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Green Haven Tours offers unique opportunities to enhance the academic syllabus with the real-life experience to explore whole new ways of powerful learning experiences and diverse business environments. Educational institutions undertake study tours to offer a better understanding of the contents in the syllabus to their students. Our student tour packages programs are designed sophisticatedly to help educational organizations in Kerala or abroad to conduct their study tours. By providing expert guidance and end-to-end support to organize study tour packages anywhere in the world, Green Haven Tours helps to transfer your subjects from the conventional classroom into the real world.

Green Haven firmly believes that the future of any nation rests with the youth, so to enhance their academic brilliance, we undertake Student tour packages to any part of the globe. So do not hesitate to share your requirements and we will strive to provide the best educational and enjoyable study tours possible, at the most competitive rates.

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How to Plan a Trip to Kerala (Guide for First-timers 2024)

Kerala is often called God's Own Country because of its incredible natural beauty and charm. This South Indian state is a tropical paradise with beautiful waterfalls, bountiful wildlife, and a laid-back and peaceful vibe.

If you want to explore the main highlights of Kerala, your trip should be at least 4-5 days but a full 7-8 days is better. The top 3 places to visit in the state are Kochi with its great food and culture, Munnar with its expansive tea plantations, and Alleppey with its canal networks.

In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about planning your trip to Kerala including why you should visit, where you should go, what you should do, what to expect with food and accommodation, as well as a sample itinerary for your trip.

4 Reasons to Visit Kerala

• Top 7 Places to Visit
• Best 11 Things To Do

Tailor-Make Your Kerala Itinerary

Best time to visit kerala.

• Best Accommodation
• How to Travel
• Festivals and Events

Keralan Food

• Kerala is the perfect place to visit for travelers who are looking for a relaxing and laid-back trip to India or those who have visited India once before.
• In Kerala, visitors can explore tea and spice plantations, take a boat ride through rural backwater villages, try great food, and experience Ayurveda or yoga retreats.
• The top places to go in Kerala include Cochin, Munnar, Periyar National Park, and Alleppey.
• Kerala has excellent heritage hotels and gorgeous resort accommodation that offer spa services and Ayurvedic treatments.
• The best time to visit Kerala is from December to February, but those who don't mind hot weather can also visit from March to May.

Kerala is not usually the first place that travelers think of when they start planning a trip to India, but it is the perfect location to relax and is especially great for travelers who have already visited the Golden Triangle and have seen classic India.

While the rest of India tends to be chaotic, crowded, and dry, Kerala is tropical, laid-back, and peaceful. The culture here is unique and the scenery and wildlife are unbeatable.

1. Culture and cuisine that are refreshing and different from anything else in India

Kerala is a small piece of land that contains a large mixture of unique cultures. From the influence of the Portuguese, Arabs, and Chinese that you will find in Kochi to the rural villages of the backwaters, in Kerala travelers can experience parts of India that are often unseen.

The uniqueness and diversity of Keralan culture can also be seen in the local cuisine. Out of all the states in India, Keralan food is the most loved for its sweetness, fresh seafood, and mixture of aromatic spices that provide a depth of flavor without too much heat.

2. An abundance of opportunities to experience Ayurvedic treatments or do yoga

Kerala is the best place to go to experience Ayurveda which is one of the world's oldest and best-known forms of traditional medicine. This state is known for its Ayurvedic retreats that give clients unique treatment plans to cure their ailments naturally.

Kerala also offers yoga retreats and classes for people of all levels. Yoga enthusiasts can take a few classes or enroll in a longer and more intense program that involves meditation and spiritual awakening.

3. The state is absolutely full of unique wildlife and animals

Kerala has more than 25 wildlife reserves and its vast jungles are teeming with beautiful wild animals like elephants, Bengal tigers, and monkeys.

Periyar National Park is one of the state's biggest wildlife reserves covering almost 100 square kilometers of jungle. This is one of the best places to see Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. The park also includes lots of other critters like flying squirrels and macaques.

4. A tropical paradise with beaches, jungles, and forests

The state's absolutely beautiful scenery is one of the reasons that Kerala that draws so many visitors and continues to leave them awestruck. The coasts are lined with white-sand beaches that are bordered by the Arabian Sea on one side and tall palm trees on the other.

Once you leave the coast, you can head into the villages of the backwaters which are small patches of farmland separated by deep canals with blue waters full of lotus flowers.

In the hill stations near the Western Ghats, visitors can take in the lush green mountain forests and the local tea and spice plantations. In the national parks, you'll find the dense jungles, calm lagoons, and picturesque waterfalls.

Top 7 Places to Visit in Kerala

Although Kerala is a small state, it has a lot to offer and many incredible places that are worth visiting.

Travelers who have 4-5 days can spend time in Kochi, Munnar, and Alleppey.

Those who have 7-10 days can also add visits to some of the state's other beautiful destinations such as Periyar National Park or some top beaches.

Kochi or Cochin is often called the 'Gateway to Kerala' and is the first place travelers will visit upon their arrival in the state. Kochi was originally an important port city during the spice trade and was once a Portuguese colony . The city has also been influenced by the Arabs, British, Dutch, and Chinese.

Walking through Fort Kochi, visitors can take in the charming colonial architecture, see the Chinese Fishing Nets at sunset, stop inside a spice shop to try the locally grown pepper or cardamon, and relax in boutique coffee shops near the Arabian Sea.

Munnar is Kerala's most famous hill station which was originally founded by the British as a place to grow tea. Today, Munnar is still famous for the variety and flavors of tea it produces. It also has coffee plantations and spice farms that grow everything from ginger and garlic to vanilla, cloves, and cardamom.

Munnar is located in the Western Ghats and because of its higher elevation is a great escape from the heat and humidity of the rest of the state. Here you can stay in a resort and spend your days taking in the rainforest scenery or touring aromatic plantations.

3. Alleppey

Alleppey is the name of a small island that is located in Kerala's famous backwaters . The backwaters are an area of Kerala with many small villages and farms that are separated by a complex system of canals . The people in these villages have their own unique culture and language.

The best way to explore this area is to rent a houseboat. Houseboats are comfortable and private boats that come with a captain and a chef and take travelers on excursions through the backwater canals.

4. Periyar National Park

Periyar National Park is located in Thekkady and is one of the most popular wildlife reserves in South India. This is a great eco-tourism destination where travelers can explore the jungles and see animals in their natural habitats instead of in captivity.

In Periyar, visitors can take a safari through the jungle or boat through the waterways in search of Bengal tigers, wild Asian elephants, and mischievous monkeys.

5. Varkala Beach

Varkala Beach is one of the best beaches in India due to its striking views and location. Varkala is a long stretch of land that is bordered by sheer cliffs on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other.

When visiting, travelers can stay in resorts and hotels on the cliff that overlook the beach and sea below. Varkala is becoming more and more popular these days but is still less developed than Kovalam while also offering plenty of beach shacks and shops for travelers.

6. Kovalam Beach

Kovalam Beach is the most popular and most developed beach in Kerala. This is the perfect place to go if you are looking for plenty of things to do, great restaurants, and adventure sports.

Kovalam is a great place to get a traditional Ayurvedic massage which will helps your body achieve balance and calm. Kovalam is full of massage parlors and most hotels here offer Ayurvedic treatments too.

7. Marari Beach

Marari Beach is located about 30 minutes north of Alleppey and is a quieter and less developed beach that is off the normal tourist track.

Marari is the perfect place to go after taking a tour of the backwaters on a relaxing houseboat. Here you can continue your relaxation by spending some time on the sand near the coconut groves.

Get some inspiration about  How to Plan an Affordable Luxury Trip to India .

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Best 11 Things To Do in Kerala

A good way to figure out where you want to go in Kerala is to first decide which experiences you are most interested in.

Check out the top 11 things to do in Kerala below:

1. Cruise Through the Backwaters

One of the most popular things to do in Kerala is to explore the backwaters on a houseboat. Taking a houseboat through the canals of local villages is an incredibly relaxing experience. On the boat, you can sit on the upper deck and unwind while your personal chef and captain take care of the rest.

Taking a cruise through the backwaters gives travelers an opportunity to see culturally unique villages that would otherwise be difficult to reach. It is also a great way to take in the tropical scenery of the Keralan countryside.

2. Get an Ayurvedic Treatment

Ayurveda is a traditional medicine practice that includes many different methods to bring the body back into balance through a variety of techniques that have been studied for 5000 years.

Those who are interested in learning more about Ayurveda can spend some time at an Ayurveda retreat where they will get a personal diagnosis and treatment plan. Most hotels and resorts in Kerala offer Ayurvedic massages for those who are curious but don't want to take the retreat route.

3. Relax with Yoga

Kerala is a popular destination for travelers who want to learn more about yoga and meditation from the place they originated.

Yoga practitioners of all levels can spend time at an Ashram where they will learn about the principles of yoga and follow a strict schedule and regimen. There are also plenty of options for more laid back yoga retreats that include yoga on the beach and massage treatments.

4. Take a Cooking Class

Keralan cuisine is famous for the way it achieves a perfect balance in the use of local spices and ingredients. Compared to North India, Keralan food is lighter and sweeter in flavor.

Taking a cooking class is a great way to get hands-on experience with this important part of Keralan culture. In your class, you can learn how to make the classic sambar (veggie curry), dosa (a flat rice batter crepe), fish masala, and more.

5. Explore the Tropical Jungles and See Native Wildlife

Kerala has a large variety of national parks and wildlife reserves. The most famous is Periyar which is a great place to see wild tigers and elephants while on a jungle safari.

Eravikulam is a beautiful park that is located near Munnar and is full of great forest treks and famous waterfalls and Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful parks in the state with its expansive evergreen forests.

6. Visit a Tea Plantation

Kerala is one of the top tea producing states in India and has some of the best plantations that grow the most high-quality tea. The Munnar hill station is covered in tea fields and plantations that visitors can explore.

All the tea in Munnar is handpicked by field workers to ensure quality. After exploring the plantations, travelers can hike around the surrounding hills or check out the local Tea Museum.

7. Explore the Spice Plantations

The high elevation hills of Munnar aren't just perfect for growing tea but are also great places to grow a variety of spices. The spices grown on plantations in Munnar have long been very lucrative for the state of Kerala and were once considered to be highly valuable by merchants from Europe, China, and the Ottoman Empire.

When exploring a spice plantation, you'll find a variety of spices including cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, mace, and ginger all growing in their separate sections of the field.

8. Take a Food Tour

When talking about Kerala, one thing that is always mentioned is its incredible food. While it might seem like we are over exaggerating when we say Keralan food is amazing, our proof is in the travelers who return from India with nothing but love for this fresh and balanced cuisine.

The best way to experience everything that Keralan cuisine has to offer is to take a food tour. These tours often include cooking classes, visits to plantations, and lots of sampling and tasting.

9. Join in a Festival

Because the culture of Kerala is completely different from the rest of India, the state also celebrates unique and interesting festivals. Participating in a festival is one of the best ways to understand more about India's complex relationship with religion and local heritage.

Onam is Kerala's biggest festival of the year and is celebrated in late August or early September. This festival lasts for 10 days and includes large feasts, traditional Kathakali dance performances, music, intricate rangoli decorations, rituals, and boat races.

10. Hike Through the Lush Green Landscape

The Himalayan region of India is the most famous amongst trekkers who are interested in difficult climbs at high elevation. Kerala offers a different type of hiking that is more relaxed with the goal of taking in rural villages and tropical scenery.

The Western Ghats are the best area in Kerala for hiking or walking tours. Here you will find a large variety of landscapes including shrub forests, tropical jungles, evergreen forests, and rolling grasslands. On your walks, you will also see plenty of local wildlife including birds and small animals.

11. Unwind at the Beach

Kerala has a long coastline filled with beautiful tropical beaches that are surrounding by tall palm trees and the Arabian Sea.

Besides relaxing in the sun, Kerala's beaches offer plenty of things to do. In recent years, many beaches have become popular places for Ayurveda or yoga retreats where clients can learn about these traditional practices while also catching some rays.

The Keralan coast is also the best place to try local seafood dishes. Here, fish is caught and then immediately brought into restaurants where it is freshly cooked. Nowhere else does fish masala taste better than on the beaches of Kerala.

At Asia Highlights, we tailor-make the itinerary of every guest to suit each traveler's specific interests and travel goals.

Our basic Kerala itinerary consists of visiting Cochin, Munnar, Periyar, and Alleppey. Go ahead and take a look to get some inspiration and then contact us if you would like to make changes or add on different destinations.

There are many benefits of taking a private tour of Kerala. Through a private tour, you will be able to see the best parts of this beautiful state conveniently and comfortably. The cost of a private tour includes a chauffeured car, private English-speaking guide, breakfast and lunch, and your gorgeous hotel.

Day 1: Arrive in Cochin

On the first day of your Kerala journey, you will arrive at the Cochin International Airport and then will be met by one of our representatives at the arrivals gate. Afterward, you will be introduced to your private chauffeur who will take you to your hotel.

Feel free to spend the rest of the day relaxing at the hotel spa or exploring nearby neighborhoods.

Day 2: Cochin

On your second day, your private guide will take you around this ancient port city to explore the streets of Fort Kochi and other areas. Here you can learn about Cochin's diverse heritage by visiting the Dutch Mattancherry Palace, Portuguese Santa Cruz Basilica, and the St Francis Church which is believed to be one of the oldest churches in India.

In Cochin, you can also take a cooking class, visit spice shops, relax in high-end restaurants, and explore local art galleries.

In the evening, head to the waterfront to see the fisherman using the famous Chinese fishing nets and get great photos of the sunset over the Arabian Sea.

Day 3: Munnar

After Cochin, you will take a private transfer to Munnar where the weather is cooler and the vast tea plantations are surrounded by misty jungles. Here, you can spend your first day touring a tea plantation, visiting the tea museum, or simply taking in the views of the surrounding forests from your hotel.

Day 4: Munnar

Wake up in the early morning to take a trek through the gorgeous forests and surrounding hills. On your trek, you will see various animals and plants and take in the beautiful views.

After your hike, you can check out some of the local coffee and spice plantations to learn more about Kerala's flavors. You can also take an excursion to the nearby Eravikulam National Park.

Day 5: Periyar

Spend the next morning in Munnar at your hotel spa or sipping a cup of tea while taking in the surrounding scenery. In the afternoon, you transfer to Periyar National Park via private car.

Day 6: Periyar to Alleppey

Wake up in the early morning to take a jungle walk with a park ranger to see monkeys, deer, giant squirrels, and some beautiful birds. Jungle walks typically last for around 3 hours and it's important to wear good shoes and comfortable clothes.

For those who don't want to walk, it is possible to take a boat safari through the jungles. Periyar National Park has wild Bengal tigers but spotting them often takes multiple days spent inside the park.

Day 7: Alleppey and the Backwaters

In the afternoon, head to Alleppey where you will meet the captain of your gorgeous houseboat. Spend the afternoon cruising through the canals and trying authentic local cuisine.

You can sit on the boat's upper deck to catch some sun with views of the surrounding villages.

Spend the night on the boat in your own private room.

Day 8: Return to Cochin Airport

The next morning, your driver will meet you at the docks and take you back to Cochin where you can catch your flight to your next destination.

Check out our itinerary ideas including Kerala for  9 days ,  10 days , 11 days , 12 days , and  2 weeks , or contact us to tailor-make one just for you! With us , you can enjoy a 100% refund of any payments made to Asia Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure ( detail⇒ ).

Kerala has a tropical and humid climate.

The best time to visit is typically from December to February when the state experiences dry and slightly cooler weather. This is the high season for tourism in Kerala which means higher prices on accommodation and travel.

It is possible to visit Kerala during the hot season from March to May. During this time you can expect hot and humid days with temperatures typically 28 and 32°C (82 and 90°F). The hot season is the best time to visit Kerala's wildlife reserves because the animals are more active in hot weather.

Kerala experiences a long monsoon season that typically lasts from June to November. The state actually gets hit with two monsoons. The first brings the most rain and lasts from June to September. Kerala sometimes experiences flooding at this time.

The second monsoon hits in November and December, but brings much less rain and can be a great time to visit for those looking for more affordable prices on yoga retreats or Ayurveda resorts.

Best Accommodation in Kerala

Kerala is the perfect place to spend your holiday if you are interested in staying in beautiful colonial heritage hotels or resorts with pools, spas, and massage treatments. No matter where you go in Kerala, you'll be able to find great options for accommodation.

Check out some of our recommendations below:

Cochin is the largest city in Kerala and was once colonized by the Portuguese. This area's unique history makes it the perfect place to stay in a beautiful heritage hotel. We love the Taj Malabar Resort & Spa for its old-world charm, first-rate spa, and views of the harbor.

We also love the Trident Cochin for its 5-star facilities, beautiful gardens, and Ayurvedic center. If you would like to stay in a beautiful location that's farther away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, you can check out Le Meridien Kochi which overlooks the Cochin backwaters and has two beautiful restaurants that serve great western and Indian dishes.

Munnar is Kerala's best hill station and is famous for its cool and comfortable weather. This is a great place to stay in a luxurious hotel with views of the surrounding tea plantations.

One of our favorite hotels in Munnar is Fragrant Nature Munnar which is located in the mountain forest surrounded by wildlife. This hotel offers comfortable bungalows with mountain views and cozy fireplaces. Fragrant Nature also has a restaurant with all-day dining that serves North and South Indian cuisine.

We also love the Windmere Estate for its great views and location near the aromatic coffee and spice plantations and Ragamaya Resort & Spa for its luxurious rooms and on-site authentic Ayurvedic treatments.

When traveling to the backwaters of Alleppey, you will spend at least one night on a houseboat. If you would like to stay in the area for a longer period, then there is nowhere better than at a homestay. Homestays are a great way to get to know the local people. Most homestays in Alleppey offer simple but comfortable accommodations.

Our favorite homestays include Venice Castle and the Bella Art and Meditation House.

How to Travel in Kerala

In order to get to Kerala, most people will fly into the Cochin International Airport. This airport receives flights from many domestic cities including Delhi and Mumbai and a few international flights as well.

Once you have arrived in Kerala by plane, the best way to travel throughout the state is with a private chauffeured car. Hiring a chauffeured car is quite affordable in India and is the most convenient and comfortable way to travel in Kerala.

Here are the normal travel times by private car:

• Cochin to Munnar: 4 hours
• Munnar to Periyar: 4 hours
• Periyar to Alleppey: 3.5 hours
• Alleppey to Cochin: 2 hours

It is also possible to travel between these cities by bus. Local buses normally take longer than traveling by a private car and are often uncomfortable and crowded.

While there are some trains in Kerala, train travel is not as convenient as other methods of transportation. Kerala is a very hilly state that is full of dense jungles and wet lowlands making building large highways and train routes difficult.

Festivals and Events in Kerala

While the most important festival for most Indians is Diwali, the most important holiday of the year in Kerala is Onam . Onam is a 10-day celebration that occurs in early September and is celebrated through many rituals and events.

During Onam, travelers can watch as people perform pujas or rituals at temples and celebrate in the streets of Kochi with dance performances and music. Onam is also famous for the beautiful rangoli which are designs that are made from colored rice and flowers.

Kerala also holds many temple festivals that celebrate one specific temple with rituals and parades of painted elephants. Our favorite temple festival is Thrissur Pooram which is celebrated at Vadakkunnathan Temple.

Other great festivals to experience in Kerala include Theyyam , the 800-year-old celebration of deities, and the boat races including Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Alleppey.

If there is one thing that travelers can't stop talking about in Kerala, its the food. While food all over India is incredible, Keralan food is beloved by so many for its fresh ingredients, sweetness, and flavor that includes many spices but is not too hot.

One of the most famous and commonly eaten dishes in Kerala is fresh fish masala . This dish includes the catch of the day cooked in a spice-filled coconut sauce.

Another great thing to try in Kerala is the South Indian dosa . Dosas are a typical South Indian breakfast food that are made from rice batter and are fluffy and light pieces of flatbread. Dosas are often dipped in sauces or gravies like sambar.

Hotels and resorts in Kerala often have great chefs that serve some of the best authentic local food along with some western options. Eating in your hotel for lunch is a great way to get an introduction to Indian food. We also recommend eating in specialty restaurants or cafes to try out some local specialties.

If you want to learn more about Keralan food and spices, then make sure to take a cooking class to get first-hand experience with how authentic local food is made.

Explore Kerala with Asia Highlights

If you want to see the best destinations in Kerala and have meaningful cultural experiences along the way, then look no further than Asia Highlights. At Asia Highlights, we make tours that are specifically created to fit the needs of each individual customer. Let us plan your trip for you so that you can just relax and prepare for your dream vacation.

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KERALA TRAVEL GUIDE | The Best of Kerala Without the Crowds

Our Kerala travel guide covers the best places to visit in Kerala and how to get the best out of this beautiful corner of India with fewer crowds, supporting local and sustainable travel options along the way.

Exploring the Best of God’s Own Country

Think swaying palm trees, crashing surf, coffee plantations, hill retreats, silent backwaters, rice paddies, beautiful national parks that are home to a host of wildlife and you’ve teleported yourself to Kerala.

One of the better known states of India, there’s a lot to pack in to a trip to Kerala. Known as God’s Own Country, Kerala in South India has a lot to offer: from ayurvedic retreats and yoga centres, to hill stations and tea plantations up in the Western Ghats (mountains), to national parks that are home to tigers and elephants, to palm fringed beaches. And then there are the Kerala Backwaters, which despite their overcrowding issues, still provide a serene backdrop to any Kerala experience – when experienced in the right way.

We spent over a month travelling Kerala at the beginning of this year, and despite having more time to spend than many visitors to Kerala, we still could not fit everything in. There’s a lot to do in captivating Kerala: so pick wisely!

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This guide will help you get to the best of your time in Kerala – we have put together our recommendations for travelling mindfully in Kerala. Here you’ll find the best eco friendly resorts, homestays, community tourism projects, wildlife projects, locally owned restaurants, and a whole lot more!

What’s in a name? The place names in Kerala are a bit of a jungle. For some strange reason most places seem to begin with a ‘K’ or an ‘M’ (if anyone can enlighten us as to why please do so!), the names are also remarkably similar / mix-up-able, and there’s also an eclectic mix of old and new names used. Allapuzha is commonly referred to as Alleppey still, whereas Kollam – which was Quillon – universally goes by its new name. We’ve included both old and new names wherever relevant in this Kerala Guide to help with getting around.

Ecotourism in Kerala

Kerala’s beauty is no longer a secret, and with its popularity have come crowds of visitors – both from within India and from overseas. Those crowds have congregated in specific areas of Kerala and led to problems for Kerala’s wildlife, environment and local inhabitants: from pollution, to over-development, to lack of local empowerment and economic benefit from tourism.

Local resources have become drained, including water, and upsetting that very delicate balance of flora and fauna. In Alleppey, where going on a house boat cruise is on the bucket-list for so many, the scenes are often of overcrowding of houseboats, islands of floating plastic and filth a-top inky black water.

The good news is that it is possible to travel in Kerala in a way that avoids the eyesores and mass-touristed spots, and more importantly supports local and community based initiatives where local Keralites see the benefits from tourism. We’ve got you covered for the best of sustainable travel in Kerala.

A word – before we begin – about use of the word “Ecotourism” in Kerala (and the rest of India). Ecotourism, unfortunately, is not always and only used for places that are focused on the principles of responsible tourism (ie. giving back to local communities, being environmentally sensitive and protecting local people and cultures). Instead, “Ecotourism” in India is often used to describe any tourist activity which involves the outdoors (such as walking, camping) and / or seeing wildlife. Whether or not it is eco-friendly or in any way sustainable. 

Short on time or too busy to plan your own trip? There are plenty of local tour companies who can help such as eKeralaTourism  who offer many of the highlights of Kerala or can offer tailor made itineraries.

There are also global companies such as G Adventures who we have travelled with several times and recommend. 

Find out more about G Adventures South India Tours here.

Our Top Picks for Where to Stay in Kerala

Coconut Lagoon (High End) – For luxury along the backwaters there’s no better place than Coconut Lagoon. Owned and run by Keralan family run CGH Earth group, watch the sunset over the backwaters in this beautiful and sustainable hotel which is only accessible by boat… Check rates & book Coconut Lagoon here!

Ashtamudi Villas (Mid Range) – Set on the southern end of Kerala’s backwaters in Kollam, Ashtamudi Villas are owned and run by a local, who also offers trips in dug out canoes and kayaks to local villages for a more intimate experience with the backwaters. Perfect for chilling in one of their lake-side hammocks and experiencing a much less touristy side of the backwaters… Check rates & book Ashtamudi Villas here!

Marari Beach House (Budget) – Right on Marari Beach (one of Kerala’s nicest beaches near Kochi), this simple place is clean and walking distance to the waves. Perfect for hanging by the beach for a few days! Check rates & Book Marari Beach House here!

North Kerala

Kannur & thottada beach.

Kannur was our first port of call in Kerala after spending 3 weeks in beautiful Bangladesh. As our first taste of Kerala this year, Kannur did not disappoint.

Northern Kerala has been off the beaten track for many visitors to Kerala, who have focused more on the central and southern parts of the state. But that may be about to change. This year, Lonely Planet has named Northern Kerala as one of Asia’s hotspots , and as a paradise for those seeking a quieter taste of Kerala. Small homestays line the palm fringed shores, with uninterrupted views out across the Arabian sea.

Planning a trip to Kerala? Grab your Lonely Planet here!

Where to Stay in Kannur & Thottada Beach

Thottada beach is one of the best beaches in the area, with a range of accommodation to suit all budgets . There aren’t any facilities as such or shade, so the best time to visit is morning or late afternoon for a stroll. Ladies are recommended to cover up a bit on the beach as this is a rural and mainly Muslim area.

We stayed at Haris Seashell Inn  just outside of Kannur, which turned out to be one of the best decisions we’ve made. Owned by the enigmatic and kind Mr Haris, these bungalows are perched on a clifftop, with panoramic views out to the beaches below and the sea. I loved waking up and falling asleep to the sound of the crashing waves below.

Mr Haris has done a lot to build the guesthouse in a sustainable way – the villa and rooms are made of repurposed  / upcycled materials salvaged from inhabited traditional Kerala houses, there is an organic farm, and Haris Seashell employs a number of physically handicapped staff, to name but a few initiatives. We happened on this place by chance but were delighted to find  place that was doing so much to create a positive impact!

Check rates and availability for Haris Seashell Inn here .

Getting to and from Kannur

Kannur is well connected by railway north to Goa and Mumbai, and south to Kochi and the rest of Kerala. There’s reportedly a new airport for those coming from further afield. There are also buses connecting to the rest of Kerala and nearby Karnataka state. Our recommended mode of transport in India is by train.

Little heard of – outside of India at least – Wayanad is a tranquil uphill oasis of homestays, quiet villages, scenic winding roads that take you through wild forests, and is a place where you can truly escape.

Things to do in Wayanad

There’s no “centre” to Wayanad as such, so to the first time visitor it can take some time to get your bearings. Sights and activities are spread all over the region, so wherever you base yourself, some road travel will be involved. Our best tip is to pick somewhere quiet to stay, un-plug and relax to the backdrop of the peaceful Wayanad scenery. It’s better not to try to pack too much sightseeing in – but rather adapt to life at a slower pace.

Jeep Safaris.  Wildlife is a big attraction here, but we found our jeep drive at Tholpetty to be disappointing. After an early start and being inline at the forestry department by 6am to get our tickets, we got the second jeep out of the gates. We didn’t see anything apart from a few deer.

Unfortunately the “Safari” consists of a 30 minute drive through the section of national park that is right next to the road, in a line of about 20 jeeps. If you’re more than the second or third jeep in, your chances of seeing wildlife are likely non-existent. We should probably be happy that this means less interference for the animals! As an alternative, safaris at Muthunga are reportedly better than Tholpetty – and even better are the wildlife opportunities in neighbouring Karnataka state.

Beyond the safaris, there are beautiful lakes to visit  and countless hikes one can go on. There are several different boating lakes. Pookode lake has pedals-style boating (we did not visit here) and Banasura Sagar Dam is the place to go for those needing an adrenaline kick – on a speedboat. There is also a slow ferry that you can go on around the lake, at 12 midday.

Homestays in Wayanad

We were lucky enough to stay in two amazing homestays in Wayanad.

The first we found through I-likelocal.com – our go to website for homestays and responsible tourism activities in Asia. We planned to stay one night in a homestay on a working coffee plantation, but our one night turned into four nights! In a simple cabin away from the main house and down a bamboo walkway, we were surrounded by trees and jungle.

Our shady balcony was the perfect spot to relax and read, practice a little meditation, and just enjoy the sound of the birds. Hosted by a welcoming couple, the homestay is the family home and plantation of Sunil, who is also a responsible tourism advocate. We enjoyed chatting about the development of tourism in Wayanad over many a cup of home-grown coffee. 

The homestay is a short distance (15 minutes by rickshaw) from Meenangady, which is a small town with some simple but good thali and dosa restaurants and is a regional transport hub.

Find more information and rates for i-like local homestays here .

Our second homestay in Wayanad was with the inspiring  Kabani Tour  which we found through Visit.org. Kabani Community tourism have set up two village community tourism projects in Kerala and are currently working on a third. Promoting “thoughtful travel”, their concept is one that revolves around travellers experiencing village life through homestays, meeting village elders, learning more about traditional life through guided walks and learning more about traditions. Revenue is then reinvested directly into the community from these activities.

We went to the Kabani village of Mothakara which is famous for its Women-to-Women travel initiatives. Set among villages of winding lanes, emerald paddy fields, and extended lolly-pop shape betel-nut trees, this village is a truly peaceful place. Local women from the village have been trained in guiding and showing (female) visitors to the village, the ways of local village life. These women previously had no employment opportunities, but rather were housewives.

Through the Women to Women travel project they have been given the opportunity to expand their horizons through interactions with visitors to the village, and also to earn additional income for the family. Initially the women did not have any English language skills, and relied on communicating through gestures, expressions, and through their hearts. Over time, English words have been exchanged and learned, and the project has continued to grow. These days these even a guesthouse run entirely by this inspiring team of women. Unfortunately during our visit, the women guide team were oversubscribed and so we didn’t get to experience their project in full; however we did get to meet the charming Radha. 

Our homestay – where we stayed in our host family’s house – was the soft bed and crisp cotton sheets kind of comfortable, and we were served some of the most delicious home-cooked food during all of our time in Kerala.

Find out more info and book Kabani’s Women-to-Women tour here . 

Responsible Travel in Wayanad

Despite Wayanad being little known and considered “off the beaten path” outside of India, it is a different story within India. Wayanad has become / is becoming a popular escape for weekenders from Bangalore and the visitor footfall (or carfall) is steadily increasing. As such Wayanad’s blissful peace and quiet is coming under pressure from tourism, too. Do your bit to leave a positive impact from your visit by taking time to learn about the local culture, respecting the environment by not littering (even better – avoid plastic bottled water) or causing noise pollution (being noisy) and consider staying somewhere that supports eco friendly travel.

We did not have time to visit all of the ecotourism options in Wayanad, so here are some suggestions beyond our experiences above:

Eco Friendly Hotels / Resorts in Wayanad

• Uravu Bamboo Grove is an award winning sustainable lodge, with design-led rooms surrounded by nature.
• An award-winning sustainable guest house set high up in the Wayanad hills, Fringe Ford  is a place that prides itself on being “as cut off from the world as you can get” (we think that’s a good thing!).
• Award winning CGH Earth’s property Wayanad Wild  offers a luxury escape deep into the forest

Wayanad Responsible Tourism Tours & Activities

The best way to support responsible tourism in Wayanad is to be environmentally sensitive (e.g. avoiding plastic and limiting your water use), using public transportation if possible to reduce the number of cars on the road, and to be respectful of wildlife. There are a number of operators offering ways to connect with the local culture and community on your trip, here are a few resources (we did not use all of them, but they are all reputable and highly regarded organisations.

• I-like Local offer a number of Farmstays, Homestays and responsible experiences
• The Blue Yonder offer trips including day activities throughout Kerala.
• Many of the accommodations listed above will be able to help you arrange activities during your stay in Wayanad.

Getting to and from Wayanad

Wayanad is easily accessible from the northern Kerala cities of Calicut (Khozikode) and Kannur. There are also connections to Cochin, Bangalore, Mysore and other major regional hubs. There are more frequent bus services to Calicut, although you can take a direct bus from Mananthadvady to Kannur. There are no railway connection to / from Wayanad. Most buses are run by KSRTC but we found the redbus website far more helpful.

Central Kerala

Kochi / cochin.

Kochi / Cochin (the town’s old name)  is one of Kerala’s most popular tourism spots and transport hubs, and so the starting point for many travellers in Kerala. It’s possible to spend many a day wandering the old lanes of Fort Cochin between colonial houses, organic cafes, art galleries, churches and boutiques. Note that Cochin is quite separate (it is an island) from the mainland town of Ernakulam, where all major transport arrives and departs from.

Things to do in Kochi

Kathakali Performances  – for many visitors, a Kathalkali performance is on their list – this is a chance to see traditional Keralan dance and music, complete with incredible makeup and costumes. The Kerala Kathakali Centre is the most authentic theatre to see this at.

Exploring Fort  Cochin –  taking in its churches, museums and even Synagogues. As an old trading and naval outpost, over the last 600 years, Kochi has seen the arrival of many immigrants of different nationalities and religions – from Portuguese to Dutch, to British to Arabic traders. There’s an Indo-Portugese museum, a Dutch cemetery, as well as several beautiful churches to explore such as the Santa-Cruz basilica. There’s also a growing number of art galleries (often with cafe), such as the Kashi Art Gallery.

Shopping –  there are plenty of artisan style shops in Fort Kochi, making it something of a shoppers paradise. Many shops sell organic toiletries and ayurveda products, and lovely Aambal is an eco clothing store  which sells hand-woven, natural and handmade and recycled fashion.

Eating –  There are plenty of cafes lining the streets of Fort Kochi, and if you’ve been on the road for a while, this is a good place to splurge on western treats aka good pizza and avocado wraps with a good latte. It does come at a price though. The local fare is much bewe dtter priced, usually more delicious, and we got bitten by the traditional Keralan Thali bug, at the Solar Cafe . For a truly authentic dining experience head to Authenticook to arrange to dine in someone’s house. We were hosted by the charming and kind Bindu at her home in Ernakulam and enjoyed a delicious brunch.

Take a day trip (or longer) to Marari Beach –  The beaches at Kochi itself are grubby (at best) but head an hour and a half or so south, and the lovely Marari beach awaits. Rent a two-wheeler and drive straight south through paddy fields, small towns, and backwater scenery. Marari beach (also known as Mararikulam) itself is as yet not very developed, and is a pretty stretch of sand with clean water for swimming. Accommodation options nearby vary widely in quality if you want to stay longer – the shacks on the beach looked decidedly dilapidated, whereas the Marari Beach hotel is fit for a king.

The Kerala Backwaters –  Kerala’s largest draw, you’ll likely be offered a backwater cruise (or two) during your time in Kochi. See more on arranging a backwaters trip below , we don’t recommend  booking it from Kochi due to high prices.

Where to Stay in Kochi

The Fort Kochi area is the place where most visitors stay – while there are plenty of hotels over in Ernakulam on the mainland that are useful for if you have an early / late bus or train to catch, most of the main attractions of Kochi are in the fort area. Homestays are the name of the game here, and the city has seen an explosion in them. Indeed you can’t walk more than a few meters without coming across a homestay sign. The word “homestay” has been applied in a liberal sense though – and these are usually just guesthouses with a number of rooms that are sold on a bed & breakfast basis, but hosts are usually very welcoming!

Because of the explosion of homestays in Fort Kochi, the centre can get a little crowded and there are no “eco-friendly” accommodation options as such in Kochi. For a quieter experience, head a little away from the fort. If travelling in December / January, book well in advance!

Check rates and book accommodation in Kochi here.  

Getting to and from Kochi

The main gateway to Kochi is Ernakulam. There are two train stations (on opposite sides of the city so please check which one your train arrives at/leaves from) Ernakulam Town (sometimes referred to as “North Railway” and Ernakulam Junction “South Railway”). Trains run north-south along the Indian coast and link directly to Mumbai, Goa, Karnataka, and southern Kerala. There are also direct trains across country to Bangalore, Chennai and even Delhi (46 hours!). Buses run routes from Ernakulam across the region.

Kochi airport is also located in Ernakulam about an hour away from Fort Kochi, and is remarkable for being fully run on solar energy! It’s a major hub and as well as domestic flights has connections to the Gulf countries, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Singapore.

Despite being one of Kerala’s major attractions this is one place that we failed to squeeze into our Kerala itinerary, except for passing through its scenic gardens. Tea is of course, the name of the game here and is the main draw, and most visitors come to soak up the ambience and enjoy being surrounded by the beauty of the tea gardens.

Munnar tea country resort is a sustainable accommodation option – they have implemented sustainable initiatives and are looking to reduce their footprint.

Find prices and book Munnar hotels here .

South Kerala

Thekkady & periyar tiger reserve.

Travelling inland and up into Kerala’s mountains – the Western Ghats – was one of the highlights of our Kerala trip. Winding through hills, tea plantations and around several hair pin bends, our bus journey (although bumpy) provided spectacular views. Thekkady is best known for Periyar National Park (or sometimes, rather optimistically known as Periyar Tiger Reserve) and many come here for a chance to see Kerala’s wildlife. It’s also, more simply, a chance to get away from the hot and humid air of the backwaters and coast.

Things to do in Thekkady and Periyar

Exploring Periyar –  Kerala’s Western Ghats are one of the largest refuges for wildlife in India, and Periyar National Park is one destination that tourists flock to, in the hopes of seeing wild elephant, leopards, tigers and more. There are various ways to explore the national park, but during our trip to Periyar  we found some to be far more enjoyable than others. While the boat trip on the lake felt like a foray into disneyland, we loved walking in the park in the early morning mist with our local guide (Periyar is one of the last remaining parks you can walk into), and we also loved our stay at Kerala’s most sustainable resort, in Thekaddy: Spice Village .

Learn about Tribal Communities near Periyar –  Periyar and the surrounding area are home to different tribal communities , including the Mannan, Paliyan and Malampandaram tribes. Such communities often leave a significantly different lifestyle from “mainstream” society, and as such are sometimes marginalised. They have an unprecedented knowledge of the forest areas, and are now benefitting from the tourism that comes from Periyar through a number of ecotourism initiatives. You can support the people who have relied on the forest in the past by taking a walk or trek with one of the village guides, or going to visit the Tribal Heritage Museum in Thekkady.

Seeing Wildlife – While we loved our visit to Thekkady and our stay, if your primary motive for visiting is to spot wildlife, you may be disappointed. Due to crowds, many animals hide deep in the forest. And we can’t say we blame them! Get the full low down on visiting Thekkady and Periyar in our post here .

Where to Stay in Thekkady and Periyar

The highlight of our time in Thekkady was without doubt our stay at the beautiful and very eco-friendly Spice Village Resort . This resort has won awards for its environmental and community initiatives, and no wonder… the resort is powered by a solar plant the size of a football pitch,  they have their own water filtering and bottling plant, a paper recycling operation (all paper you’ll find in the hotel is recycled), several types of compost, biogas, and the list goes on. It’s also a beautiful place to relax – designed as a traditional spice village, the cottages are well spaced out and set among tranquil gardens, where black monkeys and birds rest peacefully over head. You will not want to leave!

Check rates and book Spice Village Resort here . 

There are a few other small eco-friendly lodges and smaller accommodations such as Indhrivanam, a vegan and eco friendly homestay, however we did not have time to check out their credentials in person.

Check rates and book Indhrivanam here . 

Kerala Backwaters

The number one tourism draw in Kerala (and possibly southern India) are the Kerala backwaters, and the chance to take a cruise along them. Over recent years images of floating quietly and serenely through Keralan villages on a converted traditional Keralan rice barge, surveying life, warm chai in hand, have drawn in the crowds. After all, who wouldn’t be tempted by such a blissful watery escape?

Over the last ten years, crowds have flocked in steadily increasing numbers to Alleppey (Allaphuza) which – somewhat prophetically if not wistfully – has been self-dubbed as the  Venice of the East.  What were once tranquil backwaters have become noisy, congested with tourists and polluted in many parts – due to poor regulation of houseboat tourism and overcrowding. Where tourism was once seen as a blessing by locals, it has now become a bit of a curse. The inky black waters of Alleppey itself tell of a different side to the Kerala backwaters .

To Houseboat or not to Houseboat?

One of the biggest culprits in spoiling the backwaters has been houseboat tourism. There is no accurate figure for how many houseboats are currently in operation, while un-registered houseboats have been clamped down on since 2015, the number of houseboats have still been growing. In recent efforts to curb houseboat tourism growth further, Kerala tourism recently introduced a measure as part of their Kerala Responsible Tourism mission that prevented any new licences being granted for new houseboats on the Kerala backwaters. Results, however have yet to be seen, and sources say that it’s not working: when a ship retires from service, the licence is simply “recycled” for a new houseboat – meaning little to any reduction in the number of houseboats. During our time in Alleppey we saw rows on rows of houseboats moored just outside the town, hoping for customers.

So what’s the the problem with the houseboats? Essentially the damage that they cause falls into a few different categories. The most obvious is their environmental impact – 95% of houseboats are diesel powered, and that fuel often leaks into the waters. Many boats are high-end and offer air-conditioning, meaning the constant burning of fuel on board to power the boat and generators. There are no sewage treatment facilities on the boats meaning that sewage is dumped directly overboard, and there’s no waste disposal either – meaning that the plastic water bottles you drink from usually go straight over the side too.

This pollution has impacted water quality, and fishermen have reported a decline in fish and prawn stocks in areas frequented by houseboats, meaning a direct impact on the livelihood of fishing communities in the backwaters. For many villages, their only water supply is from the backwater channels themselves for cooking and even drinking – more shockingly only a fraction of villagers reported boiling or treating the water in any way before drinking it. In the agricultural sector there has been an effect too, with concerns over polluted paddy fields, damage to rice crops, and even labourers becoming reluctant to work in the polluted fields.

Then there is the noise pollution for locals from the passing boats (many of which blare (awful) music loudly), and the lack of economic or social benefit for most locals from houseboat tourism. Houseboat tourism was initially thought to provide economic benefits to locals by providing jobs on boats, but in reality the high prices that tourists pay for their houseboat experience rarely reach the villagers who need to deal with the effects of the passing boats. Rather the money goes to companies and private individuals who often own large numbers of houseboats. Granted there are jobs on the boats, but this number is small compared to the number who feel the effect of pollution in the backwaters.

For all of these reasons we decided not to go on a houseboat cruise in Alleppey or elsewhere on the Kerala backwaters, and we don’t recommend it.

Exploring the Backwaters Responsibly

But what about my backwaters dream? Worry not – there are some less damaging ways to enjoy Kerala’s watery scenery. In general, these consist of either taking public ferry routes that are already in service, and/or staying on land next to the backwaters. Choosing to use existing infrastructure helps to keep our footprint lower and brings more benefit to locals, particularly in the case of choosing to stay in existing accommodation, particularly if it is homestays or on a small scale.

One of the best places to stay next to the backwaters and enjoy all their beauty, without supporting houseboats is Kumarakom – more on that below!

Alleppey (Allappuzha)

Alleppey is backpacker central and ground zero for backwater cruises – expect wherever you stay to persist with offering you houseboat services during your stay. We however enjoyed our time in Alleppey (we spent nearly a week there) and found it to be a great town for unwinding, with good wifi for when we needed to catch up on work, good food, and plenty of facilities.

Things to do in Alleppey

The Beach – away from the backwaters scene, Alleppey is blessed in being located both on the ocean with its own long beach, and on the edge of the backwaters. The beach itself is a nice stretch, and has a number of accommodation options, and cafes. We loved strolling the beach at evening time when the bhaji and chai wallahs come out to sell their tasty snacks, and the beach becomes a popular gathering point for families and couples. The beach is reportedly safe for swimming although take care as the waves can get strong. The beach is quite touristy and you’ll see plenty of pale skinned visitors in their swimwear, but we recommend ladies to cover up with a sarong while not swimming.

Take the Local Ferry  – ferries go on a number of different routes leaving from Alleppey and are a chance to see the backwaters, the local way. We took the morning ferry to Kottayam (3 hours) and returned the same day at 3pm from Kottayam to Alleppey. It made for quite a long day on the boat, but we loved the experience of sitting in the well ventilated boat and seeing local life. The 3pm return ferry to Alleppey was filled with school children ( please do not give them pens as this encourages begging from tourists ) giving us plenty of opportunity to chat and practice their English. You can find the Kerala Water Transport Dept schedules here .

Go on a Walk of Old Alleppey –  The Award Winning Preserve Alleppey Society , started by a group of local ladies, was created due to the need to preserve the character of Alleppey. In a country where it is uncommon for women to be able to work as guides or in tourism, this is a cause well worth supporting to encourage the work of women in tourism, and also to see the original character of Alleppey. The ladies offer guided walks of Alleppey and cooking classes.

Where to Stay in Alleppey

Like other tourism hotspots, Alleppey has seen a surge in accommodation options over recent years, and is suffering from the problem of too many homestays and hotels being opened. When we visited, homestays were complaining of being empty (despite us visiting in January – supposedly high season). Homestays also vary hugely in quality. We moved quickly from our first homestay which we did not like until we found Heritage Homestay (below).

We loved our time at Heritage Homestay – a very simple, locally owned place with two big and airy rooms at the front – which immediately felt like home to us. Run by the charming and very kind Johnny and his team, the homestay is located about 10 minutes walk from the beach.

Check prices and book Heritage Homestay here .

Nestled on the opposite bank of Lake Vembanad from Alleppey, Kumarakom is the perfect place to slow down and experience the backwaters (from shore) at their most peaceful. The lake is large and looks like an inland sea, providing the perfect backdrop for beautiful sunsets over the water. Kumarakom is also one of the locations where Kerala tourism is implementing more sustainable measures: many hotels and tour companies are part of an initiative to minimise their environmental impact and make sure that products are procured locally where possible, helping to maximise the economic benefit that goes back to locals.

Things to do in Kumarakom

Enjoy life at a slow pace – possibly the best thing to do in Kumarakom is – not much! Our best memories were of sitting back and watching the sunset from the serenity of Coconut Lagoon (below). Taking a quiet stroll along the backwaters and through villages is a great way to get a sense of local life here.

Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary –  This is one of the best bird sanctuaries in India, with many rare species being sighted particularly during the monsoon months of June, July and August.

Where to Stay in Kumarakom

We loved our stay at Coconut Lagoon , one of CGH Earth’s most beautiful properties. The experience here is unique, the only way to arrive and leave here is by boat. The resort has been hard at work at sustainability too, and is part of the Kumarakom responsible tourism initiatives. Wake up to the sight of passing boats and the resort’s own rare breed “lawnmowers” (aka cows). There’s also a renowned Ayurveda centre on property.

Find more info and book Coconut Lagoon here .

Getting to and from Kumarakom

One way to reach Kumarakom is by boat, there is a ferry service to Muhamma on the other side of Lake Vembanand, near Marari beach. Services are not that regular though, so you may find taxi / private transfer is the easiest way to get here. There is no train station or direct buses to Kumarakom. 

Kollam (formerly known as Quillon) is another quiet alternative for exploring Kerala’s backwaters, this time from the southern end, and it’s also a colourful former fishing town set on the Arabian sea. It’s a great place to get off Kerala’s beaten tourist path for a couple of days if you want something a bit different. Outside our guesthouse, we didn’t see any other foreigners during the three days we spent here. 

Things to do in Kollam

Ashtamudi Lake –  Away from from the beach and on the other side of Kollam lies Ashtamudi lake, which forms the southern end of Kerala’s backwaters. The lake offers opportunities for boat trips to Monroe island in the lake and exploring village life – there are fishing villages dotted around the lake. The government run boat trips are cheaper than the same itinerary offered by private companies. There’s also a ferry that goes all the way to Alleppey from Kollam. 

Beach & Tangasseri Lighthouse –  head a little south of the centre of Kollam and there’s a beach (nothing spectacular) and a pretty fishing harbour filled with colourful boats. Tangasseri lighthouse, standing tall in red and white stripes is a good lookout point across the town and out to sea – climb up the stairs for your daily dose of cardio. A visit just before sunset provides the best light. 

Where to Stay in Kollam

We struck gold with our choice of Ashtamudi Villas, a small and peaceful retreat with about eight bungalows on the banks of Ashtamudi lake. The resort is largely eco-friendly, with a focus on using natural materials and reducing waste, and it is the perfect spot for lounging in the gardens in a hammock and just reading a book while fishermen pass in their dug out canoes just a few meters away. Mr Joseph, the owner, also runs boat trips to small channels and villages around the lake. 

Find more info and book Ashtamudi Villas here .  

In the south of Kerala along the Arabian sea, Varkala is fast becoming the new hippie destination of south India – some would say the next Goa. Set atop cliffs, Varkala is the place for sunsets, yoga, ayurveda and perfect turmeric lattes. We didn’t make it to Varkala, but given the number of people who told us we should go, we thought we’d include it in this guide! If you have tips to add, let us know in the comments section below. Alcohol is officially not permitted in Varkala, although you may find some places serving it. Seeing as tourism in Varkala is booming, so is a problem with plastic waste and (over) development. Please do your bit by avoiding plastic bottles wherever possible. 

Need a bit more help with your Kerala trip? We recommend G Adventures Tours. Find out more here!

Things to do in Varkala

The Beach –  we’ll start with the obvious, many come to Varkala to sit back and enjoy some sun, sea and sand. Varkala’s beach is set below cliffs – beaches become quieter and cleaner if you venture further north or south from town. Do watch out for currents and big waves while swimming as the waters here are known to be treacherous. 

Take to the Waves –  Surfing outfit Soul & Surf (who we loved during our visit to Sri Lanka ) offer surfing retreats, courses and lessons combined with yoga, massage and music. They work to minimise their impact and work with as many locals as possible. Their base in Varkala is at the top of the cliff, with prime view out to the ocean. More info here . 

Anjengo Fort & Lighthouse –  Sometimes spelt as Anchuthengu, 10km south of Varkala, this fort was built in 1696 as the first Malabar stronghold for the British East India company. Climb up the nearby lighthouse for views down onto the fort and coastline. 

Eat and Juice your way around town –  Varkala is full of trendy juice bars and organic cafes (the wifi may or not work), perfect for reading a book or a day away from the beach. 

Take time for yourself  with a yoga or ayurveda retreat – Ayurveda and Yoga options about in Varkala and there are many to choose from. Some offer one off treatments whereas others offer week+ long detox programs. Book Ayurveda and Yoga retreats in Varkala here . 

Where to Stay in Varkala

Puccini Lala Eco resort has an art cafe and eco friendly mud rooms, and is a conscious / sustainable living concept. They also offer healing and cooking classes. 

More info and book Puccini Lala here . 

The Bohemian Masala is an alternative eco retreat that has been built as handcrafted tribal herbal cottages – using a mixture of mud and traditional ayurvedic herbs that are sure to provide a restful and healing night’s sleep. The huts are set in gardens filled with hammocks and quiet spots for reading and relaxation. 

More info and book Bohemian Masala here . 

Getting to and from Varkala

The best way to reach and leave Varkala is by train; trains leave for Kollam, Alleppey and Ernakulam to the north, and to Trivandrum to the south (which has regular connections). There are also buses to Trivandrum and Kollam. 

Have you been to Kerala or are you adding it to your “ bucket list”? Let us know about your Kerala experiences in the comments below. 

Soul Travel India

Passionate about all things India travel - journeys of transformation and discovery, local experiences, and getting under the skin of India.

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KERALA SCAPES

Top 10 Must-Visit Tourist Destinations in Kerala

Kerala, often nicknamed “God’s Own Country,” is a beautiful state located in the southern part of India. It is known for its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and tranquil backwaters. Kerala offers a wide range of experiences that attract visitors from all over the world, from pristine beaches to misty hill stations and lush green forests. In this article, we will explore the top 10 must-visit tourist destinations in Kerala that will leave you spellbound by their beauty and charm.

Munnar – The Enchanting Hill Station

Munnar, situated at an altitude of 1600 meters above sea level, is a nature lover’s paradise. It is surrounded by rolling hills, vast tea plantations, and misty valleys, providing a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, is a major attraction here. The Top Station and the enchanting Mattupetty Dam offer breathtaking views.

Alleppey – Experience the Backwater Magic

Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a well-known tourist destination in India. It is famous for its tranquil backwaters, swaying palm trees, and houseboat cruises. Exploring the backwaters on a traditional houseboat is an unforgettable experience. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race, held annually, is a must-see spectacle. Alleppey also has pristine beaches like Marari Beach, where you can relax and soak up the sun.

Kochi – Embracing the Cultural Melting Pot

Kochi, also known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” is a vibrant city that is a melting pot of cultures, including Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. The Fort Kochi area is decorated with colonial-era buildings, Chinese fishing nets, and charming cafes. The Mattancherry Palace, Jewish Synagogue, and St. Francis Church, each with its own unique historical significance, are worth exploring.

Wayanad – Nature’s Abode

Wayanad is a nature lover’s paradise, overflowing with lush forests, verdant landscapes, and cascading waterfalls. This hill district provides the perfect mix of adventure and serenity. Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, and Banasura Sagar Dam are among the must-see attractions. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to explore Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and encounter exotic species.

Kovalam – Sun, Sand, and Serenity

Kovalam is a popular beach destination in Kerala that attracts beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The crescent-shaped Kovalam Beach is divided into three parts, each offering a relaxed atmosphere for visitors to unwind and enjoy the stunning sunsets. Lighthouse Beach and Hawah Beach are the main attractions here. Ayurvedic massages and yoga retreats are also popular in Kovalam.

Thekkady – A Wildlife Sanctuary Extraordinaire

Thekkady, located in the Western Ghats, is home to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, which offers a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to see elephants, tigers, and other exotic animals in their natural habitat. The Periyar Lake boat cruise is a delightful experience that allows visitors to observe wildlife up close. The spice plantations in Thekkady are a feast for the senses.

Varkala – Where Spirituality Meets the Sea

Varkala is a coastal town in India that is known for its unique cliffs that overlook the Arabian Sea. The Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is believed to have the power to wash away sins. The Janardanaswamy Temple and Sivagiri Mutt are two prominent spiritual landmarks in the town. Varkala is a popular destination for relaxation, thanks to its laid-back atmosphere, beachside shacks, and refreshing Ayurvedic massages.

Athirapally Waterfalls – Nature’s Spectacle

The magnificent Athirapally Falls, frequently known as the “Niagara of India,” is a stunning sight to see. Surrounded by lush greenery and located on the Chalakudy River, this cascading waterfall is a haven for nature photographers and adventure seekers. It is a perfect location for picnics and trekking in the pristine forests.

Poovar – Where River, Lake, and Sea Converge

Poovar, a hidden gem in Kerala, is where the Neyyar River, backwaters, and Arabian Sea meet in harmony. The tranquil Poovar Beach, the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and the floating cottages in the backwaters are all unique attractions. Take a boat trip to see the region’s diverse biodiversity and migratory birds.

Bekal – A Fort with a View

Bekal is famous for its 17th-century Bekal Fort, which offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. This coastal town is steeped in history and has the largest fort in Kerala. Explore the fort’s hidden passages and admire the ancient architecture. Bekal Beach and nearby Pallikere Beach are ideal for peaceful retreats. Kerala is a land of many wonders, offering a wide variety of experiences for all kinds of travelers. Whether you love peaceful boat rides on the backwaters, thrilling adventures, or exploring historical places, Kerala has something special for you. Explore the top 10 must-visit destinations in this enchanting state and be captivated by its natural beauty and rich culture. Plan your trip carefully, and you’ll create memories that you’ll cherish forever. Kerala is truly a magical place waiting to be discovered!

Frequently Asked Questions on Alappuzha

What is kerala known for.

Kerala, often nicknamed “God’s Own Country,” is known for its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and tranquil backwaters. It offers a wide range of experiences, from pristine beaches to misty hill stations and lush green forests.

What are the top 10 tourist destinations in Kerala?

The top 10 must-visit tourist destinations in Kerala are Munnar, Alleppey, Kochi, Wayanad, Kovalam, Thekkady, Varkala, Athirapally Waterfalls, Poovar, and Bekal. Each destination offers unique attractions and experiences for visitors to explore.

What makes Munnar a popular tourist destination?

Munnar is a nature lover’s paradise with rolling hills, vast tea plantations, and misty valleys. The Eravikulam National Park, Top Station, and Mattupetty Dam are some of the major attractions that offer breathtaking views and a refreshing break from city life.

What is the charm of Alleppey?

Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is famous for its tranquil backwaters, swaying palm trees, and houseboat cruises. Exploring the backwaters on a traditional houseboat is an unforgettable experience. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race and Marari Beach are some of the must-visit attractions here.

What cultural experiences await in Kochi?

Kochi, also known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” is a vibrant city with a blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Jewish Synagogue, and St. Francis Church are some of the historical landmarks worth exploring.

What makes Wayanad a nature lover’s paradise?

Wayanad is overflowing with lush forests, verdant landscapes, and cascading waterfalls. Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary are some of the must-see attractions that offer adventure and serenity in abundance.

What awaits visitors in Kovalam?

Kovalam is a popular beach destination that offers relaxation, stunning sunsets, and water sports opportunities. Kovalam Beach, Lighthouse Beach, and Hawah Beach are the main attractions, and Ayurvedic massages and yoga retreats are also popular here.

What wildlife experiences can be found in Thekkady?

Thekkady, located in the Western Ghats, is home to the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Visitors can experience wildlife up close through the Periyar Lake boat cruise and explore the region’s diverse biodiversity and spice plantations.

What spiritual experiences await in Varkala?

Varkala is known for its unique cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea. The Varkala Beach, Janardanaswamy Temple, and Sivagiri Mutt are prominent spiritual landmarks. Visitors can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, beachside shacks, and refreshing Ayurvedic massages in Varkala.

What makes Athirapally Waterfalls a nature spectacle?

Athirapally Waterfalls, often called the “Niagara of India,” is a magnificent sight surrounded by lush greenery. Located on the Chalakudy River, the cascading waterfall is a haven for nature photographers and adventure seekers.

What makes Poovar unique?

Poovar is a hidden gem in Kerala where the Neyyar River, backwaters, and Arabian Sea converge harmoniously. The tranquil Poovar Beach, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and floating cottages in the backwaters offer unique attractions for visitors to explore biodiversity and migratory birds.

What awaits visitors in Bekal?

Bekal is famous for its 17th-century Bekal Fort, which offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. This coastal town has the largest fort in Kerala, with hidden passages and ancient architecture to explore. Bekal Beach and Pallikere Beach are ideal for peaceful retreats.

Stay tuned to Kerala Scapes for more interesting articles on Malayali Personalities.

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5 reasons why Kerala deserves a place on every India itinerary

Locals call Kerala “God’s own country” for a reason. Down in India’s most southern state, tranquil backwaters give way to vibrant rainforests and tropical jungles, bursting with spice plantations and wildlife.

It’s a magical little paradise away from everything the usual set of guidebooks often associate with India and the north of the country.

Like many people travelling to India with a full-time job, I really had to pick and choose where I went to get the most out of a fairly short trip. Kerala was on my travel itinerary from the start, and here’s five reasons why it should be on yours too.

It’s completely unique to the rest of India

Tourist epicenters like Delhi and Jaipur often feel crowded and hectic, yet incredible in their own way. But they aren’t all that India has to offer. Taking a flight from India’s capital down to the state of Kerala only takes a few hours, but it truly feels like a night and day transition. Relaxation practically oozes out of the warm, tropical air, where the pace of life is slower and calmer.

Kochi is diverse in every sense, even down to the various religions practiced in India’s most southern state. In Fort Kochi (a must on your travel itinerary) you can see a Hindu Temple, a Church and a Synagogue all practically on the same street, all the while hearing a Muslim call to prayer from a nearby Mosque. You can also find traditional Chinese fishing nets and 16 th- century Portuguese houses from the colonial era, all adding to the cultural melting pot that is Kochi today.

Three must-visit places in Kerala, according to one of Intrepid’s amazing local leaders in India, Sana Jinah :

I recommend Kochi, Munnar and Varkala. Kochi for the history. Munnar for the peaceful vibes, mountains and tea plantations. And Varkala for amazing views of the sea from the cliff – it’s the only beach in India which is next to a cliff!

READ MORE: 5 GREAT DESTINATIONS FOR SOLO TRAVEL IN INDIA

Kerala is one of the best places on Earth to see animals in their natural habitat

Let’s face it, ethical tourism is a huge concern wherever you are in the world – and wherever you are, the only way to see truly animals with a truly clear conscience is in their natural habitat. You can find that here. Within Kerala’s emerald green mountain ranges is the spectacular Periyar National Park, nearly 1,000 square kilometers of jungle, trekking paths and lakes that is bursting with wildlife.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

“Lock your balcony to keep out naughty monkeys”, read a sign in my hotel room in the nearby town of Kumily. I thought this was just a joke until I heard the excitable chattering of a troop of monkeys on the roof, making their ways to the trees using my balcony as a shortcut. You’ll find the common Indian monkey everywhere in the small towns surrounding Periyar, but the park itself is home to many more species – including the illusive black monkey, recognizable from its golden brown or gingery mane.

Monkey business aside, Periyar is best known as a tiger reserve and one of the few places you can see Bengal tigers outside of captivity. Visit during the month of April to maximize the chance of seeing one.  Don’t worry about tiger attacks though – secure campsites are built into a deep tiger-proof trench.

I turned up at Periyar National Park woefully out of season in the depths of the monsoon and still managed to see black monkeys, water buffalo and the briefest glimpse of a figure running ahead of us – which my guide later said was a jaguar. Plan ahead and if you’re lucky you’ll see a tiger or an elephant in the way that nature intended.

VISIT PERIYAR NATIONAL PARK ON THIS 15-DAY ADVENTURE THROUGH SOUTHERN INDIA

The landscape is dreamy

Wake up on one of the long wooden houseboats that glide along the tranquil Kerala backwaters and you’ll think you’ve arrived in paradise. Much of Kerala’s appeal is its dramatic diversity, the way in which the low-lying tropical beaches and lakes meet the towering hills and tea plantations of the Western Ghats.

An Intrepid group trekking in the Kerala backwaters

The main reason many travellers come to Kerala is, of course, to experience the famous backwaters. Essentially the backwaters are a complex chain of lakes and lagoons leading inland from the Malabar Coast. After a long few months travelling or a stressful period at work, I can’t think of anywhere else in the world I’d rather be.

Once used for transporting rice and spices around the state, the long wooden houseboats are now mostly for tourists – some even have onboard Jacuzzis and personal chefs. You can spend a few days traversing the maze of backwaters, or just a day as I did. Either way it will be an unforgettable experience.

VISIT THE BACKWATERS OF KERALA ON THIS 15-DAY SOUTH INDIA TOUR

Travel away from the coast for a few hours and you could be in a totally different country, given the steep change in scenery. I stayed in the aptly named Cardamom Hills, where the sweet and dreamlike scent of its namesake permeates the air. The idyllic growing conditions mean you’re likely to spot (or more likely smell) coffee, pepper or tea plantations on your ascent up the hills.

You’ll have the best meal of your life, three times a day

The real star of the show is the Kerala-style dosa, a paper-thin crepe about the length of your arm that can be loaded with coconut chutney, masala potatoes and a sour lentil and tamarind broth known as Sambar. This is traditionally served for breakfast, but you can find it all day long in one of Kerala’s many restaurants and homesteads. Kerala’s close connection to the Arabian Sea means that fresh fish is never off the menu. Try it fried up and served on a banana leaf with that omnipresent coconut chutney.

READ MORE: A MUST-READ FOODIE’S GUIDE TO SOUTH INDIA

It’s not just the food that makes Kerala unique. Where else in the world can you turn up at a tea factory, gaze across at the fields where the tea leaves were grown and drink the freshest cup of your life?

Lose yourself in a yoga retreat

Kerala is the spiritual home of Ayurveda, one of the world’s best-known forms of alternative medicine, which puts a heavy focus on yoga and meditation. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or don’t know your dharma from your downward dog, there’s something for you.

The infectiously good vibes in India’s most Southern state mean you’ll probably be in a state of relaxation from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, and there’s no better way to take advantage of that than yoga.

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Spiritual people travel from all over the world to Kerala’s Ayurveda academies to learn about the practice, most notably to the schools in Ernakulam (just outside Kochi) and in Kollam to the south. If that’s not your bag, you can take in the lifestyle for just a few days in one of the tranquil yoga retreats tucked away in the Western Ghats.

They say the monsoon season is the best time to practise yoga. Just as the short bursts of heavy rain are nature’s way of revitalising the land, being here at this time can have a totally cleansing effect on your body.

That’s more than just a holiday.

Ready to visit this incredibly stunning part of the world? Check out Intrepid’s wide range of trips in India.

(Image credits from top to bottom: Intrepid Travel x2, iStock/g01xm, Intrepid Travel, Jack Cummings x2.)

Feeling inspired?

Jack Cummings

Works in social media at VICE in London and has written for a bunch of UK newspapers. Jack finally ticked off his top bucket list destination of India last year, traveling around the North and South of the country. He wants to get back out there as soon as possible.

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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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Tourist Places in Kerala

Here are the top 61 places to visit in kerala in 2024:.

1 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 52 Tourist attractions

Famous for the tea estates, greenery, winding roads, blanket of mist, and viewpoints, Munnar is a hill station in Kerala, located in the Idukki district. Lying in the Western Ghats at 1600 metres, it is one of the most sought after and visited travel destinations globally, especially popular amongst...

Best Time: September to May

2 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 57 Tourist attractions

Lying on the Malabar coast in the southwest of India, Kochi or Cochin is a port city with a trading history that dates back to at least 600 years. Known popularly as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, the city is also Kerala's financial, commercial, and industrial capital. Exuding an old-world charm with...

Best Time: July to April

3. Alleppey

3 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 40 Tourist attractions

Officially called Alappuzha, Alleppey is known for its network of canals and lagoons with beautiful backwaters and the houseboats offering overnight stays. Located in the southern part of Kerala, the coastline of Alleppey offers some of the best beaches with water sports during the dry sea...

Best Time: June to March

4 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 38 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Wayanad in Kerala is famous for its spice plantations and wildlife. Situated at an altitude ranging from 700 to 2100 meters above sea level, this picturesque region is blessed with verdant forests, mist-covered hills, and glistening waterfalls, making it ...

Best Time: Throughout the year

Kerala Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Kerala Munnar Tour Package with Thekkady

Kerala Trip with Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Best 4 days trip in india: houseboat stay, exclusive kerala package tour with kanyakumari, kochi, alleppey, varkala trivandrum tour package, best kerala tour packages for family.

5 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 26 Tourist attractions

Varkala is a coastal town in the southern part of Kerala known for the unique 15m high 'Northern Cliff' adjacent to the Arabian Sea. Located approximately 50 kilometers north of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), the capital city of Kerala, Varkala offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, s...

Best Time: October to February

6. Kumarakom

6 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 18 Tourist attractions

With emerald green waters flanked by lush vegetation, Kumarakom is an enchanting backwater destination situated 16km away from Kottayam in Kerala. Lying on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kerala's largest lake, Kumarakom is a cluster of small human-made islands reclaimed from the lake. This picturesque ...

Best Time: October - February

7. Kumbalangi

7 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala

Kumbalangi is India’s first model ecotourism village located around 12 km from Kochi in Kerala. Offering an immersive glimpse into the serene beauty of Kerala’s rural life,  Kumbalangi is surrounded by mangrove-lined backwaters with traditional Chinese fishing nets, and sprawling...

Best Time: September - April

8 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 17 Tourist attractions

Vagamon, also known as Wagamon, is a tranquil hill station nestled near the border of Kottayam and Idukki districts in Kerala. Offering a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, Vagamon boasts meandering rivulets, verdant hills, tea gardens, pine forests, and captivating waterfalls, ...

Best Time: October - March

9 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 33 Tourist attractions

Famous for its resorts and ayurvedic massage centres, Kovalam is a coastal town located around 13 km from Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. The largest beach in Kovalam is the lighthouse beach that features a 30-metre tall lighthouse. The other two adjacent beaches are Samudra beach and Hawa beach....

Best Time: September to March

10. Periyar National Park

10 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala

The Periyar National Park in Thekkady, Kerala, is one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world and the best-protected reserve area that one can lay eyes on in India. Famous for its gorgeousness, greenery and stillness, the park is the dwelling place of abundant significant species, including the...

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11 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 38 Tourist attractions

Nestled amidst the lush Western Ghats of Kerala, Idukki is a captivating destination renowned for its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and abundant natural resources. Situated approximately 140 kilometers from Kochi, Idukki offers a refreshing escape into the lap of nature, making it an ideal destin...

12. Kozhikode

12 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 44 Tourist attractions

Formerly known as Calicut, Kozhikode is located in Kerala. It was the Capital of Malabar during the Zamorin rule 500 years ago and is famous for its centuries-old trade in cotton and spices with Jews, Arabs, Phoenicians and Chinese. Basking in the idyllic setting of the serene Arabian Sea on th...

Best Time: October to March

13 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 9 Tourist attractions

Poovar, nestled in the southern tip of Kerala, India, is a charming coastal village renowned for its natural beauty and serene ambiance. Situated about 30 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), the capital city of Kerala, Poovar offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban ...

Best Time: August to March

14. Sabarimala

14 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 6 Tourist attractions

More than 30 million pilgrims visit the temple in Sabarimala annually, making it the largest in India and second largest in the world, after Hajj Pilgrimage of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Located inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve, in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, Sabarimala is a temple town on th...

Best Time: September to Apr

15. Vythiri

15 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 5 Tourist attractions

62 kms off Kozhikode is Vythiri, a popular resort town famous for its old world charm of cottages, log huts & tree house accommodations cosily nestled in the forests of Wayanad. Situated at an altitude of 700 metres, Vythiri in Wayanad comprises of 18 villages.

Best Time: October to Apr

16. Thekkady

16 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 24 Tourist attractions

Home to the country's largest Tiger Reserve- Periyar, Thekkady is an important tourist destination in Kerala. Periyar National Park, a major attraction, is where you can enjoy bamboo rafting in the catchment area of Mullaiperiyar Dam. Travelers can also experience night treks in the wilderness of Pe...

17 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 12 Tourist attractions

Located on the west of the Malabar coastline, Bekal is a small town in the Kasargod district of Kerala. It is famous for its beaches, backwaters, forts and some tourists spots. Bekal is home to the largest fortress in Kerala. It's one of the primary landmarks of Kasargod district.

18. Thrissur

18 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 40 Tourist attractions

Located in the heart of Kerala, Thrissur is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, colorful festivals, and historical significance. Situated about 80 kilometers north of Kochi, Thrissur is often referred to as the "Cultural Capital of Kerala" due to its prominent role in preserving and...

Best Time: October - February; April, May

19. Palakkad

19 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 28 Tourist attractions

The quaint town of Palakkad in central Kerala boasts of picturesque landscape, tranquil scenery and clear backwaters. Also known as Palghat, Pallakad is located near a wide low pass in the Western Ghats mountain ranges. Palakkad is the land of Palmyras and Paddy Fields and is famous as the chief gra...

Best Time: July to March

20. Thalassery

20 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 17 Tourist attractions

Fondly known as Tellichery, Thalassery is a coastal town of Kerala nestled at the shore of Arabian Sea and immersed in the vibrant culture. Steeped in rich history and heritage, this town was one of the earliest British settlements in the state. Thalassery owns several credits in its basket whe...

Best Tourist Attractions in Kerala

Echo Point, Munnar

Atukkad Waterfalls

Rose Garden Munnar

Kovalam Beach

Alleppey Backwaters

Photo Point

21. Nelliyampathy

21 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 14 Tourist attractions

With plenty of unexplored treasures, Nelliyampathy is a hill station located near the Kerala and Tamil Nadu border offering bounty of nature and lush green surroundings of tea, coffee and cardamom plantations. The town is also ornamented with a variety of flora, fauna and picturesque tourist attract...

22. Nilambur

22 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 12 Tourist attractions

Enriched with raw nature, a unique blend of culture, exquisite art forms and shadows of colonial rule, Nilambur is located in Malappuram District of Kerala. Nestled at the bank of Chaliyar River in proximity to Nilgiri Range, this small town is popularly known as 'Land of Teak Plantations'.

23. Ponmudi

23 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 5 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the lap of rolling hills of the Western Ghats, enveloped with tea plantations, lush green hills and valleys, waterfalls and streams; Ponmudi is a quaint little town in Trivandrum, Kerala. Trekking and mountain climbing on Agasthayarkoodam, the highest peak in the region is the most popula...

Best Time: November to May

24. Trivandrum

24 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 28 Tourist attractions

The capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandrum, is an appealing blend of a strongly rooted heritage and a nostalgic colonial legacy. Built upon seven hills, this city has long since left the days when it was only used by seafaring explorers behind - today, Trivandrum is an expensive me...

25. Kalpetta

25 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 20 Tourist attractions

Kalpetta is a quaint town with a backdrop of majestic hills lurking in the shadows, lush green surroundings, fresh air and picturesque beauty. Housed in the Wayanad District of Kerala, at a height of 780 m above the sea level, Kalpetta is a perfect place for nature lovers as well as honeymooners.

26 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 41 Tourist attractions

A treasure trove of natural wonders and historical edifices, Kollam is an enchanting town with backwaters and picturesque landscapes. Located 70kms away from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Kollam is a commercial centre and home to India’s cashew producing industry. Popularly known as Quilon, it is ofte...

Best Time: September to February

27. Peerumedu

27 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 8 Tourist attractions

Blessed with lots of green cover, beautiful rolling hills, wandering streams and gurgling waterfalls; Peermede is a small bewitching hill station of Kerala, pure and pristine. Perched at an altitude of 915 m above the sea level, the town has many hidden treasure troves waiting to be uncovered.

Best Time: April to June, September to November

28. Guruvayur

28 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 12 Tourist attractions

Guruvayur, situated in the Thrissur district of Kerala, is a revered pilgrimage destination renowned for its historic Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple. Located approximately 29 kilometers from Thrissur city, this sacred town holds immense significance for Hindu devotees, particularly those worshipping L...

29. Malampuzha

29 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 8 Tourist attractions

Malampuzha in Palakkad district a place with rich lush green vegetation popular for its scenic beauty as well as the dams and exotic wildlife that it offers as tourist attractions.

Best Time: August to April

30 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 29 Tourist attractions

Located on the Malabar Coast of Kerala, Kannur (fondly known as Cannanore), is a beautiful city bundled with a plethora of sightseeing options like beaches, monuments, ancient temples and picnic spots.

31. Kasaragod

31 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 29 Tourist attractions

Kasargod is a small coastal town in Northern Pary of Kerala displaying a delightful blend of various religions, culture and bounty of nature. Blessed with majestic forts, lofty hills, beautiful offbeat backwaters, temples and pristine beaches, the town oozes charm and tranquillity from every aspect....

Best Time: September to January

32. Thenmala

32 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 7 Tourist attractions

Snuggled between the dense woods of Western Ghats, Thenmala is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in Kollam, Kerala. With winding roads, dotted with rubber and tea plantations, Thenmala boasts of being the first planned ecotourism spot in India. Spread over acres of dense timber trees, the name '...

Best Time: December to February

33. Kottayam

33 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 31 Tourist attractions

An ancient town located on a hilltop bordered by the western ghats on the east and the thrilling Vembanad Lake on the west, Kottayam is a culturally rich and naturally enchanting destination. Apart from nature's bounty, the town has many laurels to its name. It is a proud town to achieve 100% litera...

34. Silent Valley National Park

34 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala

The Silent Valley National Park, with its lush green forests and beautiful views of the rich flora and fauna, is a popular destination for nature as well as wildlife lovers all across the globe. Spread across an area of 89 square kilometres, the Silent Valley National Park is located in the Kundali ...

35 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 5 Tourist attractions

Separating Kerala and Tamil Nadu, this quaint little town is best known for its plantation walks, diverse wildlife, boating and trekking and its Ayurvedic massages. Expansive spice gardens enthral tourists. One must also visit the Kalari Centre where performers perform the unique martial arts f...

36. Ponnani

36 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 10 Tourist attractions

A small beach town located in the Malappuram District of Kerala is mainly renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches. Flanked by the Arabian Sea on the west, Ponnani is also referred to as small 'Mecca' of South India. It is dotted with several Muslim institutions, Jama Masjid, established in 925,&nbs...

37. Pathanamthitta

37 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 16 Tourist attractions

Pathanamthitta, in southern Kerala, is a town immersed in spirituality and mysticism. Blessed with several ancient temples, it is renowned as headquarters of pilgrimage in Kerala as Sabarimala is situated in the Pathanamthitta district. It is a land of untouched beauty with pristine rivers, lofty mo...

38. Ernakulam

38 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 16 Tourist attractions

Ernakulam is the central district in Kerala and is home to its financial and industrial capital, Kochi. The district is considered as the economic and political hub of Kerala. The Cochin Stock Exchange, Kerala Municipal Corporation and Kerala High Court also fall within this district. While it is th...

39. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

39 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 2 Tourist attractions

Located near Kothamangalam in Ernakulam on the northern bank of Periyar River, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is famous for its rich and varied birdlife. It is the first Bird Sanctuary in Kerala that was surveyed by Dr Salim Ali (the birdman of India), who also called it the richest habitat he has ever se...

40. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

40 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala

Known to be the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Wayanad, the area is home to a large variety of wild animals. This sanctuary is a part of the Nilgiri Bioreserve along with Nagarhole and Bandipur area of Karnataka. Promising an endearing view with plenty of experiences, the sanctuary has been de...

Best Time: October to May

41. Malappuram

41 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 21 Tourist attractions

Enclosed by the Nilgiris in the east and the Arabian Sea on the west, Malappuram is a prominent district in Kerala which is commonly known as "the land on the hilltop." With ancient monuments, natural spectacles, and the meandering rivers, Malappuram is a blend of history and heritage. Home to ...

42. Devikulam

42 out of 61 Places to visit in Kerala 4 Tourist attractions

A lake with a legend of its own, greenest sceneries, waterfalls and tea plantations are what offer its charm to Devikulam, a hill station in Kerala. This quaint little hill-station located at an altitude 1800 m above sea level is best known for its mythical Sita Devi Lake, rolling hills, waterf...

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Tourist Places to Visit for 5 Days in Kerala India

The state of Kerala in India is known by its moniker of ‘God’s Own Country’. After spending 5 days in Kerala, it’s not hard to see why. The state is filled with stunning natural beauty from tranquil backwaters to verdant tea plantations and tropical beaches. A confluence of religions also coexists in Kerala, including Christians, Hindus, Muslims and Jains. This Kerala itinerary covers the best places to visit in Kerala in 5 days.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link, I may make a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Kerala Itinerary Overview

Best time to visit kerala.

The best time to visit Kerala is in the winter from October to March. Don’t let the ‘winter’ label fool you, as the weather during this season is pleasant, hot but not humid and outside the main monsoon season.

Kerala’s weather gets rather hot and humid in April and May, and then turns monsoonal from June to September. We visited in January, when the weather was hot and dry, but not wet or humid. In other words, just perfect!

Getting Around Kerala

Once you’re on the ground, it’s super easy to get around Kerala. While you can hire a private driver for the duration of your trip, there’s actually no need at all to book transport in advance. Rather, your accommodation will be able to hook you up with transport to your next location, with very reasonable rates for private drivers or taxis.

Kerala 5 Day Itinerary

In 5 days in Kerala, you’ll comfortably have time to visit Fort Kochi (1 night), stay on a houseboat in the Kerala backwaters (2 nights), and visit either the inland hill country (and tea plantations) or the coastal beach (1 night). We opted for the hill country, as we feel it’s more unique to the region and we can take beach holidays many places around Asia.

If you really want to pack in everything that Kerala has to offer, then adjust this Kerala 5 day itinerary to spend 1 night in Fort Kochi, 1 night on a houseboat, 1 night in Munnar for the tea plantations and 1 night at the beach. Disclaimer: This will be pretty rushed and will involve a lot of driving.

Even better, extend your Kerala itinerary and spend an additional night or two at each location. Kerala is a beautiful and relaxing place, and I could easily have spent a few extra days whiling away life on a houseboat. And don’t forget to factor transfer times into your itinerary – the roads can be slow, narrow and windy. Read on for a more detailed breakdown of your perfect 5 day Kerala itinerary.

Day 1: Fort Kochi

Start your Kerala trip with a day exploring Fort Kochi, a charming historic beach town in central Kerala. Fort Kochi is famous for unique Chinese fishing nets that line the shores of the beach, and has a blend of Dutch, Portuguese and British colonial architecture. Fort Kochi is very compact, so is easy to explore in just one day.

How to Get to Fort Kochi

Kochi is the best place to start your Kerala itinerary, as Cochin Airport is the largest airport in Kerala. Cochin Airport is served by direct flights from many domestic and international locations.

The drive from Cochin Airport to Fort Kochi is around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. You can organise a pick up with your hotel in advance, or grab an airport taxi for around 1350 rupees / US$18.

Fort Kochi Itinerary

The very best things to do in Fort Kochi can be visited in one full day, although there’s certainly enough going on to keep you entertained for 2-3 days.

To make the most of a short time in Fort Kochi, I recommend starting your day with a tuk tuk tour of Fort Kochi . Tuk tuk tours typically cost a very reasonable US$15-20 per person for around 4 hours. The tours will take you to the best spots in Fort Kochi and nearby Mattancherry, including the Chinese fishing nets, spice markets and various temples, churches and palaces.

If you prefer to explore alone, spend the morning sightseeing in Fort Kochi on foot before it gets too hot. Visit the following spots:

Beach Front: Get started with a stroll along Fort Kochi beach and Mahatma Gandhi Beach. In between the beaches, stop to check out the 18th century Dutch Cemetery with over 100 tombs and the ruins of Fort Emmanuel.

Chinese Fishing Nets: Just past Mahatma Gandhi Beach, you’ll find the impressive (and rather massive!) Chinese fishing nets. The fishing nets were introduced to Kochi by Chinese explorers over 500 years ago. The cantilevered design means that the large nets can be operated by 4 to 6 local fishermen. It’s strangely mesmerising to watch the nets slowly bob up and down catching fish.

St Francis Church: St Francis Church is just a few minutes walk from the Chinese Fishing nets near River Road. It’s one of the oldest European Churches in India, and has a gorgeous faded facade with a small bell tower.

Santa Cruz Basilica: Continuing the church theme, Santa Cruz Basilica (photo above) is an utterly impressive basilica straight out of a fairytale. The basilica features towering white spires with intricate detailing, and gothic pastel interiors filled with murals, frescoes and ceiling paintings. The basilica is on Bastian St, around 5 minutes walk from St Francis Church.

Jew Town: Jump in a tuk tuk and head around 2.5km southeast to Jew Town, a historic Jewish area in Mattancherry. Wander around the local spice markets and antique shops, and put your bartering skills to the test! Don’t miss the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest remaining synagogue in the British Commonwealth dating back to 1568.

Mattancherry Palace: If you have time, visit Mattancherry Palace just five minutes walk from Jew Town. Mattancherry Palace is a large palace with a mix of Kerala and colonial styles, which is also known as the Dutch Palace.

Depending on your start time and pace, the tuk tuk tour or independent sightseeing should take you through to lunchtime or early afternoon. In the afternoon, why not take it down a notch and relax. (You are on holiday after all!)

Have a lazy lunch at one of the upscale hotels along the waterfront, such as Brunton Boatyard (which I loved) or Fort House Hotel. After lunch, meander through the historic colonial streets of Fort Kochi which are packed with shops, cafes and art galleries, including cute Princess St. Afternoons in Fort Kochi can get pipping hot and humid, so finish your day with a relaxing swim and cocktail at the hotel pool.

Fort Kochi Accommodation

Fort Kochi has a wide range of hotels to suit every budget and taste.

Luxury ($$$): If you have cash to splash, then you can’t go past the gorgeous colonial hotels in Fort Kochi. We adored the lovely Forte Kochi Hotel  (photo above), a beautifully restored colonial hotel in the heart of Fort Kochi with a great swimming pool. If you prefer to be on the waterfront, check out Brunton Boatyard where we loved the restaurant with harbour views.

Check Forte Kochi Rates:   Booking.com  |  Agoda

Check Brunton Boatyard Rates: Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-range ($$): For a mid-range hotel right on the Fort Kochi harbour, check out Fragrant Nature Fort Kochi . The hotel boasts a pool, multiple restaurants and harbour views.

Check Fragrant Nature Rates: Booking.com | Agoda

Budget ($): When I was debating whether go el-budgo in Kerala, I was tempted by the Coconut Grove Homestay , a really reasonably priced and well reviewed homestay in Fort Kochi. Tossing up between a luxury Kochi hotel and a luxury Kerala houseboat? I recommend saving your pennies for the houseboat as you’ll be spending much more time on the houseboat than in your hotel!

Check Coconut Grove Homestay Rates: Booking.com | Agoda

Days 2 and 3: Kerala Houseboat

Staying on a houseboat and cruising around the tranquil backwaters is probably the quintessential Kerala bucket list activity. It is bound to be one of the most relaxing holidays you’ll ever take, as there’s literally nothing to do other than chill out on the boat’s deck and watch the incredible natural beauty of the backwaters.

The Kerala backwaters are a network of around 900km of waterways made up of interconnected lakes, canals, rivers and lagoons, surrounded by lush rice fields and small villages. Houseboats float along the beautiful waterways, docking up for meals and overnight stays.

How to Get to Kerala Houseboats

The main area where houseboats depart from is Alleppey (also known as Alapphuzha), around 60km south of Fort Kochi or 80km south of Cochin Airport. The roads are a little slow, so expect the drive from Fort Kochi to Alleppey to take around 1.5 to 2 hours.

The easiest way to get from Kochi to Alleppey to join your houseboat is to ask your hotel to organise a transfer. Our Kochi hotel organised a transfer in one of the hotel’s super comfortable cars for 3500 rupees / US$45. If you’re travelling on a budget, you can get a taxi or transfer for as little as 1500 rupees $US20.

Kerala Houseboat Itinerary

I recommend staying on a Kerala houseboat for 2 nights. Why? The longer you spend on the houseboat, the further away from civilisation (read: other houseboats) you’ll get. If you only stay the day or one night on a houseboat, then you’ll spend a lot of time around the main lake area and nearby canals which are packed with houseboats and tend to have more rubbish. Plus, the houseboats need to be back at the main dock at around 9am, so a one night stay can feel quite short. However, if you’re easily bored and like to keep busy with activities on holidays, then one night might be enough for you.

A typical itinerary on a Kerala houseboat starts at around 12pm. After introductions and a welcome drink, you’ll putter along the lakes and canals for an hour or two before docking the boat at a beautiful spot for lunch. Meals on the houseboat can be quite an affair, with multiple delish curry and vege dishes, served with rice, bread and sauces. Houseboats do not serve alcohol, but will usually happily chill wine or beer for you if you want to bring your own along.

After lunch, you’ll set away again for an afternoon of cruising around the backwaters soaking up the incredible lush green scenery, and maybe stopping at a local village or going for a canoe ride. The boat will dock overnight at around 5:30pm (overnight cruising is not permitted) just before the sun goes down, which makes for the perfect time for a walk along the banks by the rice paddies before dinner.

On day 2, you’ll do it all over again, venturing even further into the backwaters. Make sure you stock up on books, movies, podcasts, games … whatever’s your jam to keep you entertained. Houseboats generally don’t have wifi, so download your choice of entertainment in advance. For those yearning to hark back to a simpler era, switch off the devices, and spend your time watching the world go by and reading books.

On day 3, you’ll head back to the Alleppey bright and early after breakfast. The boats arrive back in Alleppey at around 9am, ready for cleaning before the next lot of guests board.

Kerala Houseboat Accommodation

Kerala houseboats are made in a similar traditional style, called the ’Kettuvallam‘ with a thatched roof and simple design. Most houseboats have bedrooms and bathrooms down the hallway, and an open dining area / deck out the front, sometimes with an upper relaxation deck. The boats come in all sizes from private 2 people boats to large shared boats, and from budget to luxury.

There’s two main options to secure your houseboat. First, book one in advance online. Second (and most common), rock up to Alleppey, walk the docks and negotiate the rate and inclusions for your preferred boat.

While you can get great deals on the spot, I preferred to have a houseboat booked in advance as we only had five nights in Kerala and were visiting over a busy public holiday, so didn’t want to risk wasting time or missing out on a boat.

We opted for the luxury Xandari Riverscapes and honestly couldn’t have been happier. Yup, it’s a little more exxie price wise, but our private boat was spacious, clean and comfortable, with 3 dedicated staff, incredible fresh tasty food, and (my personal fav) a lounging deck up top for the ultimate in relaxation. We were even upgraded to a larger boat on arrival at no cost! I highly recommend snagging a top deck if you can, as otherwise you’ll be spending your time relaxing downstairs with the driver.

Check Xandari Riverscape Rates: Booking.com | Agoda

Days 4 and 5: Kerala Hill Country

For the final leg of your 5 day Kerala itinerary, choose between the verdant inland hill country or the tropical coastal beaches. In the hill country, you’ll find green every which way you look, with picturesque tea plantations and rubber plantations. The hill country is the perfect option for hikers.

How to Get to the Kerala Hill Country

In the Kerala hill country, most people visit the hill station Munnar which is nestled in amongst picturesque tea plantations. Munnar is around 150km northeast of Alleppey, or 4-5 hours drive (yup, those slow roads again!). If you’re finishing your Kerala trip by flying out of Cochin Airport, it will then take around 130km / 4 hours drive back from Munnar to the airport.

For us, this was a little too long on the road for just one night. We opted to stay roughly halfway between Kochi and Munnar at Windermere River House, in Inchathotty near the small town of Neriamangalam. While it’s not quite as beautiful as Munnar, the estate is set on a lovely river in a rubber plantation. The drive is around 125km / 3-3.5 hours from Alleppey to Windermere River House. It’s then another 56km / 1.5 hours from Windermere River House back to Cochin Airport.

Kerala Hill Country Itinerary

If you’re staying in Munnar, the area is all about the natural beauty of the great outdoors. If you only have one day in Munnar, take your pick from these breathtakingly beautiful activities:

Tea Plantations: Munnar is all about the beautiful tea plantations. You can visit a tea plantation, stroll through the green tea gardens, and see how tea is made at the tea factory.

Photo Point: As the name might suggest, Photo Point is a beautiful spot to take photographs, due to the tea plantations on both sides and mountain backdrop. Photo Point is around 3km from Munnar.

Echo Point: Around 15km past Photo Point, you’ll reach Echo Point. At Echo Point, you can hear your voice reverberate right back at you. As with most places in Munnar, the scenery is also pretty stunning!

Top Station Viewpoint: Drive for another 17km past Echo Point to reach Top Station, which offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats mountain range. Allow 1-1.5 hours for the return drive to Munnar.

Eravikulam National Park: For animal lovers, visit Eravikulam National Park around 8km north of Munnar. The highlight here is the rare but friendly Nilgiri Tahr.

Munnar Hiking: If you have longer than a day, take your time and hike to Top Station, wander through the tea plantations or venture on another Munnar hike .

If you decide to visit Windermere River House instead of Munnar, spend you days relaxing by the incredible infinity pool overlooking the river, cycle up the road, and talk a walk through the rubber plantation with the resident naturalist.

Kerala Hill Country Accommodation

Munnar & Surrounds

There’s a lot of gorgeous accommodation in and around Munnar. The main feature here is the spectacular scenery and not the towns, so there’s no need to stay anywhere particularly central. Depending on your budget, some good options are:

Luxury ($$$): For a remote luxury retreat, check out SpiceTree Munnar . The resort offers jacuzzi and spa suites and even a villa with a private pool. SpiceTree is in a cardamom plantation around 1 hour drive from Munnar, so is perfect for those looking for nature and solitude.

Check SpiceTree Rates: Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range ($$): Neelakurunji Luxury Plantation Bungalow is another great option nestled in a cardamom plantation. Choose from one of 10 lovely rooms in 4 bungalows.

Check Neelakurunji Bungalow Rates: Booking.com | Agoda

Budget ($): Okay, it may not exactly qualify as budget, but if you want relatively affordable accommodation surrounded by tea plantations, then a good option is Tea Valley Resort . The resort has a range of rooms and cottages with and without views, and is around 11km south of Munnar.

Check Tea Valley Rates: Booking.com | Agoda

Inchathotty

If you want to reduce driving time and don’t mind missing out on the tea plantations, then I can highly recommend the luxury Windermere River House (photo above).

Windermere River House is a gorgeous colonial bungalow perched on the Periyar River and surrounded by two acres of gardens. The rooms are grand and comfortable, with verandahs for relaxing. The local chef whips up Kerala style fare (no menu) in the open air restaurant, and the resident naturalist takes guests for walks to discover local flora and fauna, including the rather surreal and incredibly gorgeous Malabar Giant Squirrel. If you simply prefer to relax, chill out in the infinity pool overlooking the river.

Check Windermere River House Rates: Booking.com | Agoda

Kerala Itinerary Option or Extension: Kerala Beaches

If you prefer the beach to the countryside or have longer in your Kerala itinerary, then you may wish to visit the beautiful Kerala beaches instead or or in addition to the hill country. (You know, just in case you hadn’t done enough relaxing in Kerala yet.) The coast is lined with beaches, so find a spot at your favourite or spend your days beach hopping.

While there’s plenty of beaches to choose from in Kerala , the beaches most commonly featured on Kerala itineraries are Kovalam and Varkala.

Kovalam Beach is a busy beach with two pretty coves (Hawa and Lighthouse), with plenty of choices of restaurants. Kovalam is around 240km south of Cochin Airport (around 5.5 – 6 hours drive), or around 160km south of Alleppey (around 3.5 – 4 hours drive).

Want to stay in Kovalam? Check out Kovalam accommodation options .

Varkala Beach is a little more chilled than Kovalam, but still touristy with lots of beach activities and beach bars. Varkala is or around 200km south of Cochin Airport (around 4.5 – 5 hours drive) or around 120km south of Alleppey (around 2.5 – 3 hours drive).

Varkala more your style? Check out Varkala accommodation options .

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It is easy for you if you can visit for a 5 days trip to Kerala. Places to be covered Munnar, thekkady, alleppey and cochin beaches. Thanks for sharing all these wonderful information.

Kerala is major contribution in South India travels and exploration. Do keep posting such relevant content.

I am flying out of Singapore. Which airport which I land in? Cochin?

Yes, Cochin is the best option for flights from Singapore to Kerala. Enjoy!

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For many travelers, Kerala is South India's most serenely beautiful state. This slender coastal strip is defined by its layered landscape: almost 373 miles (600km) of glorious Arabian Sea coast and beaches; a languid network of glistening backwaters; and the spice- and tea-covered hills of the Western Ghats, dotted with fiercely protected wildlife reserves and cool hill stations such as Munnar. Just setting foot on this swathe of soul-soothing, palm-shaded green will slow your subcontinental stride to a blissed-out amble. Kerala is a world away from the hectic action of the rest of India, its long, fascinating backstory illuminated by historically evocative cities like Kochi (Cochin) and Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum).

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10 days road trip in Kerala: An itinerary and Guide

Last Updated on July 1, 2024 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.

Read in Detail: Things to do in Thiruvananthapuram

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.

Read More Kerala posts:

• Kerala Backwaters of Alleppey
• Human by Nature: Impressions from Kerala
• Places to visit in Thekkady
• Eravikulam National Park
• Periyar National Park
• Glamping in Munnar
• Chendamangalam Handlooms
• Responsible Tourism in Kumarakom
• Trekking in Munnar
• Things to do in Thiruvananthapuram

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.

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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.

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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 have been here 17 years before and want to go again. Such a Relaxing place it is.you have covered all the places in detail. There are. Few spice garden too typically house owners only but worth visiting if interested in food. Renu

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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!

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18 Best Things to Do in Kerala, India

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Kerala , a tropical state located along India's Malabar Coast, is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Its distinctive culture and extremely picturesque setting—which contrasts with the fast-paced modern world—make Kerala an indulgent place to go to relax in a way that's similar to other destinations like Bali and Tahiti. There's no shortage of things to do should you grow bored of your beachside slumber—attend a traditional Kathakali dance performance, cruise the backwaters on a houseboat, or take an afternoon to go tea tasting.

Not sure when to visit Kerala ? This part of India has something to offer all year round, although the weather does need to be taken into account—the climate is a hot, tropical one that receives rainfall from two monsoons.

Get Outdoors at Eravikulam National Park

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Eravikulam National Park is perhaps known best as being as a sacred sanctuary home of the Nilgiri Tahr, pictured above, as well as the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom here every 12 years. With 97 square kilometers to spread out in, there's plenty of breathing room for visitors looking to go hiking and escape the hustle and bustle of India's cities. Keep in mind the park closes each February and March to allow for the Nilgiri Tahr's calving season, so plan your trip accordingly.

Float Down Kerala's Mighty Rivers on a Raft

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For a uniquely regional experience, head to Wayanad for the chance to float down the Pozhuthana River on a traditionally crafted bamboo raft —the bamboo is grown in the forests nearby and the river is shallow and calm in this part of Kerala. Another good place to try this is along the Periyar River or the Kabini River near Kuruva Island.

For something a little more action-packed, try your hand at whitewater river rafting in other parts of Kerala, namely Kannur, Chalipuzha, Iruvanjhipuzha, and along the Paneli River in Boothathankettu.

Check Out Munnar's Tea Estates and Gardens

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Thanks to Kerala's warm, humid climate, and the amount of rain it gets each year, Munnar has been a major center for commercial tea production since 1875—and you can actually visit some of the plantations where it's still being harvested today. Learn all about the tea-making process at the Tata Tea Museum , located on the Nallathanni Estate, or venture out to tour the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate , which claims to be the highest elevation tea plantation in the world at an altitude of 7,000 feet above sea level.

Take a Scenic Train Ride Through Kerala

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If you have the chance to do one epic train ride during your trip to India, make it the Ernakulam-Kollam-Trivandrum route through Kerala. It's one of the most beautiful train rides in the world, offering scenic views of the Kerala countryside, and all the coconut trees, paddy fields, lakes, and backwaters that go along with it.

Cruise the Backwaters on a Houseboat

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A trip to Kerala is not complete without experiencing the Kerala backwaters —the lush palm-fringed landscape, diverse wildlife, and houses and villages lining them make a houseboat cruise here seem like a journey to another world. It's a tranquil endeavor, for sure, one that can even be part of a memorable romantic getaway.

For a real treat, book a hotel or homestay along the route to immerse yourself in the culture that surrounds these inland lagoons, lakes, and waterways, and to enjoy a meal with a local family while learning about their life story. Kumbalanghi Village Tours offers group tours to Kumbalanghi, an area surrounded by paddy fields on the outskirts of Kochi. Here, you'll be able to see India's first model fishery and tourism village and engage with the residents, who make their living off of agriculture and fishing.

Relax With an Ayurvedic Treatment or Tea Tasting

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Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healing tradition that's over 5,000 years old, combines lifestyle practices with yoga and healthy eating. Many Ayurvedic spas and resorts are located in Kerala due to its warm climate and the abundant supply of medicinal plants. A trip to a healing center can involve a week's stay and detox (called panchakarma ), where the liver is purged and the body becomes renewed. Alternatively, book any one of their offered treatments, like an oil massage or Shirodhara , a relaxing treatment that involves dripping warm oil onto the forehead that's used to treat insomnia, tinnitus, neurological disorders, and psoriasis.

Tea production is also a big business in Kerala, and the state holds some of the top tea plantations in India in Munnar and Wayanad. Stay in typical atmospheric accommodations on a serene tea plantation—you can even book a treehouse—then, check out the surrounding hills with daily hikes topped off with tea tastings. Stop by the Tea Museum at the Kanan Devan Hills Nallathanni Estate in Munnar to get a peek inside the history of tea production in the region.

Enroll in a Cooking Lesson

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Kerala is renowned for its delicious cuisine, featuring regional delicacies like seafood and coconuts. And sure, simply feasting on this Indian fare is delightful, but learning how to cook it is rewarding and gives you a skill you can bring back home. Enroll in a cooking class or even plan your trip around it by booking a two or three-day residency program that involves cooking courses and Ayurvedic treatments. You can also go casual for a more intimate experience and learn how to cook with a local family.

Catch a Kathakali Performance

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Kathakali is a very unusual and ancient form of dance-drama that's traditional to Kerala, and you won't get to see performers dressed up like this every day. The elaborate costumes and subtle dance movements tell a meaningful Hindu mythological story. Performers undergo intense training, including hours of eye exercises, when learning the art of Kathakali. Stop by the Cochin Cultural Center or the Kerala Kathakali Center to see a performance, or arrange a private tour of Kochi that culminates with a Kathakali dance performance.

Catch a Theyyam Ritual in Action

Kerala Tourism

The small town of Kannur , once an ancient trading port in northern Kerala, boasts secluded beaches, elaborate handloom weaving crafts, and mysteriously masked theyyam  rituals . This practice encompasses dance, music, and mime art to bring to life the rich stories of the state of Kerala. The theyyam art form actually has a season, too, running from November until May. Kerala Tourism provides a comprehensive calendar of theyyam events or you can try taking an overnight guided theyyam tour from Kannur.

Watch the Martial Art Form of Kalaripayattu

Kalaripayattu is an ancient martial art form practiced in Kerala—featuring strikes, kicks, grappling, preset forms, weaponry, and even healing methods, its roots can be traced back to 2000 B.C. Attend a 60-minute fighting demonstration that includes the lighting of traditional lamps, a flower offering to a deity, and a brief introduction of the sport. With the incorporation of about 27 different weapons, there's no shortage of excitement. Catch a performance at the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre in Thekkady or book a group tour from Kochi.

Watch a Snake Boat Race

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Every year during the monsoon season, Kerala comes alive with colorful snake boat races , where 140-foot-long canoe-like boats holding 110 rowers each get together to race along the inland waterways. Villages have their own snake boats, each featuring varying sizes and styles. Both the building of the boats and the celebratory event itself are unique parts of a culture that joins the community with the water. Today, snake boat races can be compared to an Olympic event, complete with leagues and scheduled tournaments.

Try Some Toddy

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Toddy, or palm wine, Kerala's Indigenous alcoholic drink, is made from the sap of palm trees, collected from a coconut palm by a tapper who climbs the tree and drains it into a container. When fermented, this sweet nectar, turns slightly tart and has a bit of a kick. Toddy (traditionally called kallu ) is served in small thatched shops, usually with wooden benches, all over Kerala. Inside, you'll find tasty local cuisine dished up alongside the toddy, and, as they say, "the hotter the food, the more you need to drink."

Explore Historic Fort Kochi

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Known as the "Gateway to Kerala," Kochi is an enchanting city with an eclectic influence, and Arabian, British, Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese cultures all have left their mark here. The architecture and historical sites in Fort Kochi draw most of the visitors to the area. Explore Fort Kochi and its Chinese fishing nets, Jewish Synagogue, and Mattancherry palaces by foot or bicycle, or book a three-hour walking tour of the site. Hotels and homestays that suit all types of budgets can also be found in Kochi.

Discover the Ancient Port City of Muziris

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Multi-cultural Muziris, located about an hour north of Kochi, was historically one of the most important trading ports in Kerala. Businesses thrived here for more than 1,000 years prior to a flood that caused severe damage to the city. The Muzuris area encompasses Kodungallur and Paravoor and is full of old churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples. The first mosque in India, Cheraman Juma Masjid, is a fascinating place to visit. Book a tour or wander the streets on your own to experience ancient Indian culture.

Attend a Temple Festival

Kerala temple festivals, which highlight India's most prized animal, the elephant, pay tribute to the presiding local god or goddess. Watch large processions of bejeweled elephants, drummers, musicians, and colorful floats carrying gods and goddesses around the harvest season in March and April. The largest festivals take place in the Thrissur and Palakkad districts in northern and central Kerala, although many small temples throughout the state do offer small-scale festivities if you're not one for noisy crowds.

Chill at the Beach

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The beaches in Kerala are crowd-free and undeveloped, making them more desirable than beaches in other touristy areas of India. Some boast lighthouses and facilities, while others can only be accessed by boat. Varkala beach , a favorite of travelers, has a spectacular cliff setting and is lined in beach shacks and shops. Stay up high on the cliff and take in the view, or if you're looking for action, head to Kovalam beach near the capital city of Trivandrum—do note, however, that this beach is among the busiest in the state.

Spot Wildlife and Enjoy Impressive Waterfalls

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Periyar National Park , one of Kerala's most magnificent attractions, lies on the banks of a large artificial lake. Complete with hilly forests and a plethora of wildlife, it's the most popular national park in southern India. Unlike other national parks in southern India, Periyar stays open during monsoon season and offers a wide range of eco-tourism activities so you can really experience nature—book a stay during this slow time for an unforgettable and budget-worthy trip.

Two amazing Kerala waterfalls are located within a 55-kilometer drive of the Cochin airport: Athirappally and Vazhachal. Athirappally Falls , the bigger of the two, cascades from a height of 80 feet and resembles Niagara Falls during monsoon season. Note that heavy rains can cause travel disruptions during this season, making the best time to visit between September and October. Nearby, you'll find Vazhachal Falls. While the drop on this waterfall is not as spectacular, it's every bit as majestic as Athirappally Falls and a great place for a picnic. While swimming and bathing are prohibited underneath both of the falls, at Athirappally, you can take a careful dip upriver before the falls plunge.

Admire Mural Paintings

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The colorful mural paintings seen on the walls of temples, churches, and palaces in Kerala all date back to the ninth century. The oldest of these murals lies in the rock-cut cave temple of Thirunandikkara (now in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu ), where only sketchy outlines remain.

The largest mural panel in the state, coming in at 49 square meters, is at Krishnapuram Palace near Kayamkulam. Extensive murals depicting scenes from Hindu epics are preserved at Mattancherry Palace in Kochi, while the murals of the Shiva Temple in Ettumanoor provide insight into the earliest forms of Dravidian mural art. Other famous mural paintings can be found at the Padmanabha temple in Trivandrum and Vadakkumnatha temple in Thrissur.

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Munnar Insider Travel Blog

Top 5 Tourist Places In Kerala-Pictures, Tips and Attractions

posted on September 19, 2024

Beaches, hills, backwaters, waterfalls, forests, wildlife sanctuaries – there’s no dearth of lovable tourist places in Kerala that will melt your heart!

Blessed with endless natural beauty, diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, intriguing history, and bewitching ancient architecture, Kerala is a power package of beauty, fun, and entertainment.

So, before you book a trip to Kerala, dive into our list of the top 5 Kerala tourist places and discover what sweet surprises lay waiting!

Top 5 tourist places in Kerala: Most popular picks

Whether you’re looking for a magical houseboat ride on the backwaters, a fun ride through tea plantations, a dauntless Jeep safari in the jungle, a relaxing Ayurvedic massage on the beach, a thrilling trek to a hilltop, or a dazzling Kathakali performance, these fabulous places to visit in Kerala offer it all!

Need More Kerala Tourist Destination Suggestions? – 📍Top 15 Places To Visit In Kerala  (With Map)

Make sure you include these 5 top Kerala destinations in your itinerary when you browse our Kerala holiday packages.

Munnar is synonymous with tea estates.

With landscapes dreamier than those you’d find in a fairytale, Munnar tops every list of the top 5 tourist places in Kerala.

Munnar is blessed with resplendent greenery in the form of fragrant tea plantations stretching into the horizon, winding roads, rolling meadows, lofty mountain peaks, year-round cool weather, and a light haze enveloping it all!

Its most popular attractions are perhaps the Eravikulam National Park, the home of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and the bluish-purple Neelakurinjis that bloom once every 12 years!

Tucked at an elevation of 1,600 meters above sea level in the majestic Western Ghats, Munnar is among the most sought-after tourist places in Kerala that you must visit at least once in your lifetime!

Best time to visit Munnar: Year-round Munnar tourist attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Mattupetty Dam, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate , Pothamedu Viewpoint, Tea Museum, Kundala Dam, Lakkom Waterfalls Nearest airport to Munnar: Cochin International Airport (107 km) Nearest railway station to Munnar: Aluva Railway Station (108 km)

ALSO SEE – Top 17 Best Things To Do In Munnar

2. Alleppey

Often called the ‘Venice of the East’, Alleppey, or Alappuzha, is famous for its complex network of canals, rivulets, and lagoons flanked by swaying palm trees, rustic villages, paddy fields, and ancient churches.

It is so idyllic that you’re bound to come across tons of pictures of Alleppey’s beautiful houseboats sailing on its amber-colored backwaters whenever you Google “top 5 tourist places in Kerala”!

Its labyrinth of canals, dreamy houseboats, clean beaches, scenic lakes, lush paddy fields, and vibrant local culture have made it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala.

Other than backwaters, travelers also love to explore Alleppey’s hidden villages like Kuttanad, choir handicrafts, ancient temples, snake boat races, and Ayurvedic resorts.

Best time to visit Alleppey: October to March Alleppey tourist attractions: Alappuzha Lighthouse, Alappuzha Beach, Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, Marari Beach, Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Arthunkal Church, Punnamada Lake Nearest airport to Alleppey: Cochin International Airport (83 km) Nearest railway station to Alleppey: Alappuzha Railway Station

ALSO SEE – Munnar Distance Chart- A Traveler’s Guide to Other places from Munnar

Popularly known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’, Kochi, or Cochin, is a coastal town perched on the Malabar Coast.

Believed to have been an important trading center of the Dutch, Portuguese, and British for over 600 years, this port city is now the industrial and commercial capital of Kerala!

Today, it is among the most popular Top 5 tourist places to visit in Kerala courtesy of its attractive blend of backwaters, beaches, grand colonial architecture, rich history, and an irresistible old-world charm!

In addition to beaches and ports, Kochi also lures travelers with its fascinating balance of history and modernism.

Everything from the ancient Fort Kochi and Jew Town to the city’s modern shopping malls, lavish restaurants, heritage hotels, and state-of-the-art museums have made it one of the top 5 tourist places in Kerala!

Best time to visit Kochi: October to February Kochi tourist attractions: Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, Bolgatty Palace, Jewish Synagogue, Kerala Folklore Museum, Fort Kochi, Jew Town, Santa Cruz Basilica, Willingdon Island Nearest airport to Kochi: Cochin International Airport Nearest railway station to Kochi: Ernakulam Junction Railway Station

ALSO SEE – Kochi To Munnar- Sightseeing, Distance, Travel Time & Tips

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is a biodiversity hotspot famed for its lush hills and valleys, forest reserves, spice plantations, waterfalls, diverse wildlife, prehistoric caves, and adventure activities like trekking, paragliding, mountain climbing, and ziplining.

This picture-perfect destination in Kerala beckons nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts with its boundless natural beauty, year-round blissful weather, rich cultural heritage, and plenty of wildlife reserves fit for jungle safaris!

Often referred to as the ‘Land of Paddy Fields,’ Wayanad is blessed with fertile valleys where everything from tea, coffee, pepper, nutmeg, cocoa, plantain, rice, coconut, vanilla, cardamom, and ginger are grown!

But what truly makes it one of the best tourist places in Kerala is its bounty of wildlife reserves and national parks like the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary that shelters bison, Asian elephants, leopards, Malabar Giant Squirrels, and Royal Bengal Tigers among other species.

Best time to visit Wayanad: Year-round (except the monsoon) Wayanad tourist attractions: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Thirunelli Temple, Banasura Sagar Dam, Chembra Peak , Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Falls, Kabini River, Lakkidi Viewpoint, Kuruvadweep, Pookode Lake Nearest airport to Wayanad: Calicut International Airport (91 km) Nearest railway station to Wayanad: Kozhikode Railway Station (86 km)

Varkala is a picturesque blend of clean shores, scenic beachside cliffs, lush greenery, a spiritual vibe, great seafood, and a fun hippie culture.

Popular mostly for its 15-meter Arabian Sea-facing ‘Northern Cliffs’, Varkala is a gorgeous seaside town and one of the most popular tourist places in Kerala!

Its beaches are lined with several high-end restaurants, cozy beach shacks, Ayurvedic massage centers, artsy cafes, shops, beach resorts, and homestays that have made Varkala a sought-after beach destination in Kerala.

In addition to Ayurveda, night-long beach parties, and surfing schools, Varkala also lures in wanderers with its  cliff beach, fortresses, lakes, lighthouses, and ancient holy shrines like the samadhi of saint Sree Narayana Guru.

Best time to visit Varkala: October to March Varkala tourist attractions: Varkala Cliff, Varkala Beach, Sivagiri Mutt, Janardanaswamy Temple, Edava Beach, Mangrove Forest, Kappil Beach, Anjuthengu Fort, Anjengo Lighthouse Nearest airport to Varkala: Trivandrum International Airport (42 km) Nearest railway station to Varkala: Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station

ALSO SEE – Solo Trip to Munnar, Kerala- The Complete Guide

While Kerala has several popular places to visit, we bet a visit to these top 5 tourist places in Kerala will make your holiday all the more memorable! Happy tripping!

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10 Best Places for a One Day Trip in Kerala with Family or Friends

Kerala, has been honored with global responsible tourism award in 2023 and  has a plethora of places to visit. Family, friends, or solo – plenty of options for all. Keralas mind-blowing natural beauty and gorgeous landscapes are a testimony to its pristine climate and ethereal scenic views. Every year, thousands of tourists from all over the world visit this magnificent place in appreciation of its enormous attractions. These are just some of the best places for a one day trip in Kerala that offer diverse experiences to make your visit truly memorable.

List of  Places for a One Day Trip in Kerala

Dreaming of a quick escape from the daily grind? Imagine a one-day trip from vibrant destinations in Kerala, from Delhi, Chennai , Mumbai or Bangalore?

Beyond the usual talk of vacations and weekends, the idea is to discover a rejuvenating break for a One Day Trip in Kerala amid hectic routines and stressful jobs. Amidst weeks of tedious work and running between home and office, the thought of a day off becomes a breath of fresh air. The beauty of a one-day trip is that it won’t dent your wallet or create workplace issues. Delve into the best places for a single-day trip in Kerala, promising a stress-free day to unwind and recharge your body and mind.

You can either plan for a long trip or a one day trip in Kerala. For people who prefer to venture into a mini vacation, here is a list of places for one day trip in Kerala.

1. Kanthaloor, Munnar

Munnar is one of the incredible best places for one day trip in Kerala with family.  Kanthalloor is a village in Munnar which won a gold medal for the best tourism villages from the Government of India .  Kanthalloor Village achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first panchayat in the country to introduce women-friendly tourism practices through collaborative programs with UN Women. Notable initiatives included the implementation of the ‘destination security’ scheme and the development of special women-oriented tour packages. Situated in close proximity to the renowned Munnar in the Idukki district, Kanthalloor Village initially participated in the ‘PEPPER’ participatory tourism initiative before transitioning to the STREET project. This transformation was made possible through active community engagement and the dedicated efforts of the village panchayat.

ALSO SEE- Top 8 Hill Stations In Kerala

Nestled in the majestic Western Ghats mountain ranges, the quaint hill station is a paradise on earth. It is a mesmerizing experience to immerse in its astonishing beauty – adorned with lush green mountains, pristine valleys, beautiful hamlets, and the spread of spice and tea plantations through huge acres of land. For adventure lovers, there are plenty of activities to indulge in like – hiking, trekking, walking across the mountain trails and amid the plantations, safaris, and camping.

The key attractions in Kanthallooor and Munnar are:

• Mattupetty Dam
• Eravikulam National Park
• Anamudi Peak
• Tata Tea Museum
• Pothamedu View Point
• Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
• Lakkom waterfalls
• Chinnar wildlife sanctuary
• Attukad waterfalls
• Carmelagiri Elephant park

The best time to visit Kanthalloor

The pleasant and comfortable climate of Kanthalloor in Munnar helps tourists to plan for a visit any time of the year. Still, the best time to visit is between September and March, when the climate is at its best.

How to reach Kanthalloor?

Munnar is a hill station, hence it does not have its own airport or railway stations. If you want to travel by air, then the nearest airport is at Kochi from where you have to travel a distance of 125 km by road to reach Munnar. For people traveling by rail, the nearest railway station is at Aluva, 110 km distance away. If you want to travel from different parts of Kerala or the nearby states by road, then it is a good recommendation as the enigmatic beauty of Munnar is a treat to the eyes.

ALSO SEE- Best time to visit Kerala (UPDATED for 2024) -Temperature, Weather and Climate

2. Idukki Dam

Idukki is a quiet and peaceful place, away from the humdrum of daily life. It is one of the most exotic places for one day trip in Kerala. You can spend quality time in the vicinity of nature, calm and in solitude. The weather is cozy and comfortable, perfect to chill out with friends and family. If you want to engage in some interesting activities, then Idukki has innumerable opportunities like trekking, hiking, camping, boating, walking, and safaris. Additionally, Idukki houses various sightseeing spots for tourists to venture out like dams, waterfalls, parks, lakes, and forests. These astounding attractions embellish Idukki with their enchanting flora and fauna.

The key attractions in Idukki are:

• Kalvari Mount
• Ramakkalmedu
• Meesapulimala
• Cheeyappara waterfalls
• Anayirankal dam reservoir
• Panchalimedu
• Valara waterfalls
• Sita Devi lake
• Hill View park
• Chathurangapara view point

 ALSO SEE-  Munnar Trekking-Top 10 Experiences to Unleash your adventurous spirit in Munnar

Best time to visit Idukki

Like Munnar, Idukki can be visited any time of the year mainly due to its pleasing climate. The weather is almost soothing throughout the year. But if you still want to churn out the best of the environment at Idukki, then you can select the winter season between November and February for your visit.

How to reach Idukki

To reach Idukki, you can either travel by air or reach the nearest airport at Kochi which is 132 km away from Idukki. Or you can reach the nearest railway station at Theni, 60 km distance away from Idukki. You can also travel by road via buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.

ALSO SEE- 75 best things to do in Kerala  (with Photos)

3. Periyar National Park, Thekkady

For wildlife lovers, Periyar National Park in Thekkady is one of the good options and best places for one day trip in Kerala. The national park is the residence of numerous animal and bird species, You can observe them in their natural habitat, a desire for every wildlife admirer. The park offers night walks and safaris for the visitors. You can opt for any of them and move around to entertain yourself with the breathtaking flora and fauna. There are various kinds of wild plants, trees, and flowers in the park for you to be acquainted with. Some of the popular birds and animals in the park are the Bengal tiger, leopards, sambar deer, Indian bison, and lion-tailed macaques.

ALSO SEE- Thekkady Boating -Online Booking, Timings, Cost, Fare for Foreigners and Indians (Updated)

The key attractions in Periyar National Park are

• Guided cloud walk for 3 to 4 hours
• Camping inside the jungle
• Bamboo rafting and hiking
• Tiger trail trekking and camping
• Jungle patrol
• Boating on Periyar Lake
• Touring around Abraham’s spice garden
• Walking along the Connemara tea factory and witnessing the tea plantations and production

Best time to visit Periyar National Park

Almost every place in Kerala is good to visit throughout the year and the Periyar National Park is not an exception. But if you are eager to witness the greenery at its peak then the monsoons are the best time to visit, the months between September and October.

How to reach Periyar National Park

Kottayam is the nearest railway station, located at a distance of 97 km from the park, and can be availed via cabs, and buses. Kochi is the nearest airport, 150 km away from the park. If you want to travel by road, then you can check out the private and public buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.

ALSO SEE- Best Treehouses in Thekkady

Wayanad is a place, adorned with scenic views and picturesque environments. It is truly one of the breathtaking places for one day trip in Kerala with family and friends. The lush green vegetation and the foliage bring in a sense of calmness and pristine feeling to the people visiting this awesome place. If you are an adventure lover, then you will love to be involved in many activities like hiking, trekking, nature walks, and safaris. For bird watchers, it is an awesome place to watch many local and migrating birds. Another exciting experience at Wayanad is to stay in a treehouse, an eco-friendly option to soak into the magnificent atmosphere around. Moreover, if you love to mingle with the local tribals and be familiar with their life and culture, then you can willingly do so.

ALSO SEE – Munnar or Wayanad-Which is better? The Complete Guide

The key attractions in Wayanad are:

• Edakkal caves
• Lakkidi view point
• Soocipara waterfalls
• Kanthanpara waterfalls
• Chembra peak
• Pookode lake
• Wayanad wildlife sanctuary
• Banasura Sagar dam
• Meenmutty waterfalls
• Bansura hill
• Karapuzha dam

Best time to visit Wayanad

Wayanad is best during the winter season between the months of November and February. The weather is soothing and ideal for a vacation. Days and nights are quite charming to stroll around in the city.

How to reach Wayanad

If you want to avail the rail, then the best is to reach Kozhikode railway station and travel a distance of 110 km by cab or bus to reach Wayanad. The other option is to travel via air. The nearest airport is at Calicut, 54 km away from Wayanad. By road options are also available, you can try to avail of private and public buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.

5.Kumarakom

Kumarakom is one of the most fascinating and enticing places for one day trip in Kerala. Located at the banks of Lake Vembanad, Kumarakom is a famous for backwaters and houseboat trips. If you are a bird watcher, then Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a perfect place for you. Do not miss cruising along the lake  in a houseboat and immerse yourself in nature’s scintillating beauty. You can observe various species of  both local and migratory birds. Kumarakom is famous for Ayurvedic treatments, spa therapy, and meditation practices and you can avail of the facilities for a healthy lifestyle.  Kumarakom is one of the best places for one day trips from Kochi

ALSO SEE – Top 10 One Day Trips from Kochi

The key attractions in Kumarakom are:

• Kumarakom bird sanctuary
• Vembanad lake
• Aruvikuzhy waterfalls
• Kumarakom craft museum
• Pathiramanal island
• Kumarakom backwaters
• Kottayam locality
• Vagamon locality
• Vaikom Mahadeva temple
• Thanneermukkom Bund bridge
• Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva temple

Best time to visit Kumarakom

The weather at Kumarakom is soothing and charming, and humidity is less especially between the months of September and March. Hence it is the best time to visit Kumarakom.

How to reach Kumarakom

By air, the best option is to reach the nearest airport at Kochi, which is 80 km away from Kumarakom. By rail, the nearest railway station is at Kottayam, a traveling distance of 16 km from the city. Another option to reach Kumarakom is by boat ride from Muhamma. You can also avail private and public buses, cabs, and autorickshaws to travel via road.

ALSO SEE- 50+ Kerala Houseboat Packages(Updated)

6. Ponmudi, Kerala

An offbeat destination, Ponmudi in Kerala is one of the spectacular places for one day trip in Kerala. Nestled within the Western Ghats and surrounded by gushing waterfalls, meandering streams, sparkling springs, lush green tea and spice plantations, sloping mountains, and dense wild forests – it’s truly an ecstatic experience at Ponmudi. For adventure lovers, there are plenty of options for hiking and trekking, immersing into mind-blowing fauna and flora. You can observe the famous Agadthyakoodam peak from this place. There are options for Ayurvedic treatments and therapies at Ponmudi, so do not forget to avail the opportunity.

ALSO SEE- Ponmudi hills– Best Places to Visit & Things to do

The key attractions in Ponmudi are:

• Kallar Meenmutty falls
• Ponmudi Upper Sanatorium
• Peppara wildlife sanctuary
• Ponmudi hilltop
• Agasthyamalai
• Veli Lake Tourist village
• Shendurney wildlife sanctuary
• Mankayam waterfalls
• Koyikkal palace
• Varkala beach

The best time to visit

The months between October and March are the best and preferred time to visit Ponmudi. The town blooms with nature’s splendid aura and charm, indeed creating a sensational experience and an opportunity to mingle in its beauty.

How to reach

Ponmudi can be accessed via road as there are plenty of buses from various parts of the state and nearby cities. Both the nearby airport and railway stations are at Thiruvananthapuram, 60 km away from Ponmudi.

7.Alleppey, Kerala

Alleppey is part of the Kuttanad region, often referred to as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala.” This low-lying region is known for its vast paddy fields, unique farming practices below sea level, and scenic landscapes. Alleppey is home to beautiful beaches, including Alappuzha Beach. The coastline provides a serene setting for relaxation and offers picturesque views of the Arabian Sea. The pier at Alappuzha Beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

A visit to Kerala is incomplete without Alleppey. So if you get a chance to be on a one-day trip to Kerala, then do not miss out on this popular backwater destination , flourishing with greenery and the backwaters. The place is frequented by tourists from all over the world and throughout the year. It offers an idyllic experience of cruising along the backwaters in a houseboat while treating the eyes to the magnificent landscape and the scenic beauty. The houses of the fishermen along the banks of the backwaters add a rustic charm to the entire place. You can visit the village and munch on some seafood delicacies. Watching the local and migrator birds is another enticing activity at Alleppey.

ALSO SEE- 10 Best Places to visit in Alleppey

The key attractions in Alleppey are:

• Alappuzha lighthouse
• Alappuzha beach
• Marari beach
• Krishnapuram palace
• Punnamada lake
• St. Andrew’s Basilica
• Thumpoly beach
• Sree Krishna Swamy temple
• Chakkulathukuva Sree Bhagavathi temple

Best time to visit Alleppey

The temperature at Alleppey is extremely soothing and the weather is pleasant during the winters mostly. Months between October and February are preferable. However, you can visit at other times of the year to avoid the crowds.

How to reach Alleppey

Alleppey has its own railway station hence it’s easy to travel via rail. If you are traveling by air then the nearest airport is at Kochi, 75 km away from Alleppey. Otherwise, you can avail of buses and cabs to reach Alleppey.

Kochi serves as the gateway to Kerala, given its strategic location along the Arabian Sea. The city has played a crucial role in the cultural and economic exchanges between India and other nations. Kochi, also called Cochin, boasts a rich historical legacy as a prominent port city that has facilitated trade for centuries, drawing merchants from diverse regions—Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Known for its cultural diversity, Kochi is a unique fusion of Indian, Arab, Chinese, and European influences. Fort Kochi, with its well-preserved colonial architecture, harbors landmarks like Santa Cruz Basilica and the burial site of Vasco da Gama. The iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, a symbol of Kochi, operate through an ancient mechanical method. Jew Town hosts the historic Paradesi Synagogue, while the Kochi-Muziris Biennale celebrates contemporary art. Marine Drive offers scenic views, and Mattancherry Palace showcases murals from the Ramayana. Cochin International Airport is globally recognized for its solar-powered operations, and Kochi’s spice markets reflect its historical ties to the spice route.

ALSO SEE – 15 Tourist Places to visit in Kochi Kerala

The key attractions in Kochi are:

• Mattancherry palace
• Indo-Portuguese museum
• Santa Cruz Basilica
• Ernakulam Shiva temple
• Paradesi Synagogue
• Kodanad Elephant training center
• Fisherman’s Khauf

Best time to visit Kochi

The best time to visit Kochi is the Months between October and February. The weather is calm and pleasant with a soothing breeze.

How to reach Kochi

The best thing about Kochi is it has its own railway station and airport. You can go to different parts of the city by bus and cab.

9.Kollengode, Palakkad

Kollengode, in Kerala’s Palakkad district, is not just a village; it’s a cultural wonderland with a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and religious importance. Just 26 km from Palakkad town, it’s now a popular destination with loads to offer. Here’s what makes Kollengode a must-visit:

In the past, it was ruled by the Vengunad Swaroopam, a fancy title given by Hyder Ali in the 18th century. The rulers, known as Vengunad Nambidis, had a strong influence. This history adds a unique charm to Kollengode.

ALSO SEE – Nelliyampathy Tourist Places-Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do

Now, the village is a treasure trove of historical and religious spots. The Kollengode Palace, showcasing traditional Kerala architecture, is like a time capsule with artifacts and paintings from the Vengunad dynasty. The Kachamkurissi Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is an ancient marvel among the 108 Divya Desams. Add in the Seetharkundu Waterfall, Govindamalai Hill, and Nelliyampathy Hills, and you get the perfect blend of culture and nature.

The key attractions in Kollengode  are:

• Kollengode Palace
• Kachamkurissi Temple
• Seetharkundu Waterfall
• Govindamalai Hill
• Nelliyampathy Hills

Best time to visit Kollengode

The best time to visit Kollengode s the Months between October and February. You have a good chance of sighting the green paddy fields and hills and hence should not miss the opportunity.

The nearest airport is at Coimbatore, 70 km away from Coimbatore. The nearest railway station is at Palakkad, 26 km away from Kollengode. Buses and cabs are available from the various cities of Kerala to reach the place.

Kannur is a small town, bearing similarity to Kochi in terms of its historical significance. Along with its enigmatic natural beauty, Kannur is a witness to many monuments, historical structures, ancient ruins, and many other buildings from the yesteryears. It is indeed one of the phenomenal places for one day trip in Kerala. Being located near the beach, you can stroll along while enjoying the sea waters.

The key attractions in Kannur are:

• Payyambalam beach
• Muzhappilangad beach shoreline
• St. Angelo Fort
• Arakkal museum
• Vismaya water park
• Aralam wildlife sanctuary
• Ezhara beach

The best time to visit Kannur is during the winter, months between November and February. You will love the slight chill in the air, refreshing as well as pure.

The nearest airport is at Kochi, 128 km away from Thekkady. Kannur has its own railway station. Buses and cabs are also available from the various parts of Kerala to reach the place.

Hope the listing of the places for one day trip in Kerala will be of real help and you can easily plan for your vacation or a weekend getaway with your family and friends and even solo and enjoy your one day trip in Kerala.

ALSO SEE – Top 6 Resorts to Stay in Kannur

When you embark on a one day trip in Kerala, you can choose to gracefully sail along the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey or immerse yourself in the tranquil landscapes of Wayanad. Whichever path you take, Kerala assures you a day filled with indelible memories. Whether drifting lazily on a houseboat, surrounded by picturesque greenery in Alleppey, or finding solace in the serene ambiance of Wayanad’s natural wonders, each experience promises to etch moments of beauty and tranquility into your memory. Kerala, with its diverse landscapes and cultural richness, ensures a one-day escape brimming with the magic of unforgettable encounters.

About George Joseph

Hello, I'm George Joseph and a travel advisor at Iris Holidays. I'm here to help you travel in Kerala through useful tips and helpful articles. Don't forget to get a FREE Customised Holiday Itinerary from me if you are planning to visit Kerala.

In case you have any questions, you can ask it in our Ask a Question and I would be happy to help you.

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