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

4 reasons to visit kerala.

  • Top 7 Places to Visit
  • Best 11 Things To Do
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Best time to visit kerala.

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Tailor-Make Your Kerala Itinerary

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.

  • 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.

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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.

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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.

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.

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. With Asia Highlights , you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure ( detail⇒ ).

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.

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.

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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THE 10 BEST Kerala Tours & Excursions

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  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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1. Full Day Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise

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2. Explore Munnar Day Trip From Cochin ( By Munnar Info)

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3. kochi to munnar A Private guided fullday tour with hotel pickup

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4. Half day trekking (munnar valley Trekking & Tours )

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5. Half Day Village Backwater Eco Country Boat Cruise :Group Tour from Fort Cochin

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6. 5 Days Kerala Tour Package - Private Tour with Exclusive Houseboat Stay

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7. Adventure Tuk Tuk Tour in kochi - A Private Guided Tour with Hotel Pick up

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8. Kochi Private Tour: Overnight Alleppey Backwaters Houseboat Cruise

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9. Experience Kerala Soul Kalari Workshop and Theyyam Cultural Tour

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10. Funny and helpful Tuk Tuk Tour in Kochin

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11. Kochi Tour Guide -A Heritage walking tour in Fort kochi and Mattancherry !

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12. Wild Elephant Village( Anakulam) life tour ( By Munnar Info)

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13. Munnar Tea Trail with Factory Experience ( By Munnar Info)

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14. 21hrs Aleppey Village and Canal Tour by Private Houseboat.

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15. Munnar Site-seeing Tour

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16. Fortkochi or Backwater Shore Excursions Tour from Cruise Terminal

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17. Mountain Hiking in Munnar (half day) By Munnar Info

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18. Munnar Tea valley Tour ( By Munnar Info)

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19. Kochi Private Tour: Kerala Backwater Houseboat Day Cruise in Aleppey

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20. Tea Plantation Walk with Sunset View (By Munnar Info)

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21. Private Guided Kochi Tuk tuk Tours with Pickup from Cruise Ships

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22. Kochi Tuk-Tuk Tour with Pickup From Cruise Ships

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23. Jasmin Villa Homestay Cookery Class

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24. Sunrise Cruise with Village Life and Local Food

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25. Athirappilly & Vazhachal Waterfalls Private Day Tour from Kochi

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26. Wild Elephant Anakulam & Waterfalls Tour(munnar valley Trekking)

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27. Alleppey Village and Canal Cruise in Houseboat from Kochi.

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28. Hands-on Authentic Keralite Cooking Class - Learn, Cook, Eat & Enjoy!

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29. Full day in hiking in Munnar (By Munnar Info)

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30. Jewish Heritage Tour of Cochin

What travelers are saying.

bernadette fagan

A young woman kayaks through the backwaters of Monroe Island in Kollam District, Kerala, South India.

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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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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Wayanad, Kerala, India

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Northern Kerala

Wayanad's ethereal 345-sq-km sanctuary is accessible only by two-hour jeep safari (₹680), on which you might spot langurs, chital deer, sambar, peacocks,…

Sightseeing cruise passing dead tree on lake at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in early morning.

Periyar Tiger Reserve

Bison, sambar, wild boar, langur, around 2000 elephants and 35 to 40 tigers wander the lushly green hills of South India’s most popular wildlife reserve,…

Synagogue, Jewtown, Cochin, India

Pardesi Synagogue

Kochi (Cochin)

Originally built in 1568, Mattancherry's synagogue was partially destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662, and rebuilt two years later when the Dutch took…

Also known as Dutch Palace, the Mattancherry palace with its medieval charm is situated at Palace Road, Mattancherry, 10km from Ernakulam city, Kochi, Kerala, India. (Photo by: MyLoupe/UIG via Getty Images)

Mattancherry Palace

Mattancherry Palace was a generous gift presented to the Raja of Kochi, Veera Kerala Varma (1537–65), as a gesture of goodwill by the Portuguese in 1555…

Museum of History & Heritage

Museum of History & Heritage

Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)

Occupying a handsome 120-year-old heritage building within the Kerala Tourism complex, this intelligently presented museum traces Kerala's history and…

Napier Museum

Napier Museum

Housed in an 1880 wooden building designed by Robert Chisholm (a British architect whose Fair Isle–style version of the Keralite vernacular shows his…

Matha Amrithanandamayi Mission

Matha Amrithanandamayi Mission

The incongruously salmon-pink Matha Amrithanandamayi Mission, 30km northwest of Kollam, is the famous ashram of one of India’s few female gurus,…

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

This reserve on the 5-hectare site of a former rubber plantation on Vembanad Lake is the haunt of a variety of domestic and migratory birds. October to…

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Backpack & Explore

The Best Kerala Itinerary for 7 Days or More

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Last Updated on April 17, 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.

Rolling hills covered in green, lively wildlife, lazy backwaters and soectacular sea - Kerala has it all and much more. This is the only travel guide with customised itineraries that you need to read before planning your trip to Kerala

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.

A Quick Outline

The Best 1-week Kerala Itinerary at a glance

Stunning waterfall in the densely forested hills - this is Athirapally Falls in Kerala. A highlight of your 10-day kerala itinerary

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.

A massive sculpture of what looks like an eagle fallen from the sky. But it's actually "Jatayu" - a mythical bird from Hindu epic Ramayana and this is the Jatayu earth center - a nature park dedicated to it.

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.

Here's me at the Bekal Fort Kasargod Kerala enjoying the sea-waves splashing on the strong walls. A roadtrip from Bangalore to Bekal is dream.

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

A Map showing the spots covered in the 15 day Kerala Itinerary. Snapped from Google Earth, this customised map shows how green Kerala is and its extended coastline.

🙋‍♀️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

Colorful umbrellas in the tree-lined beach of Kochi - a bustling city of Kerala

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

The iconic Chinese Fishing Nets in Kochi against the overcast sky

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 .

This is St. Francis Church in Kochi, one of the oldest European monuments in 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 .

Santa Cruz Basilica - a large ornate building that is a landmark in Kochi

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

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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.

Kumarakom bird sanctuary Vembanad Lake and Backwaters, Kerala

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

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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.

a lovely waterfall in Munnar. You will see many such in your Kerala itinerary

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

The beautiful park in Sterling Munnar, covered in green is full of great activities for Children.

The beautiful park in Sterling Munnar, covered in green is full of great activities for Children

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.

Niligir Tahr in Eravikulam National Park in Munnar. It is an endangered species of antelopes that are indegenous to the Niligiri region

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.

Munnar in Monsoon - Elephant abode

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

A group of Sambar deer eating grass in the sunshine at Periyar National Parl. These are larger than the spotted deer in India and don't have the spots

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. 

Artists jumping into the fire rings while performing Kalaripayattu , an ancient martial art form in Kerala

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

Lighthouse beach at Kovalam - it is an unmissable place in Kerala itinerary

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

The unbelievably beautiful view of the ocean from a cliff-top resort in Kovalam.

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

Infinity pool with the most gorgeous view of the vanilla blue sea at Raviz 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

Here's an unmissable experience in Kerala itinerary. Mesmerizing views of coconut groves and coastal trees while sailing in the Poovar Lake of Kerala.

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.

Munnar in Monsoon

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

go kerala trip

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.

go kerala trip

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

💸Secure your vacation with travel insurance from Visitors Coverage

🚗Book local transport on 12Go

🚶🏼‍♂️ Free walking tours on Freetour

🛏️ For hostels around the world, check out Hostelworld

🛍️ Myntra for travel fashion and Amazon for travel gear

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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Sinjana Ghosh is a full-time business professional with a penchant for writing and travel planning. Backpack & Explore is a journal of her travel stories and tips she collected from her experience. She is the author of the travel book “Postcards from India” which is available on Amazon, Flipkart and Notionpress.com

17 Comments

go kerala trip

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.

go kerala trip

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

go kerala trip

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.

go kerala trip

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

go kerala 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

go kerala trip

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

go kerala trip

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!!

go kerala trip

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

go kerala trip

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

go kerala trip

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

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10 days road trip in Kerala: An itinerary and Guide

Kerala road trip in 10 days

Last Updated on December 5, 2023 by admin

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

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

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

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

Kochi – 1.5 days

Munnar – 3 days

Thekkady – 2 days

Kumarakom – 1 day

Alleppey – 1 day

Varkala – 2

Trivandrum – 1.5 day

Table of Contents

HOW TO GET AROUND KERALA

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

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

WHERE TO START THE 10 DAYS ROAD TRIP IN KERALA?

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

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

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

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

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

C Satish can be reached at +91 9495690929

Day 1: Kochi

How to get from kochi airport to fort kochi.

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Kochi in one day

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

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

Fort Kochi Heritage walk

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

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.

Munnar valleys view | Munnar tea plantations | Things to do in Munnar

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

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

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

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 | Perfect stop for Road trip in Kerala

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

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 | Road trip in Kerala

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

Kappil Pozhi Lake Varkala

Day 9-10: Trivandram or Thiruvananthapuram

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

Things to do in Trivandrum

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

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

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

Where to stay in Trivandrum

For a luxurious experience: Vivanta Thiruvananthapuram

If you are a backpacker choose: Bed Pods

Kanakakunnu Palace Trivandrum

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

Traditional Kerala Sadya

What to wear in Kerala?

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

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

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

Sustainable tips for an ethical Road trip in Kerala

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

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

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Road trip in Kerala | Kerala Itinerary and Guide

Ketki Gadre

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

10 Best Things to do in Kandy

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

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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.

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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!

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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 🙂

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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 🙂

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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.

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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.

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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?

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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!

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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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All about Travel Itineraries and Tips

Unforgettable 10 Days Kerala Itinerary: see the Best of Kerala

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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.

go kerala trip

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.

go kerala trip

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.

go kerala trip

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.

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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.

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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.

Houseboat stay in Kumarakom

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.

kumarakom sightseeing places

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.

10 days Kerala itinerary

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.

kerala in 10 days itinerary

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.

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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:

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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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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.

Such a beautiful sunset with the view of the Banasura peak in Wayanad!

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).

I went for some paddle boarding/body surfing in 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

Map of the route to travel in Kerala for 24 days

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).

The mystic Athirappilly falls

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)

The famous hammock of Zostel, Vagamon

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).

Kayaking in the backwaters of Alleppey

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!

The Ultimate Kerala Itinerary Guide

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Kerala Tours

Kerala- god’s own country is rightly named so for it is one of the 10 paradises of Earth as listed by the National Geographic Magazine. The stunning tropical landscape of the place coupled with the tranquil backwaters is sure to make you ecstatic. It is truly blessed by God with heavenly geographical features, which makes it a sought after tourist destination in the Indian sub-continent.

As per ancient history, the entire state of Kerala was besieged by Sea by the Chera King Senkuttuvan, which was recovered by the axe-wielding warrior sage Parasurama. From the beginning of the Christian era, Kerala has been ruled by many influential empires like the Sanghams, Kulasekara EEmpire, Chola and Pandya Kingdoms till the European arrivals. After Independence, Travancore and Kochi were merged to form Travancore-Cochin. In 1956, Kasargod, Malabar, and Travancore-Cochin were merged to form Kerala.

Kerala’s lush green vegetation is filled with exotic herbs and spices, which couldn’t be cultivated anywhere else in the country. Kerala’s spices have been a major part of export trade since 3000 BCE. The Western Ghats mountain chain of Kerala is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . These chain forests are considered older than the Himalayas. Its unique geographical features consisting of tranquil beaches, emerald backwaters, serene hill stations, exotic wildlife , luxuriant vegetation, luxuriant mountain ranges are nowhere to be found.

Kerala has a long history of enriched traditions and Art & Culture. Its culture is a beautiful fusion of Aryan and Dravidian cultures. Festivals and performing arts form an important part of Kerala’s culture. Some of the important festivals of the state are Onam, Pooram, Attukal Pongala, etc. Dance forms like Kathakali, Koodiyattom, Thullal are worldwide popular. Kerala also has a history of rich literary works. The cuisines of the state are a mix of sumptuous vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals including exotic seafood.

Travelogy India is offering a wide range of Kerala Tour Packages to enjoy the beauty of Nature. The Best time to visit Kerala is Winter Season between September and March to enjoy a pleasant climate. If you are in Kerala, the first thing you should indulge in is cruising the backwaters. Visit the serene beaches in the Arabian Sea and relish on a platter of exotic seafood. Offer yourself a visit to the tea and spice plantation and head to the Periyar Jungle to have a view of rich flora and fauna. The historic Fort of Kochi is a must-visit for its enchanting charm. If you can spare some time, you should definitely catch a live Kathakali performance to leave your senses spellbound.

19 Itinerary Found Select Destination Cochin Alleppey Kumarakom Munnar Trivandrum Kovalam Idukki Varkala Chennai Wayanad Jaipur Kozhikode Bekal Jaisalmer Jodhpur Mandawa Pushkar Ranakpur

4 Nights 5 Days Kerala Backwaters Tour Packages

4 Days - Kerala Backwater Tour Package

Cochin - Kumarakom - Alleppey - Cochin

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  • Visit Chinese Fishing Net in Kochi
  • Explore the backwaters of Kochi
  • Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary to see species of birds
  • Enjoy the greenery of backwater villages
  • Relax on your houseboat and explore the lust greenery, lagoons, lakes, canals, coconut groves in Alleppey

5 Nights 6 Days Kerala Honeymoon Tour Packages

5 Nights - Kerala Honeymoon Tour

Cochin - Munnar - Alleppey - Kovalam - Trivandrum

  • See Tata Tea Museum and Tea Plantation in Munnar
  • Visit Eravikulam National Park - Munnar
  • Visit Tea Gardens, Tea Merchants, Green Land Spice Supermarket
  • Witness various spices at Spices garden”
  • Enjoy traditional Kerala style houseboat and backwaters
  • Visit Famous lighthouse beach - Kovalam
  • Take variety of Ayurveda Relaxing Massage at Kovalam Beach

6 Days Kerala Beach Tour Packages - Itinerary, Trip

6 Days - Kerala Beaches Tour

Cochin - Alleppey - Kovalam - Trivandrum

  • Explore the beaches in Kochi
  • Visit Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church - Kochi
  • Explore backwaters on traditional houseboat "Kettuvalam" in Alleppey
  • Visit Alappuzha beach and Vijaya Beach Park - Alleppey
  • See the beauty of Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach and Samudra Beach - Kovalam
  • Enjoy the swimming session on Kovalam Beach
  • Indulge in Adventurous beach activities in Kovalam
  • Padmanabha Swamy Temple, Veli Tourist Village and Technology museum in Trivandrum

7 Days Private Kerala Houseboat Tour - Alleppey to Kumarakom

7 Days - Kerala Houseboat Tour

Cochin - Munnar - Thekkady - Alleppey - Kumarakom - Cochin

  • Jew Town and Spice Market - Cochin
  • Enjoy cooking classes at Cochin
  • Visit Tea Gardens, Tea Merchants, Green Land Spice Supermarket - Munnar
  • Visit Eravikulam National Park at Munnar
  • Go for the Kathakali Dance Show - Thekkady
  • Visit Periyar Tiger Reserve and Bamboo Rafting - Thekkady

7 Nights 8 Days Kerala Backwaters Tour, Houseboat Packages

8 Days - Kerala Backwater Tour

Trivandrum - Varkala - Kumarakom - Cochin - Thekkady - Trivandrum

  • Watch the Eye-catching sunset at Varkala Beach
  • Explore 2000-year-old Janardhana Swamy Temple
  • Enjoy traditional rice boats at Kumarakom
  • Enjoy the backwater cruise at Kumarakom
  • Witness the Kathakali dance performance
  • Enjoy the boat ride in Periyar Lake
  • Visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

9 Nights 10 Days Kerala Tour Packages - Itinerary, Trip

10 Days - Best of Kerala Tour

Trivandrum - Kovalam - Alleppey - Kumarakom - Thekkady - Munnar - Cochin - Guruvayur - Kozhikode

  • Visit Padmanabha Swamy Temple, Museums and Sri Chitra Art Gallery
  • Enjoy relaxing Ayurveda massage in Kovalam
  • Enjoy backwaters on Private Houseboat in Alleppey
  • Visit Kumarakom bird sanctuary and sightseeing around
  • Visit Periyar National Park
  • Explore Eravikulam National Park, Tea Estate and factory - Munnar

11 Days Kerala Village Tour Packages, 10 Nights Village tour in Kerala

11 Days - Kerala Village Tour

Kozhikode - Wayanad - Cochin – Periyar - Kumarakom - Kovalam - Trivandrum

  • Experience Chetyalathoor Village in Wayanad
  • Enjoy Club Farm Visit, Crab Catching at Kumbalinga Village in Cochin
  • Participate in Pappad Making(Poppadom), Bee Keeping at Valiyapara in Thekkady
  • Enjoy a magnificent Tribal Dance Performance
  • Find variety of bird species in Kumarakom bird sanctuary
  • Explore the village dairy farms Vegetable Farms nearby village of Kovalam
  • See traditional martial art of Kerala

Kumarakom One Day Package - Itinerary, Sightseeing

Private - One Day Trip Kumarakom

  • See most beautiful places of Kumarakom in just one day
  • Enjoy the one day stay in houseboat of Kerala fame
  • Immerse into the beauty of birds at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
  • Enjoy the South Indian Filter Coffee
  • Explore the place in a air conditioned cab and the cabbie all along the tour

One Day Alleppey Backwater Tours - Houseboat Packages

1 Day - Alleppey Backwater Tour

  • Get the best time play in the backwaters of Kerala
  • Enjoy the entire day staying in Kettuvallam or Houseboat of Kerala
  • Try your hands making out dishes with the Chef on board
  • Relish the Kerala cuisine delights as you drift past the paddy fields and coconut palms.
  • Get a pick up and drop in a private air – conditioned cab along-with English speaking Tour Guide

1 Day Cochin Sightseeing Tour Packages - Itinerary, Trip

1 Day - Cochin Sightseeing Tour

  • Admire the Jewish Synagogue
  • Visit the Dutch Palace
  • Taste the Cochin Delicacies at your dinner
  • See the Indian Portugese Museum
  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of beach
  • Explore Chinese Fishing Nets

Best Time To Visit Kerala

Culture of kerala, eravikulam national park, fairs and festivals in kerala, history of kerala, how to reach kerala, kerala backwaters, kerala beaches, kerala fast facts, kerala hill stations, kerala tourism information, kerala travel guide, kerala travel tips, kerala wildlife, monuments of kerala, nightlife in kerala, periyar national park, places to visit in kerala, reasons to visit kerala, restaurants in kerala, shopping in kerala, south india foods, temples of kerala, things to do in kerala, thrissur pooram festival, what to eat in kerala, frequently asked questions, q. what is the best time to travel to kerala, q. how to reach kerala.

Plenty of comfortable, safe options are available to reach in Kerala. So ways out are - by road, by air, by train, by sea. Three international airports are available in Kerala, like - Trivandrum International Airport, Kochi International Airport, and Calicut International Airport. So reaching Kerala from different national countries as well as international countries is so ease. By road also you can reach Kerala easily, because - NH 49, NH 17, NH 47 three national highways are found here. Another way of reaching Kerala is by water, though this is a little bit costly. But you can reach Lakshadweep islands of Kerala through water. The last and safest way is by train to reach Kerala to the following station - Trivandrum, Kovalam, kottyam, etc.

Q. What is famous in Kerala?

Kerala is undoubtedly a wonderful place to visit. Due to its breath taking nature's beauty people are attracted, and come here throughout the year. So it is famous as one of the best tourist places. Kerala is a cultural country, so Kerala is much developed in culture. Moreover, this is well known for tea, coffee, different types of spices, aromatic oil, cashew nut, banana chips, etc.

Q. Which is the best city to visit in Kerala?

Kerala has become a point of attraction for its magical beauty. This beautiful state of India consists of so many things - beaches, backwaters, hill stations, sanctuaries, etc. But still one of the cities of this state is glorious for its beauty. The city is Calicut city, another name of it is Kozhikode. People come here to watch the sunset, hill station, beaches etc. This city is popularly known as the city of spices.

Q. Which are the best places in Kerala?

Kerala is renowned as heaven for its natural beauty, sightseeing. This state consists of plenty of wonderful things, like - backwaters, hill stations, beach, etc. A 4 days Kerala trip with family will give you an everlasting memory. Such famous and important places are - Alleppey, Munnar, Wayanad, Kovalam, Bekal, Varkala, Idukki, Marai, Kollam, Kalpetta, Kumily, Ponnani, Thrissur etc.

Q. Why is Kerala special?

Kerala is special for its magnificent sightseeing. People mostly come here for seeing these wonderful sightseeing in different seasons. Climate of Kerala is favourable for visiting. So many things are there which makes this state special and from others. First is you can see backwater in Alappuzha. Kerala is developed in culture and in education . You can find the maximum percentage of people are literate. So most of the people of this state are highly educated. Moreover, you can get so many things, like – aromatic oil, so many spices, cashew nuts, banana chips, saree, etc. Trees and coffee are the main exported things of Kerala.

Q. Which is the cleanest city in Kerala?

Overall Kerala is a clean state. But by overall counting, one of the towns of Kerala becomes the cleanest among all. This is Sulthan Bathery. In this city, using plastic is totally banned. So it is safe from plastic pollution. And all the wastage are sold by the people of the city to the municipality. So you can find the road of Santhery Bathery is neat and clean. Chairman of this city made some rules for keeping this city clean.

Q. Which is the best time to go to Kerala?

The atmosphere of Kerala is suitable for visiting. There is no specific time for visiting here. The atmosphere is also pleasant. Some places here are visited by people in summer. Also, the monsoon of Kerala is splendid. So you may get another flavour of monsoon in Kerala. Again, some places are appropriate for visiting in winter. So overall you can go anytime in Kerala, but still, the September, October, November, December etc. months are best for visiting Kerala.

Q. Which is the best month to visit Kerala?

Kerala is well known for its excellent weather. Anytime you can visit here, like in summer, or in monsoon or in winter. But still, September, October, November, December, January, February, March etc. months are considered as the perfect time for visiting Kerala . Because this time is absolutely comfortable for tourists. 

Q. Which is the most beautiful place in Kerala?

Kerala is considered as heaven due to its extraordinary characteristics. So many attractive points are there for visitors. People mostly come here to see backwaters, beaches, hill stations, etc. Among all of them, Kochi is considered as the most beautiful one in Kerala, because of its beauty. Some important places of Kochi for visiting are - Fort Kochi, Mattancherry palace, Cherai Beach, Paradesi Synagogue etc.

Q. How many days should I spend in Kerala?

Visiting Kerala can give you a wonderful breathing experience at the end of your vacation. This will be everlasting in your memory. So many things to do and so many places are there for visiting in Kerala. So you may need more or less 7 days to enjoy the entire thing. But 3 to 4 days also may be appropriate for a Kerala trip. So make your vacation fullest with your family by a Kerala trip of 3 to 4 days.

Q. What is Speciality of Kerala?

Kerala is special for its natural beauty. This is renowned as God's own creation because of its beautiful creation. The climate of Kerala is almost the same throughout the year. This feature makes it mostly visited by people. Moreover, this area is green here. Plenty of lakes, dams, hill stations, mountains etc. can be found here. Travellers come here many times of the year.

Q. What Makes Kerala Unique?

Kerala is one of the most beautiful visiting places of India. This is one of the universal, peaceful states. You can find here an amazing culture among all people. Here the climate is so pleasant and favourable for tourists. Because the weather remains average here throughout the all seasons. Most people of Kerala are found educated. So the percentage of literacy is high in Kerala.

Q. What can I bring back from Kerala?

Apart from the best visiting place, Kerala is one of the best place for shopping . So equally you can get adventure as well as marketing by visiting here. So undoubtedly Kerala will be the ultimate destination for spending amazing time. Kerala is famous for harvesting tea and coffee. So you can get the best tea and coffee from here. Also, Kerala is well known for producing different spices. Beside these, coir products, handcrafts by coconut shell, Nettipattom, traditional lamp, Kasavu Saree,etc. are renowned all over the world.

Q. What is famous in Kerala for shopping?

Kerala is a trade centre of various kinds of products. You can get so many unique things from here. Also, Kerala is well known for sarees. Also, you may buy cashew nut, banana chips, mask for Kathakali dancing, coconut and coir products, aroma oils, different kinds of ornaments etc. Also, Kerala is renowned for tea and coffee all over the world.

Q. What are the famous food items in Kerala?

Kerala is famous for different kinds of foods made by coconut. And also Kerala is renowned for the trade centre of spices. So many dishes are made by using black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, spices, etc. Also, sea foods are available here, like - prawns, crabs, lobsters etc. Some famous dishes of Kerala are - Dosa, Appam, Puttu, Malabar Biryani, Idiyappam with curry, Erissery, Puttu curry, Sadya, Dal curry etc.

Q. Which are the best hill station in kerala?

Plenty of hill stations are situated in Kerala. These are the points of attractions of tourists. Such important hill stations are - Munnar, Thekkady, Vagamon, Ponmudi, Lakkidi, Idukki, Peermedu, etc. Among all Munnar is the best hill station for its beauty. The hill stations are fully covered by green. This is situated in the district of Idukki.

Q. What is the famous sweet of Kerala?

Most popular sweet dish of Kerala is Payasam. Various kinds of Payasam are made by the local people of Kerala. Like - Coconut with Jaggery Payasam, Rice with Jaggery Payasam, Bamboo Rice Payasam, Palada Payasam, Pumpkin Payasam, Orange Payasam, Bottle guard Payasam, Corn Payasam up, etc. These are tasty and also healthy. Apart from Payasam, there are also famous sweet dish are famous, like - coconut pitha, coconut laddoo, Dehrori, Kerala Mishri etc.

Q. Which caste is majority in Kerala?

Different kinds of religions are there in Kerala. Among them, 3 primary religions are - Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity. And Brahmin castes are found in major here. You can find various kinds of Brahmin in this state. Kshatriyas are the next popular caste found in Kerala. Other castes of Kerala are - Nair sect, FC sects, etc. Some famous sub castes are - Samanthan Nair, KoilThampuran, Maaran, Vatti, Chetty Nair, Kalamkotti, Otattu Nair etc.

Q. Is Kerala safe for tourists?

Kerala is one of the wonderful vacation destinations in India. People come here in different times of the year. The pleasant and suitable climate of Kerala attracts people highly. Though India was renowned as unsafe for solo travellers or woman travellers in earlier. But now a days, Kerala becomes much safe for the travellers. Because so many tourism industry are formed now and government has taken initiatives for making Kerala safest. So undoubtedly this is one of the safest destinations of India .

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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

Chinese Fishing Nets Kochi Kerala India

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

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica Kochi India

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

Forte Kochi Hotel Kerala India

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

Kerala houseboat trip with beautiful views of the backwaters

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

Alleppey Kerala houseboat cruise for 2 nights with incredible views

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

Upper deck lounge area on Xandari Riverscapes luxury houseboat

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

Munnar Kerala Tea Plantations

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

Windermere River Estate Kerala - Infinity pool and restaurant overlooking river

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

Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam Kerala India

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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Kerala Travel Guide: Kerala itinerary for the perfect 5 days in Kerala, the most beautiful state in India. Visit the best Kerala India travel destinations including bustling Fort Kochi, a relaxing Kerala houseboat and tropical beaches #keralaindiatravel #keralaitinerary #keralabeautifulplaces

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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.

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

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

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

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Located in the district fo Idukki, Munnar is the most visited Hill station located in Kerala.

Being one of the famous hill stations located in Kerala, this place is embraced by nature itself.

Alleppey is a destination where travellers reach in order to cruise through the most famous backwaters located in Kerala

Kochi, the queen of the Arabian sea is one of the major tourist destinations located in India.

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Water Metro starts service to Fort Kochi

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Kochi: The Kochi Water Metro has launched its service to Fort Kochi in a move expected to benefit the public as well as the tourists.

The Water Metro conducted its first service to Fort Kochi from High Court Terminal on Sunday with Kochi Metro Rail Ltd managing director Loknath Behera and celebrity travel vlogger Santhosh George Jacob onboard.

There was no formal inaugural function as the model code of conduct for the April 26 Lok Sabha elections is in place.

Condé Nast Traveller rates Kochi one of the best places to go in Asia in 2024; Here's why

Condé Nast Traveller rates Kochi one of the best places to go in Asia in 2024; Here's why

Kochi Metro extends working hours for New Year, offers late night services

Kochi Metro extends working hours for New Year, offers late night services

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India’s first electric double – decker bus to be used for city tours in TVM

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  1. Welcome to Kerala Tourism

    Kerala Tourism official website provides text, photos, video, on travel destinations, hotels, accommodation, culture, heritage, art forms and people of God's own Country ... LANGUAGES ENG. Visits since 1 Apr 2023 12,528,944 . Visits since 1 Jan 2007 54,390,533. EXPERIENCE KERALA; WHERE TO GO; WHERE TO STAY; THINGS TO DO; PLAN YOUR TRIP ...

  2. Kerala Tour Packages

    Plan with GoKerala Trip for an Amazing, Excited and Memorable trip. Experience the Magic Of Gods Own Country with Go Kerala. We assure the Best service & Promise for a Memorable Trip. Go Kerala offers a Well Planned Packages with Bucket full of Memories to take home. Enjoy the Colours of Kerala with Go Kerala for an Everlasting Memory.

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

    2. Munnar. 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 ...

  4. THE 10 BEST Kerala Tours & Excursions for 2024 (with Prices)

    6. 5 Days Kerala Tour Package - Private Tour with Exclusive Houseboat Stay. 67. Bus Tours. 3+ days. In this 5 days tour we will take you to - Munnar hill station, Periyar wildlife sanctuary (Thekkady), Alleppey Backwaters…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 95% of travelers. from. $351.

  5. THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Kerala (UPDATED 2024)

    The Kerala Kathakali Centre, based in Fort Kochi, is one of the last sanctuaries for ancient art and culture in India. Daily Schedule (500rs per show): 6:30-8am Rooftop Yoga 8-9am Raga Music Meditation 5-6pm Kathakali Make-up 6-7pm Kathakali Performance 7.15-8pm Kalaripayattu Martial Arts 8-9pm Indian Classical Music 9-9:45pm Indian Classical Dance (8-9pm on Sat) [monthly] 9-10pm Full Moon ...

  6. Kerala travel

    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.

  7. The Best Kerala Itinerary For 7 Days Or More

    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.

  8. 10 days road trip in Kerala: An itinerary and Guide

    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.

  9. Unforgettable 10 Days Kerala Itinerary: see the Best of Kerala

    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.

  10. The Ultimate KERALA Itinerary Guide 2021

    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).

  11. Kerala Tour Packages

    5 Nights - Kerala Honeymoon Tour. Cochin - Munnar - Alleppey - Kovalam - Trivandrum. 6 Days | 5 Nights. Trip Highlights. Price On Request. View Details Enquire Now. See Tata Tea Museum and Tea Plantation in Munnar. Visit Eravikulam National Park - Munnar. Visit Tea Gardens, Tea Merchants, Green Land Spice Supermarket.

  12. Discover Kerala Tour

    Discover Kerala Tour - 6 Days. View Map. This exotic itinerary is the ultimate introduction to South India's state of Kerala—an up-and-coming destination for savvy travelers. Kick off with an Arabian Sea sunset in Cochin before a private guide drives you through lush, hilly interiors peppered with tea and spice plantations.

  13. Kerala Tour Packages

    The rich green forests, enchanting beaches and mesmerizing backwater creates a romantic atmosphere for you and your dearest. GoKeralatrip offers the widest range of customizable Kerala tour to suit every kind of traveler from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai or Bangalore. We provides all travel related assistances and timely solution to make your trip ...

  14. Kerala Magic Tour

    Overview. Enjoy the Green hill station with Silent Back waters of Gods own Country in a Short trip of 4 Days & 03 Nights. Munnar -a Beautiful Hill station of Kerala with Green Lush Tea Plantations, Forest, Wild Life, Dams, National park, Hills & Mountains with Attractive Back waters of Alleppey. Enjoy the Back water Cruise in Houseboat with ...

  15. 23 Things to Know Before You Visit Kerala

    Whilst you could feasibly visit Kerala year-round, the absolute best time to plan your trip is between October and March. Before this, torrential monsoon rains (at their worst from June to August) and flooding make visiting the beach towns pretty unpleasant and travel inland potentially tricky. Beyond March, temperatures in Kerala increase ...

  16. The best way to spend a month in Kerala and Goa

    Alleppey (Allappuzha) Days 6 - 8 and 9 - 11. Alleppey is the most popular base for exploring Kerala's backwaters. We did chose two things to do in Alleppey - a traditional houseboat tour and a homestay in the backwaters. Both were highlights of our trip.

  17. Kerala Itinerary: The Perfect 5 Days in Kerala India

    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 ...

  18. Kerala Adventures on a Budget

    GoGeo Holidays offers meticulously crafted Budget Kerala Tour Packages, ensuring an affordable and unforgettable exploration. Reserve your spot now! Kerala Tour Packages Honeymoon Tour Packages. E: [email protected] 9159235000 +91 9496885000 enquire. Get Set Go Hot deals, trending kerala tour packages. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural ...

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    Kerala Tour Packages Starting @ ₹ 11411 - 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐍𝐨𝐰!

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    Eliminate the stress of planning your trip by choosing an all-inclusive trip package only on LetsGoKerala, and make the most of your holidays. With your flights, accommodation, transport, food, drinks, and transfers all taken care of, you just need to relax and enjoy your trip. Such an amazing trip is only possible with our all-inclusive ...

  21. Kerala Group Tour Packages| Kerala Holiday Packages

    Kerala is a place that has its own uniqueness and its own culture to celebrate. Far from your hurly-burly life this trip will be worthfull and cherishing. Adventurous destinations and beautifull portraits will be the perfect destination for your group tour package. And if you want to get the most out of your vacation, kick-start your holiday ...

  22. Water Metro starts service to Fort Kochi

    The Water Metro conducted its first service to Fort Kochi from High Court Terminal on Sunday with Kochi Metro Rail Ltd managing director Loknath Behera and celebrity travel vlogger Santhosh George Jacob onboard. There was no formal inaugural function as the model code of conduct for the April 26 Lok Sabha elections is in place.

  23. Kerala Backwater Tour Packages

    Kerala is an exciting place to enjoy your veccation. The rich green forests, enchanting beaches and mesmerizing backwater create a romantic atmosphere for you and your dearest. GoKerala Trip offers the best deals on Kerala honeymoon packages for couple. We provide all travel related assistances and timely solution to make your trip most memorable.