The state of Kerala is situated on the Malabar coast of South India. It boasts 600 kilometers of scenic shoreline lined by tall and densely foliaged palm trees.
Often described as a paradise on earth, the color green takes on a whole different meaning in this state as you move from the hills of Munnar and Wayanad perched on the Western Ghats to the lush backwaters of Alleppey or the verdant beaches on Trivandrum or Varkala. Add to this an intriguing colonial past as well as cultural and religious significance, and you have a 7-day Kerala itinerary that will leave little doubt about the often-used epithet for Kerala, “God’s Own Country”.
A weeklong vacation through this southern gem will leave you baffled by the variety of flora and fauna our beautiful country holds in every corner, and it will be a holiday you will recommend to everyone you know. You can consider this itinerary while looking at various Kerala tour packages.
Kerala Itinerary Snapshot (10D / 9N)
1 Night: Kochi
2 Nights: Munnar
2 Nights: Thekaddy
2 Nights: Kumarakom / Alleppy
- Day 1- Reach Kochi, check in and freshen up
- Day 2- Munnar: Head to Munnar, check in
- Day 3 – Munnar: Spend time in Munnar
- Day 4 – Thekaddy: Head to Thekaddy, check in
- Day 5 – Thekadday: Spend time in Thekaddy
- Day 6 – Kumarakom: Head to Kumarakom, check in
- Day 7 – Kumarakom / Alleppey: Spend time in Backwaters
- Day 8- Varkala: Head to Varkala
- Day 9 – Varkala: Spend time in Varkala
- Day 10 – Kochi: Back to kochi
Also Read: 7-Day Karnataka Itinerary
How To Reach Kerala?
Kerala has 4 international airports at Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kannur and Kozhikode. We are beginning our Kerala trip at Kochi and departing from Thiruvananthapuram as both are well connected to all the major cities across India. You can also take a train to reach Ernakulam Junction in Kochi and depart from Thiruvananthapuram Pettah station. Regular buses to Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram are also available from the neighbouring states.
Which Are The Most Popular Tourist Destinations Of Kerala?
Kochi, Munnar, Wayanad, Alleppey, Thekkady, Varkala, Kovalam, Kumarakom, Sabarimala, Idukki, Bekal, Kozhikode, Thrissur, Thalassery, Thiruvananthapuram, Kannur, Periyar National Park are some of the often-visited hubs of Kerala.
Is Kerala Safe For Solo Travelling?
Kerala is well-connected by roads and travelling from one place to another is fairly easy and safe. Although Kerala is more popular with honeymoon couples and families on vacation, solo travellers will also find it comfortable here. Learning Malayalam, the local language, can make your trip more comfortable
Which Is The Best Season To go on the Kerala tour?
The hill stations of Munnar and Wayanad are pleasant throughout the year but it is best to visit the state as a whole between September and February when the weather is less humid.
Where To Stay In Kerala?
Hotels, resorts, homestays, houseboats on backwaters, even treehouses – take your pick from a wide variety of options available.
What Type Of Food Options Are Available In Kerala?
Kerala, of course, is famous for its South Indian cuisine with Puttu and Kadala curry, Appam with stew, Idiyappam, and seafood being some of the staples. Most food items have a strong coconut flavor to it however, if you can also find several multi-cuisine restaurants available in all the cities.
Is The Kerala Trip Affordable For Budget And Backpacking Travels?
Yes, it is. You could travel in buses and trains instead of hiring outstation cabs and budget resorts are available for overnight stays. If you are looking for an exotic vacation, you have options aplenty with luxurious houseboats and 5-star accommodations available throughout the state.
Is Kerala A Suitable Choice For Young Travellers And Senior Citizens?
This Kerala Itinerary does not include any grueling treks or hikes and should be easily traversed by people of all ages. There are trekking options on the Western Ghats if you want to hit your heart with an adrenaline rush as well.
Details Of 7- Day Kerala Itinerary
DAY 1
Reach Kochi
The city of Kochi is a major port in the country and has seen various colonial powers step on its lands in their quest for the spices and riches of India. You will find structures that date back to the 14th and 15th centuries and have Portuguese, Dutch, British, Arab and even Chinese influences.
Kochi has an old-world charm, and to be truly able to absorb the charm of this city, we suggest you stay at a boutique hotel. Boutique Hotels are age-old properties that are preserved in their unique form to host guests from all over the world, and we know the best now in town.
Bloom Boutique | Waterfront Fort Kochi is a museum-themed hotel that is all things cosy, chic and rustic, in short, it’s perfect for an old-school vibe. Apart from the rustic feel, the hotel also features a lake view restaurant that is perfect for having breakfasts and romantic candlelight dinner with beau. Ohh and don’t forget to embark on the boat cruise provided exclusively by Bloom Boutique | Waterfront Fort Kochi.
Start your day at Fort Kochi- a small seaside part of the city believed to be the first European township created in India. The St. Francis Church here is the first European church built in India and has undergone several reformations. This is where the remains of Vasco da Gama were initially buried before being excavated. Santa Cruz Basilica is another centuries-old church here.
The Chinese Fishing Nets are a very popular attraction here. These nets are believed to have been in use since the 14th century, brought over from the Chinese court of Kublai Khan. Walk through Princess Street and see the colonial buildings here to understand the city’s vibrant past. Visit the Fort Kochi beach and eat at the many cafes lining this place. Kashi Art Café is a recommended one.
The Mattancherry Palace should be your next stop. A European structure with murals and paintings of the Indian King for whom it was built, this architectural beauty stands apart from the typical architecture found in Southern India. The Bolgatty Palace is another marvelous structure to visit. Also, visit the Jewish Synagogue (or Paradesi Synagogue) which was built in 1568 and still stands tall today.
Move next to Willingdon Island man-made island on the Port from where you can take boat tours for the backwaters. Visit the Veeranpuzha lake and Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary. The Archaeological Museum on Hill Palace is an interesting site too.
Other popular tourist spots include the Folklore Museum, Thirikkakara Vamanamoorthy Temple (where Onam is hosted), and Ernakulam Shiva Temple to get a flavor of the rich Hindu culture blended with the colonial past.
End your day on Marine Drive by taking a sunset cruise and then watching an evening performance of Kathakali and Kalaripayattu at Greenix Village, a cultural center.
Also Read: 10-Day Himachal Itinerary
DAY 2 & 3
Head to Munnar, spend 2 nights
This idyllic hill station on the Western Ghats, flanked by 3 rivers- Madupetti, Nallathanni, and Periavaru, is a 4-hour drive away from Kochi and is famous for its tea estates, waterfalls, and gardens. Staying in a treehouse can be a unique experience here that you might want to try.
Places to see?
Top station- at a height of 1,700 meters for its breathtaking views.
Pothamedu View Point, Eravikulam National Park (which houses endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr and Neelakurinji blossoms). Trek up to the Chokramudi peak inside the park.
Also visit the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, the Atukkad waterfalls and Echo Point, the Madupetty Dam And Dairy Farm, the KDHP museum in Tata Tea Estate, Chinnakanal waterfalls, the rose garden, and Blossom Park.
DAY 4 & 5
Thekkady (Periyar National Park), spend 2 nights
Day 3 of the Kerala itinerary starts with Periyar National Park – the country’s largest tiger reserve, sprawling 300 square miles, home to several species like deer, elephants, and Nilgiri langurs- is a 3-4 hour drive from Munnar. Go on the tiger trail with armed guides and patrol officers for that off-beat jungle thrill.
Enjoy Bamboo rafting in the catchment area of the Periyar lake. Visit the Green Park Ayurvedic and Spices Plantation for the aromatic spices you can carry back home.
If you have time, drive to Anakkara in the Idukki district to see another spice plantation and waterfall. Visit the Mudra Cultural Centre for a close glimpse into the culture of Kathakali dancers and the Chellarkovil viewpoint.
Camp on the bank of Periyar lake for a unique stay.
DAY 6 & 7
Kumarakom & Alleppey, spend 2 nights in either of them
Alleppey is about 4-5 hours from Periyar, but take a slight detour at Kumarakom- a group of islets on Vembanad lake (the longest lake in India) and visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and Pathiramanal Island. The Bay Island Driftwood Museum is a one-of-its-kind museum housing unique wood sculptures.
Pallipuram island on the Vembanad Lake is a small pristine village with white sands and provides you with perfect photographic backgrounds for those picture-perfect landscapes and selfies.
Reach Alleppey in the late afternoon and head to Alleppey beach and visit the lighthouse, as well as the 137-year-old pier heading into the sea. End the day by strolling through the souvenir shops and eateries in Alleppey.
You can hire a boathouse at Alleppey and have a relaxing time!
Spend the next day in the beautiful town of Alleppey on the Laccadive Sea and cruise through its network of sparkling canals and calm lagoons, sipping on the traditional toddy or palm wine.
Visit the famous Mullakkal temple and Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna temple for their grandiose Kerala-style architecture. Also visit the Edathua Church and St. Mary’s Forane Church- the oldest Syrian Catholic Church in India.
Don’t miss out the traditional snake boat race if you are visiting in August. If you have children with you, take them for fun rides at Vijay Beach Park or relax your nerves with an Ayurvedic massage on Punnapra Beach. You could also enjoy kayaking in the backwaters.
Leave for Varkala in the afternoon and catch the sunset there. Varkala is 120 kms away and about a 3-hour drive from Alleppey and is famous for its sea views and sunset from its 15-metre high Northern Cliff on the seaside dotted with shacks filled with the aroma of seafood.
Enjoy water sports at Varkala beach or bathe in the serene waters of the Edava beach and Chilakoor beach.
Also Read: 3-Day Rishikesh Itinerary
DAY 8 & 9
Explore Varkala and spend 2 nights
Start your morning in Varkala by visiting the Anjengo Fort and lighthouse established by the British East India Company in 1696. Other places to see are the Vishnu temple which is believed to be at least 2,000 years old, and the Kaduvayil Juma Masjid, popular with Islamic believers for its healing powers.
Kappil Lake contoured by coconut trees, is also a prime attraction of this town. Take a quick stop at the Varkala Tunnel, a colonial-era structure that is believed to have taken 14 years to build and was frequently used by sailors on their way to Thiruvananthapuram. St. Sebastian’s Pilgrim Church is also well known for its calm and beautiful interiors.
Reach Thiruvananthapuram before or after lunch, and spend the latter half of the day there.
This is the bustling capital city of Kerala and worth spending the last 2 days of your trip in. It takes 1-2 hours to reach here from Varkala.
Your must-see list for the first day in the city should include the Neyyar dam and wildlife sanctuary to enjoy the lion and deer safari, the crocodile farm, and watch the elephants in their habitat. Trek to Agasthyakoodam – with a statue of Lord Agastya at its peak for the views around.
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Padmanabhaswamy Temple, in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, is not only a sought-after pilgrimage in Kerala but in the whole of India. It is one of the 108 Divya desams, holy abodes of Lord Vishnu, and attracts devotees from all over.
Also read my post on Kasargod – The Place Where History Meets Natural Splendour.
In recent times, the vaults that had been locked for years in the temple have been opened, leaving the archaeologists dumbfounded by the splendid jewelry and documents discovered there. There is an intriguing mystery surrounding Vault B, though, which has never been opened, and it is believed that opening it could wreak mayhem and havoc in the country due to the sensitive secrets held there.
Visit the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Aazhimala Siva Temple, and Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple to see the various culturally significant sites in the city. Poovar, a coastal village where the Biblical Solomon is believed to have arrived could be on your list too.
End your day at the Observatory, 60 meters above the sea, for the glorious views, and stroll on the beach till you are ready to call it a day.
BONUS Recommendation: Kovalam, 11 kilometers to the south of Thiruvananthapuram, is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Kerala, and it definitely calls for a visit towards the end of your vacation to relax and rejuvenate yourself before you head back into your busy routines again. The lighthouse on the beach provides mesmerizing views of the sea.
Also Read: How to Spend Time at Kovalam Beach?
Now, you know what can you do in Kerala if you have 10 days. It is equally important to know about the places in Kerala for trip. Many people interested in a Kerala visit search for this information. Here are some short details to help you:
Places in Kerala for Trip
Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” boasts a diverse tapestry of natural beauty and cultural richness.
For Hill Station Lovers
One must-visit destination is Munnar, a hill station enveloped in lush tea plantations, offering panoramic views of mist-covered mountains. The tranquil backwaters of Alleppey provide a unique experience, with houseboat cruises allowing visitors to meander through serene waterways flanked by swaying palm trees.
Munnar is already part of our 10-day itinerary. This is one of the best places in Kerala for trip. If you can spend five days in Munnar, my post on 5-day Munnar itinerary can help you.
You can also consider a visit to Ponmudi: The Emerald Paradise of Kerala if you love visiting hill stations.
For Wildlife Enthusiasts
For wildlife enthusiasts, Periyar National Park in Thekkady beckons with its dense forests and a chance to spot elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species. As per our itinerary, you will visit this scenic spot-on day 4 and 5 of your Kerala Trip.
Sea Seekers
Again, Varkala is one of the best places in Kerala for trip. We have covered this in our itinerary as well. The pristine Varkala and Kovalam beaches are perfect for unwinding, with golden sands and the rhythmic lull of the Arabian Sea. We have already discussed about Kovalam on our bonus recommendation.
History Buffs
In the historic realm, Fort Kochi stands as a testament to the state’s colonial past, featuring Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. The vibrant city of Trivandrum, with its ancient temples and museums, offers a glimpse into Kerala’s rich heritage.
Not to be missed is Wayanad, a lush district adorned with waterfalls, spice plantations, and trekking trails. The culturally rich town of Thrissur, known for its festivals and art forms, is another gem. Kerala’s charm lies not only in its picturesque landscapes but also in its warm hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of nature and culture. These are a few best places in Kerala for trip. Your Kerala Trip will not become wholesome unless you cover one of these places.
Places to visit in Kerala in one day
Are you particular about Kerala Site Visit? Do you have only one day? If so, you will be interested in knowing about the places to visit in Kerala in one day. Thankfully, the God’s Own country has many attractive places that you can cover in a single day.
Here are some tourist places in Kerala for one day. Make sure to start your day early. Also, you can finish your day by visiting the Holy Guruvayur Temple. Here is how your Kerala site visit will look like. We have framed this itinerary considering that you are starting your day at Allepey:
- Start your journey by heading to Alleppey to embark on a mesmerizing backwater cruise. Spend time drifting along serene waterways on a traditional houseboat, witnessing daily life unfold along the banks lined with coconut palms and quaint villages. The experience is a tranquil escape into the heart of Kerala’s natural beauty.
2. With around an hour and half drive from Alleppey, you can reach Kochi. Here, Fort Kochi awaits with its charming blend of colonial architecture and vibrant streets. Stroll along Jew Street and visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, a testament to the town’s maritime history. The Mattancherry Palace, adorned with stunning murals, offers a glimpse into Kerala’s royal past. Lunch in one of Kochi’s local eateries, savoring authentic Kerala cuisine, and then make your way to the ancient town of Guruvayur.
3. Within around 3 hours’ drive from Alleppey, you can reach Guruvayur. It is the home to the revered Guruvayur Temple, it’s a spiritual haven that encapsulates the essence of Kerala’s cultural heritage.
After finishing your darshan at Guruvayur, you can get back to Alleppey within around 4 hours of drive. You can cover these tourist places in Kerala for one day.
Hope this Kerala itinerary help you in planning your trip. This itinerary covers everything for you; mountains, beaches, backwaters, wildlife and more. Let me know your thoughts in the comment section.
Check out my post on 20 Top Wayanad Tourist Places and All You Need to Know About Kovalam Beach in Kerala.
2 comments
Kerala truly sounds like a paradise on earth! The lush green landscapes, from the hills of Munnar to the backwaters of Alleppey, paint a mesmerizing picture. The blend of colonial history, cultural richness, and religious significance makes a 7-day itinerary irresistible. This blog has sparked my wanderlust for God’s Own Country!
Hi, I would like to get a quotation for a 5-6 days Kerela trip with friends for October, 2024.