of days there, we recommend staying close to the main sites of Old Kochi, around Fort Kochi or Mattancherry. There are numerous hotels and homestays in Fort Kochi , with a good range also in Mattancherry and on the northern tip of the peninsula between them.

Staying in Fort Kochi will give you access to most of the tourist attractions within an easy walk, as well as a wide range of restaurants. Fort Kochi is where I would recommend you stay as a solo traveller, since you can safely walk around on well lit streets at night to find places to eat.

This 10 day itinerary for Kerala allows 2 nights in Kochi and we recommend Bloom Boutique Waterfront (boutique heritage hotel where we stayed) or Old Harbour Hotel (luxury heritage hotel).

We stayed at Bloom Boutique Waterfront Hotel in Mattancherry, which was full of atmosphere with lakeside views, a 15 minute tuk tuk ride away from Fort Kochi.

There are a few hotels on Willingdon Island , but for a short visit this is a less convenient location, since you will need to take a ferry and tuk tuk to reach the tourist sites of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.

Another possibility is to stay in the modern city of Ernakulam just across the water from Old Kochi. While this is conveniently close for the airport and train stations, it’s a noisy and bustling area that cannot match the heritage charm of Fort Kochi.

If staying in Fort Kochi or Mattancherry, we recommend staying in one of the many heritage hotels or homestays / guest houses that have been converted from old mansions or warehouses, sometimes overlooking the lake. Check out all the hotels in Kochi .

Hotels in Kochi

Check our top picks for hotels in Kochi below. If you are on a tight budget, we recommend booking one of the numerous guest houses or homestays within the Fort Kochi area.

Bloom Boutique Waterfront Hotel – (where we stayed) a boutique riverfront hotel in Mattancherry, set in an old converted warehouse.

The Old Harbour Hotel is a luxury heritage hotel in a 300 year old Portuguese mansion with lovely garden in Fort Kochi

Brunton Boatyard CGH Earth is an eco-luxury boutique hotel located in a restored Victorian shipyard on the scenic Cochin Harbour

Secret Garden is a good value small heritage hotel in a quiet location of Fort Kochi

Travelling on to Munnar

From Kochi we’ll head inland to the higher altitude and cooler climate of Munnar. There are no trains running from Kochi to Munnar and we do not recommend hiring a car to drive yourself in India. The best way to get from Kochi to Munnar is by private taxi (our recommendation) or by bus (budget alternative).

For our Kerala itinerary you’ll spend 2 nights in Munnar. We recommend you book at the Windermere Estate (heritage tea bungalow) or Green Valley Vista Guest House (budget guest house), although there are many more hotels in Munnar .

By taxi to Munnar

The fastest and most pleasant way to travel between Kochi and Munnar is to arrange a taxi transfer with driver. This can be easily arranged by whichever hotel you decide to stay with in Kochi or Munnar. Contact your hotel in advance (ideally at least 24 hours notice) to check prices and make arrangements.

We ended up using the taxi service arranged by our hotel in Munnar. The journey took around 4-5 hours and we stopped for lunch around half way, at a local restaurant recommended by our driver, as well as at some waterfalls close to Munnar.

Expect to pay £55-60 for this taxi service for 2 people plus luggage. If you are a bigger group and need a larger vehicle prices may be higher.

For long distance taxis in India, be sure to check that the price you are quoted includes government taxes, fuel and tolls. Also check that you will have an English speaking driver, who will be happy to stop at any viewpoints or photo stops along the way, in case there is an extra charge for such detours.

By bus to Munnar

If you are on a tight budget and are not pressed for time, there is the option of taking a bus from Kochi to Munnar. We heard that there is an air conditioned bus that leaves from Fort Kochi bus station (on the north tip of the Old Kochi peninsula) once a day, early in the morning.

Alternatively, take the ferry from Mattancherry to Ernakulam, then take a tuk tuk to the bus station. There are several local buses a day from Ernakulam bus station to Munnar run by the KSRTC (Kerala state road transport company). Either way the journey is likely to take 5-6 hours but will probably cost around £2.

About Munnar

If you’ve found the climate of Kochi hot and steamy, the cool air and misty tea estates of Munnar will provide a refreshing contrast. At an altitude of 2500m, Munnar sits in Kerala’s High Range on the edge of the Western Ghats that divide the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

The high rainfall creates a lush green landscape of forests, lakes and tea estates, with rolling mists and plenty of opportunities for hiking. Munnar town is set in a valley, with winding roads leading in all directions to viewpoints, tea estates and national parks.

Since the guest houses and main attractions are quite spread out, you will need to book a tour through your accommodation or with a tuk tuk driver to get around and see them.

Munnar is also very popular with Indian tourists, who come by the coach load to enjoy the cooler temperatures and natural landscapes.

Be aware that the roads are particularly busy at weekends and national holidays, when the main viewpoints are packed with mini buses and coaches. However, you can easily find some space by getting off road and going for hikes through the tea estates.

Things to do in Munnar

Drive up to top station.

Take a tour by jeep or tuk tuk up to “Top Station”, the highest point on the road heading east out of Munnar. It will take around an hour on a snaking road from Munnar town to reach this popular viewpoint. It’s worth setting off early, as at most times of year the views are shrouded by mist that rolls in by mid-morning.

Reservoir Views

On the way up to Top Station, there are scenic viewpoints of the two reservoirs (Mattupetty and Kundala reservoir) that supply water to the surrounding region. You can also walk onto the two dams at the bottom of each reservoir, with the Kundala lake dam offering plenty of street food and other stalls aimed at the mainly Indian tourists.

Tea estate tours by vehicle

Take in the scenic views on a tour through the tea estates, on narrow tracks that service the estates. This one is difficult to do without a guide, since the tea estates are private property, and you need to know where to go.

Tours are offered by jeep or by tuk tuk, with photo stops at some of the most scenic points. If you go by tuk tuk bear in mind that the tracks are quite rough, so it will be a bumpy ride.

Hiking around Munnar

There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking through the tea estates, and again you need to go with a guide, to ensure that you are not trespassing. You may be dropped off by tuk tuk and then spend a couple of hours on a guided walk, taking in the most scenic views.

More demanding half day and full day hikes in the hills around Munnar are also available. Hiking is a good way to get off the roads, which are often crowded with Indian coach parties, since hiking seems to be less popular with local tourists.

Tea Factory visits

Visit a tea factory, to learn how the tea is made and get plenty of opportunity to taste or buy their tea in the factory gift shop. If you take the tour to “Top Station” the Madupatty Tea Factory is a very popular stop on the way back.

We found it very busy when we arrived, so decided instead to visit the Tea Museum on the edge of Munnar Town. The museum shows a video about the area’s history and has a demonstration of the tea process, so we found it an interesting visit.

Another tea estate that offers a “Make your own tea” experience is Lockhart Estate, on the road that runs south east from Munnar.

Wander around Munnar town

Munnar town, located at the confluence of three streams, is worth a wander around if you have time. You can soak up the bustling atmosphere and colourful bazaar, but otherwise it’s similar to many other Indian towns. If time is limited, you’re probably better enjoying the scenery outside the town.

Waterfalls around Munnar

If you drive up to Munnar from Kochi as we did, ask the driver to stop at the two waterfalls that are around 45 minutes before you arrive at Munnar. The first is the Cheeyappara waterfall , a truly impressive falls, that can be easily seen from the road, attracting numerous India coach parties, all jostling to take a selfie.

Just 5 minutes drive up the road is the smaller Valara Waterfalls, which seemed a lot less popular, although you can walk down to the falls and take a dip in the pool below the lowest cascade. There are numerous other waterfalls in the area, although these seemed most popular, being right by the road.

Wild Elephant Experiences

On the final section road from Kochi as we approached Munnar, we noticed many signs for elephant attractions, with promotional photos show people riding on the backs of elephants. We prefer not to support captive elephant experiences, especially elephant rides, since there are so many issues around the treatment of the animals.

Some tours include a visit to a river near Anakulam, where the mineral composition of the water attracts groups of wild elephants to drink in the afternoon and evening. As with any wild animal experience, there is no guarantee what you will see, and the elephants may appear in smaller or larger numbers, or not at all.

National Parks

If you have time and are prepared for a 1-2 hour drive, you can visit a couple of nearby national parks. The Eravikulam National Park is known as one of the last places to see the rare Nilgiri Tahr mountain goat, while the Chinnar wildlife sanctuary is known for numerous bird species, giant squirrels, monkeys and other animals.

Where to stay in Munnar

The spread out nature of Munnar means that accommodation tends to be in guest houses or small hotels that are located along the winding roads radiating from the town itself. A legacy of the colonial era, there are many tea bungalows around Munnar, that have been converted into small heritage hotels or guest houses.

While Munnar town is a convenient transport hub, staying here is not recommended, since you’ll miss out on the atmospheric views and natural scenery that are the areas’s main attraction.

I would have loved to stay in one of the heritage tea bungalows such as Windermere Estate , but as it was a holiday period everything seemed booked up.

Windermere Estate is located outside Munnar town in a heritage tea bungalow set in lovely gardens.

We stayed instead at a budget guest house, the Green Valley Vista , which was well run and excellent value, with lovely views from all the rooms. As a bonus, the guest house has a busy tours and taxi business and we were able to arrange our tour of Munnar through them.

This 10 day itinerary for Kerala allows 2 nights in Munnar, with one of those days spent travelling and the second day for sightseeing.

Green Valley Vista (Where we stayed). This friendly budget guest house offers great views of the majestic mountains of the Western Ghats

Travelling to the Kerala Backwaters

From Munnar, we travelled by taxi transfer to the area of Allepuzzha / Alleppey in the Kerala backwaters. As before, the taxi transfer was arranged in advance through our hotel, and you should expect to pay £55-60 for a one way transfer. The journey takes around 4 hours and since most houseboats check in around 12-1pm, we set off early and arrived at lunchtime.

If you have more time, you could take a local bus from Munnar to Allepuzzha (Alleppey,) but the journey will take 5-6 hours. In that case you might need to stay an extra night or two around Alleppey, which is more than this itinerary allows.

For this Kerala itinerary you’ll stay 2 nights in the Kerala backwaters around Allepuzzha and we recommend booking 1 night on the Spice Coast Cruises houseboat and 1 night at Coconut Lagoon luxury eco-resort, both run by CGH Earth. You can also check out other houseboats and hotels near Allepuzzha in the Kerala Backwaters.

About the Kerala Backwaters

The network of lakes and inland waterways that run behind the coast of Kerala are one the most scenic and iconic parts of this region. Ferries and houseboats (Kettu Vellam) ply the waters of Vembanad Lake, while everyday life goes on along the narrower channels that offer the main way to get around by boat.

Due to the popularity of the backwaters, in particular the area around Alleppey, the number of houseboats has grown to more than 600 in recent years, contributing to issues of water pollution. We observed a lot of plastic bottles, caught in the weeds of the backwater channels, that get washed into the backwaters from the cities.

While wanting to experience this unique environment, we were mindful of minimising our impact on the delicate eco-system. For this reason, we decided to spend one night on a houseboat on Vembanad Lake, while the second night was spent in a lakeside hotel.

This way we had the fun of staying on board the houseboat, but on our second day were able to take a tour from the hotel on a smaller boat. We explored some of the narrower channels, enabling us to enjoy the birdlife, spot some wild otters and see daily life on the riverbank.

Booking a Houseboat in the Kerala Backwaters

If you are haven’t booked anything in advance, you can just turn up at Alleppey where most of the houseboats are moored and see what is available. Because you’ll probably be subjected to a hard sell, it’s worth doing some research on companies and houseboat styles in advance. Due to the cost of fuel and staff, a houseboat will cost more than staying in a lakeside hotel or guest house.

If possible, you should go on board to check the standard and style of interiors before booking. Houseboats range in size from traditional style with one or two cabins, to much bigger ‘double decker’ styles that may have up to 5 cabins and modern luxury features.

Some also have viewing areas that are glassed in to allow for air conditioning. While we had air conditioned bedrooms, our houseboat had open sided seating area to allow uninterrupted views from the boat, which we preferred.

Personally I think it’s better to book a one or two cabin houseboat for a more private experience, as if you are a couple booking on a larger boat, you may be sharing the boat with strangers.

A day on the houseboat

The houseboats generally board at 12-1pm and you’ll spend the afternoon cruising around Vembanad lake, as well as some of the channels and waterways between man made islands used as rice paddies.

By 6pm the houseboat is obliged by law to moor up on the lakeside and stay there overnight. In our case the night was spent moored at the private landing station owned by Spice Coast Cruises .

In the early morning, the houseboat will set off again and after breakfast you will normally disembark around 10am. Typically lunch, dinner and breakfast is included in the daily cost of your houseboat although any wine or beer you request will be charged as an extra.

On some houseboats, you may pass by a fish market, allowing you to purchase fresh fish for your evening meal, although this was included on our boat. If you’ve had good service from your crew, a tip is customary at the end of the trip.

It’s worth having a look at the houseboats available through Booking.com as you can see the different types and book them in the same way as a hotel room. Search on accommodation in Alleppey and then filter for Boats. We can personally recommend Spice Coast Cruises who we booked with, operating traditionally built and eco-friendly houseboats.

Spice Coast Cruises Houseboat (which we booked) offers traditionally built houseboats from eco-friendly operator CGH Earth

How eco-friendly is my houseboat?

One consideration before you book is how eco-friendly your houseboat will be. There’s a classification scheme of silver, gold and diamond ratings run by the Kerala government, although we did not observe this being widely used. Instead you may need to ask questions like:

• Is the houseboat made of natural materials? The traditional rice barges that were converted into houseboats are made of wood and coir, covered with a roof of bamboo and woven palm leaves. Booking a traditionally made houseboat helps keep the local boatbuilding crafts alive.
• How is the houseboat powered? Most have a diesel engine but traditionally the rice barge would have been moved by punts and some of this type are still available.

• What power is used for lighting, fans and air conditioning? The most eco-friendly have solar panels or are powered from a battery that is charged onshore by solar power. Boats that use the cooling natural breezes in living areas are better for the environment than those that are fully enclosed and air conditioned.
• How is waste disposed of or recycled? Most houseboats now have a septic tank for shower and toilet waste that is emptied on shore. No waste should be discharged into the lake.
• Are the staff trained in sustainable practices and does the company owning the houseboat prioritise sustainable practices or mention this on their website?

Because we wanted to support best practice, we decided to book our houseboat through Spice Coast Cruises , owned by luxury operator CGH Earth, who are known for their sustainable practices.

Things to do in the Kerala Backwaters

On the Kerala Backwaters, it’s all about relaxation and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere of the lakes and water ways. You don’t need to rent a houseboat to do this, indeed the houseboats are limited by their size to Vembanad lake and larger channels.

To visit the smaller waterways, you’ll need to book other types of boat tours to get the best birdwatching and wildlife experiences. All tours can easily by arranged with your hotel or guest house.

Tour by motorised canoe

Take a tour in a canoe along the smaller canals of the backwaters. We took a 2 hour private tour by motorised canoe arranged by our hotel, which was a magical way to see the bird life on the water. Our boatman was also a trained naturalist, and we were also lucky enough to see otters playing by their set in the middle of the channel.

Some canoes are much smaller, suitable for 2-3 people and are paddled by a local boatman who will point out birds and wildlife.

Kayak and SUP on the backwaters

Explore the waterways by kayak, which is the most silent and eco-friendly way to get close to nature and see the bird and wildlife on the backwaters. You may also find stand up paddle board (SUP) is on offer at some hotels.

Cycling in the backwaters

Hire a bike or borrow one from your hotel or guesthouse and ride along the narrow lanes that run alongside the canals. Our hotel offered electric bikes, which were ideal for the hot and humid weather.

Sunset cruise or day trip on the lake

Take a sunset cruise on Vembanad lake in one of the traditional Kettu Vallam boats. If you decided not to book an overnight stay on a houseboat, this is a good way to get a short taste of the experience.

Birdwatching

Our hotel offered free birdwatching walks around the property with a trained naturalist. Most of the tours using smaller boats will allow you to spot a lot of birdlife.

Yoga and Ayurveda

Most hotels will offer wellness activities, such as yoga sessions or Ayurveda talks and treatments.

Cookery classes

Many homestays and guest houses offer cookery classes, where you can learn to cook local dishes using the fish, coconut and other produce of the region.

Kathakali shows and traditional music

Larger hotels often offer evening entertainment, such as Kathakali dance shows or live traditional music. If you didn’t get a chance to see a Kathakali performance in Kochi, now is your chance.

Where to stay in the Kerala Backwaters

This 10 day Kerala itinerary allows for 2 nights in the backwaters. You can split these as we did between 1 night on a houseboat and 1 night in a lakeside hotel. Or if you prefer you could spend both nights either on a houseboat or in a hotel / guest house.

There are a number of luxury hotel resorts like Coconut Lagoon , along the banks of Vembanad Lake, many of which have heritage style wooden cottages and buildings.

A more affordable option is to stay in a guest house or homestay on the banks of one of the smaller water channels. Check whether you will get lake or river views, as being close to the water is one of the highlights of staying in the Kerala backwaters.

Coconut Lagoon (where we stayed) is a lakeside eco resort from CGH Earth featuring traditional Kerala buildings, with pool, spa and 2 restaurants.

Philipkutty’s Farm offers elegant waterfront villas on a peaceful farm island in the backwaters of Kerala.

Ayana’s Homestay is a budget homestay where you will experience life with a family in simple accommodation, surrounded by water.

Travelling to Varkala

From the Kerala Backwaters near Alleppey, we headed south for the final stop of our 10 day Kerala Itinerary. After a pretty active trip, that had seen us moving on every two days, we were looking forward to some relaxing beach time at Varkala.

As before, we chose to take a private taxi between Alleppey and Varkala, which was arranged through our hotel. Expect to pay around £50 for this option, which takes 2.5 – 3 hours. A good alternative, which is much cheaper, is to take the train between Alleppey and Varkala (around 2 hours), although you’ll have to rent a tuk tuk at either end to take you to / from the station.

We decided to book 3 nights at the beach resort of Varkala, since we wanted somewhere with beautiful scenery and a good choice of restaurants and places to stay. We recommend booking 3 nights at Villa Akasa in Varkala, where we stayed.

About Varkala

Along this stretch of coast, Varkala is perhaps one of the most scenic beach spots, with cliffs that rise behind a long stretch of sandy beach. It’s become something of a backpacker hot spot, but we quite liked the buzzing atmosphere, and you can find places to stay that are relaxed and quiet away from the main strip.

Varkala is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus, who travel here for ceremonies to commemorate their deceased loved ones and scatter their ashes in the sea. The rituals take place on Papanasam beach, which is the section between North Cliff and South Cliff Beaches, so you need to be respectful in this area.

Most swimming and sunbathing takes place on the beach immediately below North Cliff, where there is a lifeguard, as the surf can be quite high. On the cliff top above is a strip of tourist shops and restaurants, where you can chill out with a coffee, juice or smoothie in the day, surrounded by travellers with their laptops.

As night falls, the restaurants along North cliff are buzzing, with many offering live music. Fresh fish is a speciality and can be chosen from the displays on ice. Fishing boats offer a magical display from their lights bobbing on the horizon.

South Cliff is the quieter area to stay, with a more residential feel, although a growing number of guest houses and beach bars are springing up along the cliff. We enjoyed staying in South Cliff, with its easy access to the almost deserted beach, via steep paths that take you down from the top of the cliff.

Great care should be taken when swimming here, as there is a steep drop in level and undertow at certain times of the tide, so take local advice and stay close to shore.

Things to do in Varkala

Swim and sunbathe.

Top of the things to do in Varkala must be enjoying the long stretch of beach under both North and South cliff. If you want to swim and sunbathe, it’s best to stick to North cliff beach, where there’s a lifeguard and sun beds to rent.

Be aware that the surf can be quite high and the current strong at certain times of the tide, so observe the no-swim zones and the warning whistles of the lifeguards. On South cliff beach there are no lifeguards and a strong undertow, so take great care if swimming here.

Beach walks

Even if you don’t want to swim, it’s a lovely walk right along the beach from South to North beach. From the end of North cliff you can also continue to Odayam and Edava, where the beach ends and the lagoon begins. Of course, due to the heat, you may need to set off early in the morning for this one.

Chill in a clifftop cafe

Watch the world go by from one of the numerous cafes set on both North and South cliff. They tend to cater for an international backpacker crowd, so you can easily find your favourite coffee, smoothie or brunch dishes. Our favourites on South cliff were Cafe is Life and Cafe Sarwaa and on North cliff there are numerous options including San Francisco run by Mad about Coco guesthouse.

We took a very enjoyable cookery class with chef Sajeer Khan, known as Khan the cook – find him on Tripadvisor or Instagram @Khanthecook . Khan’s classes are for groups of up to six in his own home (moved from the North cliff restaurant where they were previously held).

He tailors the menu depending on what you’d like to cook and shops each day for the fresh produce to make the lunch, which you then eat together at the end of the class.

If looking for wellness activities, there are numerous Yoga and Ayurveda centres in Varkala. In the entrance of Trip is Life cafe on South Cliff is the small Bhumiveda Ayurvedic centre, which we found to be excellent if you want to consult an Ayurvedic doctor or have a treatment.

Surfing in Varkala

On the beaches where the surf can be high, as you might expect there are surfing lessons on offer with several surf schools in Varkala. Surfing for beginners is best in the early morning and at low tide, when the current is not as strong.

You really do need to go with an instructor to start with, as they can advise on the safest places to surf. The surfing season is from November to March, with a break during the monsoon season.

Where to stay in Varkala

The main decision is whether to stay in the buzzing North Cliff or quieter South Cliff areas of Varkala. For backpackers and solo travellers, the decision is likely to be North Cliff, with easy access to cafes, shops and restaurants. This is where most of the accommodation is concentrated, in the network of lanes and roads behind the cliff and leading from the helipad, where the tuk tuks wait.

We preferred quieter South Cliff. While there is less choice of accommodation, a few hotels perch on the cliff edge as well as boutique guest houses like Villa Akasa where we stayed. We loved the location of Villa Akasa , with 5 spacious ensuite guest rooms, each with its own verandah facing the shady garden.

Villa Akasa (where we stayed) is a friendly guest house on south cliff Varkala surrounded by a lush garden

Just across the lane was a stylish clifftop cafe “Trip is Life” where we could sip a smoothie or coffee with a view of the ocean and descend via steps to the beach.

Much of the accommodation in Varkala is in guest houses or smaller hotels, and there are no larger international resorts. As an alternative to Villa Akasa, we heard good things about similar guest houses Mad about Coco (North cliff) and Villa Jacaranda (South cliff). You can also look at other hotels in Varkala

Villa Jacaranda beachfront bed and breakfast in south cliff Varkala offers sustainable accommodation

Mad About Coco is a stylish guest house located on north cliff on top of the main beach in Varkala

Other beach resorts in south Kerala

If you want an alternative to Varkala to relax at the end of your trip, here are some other beach resorts to consider.

Odayam and Edava

Heading north of Varkala, the beautiful beach continues, although this stretch of coastline is much less developed. You can actually walk directly from Varkala North cliff to explore this empty beach, backed by a lagoon.

In Odayam and Edava there are smaller guest houses close to the beach and this area could be a good alternative if you want peace and quiet, but with easy access to the restaurants and shops of Varkala. We like the look of Tamarind Villa in Odayam , which has its own pool.

Tamarind Villa is a sustainable homestay with pool, close to Odayam Beach and Varkala

Mararikulam

Many tour companies will arrange your final few nights at the beach resort of Maranikulam, which is between Kochi and Alleppey. This is the most convenient resort if you are flying back out of Cochin International Airport, which is 1.5 hours drive from Maranikulam, rather than Thiruvananthapuram airport which is closer to Varkala.

The white sand beaches make a relaxing end to your stay in Kerala. Most of the accommodation here is in larger resorts so there isn’t such a range of restaurants and things to do as at Varkala.

Maranikulam is a good choice if you just want to relax before your flight out from Kochi. We recommend treating yourself to an eco-friendly and luxurious stay at Marari Beach Hotel with CGH Earth.

Marari Beach Resort offers a luxurious eco-friendly experience with sea side thatched-roofed villas, an organic farm, and beachside dining

South of Varkala and Thiruvanathapuram is the lively and popular resort of Kovalam. There are two sandy bays lined with hotels and restaurants, overlooked by a picturesque red striped lighthouse on the headland. Kovalam is popular with British sunseekers and European devotees of Ayurveda, but from what we read it has become too built up and busy for our tastes.

Best time to visit Kerala

The best time to visit Kerala is from December to February, when the days are generally dry, clear and sunny. Temperatures are likely to be around 30 degrees celsius but humidity is lower than other times of year.

We visited Kerala in mid November and experienced mostly sunny days, with a few that were overcast and the odd rain shower. The months of October and November are ‘shoulder’ season, when you will still get generally good weather but experience some showers and humidity.

For the rest of the year, temperatures are consistently around 30 degrees celsius, but the main consideration is the monsoon rains. From March – April, the heat and humidity starts to build up, broken by short showers, so this could still be a good time to visit. However from June to September is monsoon season, with heavy rains that will seriously curtail your sightseeing and beach time.

Getting around in Kerala

We used a combination of train, auto rickshaw and private taxi to get around Kerala. Buses are also available, but offer a more crowded, local experience, taking a lot longer on both short and long journeys.

In general, we found that train and private taxi were most efficient way to travel longer distances and auto-rickshaws ( or taxis for larger groups) are ideal for shorter distances in cities and towns.

Car hire is not widely available, and is not an ideal option in India, with the traffic congestion, horns and Indian driving style that is scarily different to that of Europe.

Trains within Kerala

The trains from Kochi run from the station in Ernakulam (the modern part of Kochi) south to Alapphuza and Kottayam, then further via Kollam and on Thiruvanthapurum. The rail line also runs north from Kochi, roughly skirting the coast. Branch lines also run eastwards towards Tamil Nadu.

If you are on a budget and have time to spare, the train could be a viable and enjoyable option to get from Kochi to Alapphuza, Kottayam or Kollam or from Thiruvanthapurum to the same. Otherwise we recommend a pre-booked taxi as the most efficient way to move around.

The system of booking long distance and overnight trains can be quite complicated, with seats often booked up some time ahead. We recommend asking your travel agent to book these, or otherwise booking directly at any station as soon as you arrive in India.

For shorter legs of an hour or two, simply buy your ticket on the day at the station, requesting either 2nd class or 1st class to ensure you get a reserved seat.

Private taxi within Kerala

Most of the journeys between each stop on our itinerary took 3-4 hours, and we decided the best way to make these was by private taxi. This is easily arranged before you arrive by messaging your hotel or accommodation. Hotels will either have a preferred taxi provider or give you the name of a taxi service they recommend.

Once you provide details of start and finish points, date / time of journey and number of passengers / luggage, you will be quoted a price. We paid around £50-60 for most of the 4 hour journeys that we took for 2-3 people, allowing for a lunchtime stop and some photo stops at place of interest.

If you have not prearranged a taxi, just ask your hotel on arrival, and normally it can be arranged with 24 hours notice. Typically the driver would stop around half way for a lunchtime break at a cafe they recommend, normally somewhere that will serve local food but be acceptable to western tastes.

Auto Rickshaw in Kerala

We found auto rickshaws or tuk tuks were a fun way to get around in towns and cities. Fares for a 10-15 minute ride were around £1-2. Meters may be used, but probably not unless you insist.

We found it was easier to check and agree a price before entering the tuk tuk, since there is a ‘going rate’ for most journeys. Alternatively you can check with your hotel what is a typical rate for each journey. You need to keep small change to ideally pay the exact amount for each ride.

We found that auto rickshaws were easy to find in towns and they often toot you as they pass by to see if you want a ride. If you don’t easily find one, you can also use Uber and other online taxi services (check which apps are used locally) to summon an auto rickshaw or taxi. This is also a good way to check what the ‘going rate’ is for a ride.

In Kochi, tuk tuk drivers may offer you a ‘tour’ for a bargain price of 100 rupees (around £1). While you will pass by all the main tourist spots, there will also be 2 or 3 stops at tourist gift shops.

The driver will receive a commission or fuel voucher, hence offering the tour at such a low price, and you may find it difficult to get out of the shop without buying something. If you are genuinely interested in a tuk tuk tour, better to make it clear you don’t want any souvenir stops and negotiate a fair price to reflect this.

Drivers may also ask a ‘favour’ that they drop you (with no obligation) at the souvenir shop, so that they can get their fuel voucher, which we politely declined.

Map of our Kerala itinerary

Below is a detailed map of our Kerala itinerary with the route, hotels and things to do – click on this link to our Kerala itinerary or on the map image below to enlarge.

How to get to Kerala

The gateway cities for most visitors to Kerala are Kochi (Cochin) and Thiruvanthapuram (Trivandrum). If visiting the northern part of Kerala or heading north along the coast to Goa, you may also pass through the city of Kozhikode (Calicut). All three cities have international airports and busy train stations.

Most international travellers flying to India, will probably pass through one of the popular airport hubs, such as Delhi or Mumbai and connect on one of the many internal flights to Kochi or Thiruvanthapuram. We arrived in Kochin by train and flew out of Thiruvanthapuram airport.

Other popular connections are via Colombo in Sri Lanka, or through the Gulf states. From Thiruvanthapuram and Cochin airport, there are numerous flights via United Arab Emirates, since many Keralans go there for work.

If you are travelling around India and prefer not to take the plane to reach Kerala, long distance train travel could be another option. We took an enjoyable overnight train ride from Bangalore to Kochi, which a local friend had booked for us in advance.

The long distance and overnight trains tend to book up well in advance. So if you want to use this more sustainable way to travel, you may need to book tickets in person at any major station, as soon as you arrive in India, or enlist the services of a reputable travel agent or local friend.

It would take too long here to go into the complexities of booking long distance train tickets in India, but do read up on it before you arrive.

Where to stay in Kerala

Here’s a summary of the best places to stay in Kerala on our 10 day itinerary

Where to stay in Kochi (2 nights)

Bloom Boutique Waterfront Hotel – (where we stayed) a boutique riverfront hotel in Mattancherry, set in an old warehouse.

The Old Harbour Hotel is a luxury heritage hotel in a 300 year old Portuguese restored mansion with lovely garden in Fort Kochi

Where to stay in Munnar (2 nights)

Houseboats in the kerala backwaters (1 night), where to stay in the kerala backwaters (1 night), where to stay in varkala (3 nights).

Discover 15 fun things to do in Kochi Kerala India

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This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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Kerala Itinerary for 10 Days & Backpacking Kerala Travel Guide

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This article contains a Kerala itinerary for 10 days as well as a Kerala travel guide for backpacking Kerala for travelling through the state with ease.

Backpacking Kerala is on the list of any visitor to India who is backpacking through South India. And rightly so. Kerala is one of the unmissable places in India. If being termed as ‘God's Own Country’ isn’t the proof of the beauty that Kerala holds, then what is. This article contains a guide to backpacking Kerala as well as a suggested Kerala itinerary for 10 days.

Table of Contents

Backpacking Kerala & Kerala Itinerary for 10 Days

Inside this Kerala travel guide and a suggested Kerala itinerary for 10 days, I’ve tried to compile all the relevant information about backpacking Kerala. What I love most about Kerala is its lush greenery, the amazing backwaters, tea plantations and the varying landscapes scattered across the entire state. Every place has something special of its own. In this article, first, I’ve made a list of all the best places to visit in Kerala - the must-visit places, how to get there and what to do. After you’ve gone through it, you should be able to choose the places to visit in Kerala during your Kerala backpacking trip. If in case you’re unable to pick an itinerary for yourself, I’ve included a Kerala itinerary for 10 days to help you plan your Kerala trip.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

How to Reach Kerala

Getting around kerala.

• Best Time to Visit Kerala
• How Many Days to Spend in Kerala

Food to Try in Kerala

• Best Places to Visit in Kerala, India

Kochi (Cochin)

Munroe island.

• Kerala Itinerary for 10 Days

Kerala Itinerary for 14 Days

Ready to plan your trip to kerala, did you enjoy this backpacking kerala travel guide & kerala itinerary, backpacking kerala map, train to kerala.

Every popular sightseeing place in Kerala has a connecting railway station. Since India has a large heavily connected railway network, you’ll find trains within India quite easily. For short train journeys, you can buy a general class ticket at the station itself and travel in the general compartment. For longer distances, if you need a dedicated seat, you will have to reserve a seat via the IRCTC app or visit the nearest railway station.

Bus to Kerala

Kerala KSRTC runs numerous buses within Kerala. These buses don’t require advance booking. You can just show up at the bus stand, enquire about bus timings and board the appropriate bus. On the other hand, for longer distances, you can use the redBus website or app to check the availability of buses and to make a booking.

Airports in Kerala

There are two major airports in Kerala - the Kochi international airport and the Thiruvananthapuram international airport. Both of these airports have domestic and international flights both ways. Most people prefer to fly in and out of Kochi international airport because Kochi is closer to some of the most popular places to visit in Kerala. Not only that, flights to and from Kochi are plenty in number and cheap in cost as well.

The Kerala KSRTC buses are a widely used and popular choice of transportation for getting around Kerala. Train travel is another popular means of going from one place to another in India. While you are sightseeing within a city, tuk-tuks or auto-rickshaws, as they are called in India, are a common way to get around.

Best Time to Visit Kerala India

There are 3 main seasons in Kerala - summer, monsoon and the high season. April to June are the summer months in Kerala. This is when the temperature soars along with increased humidity. On the other hand, while the monsoon brings relief from the heat, lately Kerala has been experiencing flooding during these months. October to March is the best time to visit Kerala . This is when the temperature and humidity aren’t as high and the other months.

How Many Days to Spend in Kerala?

So how many days should you spend in Kerala? The answer mainly depends on the number of days you have, and the places you want to visit in Kerala. I personally felt that 14 days were required to visit all the best sightseeing places in Kerala. However, if you don’t have that much time on your hands, then 10 days should be sufficient to cover all these places. This is the reason why I’ve included a Kerala itinerary for 10 days and not 14 days.

There are a wide variety of tasty South Indian dishes that you must try in Kerala. 

• Appam - Soft thin pancake made out of rice batter; eaten with a curry
• Idiyappam - Noodles made out of rice flour; eaten with a curry
• Puttu - Rice cake made of steamed rice flour; cylindrical in shape
• Kerala parotta - Layered flatbread made from refined flour
• Karimeen fish - Freshwater fish local to Kerala
• Sadhya - A feast consisting of a variety of vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf

If you’re a fussy eater, no worries, you’ll find cafes serving vegan, vegetarian and regular continental dishes as well as fast food almost everywhere in the major cities.

Best Places to Visit in Kerala India

Kerala has a number of beautiful places to choose from. The best part, though, is that each of these places has something special about them that makes them all unique. For example, while Alleppey is famous for the Kerala backwaters, Munnar is well-known for the tea plantations. Similarly, on one hand, Varkala is known for its iconic cliff beach whereas Kovalam is famous for the lighthouse beach. Thus, take a look at all the places to visit in Kerala so that you can choose the places to visit during your backpacking Kerala trip.

Kochi or Cochin is one of the biggest cities in Kerala. While Kochi in itself is a plain old city, it is Fort Kochi that is of interest to travelers. Fort Kochi used to be a former fishing village that came under the Portuguese, then later Dutch and then British colonization. This area still retains the heritage and architecture of the yesteryears, which is visible in the sleepy lanes. One of the best parts of this area is the many top art cafes in Fort Kochi . You can gorge on a variety of cuisines while staring at magnificent pieces of art!

How to Reach Kochi

Kochi has one airport called the Kochi or Cochin International Airport. There are a number of domestic and international flights to and from Kochi daily. What's more, there is an air-conditioned bus service between the airport to Kochi city and to Fort Kochi as well. Moreover, there are two railway stations in Kochi city - Ernakulam Junction (South) railway station and Ernakulam Town (North) railway station. Kochi is also well-connected to other nearby cities by bus.

Places to Visit in Fort Kochi

Among all the things to do in Fort Kochi, watching the fishermen at work on the Chinese fishing nets at sunrise is the most popular activity. Apart from that, you can take a heritage walk around Fort Kochi, visiting the Dutch cemetery, St Francis church, Jew town, Dutch palace, spice market, and the Fort Kochi beach, among other things. There are a number of amazing places to visit in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry  so rest assured, you’ll have plenty to keep you occupied here.

Where to Stay in Fort Kochi

There are innumerable great hotels and hostels in Fort Kochi. I've stayed at Neemrana's The Tower House which is a heritage hotel that comes with a pool and is located directly in front of the Chinese fishing nets. I've also stayed at Zostel Kochi which is a backpacker hostel with dorm rooms as well as private rooms.

Check availability at Neemrana's Tower House Hotel on Booking.com

Find hotels in Fort Kochi on Booking.com

Munnar is one of the most popular places to visit in Kerala due to the countless hills laden with tea plantations. The town of Munnar is located in the Western ghats of India. Not only is Munnar known for its tea plantations, but also the magical sunrises, the freshness in the air and the lush greenery found all around.

How to Reach Munnar

There are many buses all throughout the day from Kochi to Munnar. Moreover there are regular buses from Alleppey to Munnar and Kottayam to Munnar. While there are buses from Thiruvananthapuram to Munnar as well, it's a very long journey and buses are fewer in number.

Places to Visit in Munnar

One of the most popular things to do in Munnar is to go on a sunrise trek where you get to walk through the Munnar tea plantations to end up at a viewpoint to witness the sunrise. Another popular activity to do in Munnar is to visit a tea factory and to see the entire process of manufacture of tea - right from plucking tea leaves to the packaging. There are many more popular sightseeing viewpoints, dams and other places to visit in Munnar. Also, don't forget to sample and buy chocolate and tea in Munnar.

Where to Stay in Munnar

Munnar town has a lot of stay options to choose from. However, the main town is very crowded. Thus I recommend finding a stay slightly away from the main Munnar town. I stayed at Lost Hostel which is located at Anachal. I also stayed at Gruenberg Tea Plantation Haus which is a stunning hotel located inside a tea plantation. Bliss!

Check availability at Gruenberg Tea Plantation Haus on Booking.com

Find hotels in Munnar on Booking.com

Alleppey is one of the most popular sightseeing destinations in Kerala due to the backwaters. While one can witness the Kerala backwaters in Kumarakom as well, Alleppey remains the number one destination to-date. You might recognize the iconic pictures of the Alleppey houseboats gliding seamlessly through the backwaters of Alleppey.

How to Reach Alleppey

Kochi to Alleppey is a short distance of roughly 53 km which can be covered by road or rail. There are buses from Kochi to Alleppey throughout the day. Numerous trains pass between Ernakulam railway station in Kochi to the Alleppey railway station. Munnar to Alleppey is a 5-6 hour bus journey. Similarly, Alleppey is well-connected to other cities in Kerala by train, bus or both.

Places to Visit in Alleppey

There isn’t a whole lot to do in Alleppey besides exploring the backwaters and visiting Alleppey beach. In order to visit the backwaters of Alleppey, you can either take a houseboat (which is the most expensive option) or take a shikara boat, tourist ferry, public ferry, canoe or kayak. I’ve explained the difference between each of these types of boats and their pricing in my blog post on the cheaper alternatives to explore the Alleppey backwaters . Give it a read to understand your options.

Where to Stay in Alleppey

I stayed at Zostel Alleppey which is located at the Alleppey beach. It's a backpacker hostel that has private as well as dorm rooms, a common room area and a terrace overlooking the beach with hammocks. Apart from that, there are many stay options in Alleppey that include hotels, homestays and resorts.

Check availability at Zostel Alleppey on Booking.com

Find hotels in Alleppey on Booking.com

While Alleppey may be the most popular place to witness the backwaters of Kerala, Munroe island is one of the best offbeat places in Kerala to see the backwaters. The island is surrounded by a river on 2 sides and a lake on the other 2 sides. There is hardly any commercialization on this tiny island which makes it an ideal place to stay in a homestay, meet locals, take long strolls and enjoy the slow life.

How to Reach Munroe Island

Munroe island is connected to the mainland via road, rail, and ferry. The easiest and cheapest option to reach Munroe island is to take a passenger train. I took the Ernakulam-Kollam passenger train, which I boarded at Alleppey railway station and got down at Munroturuttu railway station in Munroe Island.

Things to do in Munroe Island

The beauty of Munroe island lies in the fact that there’s nothing to do here. Apart from the absolutely spellbinding sunrise canoe tour, bicycle rides across the island and sipping mocktails at the surprisingly great little place called Munroe island, there's nothing much to do here at Munroe island except to take a step back and just live in the moment. Read my complete travel guide to Munroe island to get all the travel info you need to visit the island.

Where to Stay in Munroe Island

There aren't a whole lot of hotels or resorts in Munroe Island. Since it's a small island with little commercialization, you'll only find lovely homestays here. I stayed at GreenChromide Homestay which was located on the riverside. This homestay is run by a wonderful family that takes good care of you, organizes activities and serves the most delicious local food. I could not recommend this place more!

Check availability at GreenChromide Homestay on Booking.com

Find homestays in Munroe Island on Booking.com

Varkala is a well-known tourist destination for a number of reasons. Firstly, the iconic cliff beach and the many shops and cafes lined across the cliff make Varkala a picture-perfect destination. Secondly, Varkala is one of the few beaches in India where one can go surfing. Thirdly, there are quite a few yoga training ashrams here. This and a number of other reasons make Varkala one of the must-visit destinations during a backpacking Kerala trip.

How to Reach Varkala

If you're coming from either Kochi or Alleppey, take the train to Varkala since it's a longer route. On the other hand, if you're coming from Thiruvananthapuram, you can either take the train or bus to Varkala.

Places to Visit in Varkala

You can try surfing, find a yoga ashram, visit the many beaches in Varkala, hang out at the Varkala cliff beach or sit at one of the many cafes on the Varkala cliff. There are clearly plenty of things to do in Varkala. If you're keen on sightseeing in Varkala, visit the temples, lighthouse, and the fort.

Where to Stay in Varkala

There are innumerable hotels and hostels in Varkala located in close proximity to the Varkala cliff. I stayed at the relatively new Zostel Varkala which was close to the cliff beach but also away from the hustle-bustle of the cliff. Moreover, the new Zostel is spacious, comes with a nice terrace and overlooks the Black beach.

Check availability at Zostel Varkala on Booking.com

Find hotels in Varkala on Booking.com

Kovalam is a small beach town located just half an hour from Kerala’s capital Thiruvananthapuram (also known as Trivandrum). Kovalam is predominantly famous due to the iconic lighthouse beach and the promenade along the beach which is lined with appealing stores, cafes, and restaurants.

How to Reach Kovalam?

No matter where you’re coming from, in order to reach Kovalam, you need to go to Trivandrum first. From there, get into a tuk-tuk and ask the driver to take you to the bus stand where you can catch a bus to Kovalam. The bus takes about 30 minutes and drops you off very close to the beach.

Things to do in Kovalam

Just like Munroe, there aren't a whole lot of things to do in Kovalam. Kovalam’s lighthouse beach is mainly frequented by foreigners, and the only thing to do here is to either go for a swim, laze around on the beach lounge chairs or sit back in a cafe and read a book. The whole purpose of a visit to Kovalam is to just chill out.

Where to Stay in Kovalam

All the places to stay in Kovalam are in the vicinity of the lighthouse beach. I booked a stay at Wilson Ayurvedic beach resort which was located at the lighthouse beach. It has rooms for different budgets and a nice big pool with lounge chairs to relax in.

Check availablity at Wilson Ayurvedic Beach Resort on Booking.com

Find hotels in Kovalam on Booking.com

Kerala Itinerary for 10 Days - A Suggested Kerala Itinerary

Day 1 - reach kochi.

Whether you arrive at Cochin airport or at the railway station, you can find buses to the city. Take a bus or cab to Fort Kochi, check-in to your hotel and get some rest. Later in the evening, you can walk around Princess Street and Burgher Street and grab something to eat at an art cafe.

Day 2 - Sightseeing in Fort Kochi

Start your day at the Chinese fishing nets. Then continue walking towards St Francis church, Dutch cemetery, and Bishop's Palace. After breakfast, head to the Mattancherry side to visit the jew town, Jewish synagogue and discover the street art of Fort Kochi. Watch the sunset at Fort Kochi beach.

Day 3 - Kochi to Munnar

After grabbing breakfast at a cafe in Fort Kochi, check-out and head over to the Ernakulam bus stand to find a bus to Munnar. The bus to Munnar from Kochi takes approximately 4-5 hours. Once you're at Munnar, take a tuk-tuk to your hotel or hostel and get some much-needed rest.

Day 4 - Sightseeing in Munnar

To start your sightseeing in Munnar, you can either go for a sunrise trek or start early to visit all the sightseeing places in Munnar. Do not miss taking a tour of a tea plantation and factory.

Day 5 - Munnar to Alleppey

Today, after catching the sunrise at Munnar and having a nice big breakfast, catch another bus from Munnar to Alleppey. The bus to Alleppey from Munnar goes via Kochi and takes 5-6 hours. When you reach the Alleppey bus stand, take a tuk-tuk to your hotel or hostel.

Day 6 - Sightseeing in Alleppey

Start your day early because you do not want to miss watching the sunrise at the backwaters of Alleppey. Spend the day cruising around the backwaters. Head over to Alleppey beach for sunset and drinks.

Day 7 - Alleppey to Varkala

Once you've had your breakfast, take a train from Alleppey to Varkala. I do not recommend taking a bus for this route because it's a long journey so train travel is faster thus better.

Day 8 - Sightseeing in Varkala

Time to hit up all the beaches in Varkala. Hit the waves for a surf session, do some yoga, go hopping along all the beaches of Varkala or simply chill at the Varkala cliff beach.

Day 9 - Varkala to Kovalam

Take a bus or train from Varkala to Thiruvananthapuram (aka Trivandrum) and then catch a bus from Trivandrum to Kovalam beach. check-in to your stay, grab your swimsuit and head over to the beach for some chill time.

Day 10 - Kovalam to Trivandrum and Onward

After breakfast at a cafe overlooking the lighthouse beach in Kovalam, take a bus back to Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) . From here, head to the airport or railway station to head back home or to move onward to our next destination.

In case you're looking for a Kerala itinerary for 14 days, instead of 10 days, use the itinerary mentioned earlier then add at least 1-2 nights in Munroe island, after you've visited Alleppey. For the other 2 nights, you can either go to Thekaddy from Munnar to visit the Periyar National Park or you can spend an extra day or two at any place that you like.

Since a single Kerala travel guide isn’t enough to explain all the amazing things that Kerala has to offer, I have a few more articles on places within Kerala. If you're looking for in-depth guides to all the best places to visit in Kerala, then take a look at my other articles on Kerala (links open in new tabs):

• Places to Visit in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry
• Top 10 Art Cafes in Fort Kochi, Kerala
• Ultimate Guide to the Munnar Tea Plantations - Visiting Tips and Tricks
• The Cheaper Alternative Guide to the Alleppey Backwaters
• Munroe Island Kerala - Why You Must Go
• Lighthouse Beach Kovalam - Everything You Need to Know

If you liked reading this travel guide to the backpacking Kerala and reading the suggested Kerala itinerary for 10 days then follow me on my social media handles Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest , Twitter to see beautiful pictures, discover new destinations and get instant updates regarding new blog posts.

Definitely want to go here next time I’m in India! This post really made me miss the authentic Indian food ?

Kerala – a best place to visit in India, Thanks for sharing valuable information. Beautiful pictures.

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An Itinerary for a lush road trip in Kerala, India

Brightly coloured houses, reticent but smiling locals, and low-lying clouds. Undulating Tea Estates spread out as far as the eye can see, mystic spice plantations and coffee farms spread over acres, walls covered with bright red hibiscus flowers, and roads lined with sunflowers. A road trip in Kerala is a delightful assault to the senses – the colours, the smiles, and the landscapes are bound to leave the traveller in you reeling with joy.

Suggested itinerary for a road trip in Kerala

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a road trip in Kerala before I divulge the route we took and provide tips and tricks to making the most of a road trip to Kerala in 2 weeks:

• Tea Estates and hills at Munnar or Wayanad (3-4 days)
• Spice Plantations and wildlife at Thekkady (3 days)
• Backwaters and houseboats at Kumarakom or Alleppey (3 days)
• Beaches at Varkala or Kovalam (3 days)
• City life in Kochi, with a day trip to Athirappilly (2 days)

Our itinerary for a road trip in Kerala

Of course the itinerary charted above is flexible. You can weed out places based on personal preferences and the amount of time at hand. We had just 10 days in Kerala, so we decided to skip the beaches of Varkala and Kovalam. Here’s the route we followed on our road trip in Kerala:

Budgeting for your road trip in Kerala

Let’s start with the logistics first – car rental and expenses. The overall cost of this road trip will depend on the city of departure and the hotels you choose. Kerala boasts of some stunning hotels and you can choose everything from bespoke hideaways to homestays, depending on your budget and personal preferences. Here’s a list of expenses other than accommodation

• Domestic flights to Coimbatore/Kochi cost under £100/INR 10,000 from most cities in India
• A rental car will set you back by approximately £20-£30/INR 2000-3000 per day depending on the car you choose.
• We spent £45/INR 4500 on fuel for a 10 day road trip. This amount will increase if you decide to drive down to Kovalam.
• It’s easy to eat for less than £5/INR 500 at little eateries across Kerala. They serve delectable food and have a variety of local delicacies on offer. There are also several fine-dining restaurants in the area and some of our favourites are mentioned in the article below.

Driving and Renting a car for your road trip in Kerala

You know just how much we love driving around in new places and this was no exception. Driving in Kerala is much easier than Ladakh (our last road trip in India). Roads are in good shape and drivers are not aggressive. However do beware than this route featured hilly drives and hairpin bends by the dozen, so drive yourself only if you have previous experience driving in hills. Having said that, we loved driving in Kerala. We would recommend it if you’re a seasoned driver who enjoys road trips.

We would definitely recommend renting with an Indian rental company while you are in India as they understand the nuances of the market well. We’ve rented with Myles Cars in India before and enjoyed their service, so we decided to stick to the same provider this time around too. We picked up our car –  Mahindra XUV 500 – from Coimbatore airport. It was

10 Essential Experiences on your road trip in Kerala

• Prance in the tea estates of Munnar
• Go for a wildlife safari at Periyar National Park
• Buy fragrant local spices and loose leaf tea for friends and family back home
• Visit a coffee farm
• Go canoeing in Vembanad Lake
• Stay in a houseboat as your explore the backwaters of Kerala
• Sample Toddy, an alcoholic drink made from the sap of the palm tree
• Try local delicacies such as Meen Pollichathu (fish wrapped in banana leaf), Meen Curry (spiced fish curry), Avial (vegetables in a coconut curry), dosas (savoury crépes), and Ulli Theeyal (shallot curry)
• Hunt down waterfalls at Chelarkovil or Athirappilly
• Make friends – locals in the area are friendly and helpful. Talk to them, pick their brains about scenic spots in the vicinity, and share a meal (or two) with them.

Best time to visit Kerala

The months between November and February are perfect to visit Kerala. Expect moderate temperatures and lush green estates. Of course these are peak months, so expected higher rates and crowds at popular places. We wanted to avoid the tourist hordes, so we visited during March, which is a shoulder month. It was perfect but some days did tend to get extremely hot and humid, especially in the backwaters.

July and August are popular with tourists too as this is peak monsoon season. Kerala’s monsoons are special – expect an abundance of greenery and beautiful waterfalls.

Day by day itinerary for a road trip in Kerala

Day 1: fly into coimbatore and drive to munnar.

This day is reserved for arriving in Munnar, the first stop on your road trip of Kerala. Fly into Kochi or Coimbatore. We chose Coimbatore International Airport because it is serviced by Myles.  We picked up are rental car at the airport and kick started our road trip.

Roads are in great shape and there are lots of supermarkets and restaurants on the way. Stock up on snacks, fruits for your road trip. There’s no need to go overboard as hot food is readily available during the length of this road trip in Kerala. Stop at Thoovanam Falls on the way  – the gurgling waterfall is worth a pitstop only if you’re visiting during monsoon months (July & August)

The scenery will begin to change dramatically as you inch closer to Munnar. The searing sun will give way to a nip in the air. Winding roads punctuated with undulating tea plantations and rolling hills will welcome you to the area.

Accommodation in Munnar

Munnar town is quite crowded and chaotic. We suggest staying in a hotel in a village called Chinnakanal. The village is a convenient forty minute drive from Munnar. Here it is possible to stay in a hotel or homestay in the midst of gorgeous tea plantations. Two hotels that boast of great views in the area are Terrace Greens and Club Mahindra. We chose the former for our stay in Munnar – rooms at Terrace Greens aren’t luxurious but they are spacious and well-equipped. Food is tasty. However the lack of wifi in the rooms lets it down.

The hotel is nestled in the countryside, so make sure you stock up on provisions beforehand. Munnar is twenty kilometres away and Surianelli village, which has a large bustling market, is just 5 kilometres away

Days 1-4: Explore Munnar and Chinnakanal

There are lots of things to do in the area but waking up to the sight of endless tea plantations would have to be one of my favourite experiences in Munnar. Low hanging clouds float over verdant tea estates, lending magic to the proceedings.

But we weren’t just exploring tea estates or photographing them. Here’s a list of other things to see and do in the area:

•  Anayirankal Dam and Lake: a picturesque boating and picnic spot, Anayirankal Dam and Lake provides photo opportunities by the dozen.
• Mattupetty Dam and Lake: one of the most popular sites in the area, it tends to get quite crowded. We didn’t love the viewing area but really enjoyed driving along the lake.
• Top Station and Echo Point: Combine your trip to Mattupetty Dam with a drive to Echo Point and Top Station. This makes for an incredibly scenic drive. Expect gorgeous views of the Western Ghats and magical low-lying clouds everywhere.
• Kolukkumalai tea estate: A bumpy ride gets you to the world’s highest tea plantation, where tea is picked and processed in a traditional fashion. Kolukkumalai is gorgeous and definitely worth a visit.
• A traditional tea factory: It should be illegal to leave Munnar without visiting a traditional tea factory. Watch tea leaves being painstakingly picked and processed into high-quality tea. Make sure you pick a bag or two for friends and family back home.

Day 5: Drive from Munnar to Thekkady

After luxuriating in the green environs of Munnar for a few days, it is time to continue with your road trip of Kerala. Start early as the drive from Munnar to Thekkady is one of the prettiest ones – you will want to stop for photographs every few kilometres.

The drive begins, quite predictably, with endless stretches of tea estates. Gradually these get replaced by spice plantations and coffee farms. Roads snaking through Kerala’s Cardamom Hills are lined with bright red hibiscus flowers and chrome sunflowers. Every once in a while, purple wild flowers make an appearance, as if to add even more colour to the landscape.  Check in to your hotel on reaching Thekkady.

Accommodation in Thekkady

Try to opt for an experiential hotel in the area. Choosing a hotel that in the midst of a spice plantation amplifies the experience manifold. We stayed in Shalimar Spice Garden . Shalimar Spice Garden is a rustic yet luxurious hideaway in Thekkady. The hotel is located in the middle of 30 acres of spice plantations. Rooms are well-equipped, spacious, and boast of huge balconies. The hotel boasts of a gorgeous pool area dotted with hammocks and swings. The in-house restaurant serves delectable food. We loved our stay at Shalimar Spice Garden and would recommend it wholeheartedly.

Days 5-8: Explore Thekkady and Periyar National Park

Spend your days in Thekkady exploring its rich spice plantations, the Periyar National Park, and its surroundings. Here are a few of our favourite things to do in Thekkady on your road trip of Kerala:

Visiting Periyar National Park

Boat tours are coveted at the park because tickets are limited. Apparently you can book tickets online but despite multiple attempts, we were unable to do that.  If you want to get on a boat safari at Periyar National Park, then plan on getting up early. Get to the entrance of Periyar National Reserve by 5.45 am, park your car, get your entrance tickets (INR 65 for Indian Nationals and £3.5/INR300 for foreign nationals) and board the bus operated by the Forest Reserve. If you get onboard the first bus, chances are you’ll get a ticket for the much coveted boat ride (£2/INR150) . This is what we did but to be honest, we didn’t see much (except for a couple of stray birds). The Periyar Lake is pretty early in the morning. But the boat safari at Periyar National Park is definitely not worth the effort, especially if you’ve been to other destinations rich in wildlife such as South Africa or Australia. If you want to visit the National Park, opt for a Jeep Safari at Gavi instead.

Other than visiting Periyar National Park, here are a few of our favourite things to do in the area.

• Chellarkovil: The area boasts of waterfalls and cascades during monsoon season. There was no water at the waterfalls when we visited. But the sleepy village of Chellarkovil makes for a great drive and offers sweeping views of the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu too. It’s also a great picnic spot, so make sure you pack a snack or two.
• There are some great treks in Kurushmala Hills – it’s better to opt for guided treks in the area
• The bustling town of Kumily is the gateway to scenic drives in the Periyar Valley. Pandikuzhi is a great place to stop for a picnic or a few photographs.

Day 8: Drive from Thekkady to Kumarakom

This drive isn’t the most scenic of the lot as it passes through lots of busy towns and chaotic villages. If you enjoy hiking, make sure you go for a short hike to Eagle Eock in the village of Parunthumpara on the way to Peerumedu . It offers a vantage point from where one can drink in views of the neighbouring valleys, mountains, and villages. Also try stopping in one of the villages on the way for a meal or a cup of coffee – experience everyday life in a village, explore Kerala’s pastel churches, or photographs its brightly-coloured houses. Upon reaching Kumarakom, you will start spotting glimpses of Kerala’s iconic backwaters and lagoons. Check into your hotel and prepare to be smitten by this quaint village of canals.

Accommodation in Kumarakom

The backwaters of Kerala boast of some stunning hotels. On the recommendation of dozens of friends and readers, we booked a pool villa at CGH Earth Coconut Lagoon Resort . And we couldn’t be happier about it. It is definitely one of the prettiest hotels we’ve EVER stayed at (and we’ve stayed in thousands!). You can park your car at their private parking at Kumarakom Jetty and board their boat, which brings you to the hotel. We promise you will fall in love with the hotel almost as soon as you float into the reception area. The hotel complex resembles a traditional village, intersected by canals and lagoons. We chose a room overlooking the backwaters of Kerala – rooms are luxurious and boast of modern amenities. Can’t recommend this one enough!

Days 8-12: Explore the backwaters of Kerala and experience life on a houseboat

The backwaters of Kerala will seduce you in no time. Spend your days taking in the stunning scenery.

• Go for a languorous canoe ride on Vembanad Lake or a sunset cruise in the backwaters.
• Treat yourself to a traditional Ayurvedic massage, which is bound to leave you feeling rejuvenated.
• Savour local delicacies such as Meen Pollichathu (grilled fish) or Karimeen curry (spicy fish curry), and  Sadya (traditional vegetarian feast) at meal times.
• Go for a bird-watching walk – Kumarakom bird sanctuary is famous for hundreds of species of birds and attracts bird enthusiasts from all around the world.

Spend your last night in Kumarakom on a houseboat. This is an experience like no other. Make sure you choose a traditional houseboat fashioned out of reed, cork, and bamboo. We spent the night on a 1 bedroom houseboat by Spice Coast Cruises and loved the experience. The evening was spent sailing past duck farms, busy villages, and floating shops. We watched the sun set over the backwaters from the comfort of our houseboat. We devoured a three course meal as the day metamorphosed into night. Most of the evening was spent lounging on the boat while staring at the stars. Make the most of it as it will soon be time to drive out of Kumarakom.

Days 12-15: Fly back or continue to the beaches of Kerala

If you have a few more days in Kerala, you should drive from Kumarakom to the southern tip of the state to explore its beaches. Varkala is a perfect pit stop if you like beach destinations sprinkled with bohemia. If you enjoy classic luxury, then choose a decadent hotel in the coastal town of Kovalam .

We had just 12 days in Kerala, so we drove back to Coimbatore International Airport from Kumarkom and boarded our flight back to New Delhi. You can also spend a night or two in Kochi on your way back to Coimbatore. Make sure you drive to Athirappilly Waterfalls if you’re in Kochi.

That’s it – an idyllic 2 week road trip in Kerala, India. This road trip offers a plethora of panoramas, sights, and cultural experiences – it is bound to leave you rejuvenated! We loved our time in Kerala and can’t wait to go back!

Want to experience our road trip in Kerala with us? Check out our vlog from Kerala

Planning a trip to Kerala? Read about our favourite hotels in Kerala

Love road trips? Read about our 14 favourite road trips around the world

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81 thoughts on “ an itinerary for a lush road trip in kerala, india ”.

Wow,the pics… Perfect road trip amidst greens! Made me cast back my trip 🙂

So happy you enjoyed reading about our road trip in Kerala Indu 🙂 We loved every bit of it

Hey Hi guys. I am huge fan of your blog. The road trip itenary suggested by you for kerala is amazing. Can i go in the rainy season for the same road trip??

Hey Priyanka – thanks a ton. So happy you enjoyed reading about our road trip in Kerala 🙂 You can go during rainy season but do beware than some roads can get blocked due to heavy rain during that time of year

Beautiful description about my home state. Wayanad is also another beautiful place which is located in north Kerala. You can drive to Bandipur via Wayanad to Ooty- Coonnor and get back to Coimbatore.

Thanks a ton Remya – wish we had time for Wayanad and Ooty on this trip but that gives us a reason to be back soon 🙂

You people are doing a great job I have been seeing your videos and reading your blogs and they are really helpful. Planning vacations are now just reading one of your blog away. Savi and Vid I am a travel enthusiast and you both are my role models. Thank you

This itinerary looks so perfect. I LOVE kerala and keep going back for long weekends (I am from Bangalore). Now I want to visit again! The photos are just brilliant, couldn’t take my eyes off them! The houseboat looks so pretty and charming and cozy. 🙂 You guys should visit Coorg and Sakleshpur next. I am sure you would love both places!

Thanks Ramya 🙂 The houseboat made for quite the experience. We are contemplating going to Coorg next – hope it happens super soon

My native is on your way to Thekkady to Kumarakom, but I should say that I have not visited most places in this place. But your post and these beautiful pictures are inspiring me to explore more of Kerala as soon as I can.

Wow – that’s the greatest compliment EVER Elizabeth. So happy to hear we’ve encourage a Keralite to explore her own state – yay 🙂

I’ll be dreaming of gorgeous tea plantations and house boats tonight, that’s for sure! You guys are the reason my travel lustlist is growing at such a fast rate, haha! You guys have made Kerala sound perfect ??

Aww thanks Adele – hearing from you always makes our day. Travel lustlist growing too fast? That’s our work done then 😉

Beautiful description with jaw droppings pictures. I too had a road trip covering a few parts of Kerala. Must say Kerala is b’tful and need not say how it’s named ‘God’s Own country’. U guys have summed it up so well. My houseboat is dues and will be making it sometime soon. Thanks for reminding me of what I missed. ?? Also, I would second to Remya. Take a drive to Wayanad and go through the raw beauty it has. Staying at Bandipur jungle resort is another amazing experience. Looking forward to your next post. Much Love to U both. ??

Thanks Akanksha – so happy you enjoyed reading the article. Hope you make it to a houseboat soon 🙂 We’ll definitely take that drive to Wayanad sometime in the near future 🙂

I am planning a trip to Kerala, and I am sure I will be stealing most of this itinerary. Thank you. 🙂

Glad you enjoyed it Kaveri – have fun in Kerala 🙂

Kerala is beautiful place of India and it is full with beautiful things. Natural beauty is one of the best attraction. it have one of the biggest beaches of india and so stunning photos you shared.

We are happy to know that you enjoyed seeing the pictures we clicked in Kerala. It is a beautiful place and our trip there was nothing less than magical in the true sense.

Beautiful pictures and article AS ALWAYS! I’ve read quite a lot of travel blogs but this is the only one which does not have even one article which is anything short of amazing! Oh and don’t know why,but mention of my hometown Coimbatore made me super happy! 😀

Thank so much – so happy to know you feel that way. A lot of thought and time goes into putting together each article, so your comment is truly appeciated 🙂 Also, hi five for Coimbatore

The peppercorn picture is the best! Did you ask them to do something funny, or did they just do that on their own?

Thanks Lori – I didn’t. Just struck a conversation and captured it while talking to them 🙂

Perfect itinerary. Sunset from a houseboat picture looks so magical. I like the way you’ll write.

Hey Loreta – great to hear that. Thanks a ton 🙂

Beautiful pictures guys! I am planning a road trip to kerala from hyderabad. We have like 7 days in hand. Not possible to cover all of it I guess.Any itinerary suggestions??

Hey Ruhi – unfortunately we haven’t driven that route yet. Sorry about that 🙂

Hello Savi and Vid, so after reading your this blog post multiple times and checking google again and again, we went for Munnar last week 27th Aug 2017. And yeah we did cover main points you suggested at Munnar..It was raining for first two days but on the day of actual sight seeing, it was lovely sunny out.. Vid, I must tell you, I try to click pictures like you do, the locals, the lush green tea plants and all.. and output is always great. Big Thanks to you both.. Yeah we used public transport for Coimbatore to Munnar , Munnar to Alleppy..KSRTC buses..BOM to Coimbtore and Cochin to BOM flight. PS: We Skipped early morning Thekkady boat ride too 😛

Cheers, Ashay

Thanks a lot for the beautiful message. It’s amazing that you used public transport and covered so much – well done 😀

Do share your photos with us if you get the chance.

WOW I am going to India for the first time next week and have been reading your blog like crazy! Your photos are AMAZING, what kind of camera do you use? Would you say maxi dresses are ok for rajasthan if they are high on the neck but show shoulders? I am in love with all your oufits–such great style !

Hey Sierra – thanks a ton 🙂 Maxi Dresses are ok for Rajasthan but just carry a scarf along to cover your shoulders in busy marketplaces or near religious sites

A very detailed, inspiring and informative post 🙂

Thank you Jo- glad you liked it 🙂

Amazing pictures ..and a very detailed explanation ..next in my list …I have followed ur Slovenia iternary and Kerala in my next bucket list ..Thanks Savi and Vid

Thank you so much Kriti – hope you had a great time driving in Kerala

Very very helpful ! Thanks a ton 🙂

You’re welcome 🙂 Hope y ou enjoyed your road trip in Kerala

I’m coming to kerala with two friends next month! What was your favorite part of your trip? We are thinking about giving thekady a miss and concentrating on munnar and kumarakom/alleppey, curious to hear your opinion of it we only have a week, what would you cut out of your intinerary!

Hey Sierra,

Our favourite part has to be Kumarakom and the night we spent on the boat house. YEs, we’d give Thekaddy a miss and spend longer in Munnar/Kumarakom

For this whole trip which places did you need to take the inner permit for your vehicle? I am wondering as i am also planning the same roadtrip on this route with Myles. Thank you ?

From my recollection we did have to take permits in different places but don’t really remember how many places. But I do remember that it wasn’t difficult at all and we didn’t have to do anything in advance

Hi Can u guys suggest me best resort in kovalam i am travelling in june with 1 kid

Hey we stayed at CGH Coconut lagoon and can’t fault it 🙂

wow, these include a lot of information relating to Munnar, its very use full for every visitors. If you are looking for the best resorts and hotels in Munnar http://themunnarqueen.in/

Hey savi n vid.. I love to see yr post on insta.. they r amazing… V r planning for kerala trip.. n i have heard abt bamboo rafting in thekary.. any experiance of it..

Credibility of the post is highly appreciable with the benefits are fantastic. Can view the best work of budgeting trip for Kerala, within the single page of this blog. Not needed for guide at all !!

Hi Savi & Vid. I have been closely following you on Instagram and your posts on travel make me jealous. Wish I could go roam the country (leave aside the world) more frequently. I am mesmerized by every post of yours.

Anyways I have been planning a trip to Kerala in December (we shall start from Kochi) for 4 days/3 nights. My friends and family suggested Munnar-Takkady-Kumarkom (1 night stay at a boathouse). We would reach Munnar by afternoon as we would definitely stop for various waterfalls along kochi-munnar route. But we would stay only 1 night in munnar (I wanted to stay 2 days) and leave next day morning around 11 am for tekkady. Do you think this plan can get hectic? Or should we skip Tekkady/Periyar altogether for a more relaxed holiday? Any suggestions on an itinerary? Any places you feel we should not miss around Munnar (like chinna kanal) if we decide to stay there for 2 days?

Your suggestions could be of great help. Please help out!!

Definitely seems hectic – you won’t be able to enjoy at all 🙂 Best to spend 2 days in and around Munnar and then head to Kumarakom

Hi savi and vid

Loved your post so much that we ended up planning similar itinary for my 31st birthday. Everything u have written , have almost witnessed it. Love every details you put in your every pic. Keep sharing your amazing travel stories and keep inspiring us. Pls tell where we can share pictures with you guys.

Hey Ritika 🙂

Thank you so much – glad you had a great time 🙂 You can either email us the photos at bruisedpassports {at} gmail {dot} com or send us a message on our Instagram: @bruisedpassports 🙂

What a beautiful post and I love the pictures! Kerala is most beautiful place and top tourist destination in India. Munnar is my favorite place in Kerala, it is adorned with lofty mountains, lush greenery, misty clouds, waterfalls and much more. Thank you for sharing the wonderful travel guide for Kerala.

Happy to hear you enjoyed our experience in Kerala 🙂

You know the feeling you get when you stumble upon juuuuust the perfect itinerary , that resonates totally with how you would want your trip to be…this was it ! Thanks for sharing this, so, so helpful write up !

That’s MUSIC to our ears 🙂 Do share your photos whenever you visit 🙂

Hey guys, Thank you so much for sharing this information. I really like to visit munnar.

Happy to hear that!

I have plan to go for summer vacation and search for where to go and reached on your blog where I see Kerala is best place for holiday destination and I will plan for kerala in next week. Thanks for sharing amazing content and photos.

Happy to hear that 🙂

Hi Savi and Vid,

I discovered your Youtube channel a while back and was instantly impressed, inspired and not to mention, instantly subscribed. I’ve enjoyed the many trip reports there and so when I was “Googling” about itineraries for our upcoming Kerala trip and found a link to your blog, it definitely brought a smile and a feeling that this is going to be it. And after going through it and seeing the pictures, I’ll say I was not disappointed at all.

Anyway, to the subject. As I mentioned it’s going to be a Family Trip – 6 adults, Two kids (2 yr and 1 yr). The dates – 20th-27th September. Unfortunately, we don’t have many days. So my question is, can your itinerary be modified to 7 days and will the season be good? Also, I checked Myles but they don’t have availability on those days. Any other Car Rental recommendations would be appreciated.

Thanks. Anticipating a reply, even though this blog post is quite old now.

Thanks for your message. Yes you can definitely fit this into 7 days – spend 2-3 days in and around Munnar, 2 days in Thekkady, and 2 nights in Coconut Lagoon 🙂

Haven’t really tried any other rental agency – perhaps you could try Zoomcar?

Have a great road trip in Kerala and share photos with us 🙂

Appreciate the response. We ended up going for 8 days and hiring an Innova. We did 2 days in Kovalam, 2 in Varkala, 1 in Alleppey, 2 in Munnar and 1 in Kochi. It was a great trip. I haven’t uploaded any photos because I’m too lazy for that, unlike you guys. Keep up the good work and happy travels! By the way, just saw your Arctic Cruise video…so awesome!

Nice content and pics especially the sceneries that you have captured are awesome.

Thanks Ram!

Your post is completely fantastic, fabulous and inspiring! Lovely one! Awesome captures. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks a ton Sarah – so happy you found our tips for a roadtrip in Kerala helpful 🙂

Hey guys! Loved the article and the pictures <3 I am planning a road trip to Kerala with my parents and I've included almost all the suggestions given in this itinerary. Also, can I get a suggestion on the kind of clothes I should carry for a comfortable trip in Kerala? I would be travelling there in mid-February. Thank you.

Carry breathable cotton fabrics 🙂

Thanks a lot , nice info, i had been around kerala many times, but planning with family by road from bangalore, your info is really great thanks again

You’re welcome Raji. Hope you have a great road trip to Kerala 🙂

It’s a very beautifully weaved post and very informative as well. Love the pictures.

Thanks for sharing a very nice blog post.

Heyy Savvi and Vid! I have a question: for Houseboats and backwaters, which is a better place to visit : Allepey or Kumarakom?

Hey both are great but we like Kumarakom better

Thanks for sharing nice post

Thanks for sharing a very nice blog post

Nice blog… Visit Oshin Hotels in Wayanad on your next trip to Kerala. https://oshinhotels.com/

Your vivid descriptions and beautiful photos transport readers to each destination, making it feel like we’re right there with you. I appreciate the personal touch you bring to your travel experiences, offering insights that go beyond the typical tourist spots. It’s evident that your passion for exploration shines through every post

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Kerala, India The perfect 3 days itinerary

Kerala, located in the southwestern part of India, is known as 'God's Own Country' for its stunning natural beauty, serene backwaters, lush tea plantations, and pristine beaches. The state is also famous for its rich cultural heritage, Ayurvedic treatments, and traditional art forms like Kathakali. Embark on a 3-day journey to explore the best of Kerala's landscapes, culture, and cuisine.

What to do in Kerala?

This 3 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Kerala. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.

Day 1: Explore the Backwaters and Tea Plantations

Start your day with a visit to the backwaters of Alleppey. Embark on a traditional houseboat cruise and sail through the tranquil canals, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy the scenic beauty and observe the local way of life.

Head to Munnar , a hill station famous for its tea plantations. Visit a tea estate and learn about the tea-making process. Enjoy a refreshing cup of tea while enjoying the panoramic views of the rolling hills.

Explore the local markets of Munnar and shop for tea leaves, spices, and handmade crafts.

Day 2: Immerse in Kerala's Culture and Heritage

Visit the Mattancherry Palace , also known as the Dutch Palace, in Kochi . Admire the exquisite murals depicting Hindu mythology and the traditional Kerala architecture.

Explore Fort Kochi , a historic neighborhood known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Visit St. Francis Church , the oldest European church in India, and the Indo-Portuguese Museum , which showcases the region's colonial history.

Attend a Kathakali performance , a traditional dance-drama of Kerala. Witness the elaborate costumes, expressive facial makeup, and rhythmic movements that bring ancient stories to life.

Day 3: Relax on the Beaches and Indulge in Local Cuisine

Spend the morning at Kovalam Beach , one of Kerala's most popular beach destinations. Relax on the golden sands, take a dip in the Arabian Sea, or indulge in water sports like surfing and parasailing.

Visit a local restaurant and savor the flavors of Kerala cuisine . Try dishes like appam with stew, fish curry, and banana leaf meals.

Take a leisurely stroll along the beach promenade and witness a mesmerizing sunset. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and shop for souvenirs at the beachside stalls.

Did you find this helpful?

• Spend 5 Days Kerala India

How to Spend couple of Days in Kerala, India

Kerala is a land that is richly endowed with the best of nature. Be it its fine beaches , gorgeous hills , graceful lagoons or awe-inspiring art and culture, this southern state on the western coast of India has something for every kind of traveller. If you only have five days to spare, here is the ideal itinerary to get you started on your wanderlust-worthy trip to ‘God’s Own Country’. Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before.

Day 1: familiarise yourself with kerala at kochi.

Arrive in Kerala via Kochi by booking your tickets at the Cochin International Airport . Explore the city of Kochi and its most famous suburb, Fort Kochi , which is a treasure trove of art, culture and history. Begin by leaning all you can about Kerala through a visit to its museums, such as the Kerala Museum, the Kerala Folklore Theatre and Museum, the Hill Palace Museum and the Indo-Portuguese Museum. Move on to Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, where you can explore the Mattancherry Palace, the Paradesi Synagogue, the ancient curios and artifacts at Jew Town and waft through the Spice Bazaar, which is infused with the aromas of spices that have been traded across the world for centuries. Spend the evening watching the sunset at the Chinese Fishing Nets.

Day 2: The Bewitching Hill Station Of Munnar

Travel to Munnar , the land of verdant hills and tea plantations. You can take an early morning bus at 5:20 am from Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus station in Kochi, which reaches Munnar by 9:30 am. Visit the Tea Museum , where you can learn all about the picking and processing of tea leaves. Move on to the actual tea plantations that surround the place. Take a trip to Eravikulam National Park to catch a sight of the indigenous Nilgiri Tahr. Head over to the Top Station for magnificent views of the surrounding hills and the villages far below. Don’t forget to buy different varieties of tea and original spices and honey.

Day 3: Idle At The Divine Backwaters Of Alappuzha

Travel to the backwaters of Alappuzha , for which you will have to book a houseboat in advance. Take the 6:20 am bus from Munnar that reaches Alappuzha at 12:50 pm or drive down, which takes a little over five hours. Hop into your houseboat and cruise over the splendid lagoons. Known as the ‘Venice of the East’, the voyage via houseboat will take you through the sights and sounds of everyday village life. Relish in authentic delicacies, such as karimeen fry (pearl spot fish), and the local alcohol, toddy. To extend the experience, stay overnight on the houseboat. This is also an apt break that will give you some rest between your journeys.

Day 4: Saunter Around At The Enticing Varkala Beach

Take the 8:15 am KSRTC bus, which reaches Varkala, the hippie hangout, at noon. Alternatively, driving down will be faster at less than three hours. This is another destination to relax in as you can laze by the famous Varkala Beach , drinking in the superb sights of the admirable cliffs that line it. Indulge in watersports and adventure activities, such as paragliding. Hang out at the cafes on top of the cliffs and catch a beautiful sunset as you bid adieu to the day.

Day 5: Explore History And Culture In Kerala’s Capital, Thiruvananthapuram

At a distance of just 44 kilometres, there are constant buses from Varkala to Thiruvananthapuram that take about two hours to reach, so choose any bus in the morning, according to your convenience. Visit the richest temple in the world, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Move on to the Kuthiramalika Palace (Mansion of Horses), a remnant of the rich royal history of Kerala. Spend the evening at Shankumugham Beach, marvelling at the beautiful sculpture of the mermaid, Sagarakanyaka. Conclude your trip in the capital of Kerala by booking your return flight from Trivandrum International Airport .

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A 7 day Kerala itinerary perfect for first-timers

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: March 11, 2023

The make-up is done in such a way that you might think that the actors wear a mask.

Are you wondering what’s the best Kerala itinerary? You came to the right place.

Kerala is super green with lots of palm trees.  

We loved the seemingly endless lush green nature of Kerala, a paradise for nature lovers and for those who want to relax for a few days.

In this Kerala travel blog post, we share our complete Kerala trip itinerary.

So definitely keep reading.

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.  

In a hurry? Here we share our Kerala trip plan for 7 days

If you don’t have time to read through the full 7 days Kerala trip itinerary,  use this overview to get an idea of the things to do each day and save it for later.

• Day 1-2 Kochi ( Cochin ):  Chinese Fishing Nets, the Pardesi Synagogue, the St. Francis Church, walk through Princess street, Mattancherry Palace, attend a Kathakali dance show.
• Day 3-4 Munnar:  Visit the tea plantations, Mattupety Dam, Echo Point, and Top Station. Go hiking, visit Eravikulam National Park, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Day 5-7 Allepey, Kumarakom, and Cochin: Relax in Allepey, cruise the backwaters, make a Shikara boat ride, take an Ayurveda massage.

Table of Contents

India essentials 

• To find  cheap flights to India, click here.
• Most travelers need a visa for India. The easiest way is to apply for an e-visa through  a Visa agency. Click here to see prices and submit your application.
• For more inspiration on what to do and to see in India, take a look at our  2 weeks in India itinerary  and our  Rajasthan itinerary.
• Here you can find an overview of  the best India group tours . If you are specifically looking for  group tours that visit Kerala, click here.
• Last but not least, make sure you have good  travel insurance.

Kerala tour itinerary 7 days 

In this 7 days Kerala travel itinerary you will discover most of Kerala’s highlights. 

Day 1-2: Kochi (Cochin)

If the use of Cochin and Kochi gets you confused you’re not alone. 

Both names refer to the same city.  Kochi is the official name but many people still use the unofficial Cochin which was used by the British occupiers.

Kochi is the major airport in Kerala.  The airport is served by many domestic and international flights.

Depending on how late you arrive in Kochi we would recommend staying one or two nights.

Our driver was waiting for us at the arrivals hall.  In hindsight, we can now tell you that we are glad we had arranged one.

Although the distances that you will cover to visit these Kerala sights are nothing compared to the kilometers we traveled in the Northern part of India it is still a much more comfortable way of traveling.

45 Amazing facts about India you should read before you go

Kochi sightseeing

I’m not sure if you have ever been to Rajasthan.

If you have we can tell you that Kerala will be a whole different experience. It could just as well be another country.   

It’s a very tropical city with lots of water and palm trees and if somebody would have told us that we were no longer in Indian but in Thailand instead we could have believed him.

Here we share the best things to do in Kochi.

Things to do in Fort Kochi

Kochi is the economic capital of the state of Kerala. 

It is a big city but the highlights are all located in the same part of the city called Fort Kochi and can be covered in a half-day.

We visited the Chinese Fishing Nets, the Pardesi Synagogue, and the St. Francis Church.  Along the way we walked through Princess street, the place to hunt for souvenirs, snoop around bookstores or relax with a drink and some food.

Next, we went to the Mattancherry Palace, also called the Dutch Palace.  It’s a beautiful small palace with some awesome mural paintings.  It can in no way be compared to any of the palaces we visited in Rajasthan.

The museum does a good job of showcasing the many differences in the life of the Maharaja between the north and the south of the country.

Kochi is also a good place to attend a Kathakali dance show. This is a story play that originated in Kerala and is still unique to this region. 

The show kept us amused for the full hour.  Although we lost the storyline somewhere halfway, the costumes, make-up, and acts alone justify attending the show.

You can see a similar Kathakali show in Munnar if your agenda wouldn’t allow you to attend the show in Kochi.

Here you can find more places to visit in Fort Kochi. 

Where to stay in Cochin

Le méridien cochin.

We stayed in  the Meridien Cochin  and had a wonderful time. We had a very big comfortable room and enjoyed the delicious breakfast.  The staff was very accommodating and even invited us to the miss Kerala election that was held in the hotel. We would definitely stay here again if we would return to Cochin.

Check prices and availability:

Booking.com

If you aren’t convinced of this hotel, you will find a lot of other hotels in Cochin on Booking.com: Booking.com

Day 3-4: Munnar

From Kochi, we continued our journey towards the hill station of Munnar.

Driving time:  112 km- approximately 4 hours.

Things to do in Munnar

Munnar is a great location to spend 2 days.  Best of all is that the temperature is really enjoyable as it is higher up in the mountains.  It might even feel a little chilly when you’re acclimatized to the temperatures in the other parts of India.

So bring a warm jacket or sweater.

The main tourist attraction of Munnar are the many tea plantations. Did you know that India is famous for producing one of the best teas in the world? 

You can’t miss them, all roads in the area zigzag through the tea plantations. 

The sight is so spectacular that I think we may have asked our driver a hundred times to stop for a picture.

Several tea plantations are open to visitors. 

Some of them have a small museum where you can see how tea is made in the factories. 

There’s also the tea museum that tells more about the history of tea in this region.

For an even more authentic experience, you can book an organized tour that takes you on unpaved routes deep into the fields.   You will meet some of the tea pickers and see how they still mostly manually pick the leaves.  Did you know that they collect around 100kg of leaves every single day?

We loved the tea plantations so much that we would almost forget the other sights of Munnar. 

Once we sort of had enough of the impressive vistas on the tea plantations we headed to the Mattupety Dam, Echo Point, and Top Station.

Except for Top Station, the sights in themselves are not that special but the roads that take you there are all the more. 

Along the way, you pass several photogenic waterfalls as well as many more incredible vistas.

Munnar is also surrounded by some beautiful national parks.

Eravikulam National Park is located half an hour outside Munnar and is the habitat of the almost extinct Nilgiri Tahr . 

Almost 2 hours North of Munnar is Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary where you can spot elephants and deer (and even leopards if you are really really lucky).

Hiking is another excellent way to witness the beauty of the region. 

Several gorgeous hikes and trekkings can be done ranging from easy to rather difficult but most are unmarked and require a guide.

If you plan on doing a lot of hiking, we would advise you to wear hiking leggings. They are a lot more comfortable than shorts when you plan on hiking a lot.

In the evening you can attend the Kathakali as well as Kalaripayattu shows.   The latter is a very energetic martial arts show.

Where to stay in Munnar 

Fragrant nature munnar.

The Fragrant Nature Munnar hotel is gorgeous and beautifully situated on the top of the valley amidst the jungle.  It is surrounded by tea and spice plantations. The hotel has comfortable and well-equipped rooms and is run by helpful and accommodating staff. The view from the room is outstanding.

Check prices and availability: Agoda

Day 5-7: Alleppey-Kumarakom-Cochin

Kumarakom and Alleppey are both nice places to end your vacation in Kerala. They are located on opposite sides of the Vembanad lake. 

We ended our vacation with some quality time in a resort in Kumarakom but you can also spend some relaxing days in Alleppey.

We have included a short comparison between the two to help you pick the best destination for your vacation.

Driving time: 175 km- approximately 4-5h

Should you go to Alleppey or Kumarakom?

This depends on what you want to do.

If you want to cruise the backwaters and stay a night on a houseboat you might want to choose for Alleppey.

The boats leave from both locations but Alleppey has by far the biggest choice for a backwater cruise.

You won’t find a lot of resorts in Alleppey, these are all located along the lakeside in Kumarakom.

Kumarakom is the most flexible of the two as it allows you to combine a stay in a resort with an overnight cruise in a houseboat.  Some of the resorts have their own houseboats and offer this as a package.

You should know that although a Kerala backwater cruise lasts almost a full day the boat will only sail for about 6 hours. 

Local regulations reserve the lake for the fishermen at night, all houseboats need to dock by 5:30 PM. 

The majority of the 6 hours are also spent on the lake, most Kerala houseboats are too large to navigate the narrow channels of the backwaters where you can really experience daily life.

The small boats called Shikara offer an alternative way to see the backwaters. You can charter these per hour as a couple or family.

An advantage of these small boats is that they can navigate the narrow channels and because it’s a private tour you can ask the driver to stop if you want to take pictures.  We saw a lot of colorful birds so there’re plenty of picture opportunities.

We arranged a 2-hour Shikara boat ride. It seemed like 2 hours was enough although the scenery is really stunning. This cruise was one of the highlights of our trip to Kerala as the backwaters are so peaceful and beautiful. I think the backwaters might be the reason why they call this state “God’s own country”.

If we would go back we would definitely opt for a Shikara again.

The Shikara boats leave from the Kavanattinkara boat jetty in Kumarakom.  This is close to the entrance of the bird sanctuary and your boat ride will actually take you along part of the edge of the sanctuary.   The sanctuary is a nice place to enjoy nature but the dense forest will make it difficult to spot birds. 

You can combine your boat ride with a visit to the sanctuary, just know that you will probably see more birds during the boat ride than during your forest trek in the sanctuary.

This region in Kerala is also famous for its Ayurveda massages. 

Ayurveda is a buzzword that’s popping up all over the world.  What you may not know is that it originated in India several thousand years ago.  It’s a way of life that revolves around creating peace and harmony in the body by aligning different energy channels, called chakras. 

The Ayurveda oils that are used have medicinal and detoxing properties.

You should try an Ayurveda massage if you currently suffer from insomnia or high levels of stress.

We had our massage at an Ayurveda Massage Center but you will see that most hotels offer these massages as well.

If you like to combine a backwater tour with a massage, this is the perfect tour for you. 

Where to stay in Alleppey 

Angel queen houseboat.

A lovely boat with a top deck for great viewing. The boat has comfortable bedrooms with ensuites. The meals that are served are delicious and the scenery divine.

A good option for a relaxing and comfortable trip.

If you aren’t convinced of this houseboat, you will find a lot of other houseboats in Alleppey on Booking.com: Booking.com

Where to stay in Kumarakom?

Park regis aveda kumarakom.

Classy resort with beautiful rooms that look out over the pool. Excellent food and service at the restaurant.  Very courteous and friendly staff. The hotel offers a complimentary sunset cruise. 

A beautiful peaceful place on the lake.

If you aren’t convinced of this hotel, you will find a lot of other resorts in Kumarakom on Booking.com: Booking.com

Best time to visit Kerala

The best period to visit Kerala is from September to March although it can rain occasionally until December.

We had some daily scattered showers in October.  They usually occurred somewhere during the afternoon but not to that degree that it affected our travel plans for Kerala.

Kerala has an overall enjoyable climate whole year-round.  Most visitors prefer the above period because it’s warm but not too hot and there’s only a small chance to have vacation days ruined by rain. 

There are some popular activities in Kerala in this period. 

One is the Kumarakom Boat race in September and October and there is also Cochin Carnival which is widely celebrated in January.

This is the most popular tourist season and that is reflected in the hotel prices.

You will have to pay more for your accommodation, certainly around the year-end period.

As of April, the temperatures start rising towards 30 degrees and more.  Most tourists avoid Kerala during these months.

It’s a great time to explore the region if the heat doesn’t bother you, the hotel rates are lower and there will be fewer crowds.

In general, there will be plenty of sun during the daytime. 

Chances of heavy showers and thunderstorms towards evening increase as April ends and May kicks in.

June, July, and August is monsoon season in Kerala. 

The temperatures are hot and humid and almost daily there will be some heavy showers. 

Floods are not uncommon during this time of the year so it may be difficult to get around.

If your travel plans are limited to this time of the year and you are looking for a nature destination, we would recommend you to consider a trip to Borneo.

Cheap Flights to Kerala

If you want to score  cheap flights to Kerala we advise you to have a look at Momondo  and  Skyscanner.   

Both are flight aggregators that compare several hundreds of booking sites and give you an overview of the best flights and the cheapest sites to book them. 

Momondo and Skyscanner are both very good at finding good deals, of the two, Momondo is probably the one with the most intuitive user interface.

Visa requirements for India

With the exception of residents of Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives everybody needs a visa to enter India.

Recently the country has introduced e-visas.  You can find out if you’re eligible to apply for an e-visa on the government’s e-visa website .  The website also lists the fees.  These vary by country. (see point 4 of the instructions)

Note that the Indian government charges the fee regardless of whether your application has been approved or not.  The fee is seen as a processing fee and therefore non-refundable.  It’s always charged, even if your application would be rejected due to an unclear picture or an unreadable scan of your passport.

This made us a little uncomfortable and we decided to apply for our e-visa through a visa agency so that our information would be subject to an additional review by the agency before it was finally submitted.

Apply for a travel visa with VisaHQ: Visa for India

When you want to apply for the e-visa yourself make sure to do this directly on the official government website.  Ignore sites that falsely claim to be official like the one below, they add significant service charges to your application, more than reputable visa agencies such as iVisa.  The official e-visa site run by the government is  https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ .

Take a car and driver or join an organized tour

We always prefer to explore a country on our own. Primarily for the freedom that it gives us but also because it feels more authentic if you mingle with the locals on public transportation and in the streets.

We did some research but it wasn’t really easy to find something that worked for us. 

There’re buses that go to the hill stations but you would need an additional taxi or tuk-tuk to get to your hotel as many of them are spread out across the region and not really within the limits of those stations.

Then you will also have to make arrangements with a taxi or tuk-tuk to take you to the various sights, or you could book an organized tour.

Car and driver

In the end, we opted for a private chauffeured tour as it looked much easier.  

To book a private chauffeured tour you need to provide the company with your planned itinerary. This is because the price not only depends on the number of days but also on the number of kilometers that you will travel.

If you’re not sure about your itinerary for Kerala you can finetune it together with the company.

Most companies will be able to book your accommodations as well but you’re free to arrange your hotels yourself if you prefer.

Your driver will be waiting for you at the airport in the arrivals hall.  From this point on you have all the freedom about how you fill in your days.  We were well prepared and had a list of things that we wanted to see and do. Our driver always had some extra suggestions ready.  Each evening we made the final arrangements with him for the next day.

It worked out really well and turned out to be a comfortable way to visit Kerala.

If you are looking for a car and driver, take a look here. 

Joining an organized tour 

If you don’t have time to create your own itinerary or just don’t want to go independent, then you could also join an organized tour. 

TourRadar is an online travel agency specialized in multi-day tours.  Their well-arranged interface makes it easy to compare package tours from different operators.

They have several 7 days Kerala tour packages.

Tipping in India

There’s something strange about tipping in India and it took some time before we got a hold about when and how much we should tip.  Tipping, in India known as Baksheesh, is not common and didn’t exist before tourism became popular in India.  You will hardly ever see a local give a tip.

Westerners introduced the custom of tipping, maybe because poverty can be confronting, but our driver was quick to remind us that we didn’t need to be overly generous.

The Baksheesh has already found its way in the culture and staff in restaurants that see a lot of tourists now seem to expect tips from foreigners.

We sometimes noticed how we got treated differently than an Indian couple sitting at the table next to us.  Mostly regarding the bill because the service was equally good regardless of skin color, language, or origin.

We usually tipped about 10% in restaurants.

Make sure to check the bill for a service charge before you tip. 

Some restaurants will add this automatically, others don’t. 

We did try to hand the tip subtly to our waiter because we often noticed how restaurant managers were quick to collect the tips that were left on the table and they just disappeared in their own pockets.

The tipping policy was not any more clear in hotels. 

We noticed how luxury hotels seemed to have a no-tipping policy. 

We had some small rupees handy (the guideline is 50 rupees per bag) each time we arrived in a hotel but the porters in most luxury hotels were very fast to leave to the room. We often didn’t have the chance to hand over the tip. 

On the occasions where we did, they were overly grateful.   

Less luxurious hotels often showed a completely different picture. 

Hotel porters in these hotels would put on a whole show and acted like our bags weighed at least 50kg each. 

They clearly expected a tip and did not make a start to leave the room until we handed them the Baksheesh. 

We tipped the first group with pleasure, but the 2nd group gave us a bad feeling.

“If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay at home.” 

If you have a car with a driver it is also expected that you tip your driver for good service. 

Our driver was always on time and even acted as a guide whenever he could. 

He would tell us more about the places that we visited and would always offer suggestions about the places where we could go to. 

If you’re happy with the services of your driver the suggested tip is 200 INR per day per person. 

If you’re sharing a driver with a larger group you can lower these amounts, a tip of 800INR/day is very generous.

Scams in India

We encountered various small scams but luckily nothing that was too bad.

Most of them occurred in Rajasthan but you will be confronted with them in all public and touristic places all over India, even in temples.

Do not accept any free things that are offered to you.  Once you have accepted the so-called gift they will ask money in return.

Overall we had the impression that things weren’t as bad in Kerala as in Rajasthan but we prefer to share our tips anyway.

A small piece of advice is to not be annoyed too much by these scams.  If you allow them to influence your mood it will just ruin your experience.  Let it go and move on. It’s not worth ruining your trip over it.

Know how much you need to pay

We experienced how Indians shamelessly dared to ask a twentyfold of the official price for snacks or drinks. 

A coke in an ordinary Indian supermarket was suddenly more expensive than what we would pay in a fancy bistro along the Champs-Elysée. 

Although you clearly know that this cannot be correct it’s hard to negotiate a fair price if you do not know this price. 

After we overpaid once our driver showed us where could find the official price.

All drinks and snacks should have the price printed on them.  If the bottle or package is not showing the price or the price has been barred just move on and find a trustworthy seller.

We visited most sites with our driver and when we did he told us the entry fees we needed to pay. 

Most of the time these were also clearly indicated at the ticket offices. Prices for foreigners are more expensive than those for locals. 

Luckily the difference is not that big here than it was in the North where foreigners often paid the fifteenfold or twentyfold of locals.

Most entrance fees can be paid with a credit card or cash. 

Monuments that are run by the government often have some discount for credit card payments. 

 When paying cash make sure to check your change, short-changing is not uncommon in India.

The chances are smaller that they will try to pull short-changing tricks on you if you clearly show the notes that you hand over or even mention how much cash you give them.

Something else we experienced, although in New Delhi, is that people pretended to be ticket vendors although the entrance is free. 

This happened at the Jama Masjid mosque. 

Scammers stopped us at the entrance and rather aggressively asked us to pay 300 INR per person and an additional 300 INR for each camera.

Because we knew the entrance was free we ended up only paying the camera fee and saved 600 INR.

2 days in Jaipur, a detailed itinerary. 

If you plan on visiting any monuments look up the price online before you go.

Adapter for electrical appliances

India uses a mix of electrical plugs type C (also known as Europlug), D and M .  The type C plug is similar to what is used in most European countries. 

The Type M plug has three round pins in a triangular pattern and looks similar to the Type D plug, the only difference being that its pins are much larger.

Type M pins are used for bigger appliances.

Since we are from Belgium, we did not need an adapter.

If you have problems using type C plugs in Type D sockets you should try to insert an object with a fine tip into the top hole while inserting the plug.

Stay healthy

Maybe it was the temperature that was slightly more pleasant or maybe the kitchen hygiene is just better, whatever the reason was, once we arrived in Kerala we were released of the famous Delhi belly.

We still obeyed the following rules:

Avoid drinking any tap water or brushing your teeth with it.  Try to steer clear from any food that may have been washed in it like salads and order any soda’s without ice.

Indians have the lowest rate of meat consumption in the world. India has 500 million vegetarians, that are more vegetarians than the rest of the world put together.

The country offers perhaps the world’s most fabulous choice of vegetarian food so it may be a good choice to go veggie for the duration of your stay in India.

Undercooked or rotten meat can do a lot more harm than a badly prepared vegetarian dish.

Expenses abroad can be seriously inflated by fees from your bank or credit card.  That’s why I’m a huge fan of my  N26 account.   

The account is available to most EU residents.

 The  checking account  is free as well as the associated Mastercard and there’s no exchange rate provision when you use to card for payments abroad. 

There’s a 1,7% exchange rate provision when you withdraw money abroad but even that is free with  the premium Black Mastercard.  

The app is another great feature of the card, you can follow your expenses in real-time and instantly block your card if you see any signs of fraud.

When paying cash double-check the amount you hand over to the cashier and double-check the notes you get back.  Shortchanging is, unfortunately, a common practice in India.

Also, check the quality of the notes you get back.

It doesn’t matter so much for small notes (anything up to 100INR) but don’t accept any notes over 100 that are damaged or have been written on. 

We had one 500 rupee note with some yellow marks on it and it took us a while before somebody wanted to accept it.

We stayed in both 3, 4, and 5-star hotels. 

The level of service in all of them was excellent but we noticed how the cleanliness was significantly lower in 3-star hotels. 

We found dust on the shelves, old worn towels, raffled carpet in the corridors, sticky tables in the restaurant, and pigeon poop all around the pool. 

What we didn’t find was toilet paper in the public toilets. 😊 Not what we would expect from a 3-star hotel but you have to keep in mind that the standards for cleanliness are different in India.

Indian cities are often very hectic and noisy and we were often happy that we could relax in a comfortable hotel after a busy day.

We would recommend taking slightly better hotels then you usually take so that you can unwind and relax after a hectic day.

Travel Insurance 

Last but not least… I’m not sure how good or bad Indian hospitals are. 

I do want to believe that they have a higher standard of cleanliness than the average Indian restaurant but still, I rather don’t experience it myself.

We never had anything serious happen on any of our journeys around the world but we never take any risks, better safe than sorry…  That’s why we always travel with good travel insurance.

If you don’t have travel insurance yet, check out HeyMondo or Safetywing . Both companies over good travel insurance for a competitive price.

HeyMondo Travel Insurance

SafetyWing Insurance

We had an amazing week in Kerala.

The backwaters are incredibly beautiful and although this is the third time that we visit tea plantations they keep on inspiring us to snap hundreds of pictures.

Kerala has everything you need for a lovely vacation. 

There’re fantastic hotels in all price classes.

One thing I noticed about hotels in India is that the service is always excellent.  Cleanliness is somewhat troublesome in 3-star hotels (we did not stay below 3 stars) but the service remains spotless.

Nature lovers as we are we were definitely charmed by the beautiful nature of the state. 

If we would come back we would certainly do some trekkings and maybe even try one of the bounty beaches to relax afterward.

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Bharat Taxi

Friday 27th of December 2019

Thanks for sharing your itinerary for the trip, Kerala is very beautiful city and there have many places to visit for sightseeing. I really appreciate this post, all images are so beautiful, Thanks for sharing this post.

Backpacking Kerala Itinerary

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 8, 2023 | Asia , India , Travel Tips

After one complete week in luxury, I was ready to backpack South India. We had heard of Kerala and we were absolutely curious about it. (We being Raphael of Journey Wonders and I, we were traveling together for 2 more weeks).

If you’re planning your India backpacking route you might want to add Kerala on your itinerary. They are many cool places to visit in Kerala and it’s also one of the main spots in South India. Traveling one week in Kerala is possible, so let’s see where you should go!

Ready To Travel? Don't Go Without Travel Insurance.

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In this backpacking Kerala guide, you’ll get a one week Kerala itinerary including some other places you should visit in Kerala if you have more time. I’ll be focussing on Fort Cochin, Kerala backwaters (Alleppey) and Munnar.

Do you have your India visa?  Get your visa today!

  Backpacking in Kerala | Best Places to Visit in Kerala

Here’s my quick Kerala backpacking trip itinerary including tips, routes, and recommendations! When backpacking through India , Kerala must be on your itinerary.

Fort Cochin in One Day (or Two)

Fort Cochin is one of the cool places to visit in Kerala. It is a small town not too far from the airport in Kerala. It’s a fishing town ideal for sunset spotting and to start your trip in Kerala. Basically, it’s a good starting point but there is not a lot of things to do around the town.

What to see in Fort Cochin

Chinese fishing nets.

Backpacking in Kerala, India

One of the main things you should see while in Fort Cochin is to head to the beach and look at these huge fishing nets.  It’s quite impressive especially if you time it with the sunset.

Sunset Spotting

South India Backpacking

Planning your upcoming adventures? Travel by bus! (It's cheap!)

First, you should know that the beach in Fort Cochin isn’t the cleanest. It’s going to be a hard mission to find a spot where you can sit but you could definitely go for a short stroll on the beach while enjoying a pretty sunset.

Where to Stay in Fort Cochin

I had the privilege of staying at the Hostel Crowd when I was in Fort Cochin. The Hostel Crowd is a hostel chain which has most of their properties in Goa. It can be quite hard to find a decent hostel in India, and believe me, we were super pleased with the Hostel Crowd especially since their location was brilliant (close to the ferry, restaurants and the beach). Everything was walkable (or you can always take a tuk-tuk) and the room was perfect and affordable.

Find a room in Fort Cochin!

Kerala Backwaters – Alleppey (Day Trip or 2 Days)

While in Kerala , you will have to check out the backwaters. There are three different ways to experience this; on a tight budget, with a tour or you could also stay overnight on a houseboat.  The backwaters are breathtaking! Sit back and relax while enjoying the prettiest views!

What to see in Kerala

Kerala Backwaters – On a Budget (without a tour)

After looking at the prices for the tours I was pretty tempted with a DIY option. Although we decided to take the hassle-free option in the end and book a tour. Here’s what we heard from another backpacker.

You can head to Alleppey on your own and then find your own local boat directly over there. Of course, it’s the cheapest option but you have to find your own way there. You can then explore for as long as you want and head back to Fort Cochin at the end of the day.  

Kerala Backwaters – With a Tour

The hassle-free version of the Kerala backwaters includes the pickup, the tour,  lunch and drop-off at the end of the day. It’s a lot more expensive and you can pick different options (half a day or 8 hours, type of boats, etc.).  

Personally, I thought the 8 hours tour was way too long for me, half a day would have been enough. I enjoyed the canoe better than the houseboat because you can access smaller canals with amazing views.  

Kerala Backwaters on a Houseboat – Overnight Stay

Another popular option is to spend the night on a houseboat. This way you can make the most of the views while simply relaxing on a boat.  Here are a few options for different budgets .

Munnar in Two Days (or Three)

My favorite place in Kerala was Munnar, a small town in the middle of the mountains and the tea plantations! It’s the perfect place to relax while walking amongst the tea plantations or even enjoying the sunset. We had so much fun walking around the mountains and this place was photography heaven.

What to See in Munnar

Tons of gorgeous views! We took so many photos while we were there – we loved it!

Itinerary of Kerala: Munnar

Where to go in Kerala: Munnar

Backpacking around India, Munnar

Where to Stay in Munnar

We had the privilege to stay at Kaivalyam Retreat , which is a unique hotel right in the middle of the tea plantations/forest.

It’s a quiet place (it’s actually a retreat) and the staff were lovely. We had an amazing view and great food while we were there. The location was perfect and it was just outside of Munnar Town.

Find a room in Munnar!

Other Destinations in Kerala (if you have more than 1 week in Kerala):

Kerala is quite a big Indian state. If you have more time (more than a week), you should definitely add more places to your Kerala itinerary. If I was to come back to Kerala, I would visit Kumarakom, Thekkady, Varkala, Kovalam, Wayanad and Bekal. These are just a few examples as there is so much more to discover in Kerala.

Backpacking around India | Tips & Tricks

Getting a sim card in india.

India was the most complicated place I visited in terms of SIM cards. The best and easiest way to get one is to get it directly at the airport.

The reason is simple: they don’t sell Indian SIM cards to foreigners in most places (read 98% of the places).

To avoid having to provide many photocopies, addresses and contact information from a local, it’s a lot easier to get it sorted straight at the airport. (And it’s not that expensive!)

Getting Around India | Buses, Flights & Trains in India

Many places seem to be close to each other, but many of them are actually quite far in terms of traffic or routing.

I personally chose the local bus and overnight buses to travel around India as it was often cheaper than taking the train. You can find buses on RedBus or look for trains/buses/flights on MakeMyTrip . You can download the apps to make your life easier!  

It can be quite tricky to book trains in India as they have so many different classes. I’d recommend you ask a local to help you out for the first time (ask the reception of your hostel!).

Another alternative is to travel by flight if you are limited on time and if you’re planning on covering cities that are far from each other. The earlier you book, the higher your chances are to find a decent price.

What to Pack for India | India Travel Essentials

When it comes to packing for India you should keep in mind that appropriate clothing should be light but also conservative.

I personally was always wearing t-shirts, long pants or leggings and I was covering my shoulders most of the time.

Here are a few travel packing essentials for India:

• Sarong /scarf to cover your shoulders when visiting temples
• Comfortable shoes/flip-flops
• Light and appropriate clothing
• Camera / tripod

Travel Insurance in India

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Kerala Itinerary - 7 Days

• October 29, 2020
• Updated Feb 19, 2024

If you are visiting India and want to explore the country beyond the popular tourist destinations, plan a trip to Kerala. One of the most beautiful states in India , Kerala is often overlooked by travelers as they exhaust their time visiting the all-time favorites – Golden Triangle, Rajasthan , Goa , Kashmir , Uttarakhand, etc. 

Known as “God’s Own Country”, Kerala is situated on the Malabar coast of South India. Lush green vegetation, miles & miles of scenic shoreline, sprawling tea gardens, and serpentine backwaters make Kerala a paradise for nature lovers. The state is known for its aromatic herbs & spices, colorful street art, fragrant cuisine, ayurvedic treatments, vibrant festivals , and traditional dance forms.

If you are looking for tranquility, relaxation, and solitude , then Kerala should definitely be on your list. Seven days are not enough to explore Kerala in depth. But it is sufficient to capture the essence and beauty of this stunning tropical paradise. This 7-day Kerala itinerary will take you to some of the state’s most beautiful and diverse attractions, including backwaters, hill stations, beaches, and cultural sites. 

Best time to visit Kerala

Kerala is a year-round destination but September to March is the ideal time to visit Kerala. December is one of the busiest months due to the holiday season. The weather is pleasant, humidity is negligible and you can visit all the major attractions of Kerala – backwaters, tea plantations, and beaches. April and May can be very hot and humid and are best avoided. During that period, you can explore the higher altitude regions like Munnar and Wayanad which are relatively cooler. From June to August, Kerala is flooded with torrential rains, making it difficult to explore most regions of Kerala. 

How to get around Kerala

All the cities, towns, and villages of Kerala are very well connected by an efficient road transport network. These buses are ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Local trains are also a convenient way to travel between major districts of Kerala, offering you stunning views of the green countryside. However, if you have the budget, the best way to travel in Kerala is by private vehicle/taxi. It gives you flexibility, saves time, and makes life much easier. Ola and Uber are available in big cities. If you want to travel a short distance within the city, an auto-rickshaw is the best option.

Shopping in Kerala

Spices, Ayurvedic medicines, Mural paintings, cashew nuts, oils, tea, coffee, coir products, coconut-shell handicrafts, and Kathakali Masks are a few of the products that are worth buying in Kerala. Some of these products are good, so don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in some shopping .

Language in Kerala

Malayalam is the official language of Kerala, but English is widely spoken and understood here. Kerala has the highest literacy rate in India, but their English proficiency is quite basic. However, if you are comfortable with English, you should have no issues communicating with locals.

Top Foods to Try in Kerala

Kerala is loved for its distinct, authentic, and colorful cuisine, and you must indulge in its gastronomic delights. Some of Kerala’s traditional delicacies are must-haves. The dishes that you must try are Idiyappam topped with curry, Curry with Puttu and Kadala, Erachi Varutharacha curry served with Malabar Parota, Erissery, Appam with Ishtu, Nadan Kozhi Varathathu, Ghee-roasted dosa with Kerala-style sambar, Karimeen Pollichathu, and so on

Must-do experiences in Kerala

• Watch a Kathakali / Theyyem Performance
• Enjoy an Ayurvedic Treatment
• Stay in a houseboat
• Cruise the backwaters
• Visit a tea-plantation
• Eat the traditional Keralan meal served on a banana leaf
• Take a spice tour
• Watch the Snake Boat Race (from July to September)
• Attend a cooking lesson

Suggested 7-day Kerala Itinerary

Kerala is very well connected to all parts of India and there are feasible options to reach major cities by train and plane. Kerala has three international airports – Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kozhikode. We are starting our journey from Kochi and ending it at Thiruvananthapuram. This itinerary is designed with the assumption that you have a vehicle at your disposal. If you are using other modes of transport, make the required adjustments.

Kerala Itinerary – Day 1: Kochi – Munnar

Reach Kochi (Cochin) and leave straightaway for Munnar. The drive will take about 4 hours and you can enjoy the scenic views en route. The roads are extremely well maintained, so you won’t have to worry about a bumpy ride. There are waterfalls and Spice gardens on the way and you can stop there if you have the time. Munnar is famous for its quaint waterfalls, pristine valleys, blankets of mist, and rolling tea plantations. The charming hill station is just perfect for having a relaxing evening and admiring the spectacular panoramic views.

Kerala Itinerary – Day 2:  Munnar

Today, we’ll explore Munnar, a hill station in the Western Ghats located approximately 5,250 feet (1,600 meters) above sea level. Spend the day visiting the Eravikulam National Park, dropping by a tea plantation, relaxing at one of the waterfalls, or simply walking around the picturesque villages. There is an option to go boating at Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake. You will be engulfed by breathtaking manicured emerald-green tea plantations wherever you go. At every turn, you’ll want to stop and click pictures. In the evening, you must see Kathakali or Kalaripayattu, which is a very energetic Kerala Martial Arts show.

Kerala Itinerary – Day 3:  Munnar – Thekkady

You should start early as it takes 3-4 hours to reach Thekkady from Munnar. Thekkady is the center for visiting Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park. Spread over 300 square miles, Periyar National Park is home to species like tigers, elephants, bison, deer, and langurs. There is a scenic lake at the heart of the sanctuary. You can explore the sanctuary, enjoy a lake cruise, and admire the elephants frolicking in the lake. Consider a spice plantation tour to learn about Kerala’s spices. If you want to spend the night in the jungle, there are a few lodgings inside the Periyar Reserve.

Kerala Itinerary – Day 4:  Thekkady – Kumarakom/Alleppey

Kerala is famous for its scenic backwaters, which are a network of interconnected brackish lagoons, canals, and lakes that run parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. Backwaters connected by artificial canals form an economical mode of transportation. For centuries, locals in Kerala have used the backwaters for transportation, fishing, and agriculture. Most of the travelers visiting Kerala have one activity on their bucket list – to cruise along the enchanting backwater regions of Kerala. Kumarakom and Alleppey are the two best locations to explore the backwaters. They are two corners of Vembanad Lake but provide different experiences. Alleppey is a town-based destination whereas Kumarakom is a group of small islets. You can choose any one of them.

Drive from Thekkady to Alleppey (Alappuzha) will take nearly 5 hours. Alleppey, also known as the ‘ Venice of the East, is popular for tranquil houseboat cruises. Alleppey has more choices if you are interested in spending the night on a houseboat. It has rows of houses facing the canal which gives you a closer look at life in the tropical villages. You can float on a houseboat amidst stunning views, palm-fringed coasts, abundant greenery, and the maze of winding canals and waterways. Alleppey also has several beaches, temples, spas, and wellness centers, that you can visit during your stay.

If you opt for  Kumarakom,  it would take you three hours to reach your destination from Thekkady. Kumarakom is a cluster of small islands on the Vembanad Lake in the Kuttanad region of Kerala. The 14-acre bird sanctuary here is a popular stopover for migratory birds and an ornithologist’s paradise. It is known for mangrove-colored lagoons, green paddy fields, and coconut groves. Located in the background of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is less crowded than Alleppey and has some of the best luxury resorts in Kerala. Few of the resorts offer a package with a night on a houseboat. Taking a sunset cruise on the serene backwaters is highly recommended.

Kerala Itinerary – Day 5:  Kumarakom/Alleppey

You have the entire day to enjoy the various attractions of your chosen location – Kumarakom or Alleppey. You don’t have to rush around ticking attractions off your list. These locations are ideal for indulging in famed ayurvedic treatments, sampling delectable cuisine, rejuvenating yourself, and learning yoga.

Kerala Itinerary – Day 6:  Kumarakom/Alleppey – Kovalam

Drive to Kovalam from Alleppey / Kumarakom will take approximately 4/4.5 hrs. respectively. It is time to explore the beautiful beaches of Kerala and what better place than Kovalam? The beaches of Kovalam are in demand due to low tidal waves and shallow waters which makes them ideal for sea bathing. You can spend a day here visiting the Lighthouse and the spectacular crescent beaches – Kovalam Beach, Lighthouse Beach, and Samudra Beach. Kovalam is also known for its temples. So make time to visit the temples as well. You have the option to stay at some plush beachside resort for the day.

Kerala Itinerary – Day 7:  Thiruvananthapuram

The capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, is just 16 km away from Kovalam. If you want, you can explore a few interesting places in Thiruvananthapuram – Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, Observatory, etc. 

This also brings us to the end of the 7-day Kerala Itinerary. You can head back to your next destination from Thiruvananthapuram. The suggested itinerary is just a guide; you can easily change it at your convenience.

Alternative itineraries for Kerala

If you don’t want to rush, you can skip Thekkady and spend more time in Munnar or the tranquil backwaters. It would take you 4-5 hours to travel directly from Munnar to Kumarakom/Alleppey. In that scenario, Kochi-Munnar-Kumarakom/Alleppey-Kovalam-Thiruvanthapuram would be your route.

In case you do not wish to visit Kovalam, go back to Kochi from Alleppey/Kumarakom and take the return flight from Kochi. The journey from the backwaters to Kochi takes about two hours. Without visiting Kovalam, the suggested itinerary is Kochi-Munnar-Thekkady-Kumarakom/Aleppey-Kochi.

Interested in spending more time in Kerala? There are numerous other places in Kerala to visit, including Trivandrum, Varkala, Bekal, Kanyakumari, Malabar, Thrissur, Kannur, Wayanad, and others.

Map of Kerala

This Post Has 6 Comments

Very good post. Highly informative for travellers who want to visit Kerala. Keep up the good work.

Thank you so much!!

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So Please 7 adult in coming at kerala Please best plan this number

Thanks for Helping me plan my trip

thanks a lot. this becomes greatly helpful to make my plan…

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Travel Guide: 5 Popular Road Trip Routes in Kerala

date_range 07 Jun 2024

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Every traveller yearns to travel back to the roots, where life sprouted and developed. Our tryst with nature is what will reflect our inner selves, our essence. At the lap of mother earth lie all the answers to our worries, troubles, and dilemmas. We can redefine ourselves; identify the true meaning of life, away from the concrete jungle and skyscrapers. To breathe the fragrance of tranquillity, plan your road trip to Kerala at the earliest.

Kerala is nature’s beauty metamorphosed. As the tagline of the state tourism says, it is ‘god’s own country.” The travel across the state has rendered us with moments to cherish for the years to come. The lush green locales, the enchanting tea estates, the silent estuaries, lagoons, and the tranquil atmosphere around the state elevated our soul to another plane. 

Hopefully, the Kerala road trip itinerary here will be helpful to you on planning the trip. You can travel by bike, or rent a taxi from established services if you want to visit the places scattered across the state.

Road Trip Options in Kerala

We are elaborating on road trip options in Kerala here. The best option may be chosen according to the availability of time, budget available, and the area you want to explore.

1. Trivandrum to Kollam (*2-3 days)

The capital of Kerala, Trivandrum, is located at the southern tip of the state. Sharing its border with Tamil Nadu, the city has beaches, greeneries, and other attractions to offer. One half-hour biking from Trivandrum will take you to Kanyakumari, one of the most beautiful beaches in India. You can return to the city after enjoying the sunset/ sunrise there. Go around and visit Kovalam beach, Ponmudi (the Golden Peak), Padmanabha Swamy temple, etc. 

On the way to Kollam, you can stop by Varkala and have a bath at the serene cliff beach. Never miss out on visiting Jatayu Earth Centre, where you will find the largest bird sculpture in the world. You can also go for a bike ride to Palaruvi waterfalls, Punalur suspension bridge, and Thenmala butterfly safari park.

2. Alappuzha to Changanassery (1-2 days)

The road from Alappuzha to Changanassery is adorned with beautiful greenery. The well-maintained road bifurcates paddy fields and other plantations. Being less crowded, you can breath-in fresh air and dip yourself into the calm surroundings. Stop at Kuttanad, renowned as the rice bowl of Kerala, and have a look at the wide paddy fields. 

Changanassery offers natural and beautiful locations to visit. Located approximately 30 kilometers away is Kumarakom bird sanctuary. 

3. Kottayam to Vagamon (2-3 days)

One of the most panoramic roads in Kerala, the Kottayam-Vagamon route will present you with hills slumbering on the lap of the sky. As you bike through the turns, twists, slopes, and climbs, cool breeze will caress your body, rejuvenating your soul. The feeling will be etched on your heart forever that it will rush into your mind whenever you think of Kerala in the future. 

Although Vagamon is an adventurer’s paradise, family and kids too will enjoy the trip to the place. Trekking expeditions on the pristine hills of the place will be one of a kind experience for you. 

4. Kochi to Munnar (3-4 days)

Initially, you can indulge yourself in the busy life of Kochi, the most happening city in the state. Other than the colours and cacophony of the city, it offers several attractions including Fort Kochi, Jew Street, Marine Drive, and Kadamakkudy. 

The trip from Kochi to Munnar will take 4-5 hours. You may not be able to ride fast as the natural beauty on the way, as if a magnificent painting, will ask you to slow down and imbibe it. Rent a room at one of the resorts, according to your budget, among the green-carpeted tea estates. Feel the solace seeping inside, get up in the morning, absorb the morning sun spreading through the greens, and realize that you are at one of the most beautiful locations on earth.

5. Munnar to Thekkady (2-3 days)

Travel from the tea plantations to the wildness of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Plan boating and contemplate the wild beauty spread in front of you. You may chance upon herds of elephants, Nilgiri Tahr, Deers, Wild Boar, monkeys, and other animals.

Budget for the Road Trip in Kerala

You can choose hotels to stay in depending upon your budget. Serving tourists from every spectrum of society, you will find hotels providing accommodation of varying range. Starting from five-star facilities to budget hotels and dormitories, you will find every kind of stay across the state.

Kerala could be considered as one of the most budget-friendly travel destinations. Finding your favourite food delicacy also won’t be any problem. You will find a plethora of food options at most of the places in Kerala. Therefore, you can plan the road trip in Kerala unconcerned about both stay and food.

It will not be an exaggeration if we say Kerala is the safest travel destination in India. With a 100% literacy rate and advanced medical and educational infrastructure, Kerala enjoys top spot in female education, male/female ratio, secularism, and lower crime rates. People are also friendly and hospitable. Here you will not find sellers pouncing upon tourists as though vultures, as found in many parts in India.   

Once you are in Kerala, you will understand that such diverse beauty cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Therefore, just prepare yourself, pack your bags, and get ready for the trip to Kerala. The land of Spices, Ayurveda, Kathakali, Snake Boat race, ethnic culture, and heritage is awaiting you. You can also find similar road trips and tourism features from genuine Indian travel blogs. 

Whatever kind of vehicle you choose, you must be comfortable with it. So before starting to ride, you need to know more about best motorcycles or bikes in India to ride comfortably. You can also hire two-wheeler on rent in Kochi or Munnar from Royal Brothers. Alternatively, you can buy an affordable used car in Kerala , in case you are planning to stay here for a while to explore the state to the optimum.

* Period including stay, the total days required will depend on your riding speed, the decision to spend more time in one place, and similar factors. 

An Escape to God’s Own Country – The Perfect 5 Days in Kerala

Home » An Escape to God’s Own Country – The Perfect 5 Days in Kerala

Kerala, or the ‘God’s Own Country,’ is a mesmerizing haven in southern India that attracts tourists from all across the country. From the serene backwaters to the panoramic views of Munnar , Kerala has it all! A trip to Kerala has a lot to offer all types of travelers. You can enjoy cruising on houseboats and exploring misty tea plantations in Munnar . It’s a land where wildlife thrives in Periyar National Park, and cultural traditions come alive. The simplicity, warmth of the people, and the richness of its cuisine add to the beauty of this land.

If you’re planning a trip to Kerala, here is a 5-day itinerary you can check out for the best experience. Take a look and plan your vacation accordingly.

Table of Contents

Best time to visit kerala, how to reach kerala, kerala itinerary 5 days, top places to visit on a trip to kerala for 5 days, what to pack for your 5 day kerala trip, tips for planning a kerala trip itinerary for 5 days.

The best time to visit Kerala is during the winter months, from October to February . This period offers pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C. The air is cool, and the humidity is relatively low, making it ideal for exploring the diverse landscapes of Kerala. During these months, you can enjoy all the places of Kerala without the discomfort. Whether you’re exploring the backwaters , trekking in the hill stations, or lounging on the beaches, the weather is great for all types of activities.

While winter is the peak tourist season, it ensures the most enjoyable and comfortable experience. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere with fewer tourists, consider visiting during September and March. However, be mindful of the occasional monsoon showers in September.

The summer months from April to May also see huge crowds visiting Wayanad and Munnar. However, it can be warm and humid, making it uncomfortable for some. People looking for Ayurvedic treatments prefer to visit during the monsoon months from June to August.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Kerala is by air . Major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Kozhikode have international airports. There are several domestic airports as well. Direct flights from major cities across India and international destinations make air travel a popular choice.

Trains are an effective and relatively inexpensive mode of transportation to Kerala . The state is well-connected by an extensive railway network, and major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Kozhikode have major railway stations. Indian Railways operates numerous trains connecting Kerala to major cities in the country.

Kerala has a well-maintained road network, and buses are a common mode of transportation. National Highways connect Kerala to neighbouring states. If you prefer a more personalised journey, you can also hire a taxi or drive to Kerala. The road journey offers beautiful views of the Western Ghats and the coastal landscapes.

Choose the mode of transportation based on your preferences, time constraints, and budget. Whether you opt for a quick flight, a scenic train journey, or a road trip, reaching Kerala is a journey that will leave you with lasting memories.

For the perfect 5-day Kerala trip , here’s a Kerala trip itinerary that you can check out. This is to give you an idea of how to plan the perfect Kerala trip. You can customise your trip and plan it according to your preference.

Day 1: Arrival in Kochi

Day 2: munnar magic, day 3: wildlife adventure in thekkady, day 4: backwaters bliss in alleppey, day 5: relax in varkala.

Your 5-day Kerala trip will begin with your arrival in Kochi, the gateway to Kerala. Spend the day exploring Fort Kochi, known for its colonial history and vibrant street life. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and the Mattancherry Palace. In the evening, you can witness a Kathakali dance performance. It is an ancient form of storytelling through dance and music.

The second day of your 5 days Kerala trip will be an exploration of Munnar. Head to Munnar, a hill station surrounded by tea plantations. Visit the Tea Museum to learn about tea-making and enjoy panoramic views at the Pothamedu Viewpoint. Explore the lush greenery of the Attukal Waterfalls and stroll through the aromatic spice plantations for the best experience.

Drive to Thekkady , home to the Periyar National Park. Take a boat safari on Periyar Lake to spot elephants, tigers, and diverse wildlife. In the evening, experience a traditional Kalaripayattu martial arts performance to get the best of your 5 day tour in Kerala .

Travel to Alleppey , the Venice of the East. Board a traditional houseboat for a cruise along the scenic backwaters. Marvel at the picturesque landscapes and village life, and enjoy a delectable Kerala-style meal onboard.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Varkala on the last day of your 5 days Kerala trip . Take a final stroll along the cliffs, dip your toes in the Arabian Sea, and savour the tranquil atmosphere. Explore any remaining spots of interest or pick up souvenirs from the local markets. As the day unfolds, bid farewell to this beautiful land. Head to the airport for your departure, carrying the memories of a delightful 5-day journey through Kerala.

This Kerala trip itinerary for 5 days provides a perfect blend of cultural experiences, wildlife adventures, and serene moments in nature. It’s a trip that will ensure you capture the essence of this mesmerising land in the best way possible.

Here is a list of the top 10 places you can visit on a 5 day Kerala trip . Take a look and add them to your itinerary.

• Munnar: Heaven in the Hills
• Alleppey: Sail through the Backwaters
• Kochi: Blend of Cultures
• Periyar National Park: Wildlife Encounter
• Wayanad: Nature’s Abode
• Thekkady: Spice Trails
• Varkala: Cliffs and Beaches

1. Munnar: Heaven in the Hills

Munnar is a breathtaking hill station in the Western Ghats of Kerala. Known for its vast expanses of tea plantations, the rolling hills of Munnar offer a picturesque landscape that captivates every visitor. The aromatic tea gardens create a soothing green carpet. You can explore the Mattupetty Dam for serene boat rides and stunning views of the surrounding hills. Munnar’s Top Station provides a heavenly panoramic vista, making it a must-visit destination on your Kerala trip itinerary for 5 days .

2. Alleppey: Sail through the Backwaters

Your Kerala trip plan for 5 days will be incomplete without a visit to Alleppey. Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is the Venice of the East. It is famous for its enchanting backwaters and houseboat cruises. The backwaters, fringed with swaying coconut palms and picturesque villages, offer a serene and unique experience. A houseboat ride along the Alleppey backwaters is a must, providing a floating retreat amidst nature’s beauty.

3. Kochi: Blend of Cultures

Another must-visit place on your 5 days Kerala trip is Kochi. It’s a captivating blend of rich history and vibrant modernity. The historic Fort Kochi area, adorned with colonial architecture, narrow streets, and bustling markets, transports you to a bygone era. The iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along the waterfront create a postcard-worthy scene, reflecting the city’s maritime heritage.

Jew Town, with its ancient synagogue and antique shops, is a cultural delight, showcasing the diverse influences shaping Kochi. A visit to Kochi is incomplete without experiencing a traditional Kathakali performance, a classical dance-drama that brings to life the tales of ancient epics.

4. Periyar National Park: Wildlife Encounter

Periyar is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The Periyar National Park , centred around Lake Periyar, offers a unique opportunity to witness elephants, deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat. The lush greenery surrounding the lake enhances the beauty of the wildlife sanctuary. Trekking enthusiasts can explore the Periyar Tiger Reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna. The conservation efforts in Periyar preserve the region’s biodiversity. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking a close encounter with nature.

5. Wayanad: Nature’s Abode

Wayanad is nestled in the Western Ghats and offers the perfect retreat into nature’s embrace. The region is adorned with dense forests, sprawling tea estates, and cascading waterfalls, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Trekking through the Chembra Peak provides breathtaking panoramic views while exploring ancient caves adds a touch of mystery to your adventure. You can also visit the Banasura Sagar Dam, a tranquil reservoir that offers a serene escape. Wayanad is a treasure trove of natural wonders that you must include on your trip to Kerala .

6. Thekkady: Spice Trails

Thekkady is a nature lover’s paradise, famous for its spice plantations and the Periyar National Park. Guided spice tours take visitors through aromatic plantations, offering insights into the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. The Periyar Tiger Reserve, with its diverse wildlife and scenic lake, invites you for exciting boat safaris, allowing you to spot various species.

7. Varkala: Cliffs and Beaches

Varkala, perched along the cliff-lined coast of the Arabian Sea, is a coastal gem in Kerala. The dramatic cliffs overlooking the turquoise waters create a stunning backdrop for the pristine beaches below. Papanasam Beach, with its natural spring, is believed to have purifying properties, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and spiritual renewal. The cliff-top cafes and shops offer panoramic views, making it ideal for a stroll or a breathtaking sunset experience.

When packing for your 5-day trip to Kerala, it’s important to consider the region’s weather, activities, and cultural norms. Here are some essential items to pack :

• Light and breathable clothes.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Insect repellent.
• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Rain jacket or poncho.
• Basic medications and personal prescriptions.

Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip and adjust your packing list accordingly. It’s always better to pack light and bring only what you truly need to make your trip more comfortable.

When planning a Kerala trip itinerary for 5 days, here are some helpful tips:

• Decide on the Best Time to Visit: Before planning your 5-day Kerala trip , always decide when you would like to visit. Check the weather for Kerala during your planned dates. Winter (October to March) is generally pleasant, but monsoon (June to September) has its own harm if you don’t mind some rain.
• Choose Your Destinations Wisely: Kerala has diverse landscapes. Decide if you want the serene backwaters, hill stations, or vibrant cities. Popular spots include Munnar, Alleppey, and Kochi.
• Plan a Mix of Activities: Balance your itinerary with a mix of activities like exploring nature, cultural experiences, and relaxation. Diversity adds to the fun, whether it’s a houseboat ride, a trek in the hills, or enjoying local performances.
• Book Accommodations in Advance: Kerala attracts tourists, and good accommodations can fill up quickly. Book your hotels or homestays in advance for a hassle-free experience.
• Pack Light but Smart: Kerala is warm, so pack lightweight clothing. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes for your explorations.
• Be Open to Local Cuisine: Kerala offers delicious local food. Try authentic dishes like appam with stew, seafood delicacies, and traditional Kerala meals. Embrace the local flavours!
• Respect Local Customs: Kerala has rich traditions. Respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites. Modest clothing is appreciated, and removing shoes in certain places shows respect.
• Stay Hydrated: Kerala’s climate can be humid. Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated, especially when exploring outdoor attractions.
• Plan for Relaxation: It’s your vacation! Allocate some time to relax. Whether it’s a day at the beach or a lazy afternoon in a houseboat, give yourself moments to unwind.
• Stay Flexible: While planning, it is essential to be flexible. Sometimes, the best experiences happen when you embrace the unexpected.

Kerala is a land filled with the beauty of the backwaters, the mesmerising hill stations, and the warmth of its people, so make sure to make the most of your 5 day Kerala trip . Check out SOTC to plan your Kerala trip itinerary for 5 days. Choose from a wide selection of Kerala tour packages online and get the best deals and discounts for a memorable vacation in Kerala. Happy Journey!

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