THE 10 BEST Kerala Tours & Excursions

Kerala tours.

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

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2. 5 Days Kerala Tour Package - Private Tour with Exclusive Houseboat Stay

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3. Private Day Trip to Munnar from Kochi (Cochin)

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

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

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6. Full Day Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise

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7. Half day trekking (munnar valley trekking & tours )

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

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9. Kerala Backwater Day Tour (Private) with Lunch from Cochin

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

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

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

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13. 3 Nights 4 Days Munnar Alleppey Private Tour with Exclusive Houseboat Stay

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

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15. Funny and helpful Tuk Tuk Tour in Kochin

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16. Athirappilly & Vazhachal Waterfalls Private Day Tour from Kochi

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17. Kochi Private Tour: Overnight Alleppey Backwaters Houseboat Cruise

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18. Best of Kerala Tour Package 7 nights / 8 days by Sanguine Holidays

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19. Backwaters Houseboat Cruise in Aleppey with Lunch from Cochin - Private Tour

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

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21. Kochi city Tour - A private guided tour in kochi with hotel up !

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22. Munnar Site-seeing Tour

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23. Kerala Backwater Village Kayaking Tour: Alleppey

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24. Wild Elephant Anakulam & Waterfalls Tour(munnar valley trekking)

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25. Half Day Sunrise Tour on Top Station, Munnar ( By Munnar Info)

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

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

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28. Sunrise Cruise with Village Life and Local Food

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

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30. Heritage & Cultural Walk of Alleppey (Guided Walking Tour)

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Kerala: Tours Information

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Heaven on earth isn’t a dream, it’s a destination. Kerala tour is so easily and affordably accessible, you don’t even have to leave the country.  All you have to do is book a Kerala tour packages and hop on to the next flight, train or bus and make your way to the spectacular last stretch of the West Coast of India, to Kerala. Kerala holidays are popular around the world. A mesmerizing Kerala tour where the sublime beaches, cultural richness, historical depth, exotic wildlife, and beautiful mountainsides promise and our Kerala packages always deliver you an unforgettable getaway. So, are you ready to have yours?

A Kerala trip can be as luxurious or offbeat as you’d like it to be. Especially when you have such a wide variety of Kerala tour packages to choose from. The best place to start planning your trip to Kerala is browsing through the many Thomas Cook India Kerala tour packages that you can book with just a click, starting at only INR 12,199. Take your pick from quick 2-night 3-day retreats to indulgent 7-night 8-day escapades that take you around all the must-visit highlights of Kerala holidays. Discover Kerala tour packages that are as flexible or fixed as your travel dreams, plans and itineraries.

Table of Contents

  • Most Popular Kerala Tour Packages

Plan Your Kerala Tour With Thomas Cook India

Holidays in kerala.

  • Romantic Kerala
  • How to reach Kerala
  • Best time to visit Kerala
  • Best Places to Visit in Kerala

What to Eat in Kerala

  • Things to do in Kerala

People also ask about Kerala Tour Packages

Most popular kerala tour packages 2024.

Below are the most popular Kerala Tour Packages:

Whether you want to enjoy the idyllic beach vacay, witness authentic village life firsthand, hike through vividly verdant jungles, visit breathtaking natural wonders, delve into culinary feasts, your Kerala tour package can be about one or all of the above. Our expert travel curators have designed perfect Kerala packages just for you, so that you can fully immerse yourself in the captivating blend of things to see and do that Kerala tourism has to offer. With all the comfort and convenience of accommodation, travel and logistics taken care of with Kerala tour packages, regardless of which part of the country you belong to, Kerala beckons as it enjoys direct connectivity with all the major cities of India like  Mumbai , Delhi , Bangalore , Chennai , Kolkata , Hyderabad , Pune , Ahmedabad  and more.

For a clearer picture on what to expect from Kerala tourism and your visit, from sights and sounds to weather and getting around, check out our in-depth travel guide. Where you can find all the information you need, to book your Kerala tour packages and look forward to the Kerala tour of your dreams. Such as the best things to do in Kerala , best time to visit Kerala, places to visit in Kerala and more.

A magical land steeped in history, nature, culture, and tropical bliss. That is Kerala tour in a sentence. But as an experience, no amount of words can do it justice. And still, we try. By waxing lyrical about its stunning palm-fringed beaches. Its amalgamated heritage with a labyrinth-like intrigue. Its ancient natural medicine that modern bodies long for. Its native cuisine of rich, deep flavourful layers. Its sense-tingling spice plantations. Its pristine and protected natural surroundings. We even call it God’s Own Country. And beautiful, majestic Kerala, always lives up to its name. 

Kerala is one of those tour destinations that instantly conjures images in one’s mind. A golden sunset at the Chinese fishing nets in Cochin, houseboats gently floating along the mesmeric backwaters of Alleppey , surf-ready waves curling onto Varkala beach, the rolling misty hills of Munnar, a captivating Kathakali performance, the serene surrounds of an Ayurvedic center. And with Thomas Cook’s Kerala tour packages, you can bring them all to life and turn them into memories of a lifetime. Of a fun-filled family getaway, a much-needed solo escapade, a romantic tropical honeymoon , or a special trip with friends. 

Holidays in Kerala can be enjoyed by all groups of people and all ages too. The state welcomes you to walk barefoot on its sandy beaches, satiate your cultural musings with sightseeing and shows, explore its hill-stations and national parks, sample every local delicacy to your heart’s delight. To simply make the most of this paradise-like destination that’s not in some far-flung corner of the world, but right here at home. 

Romantic Kerala

Where you and your beloved can make the most beautiful start to your journey together. At some of the most luxurious stays across the destination, from stunning beachfront resorts to brilliant boutique hill-station lodges, exotic and elegant wooden houseboats, to lavish mid-town 5-star hotels. Where you can immerse yourself in the experiences of a lifetime. Like waking up to lush greenery and birdsong, dinner under the stars, couples spa retreats, secluded swims in the sea, holding hands and sightseeing, uplifting yet grounding temple visits, jungle safaris at dawn, hiking across fields and plantations, sipping on drinks in the sunshine, boat rides on the backwaters . Every moment of a honeymoon in Kerala promises to be one filled with love and wonder. Leaving you with countless memories to take back home. 

To plan your perfect Kerala honeymoon, check out a wide range of Kerala honeymoon packages . They have been specially crafted for newlyweds, taking into consideration everything couples would love to see, do, and experience. Don’t wait any longer, make your partner’s dream come true, in the spectacular destination that is Kerala. 

How to Reach Kerala

Being such a popular tourist spot means Kerala has great connectivity making it boat rides on the backwaters. One can get on a flight, take trains, buses and even reach by car. It all depends on where you are coming from and how straightforward or adventurous you want your travel to be. The quickest and most convenient way to reach Kerala is by air. There are four international airports located across the state, which also see domestic arrivals. For your trip to Kerala, you can fly into Thiruvananthapuram International Airport or Cochin International Airport, from all major cities across India. 

But for those who love taking the scenic route, your trip to Kerala should be by train or road. There are countless trains running to various cities and towns across Kerala, from all over the country. The coastal stretch is considered one of the most picturesque train journeys of India. Or better still, take a private taxi or car. The road trip allows you to drive past spectacular vistas, quaint villages, and the ability to stop and soak it all in, whenever you like. Meanwhile, luxury and deluxe buses ply from all major cities to different parts of the state too. So you can choose any of these transport options to begin your Kerala holiday. 

Travelling within Kerala

Public transport is available to take you around Kerala, such as local trains, buses, and taxis. It depends on how long a journey you wish to make. Most hotels offer car and driver services to make sightseeing and other trips convenient. You can also hire a car at the airport itself, for the entire duration of your stay. However, with Thomas Cook’s Kerala tour packages you needn’t worry, as transfers and excursions are included. 

Best Time to Visit Kerala

You can plan a trip to Kerala at any time of the year, depending on the kind of weather you prefer. With tropical climate, Kerala has a hot, humid summer, a substantially heavy monsoon, and a pleasantly cool winter. Since Kerala has varied topography, cool and hot micro-climates exist too. By understanding each season, you can choose the right dates for your Kerala tour.

Summer holidays in Kerala are great for those who wish to visit the hill-stations or experience some of the seasonal festivities such as Vishnu with temperatures often crossing the 40 degree mark, spending time at the beach or out sightseeing can be uncomfortably hot. On the other hand, this is a great time to look for off-season deals on Kerala tour packages. Hill stations like Munnar, Thekkady, Ponmudi, and Vagamon offer a lush green escape from the heat. But this is when you can find great off-season deals on Kerala packages. While places like Munnar, Thekkady, Ponmudi and Vagamon offer lush green escapes, high up in the hills, away from the heat. Monsoon arrives with a bang in June and tapers off by August end. If you enjoy the wet season or are a couple looking to experience the romance of the rain, then you should definitely search for a Kerala package within these months. This is also a great time to go on a spa focused Kerala trip, one that truly leaves you rejuvenated. This makes the best time to visit Kerala  during the winter season, from September end to the start of March. Most people opt to spend their holidays in Kerala during this time, as the favourable weather makes the beaches idyllic, the backwaters are at their best and the outdoors in general become more accessible. So even city-centric getaways are more fun, allowing you to have the entire gamut of Kerala holidays experiences to pick from. But if you are going to go during winter, booking your Kerala tour package in advance is recommended.

Best Places to Visit in Kerala

Places to Visit Kerala Infographic

Below are the best places to visit in Kerala during your Kerala Trip.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Perched on the plantation-filled hills of Kerala is the charming town of Munnar. The once-colonial summer town is today a lush, vibrant region where exotic teas and spices are grown, authentic rustic village life still exists, and nature thrives in myriad shapes and colours. Any Kerala trip itinerary that includes Munnar, promises exquisite experiences. Like cycling through the plantations, animal spotting at Eravikulam National Park, boat riding at Mattupetty Dam, picnicking at Hydel Park and sampling local culture at the famed Tea Museum. A heavenly retreat for couples or families looking spend quality time with one another, in enchanting surrounds. 

A tiny district in Kerala is most famous for its backwater tours. This special ecosystem means Alappuzha offers visitors exquisite flowing waters flanked on either side by tropical palms and trees, that you can call home for a night, or maybe a few. Staying on a houseboat isn’t something you can do too often, so why not make the most of the opportunity.  But that doesn’t there’s no reason to get your feet on solid land. Alappuzha is also home to significant landmarks, like St. Mary Forane Church, the oldest in all of India! While Alapuzzha Beach is another lovely spot for a day of sun, sand, and frolic. Don’t miss out on this destination on your Kerala package.

A trip to Kerala is incomplete without visiting its cultural epicentre, Kochi. Where you will discover a rich mix of history, spectacular architecture, nature in all its glory, a bustling food scene, heritage arts and craft, beautiful sacred sites — a heady blend of all things that make travel such an enlightening experience. Don’t miss out on popular tourist attractions like the Mattancherry Palace, the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, the Into-Portuguese Museum and Paradesi Synagogue. A stimulating escapade into the past and present of one of the world’s oldest port cities, that promises coastal charm aplenty. 

The pristine crescent-shaped seafront stretch of Kovalam is made up of three beaches, namely Lighthouse, Hawah and Samudra. Each of them with their own special way of leaving you totally mesmerised by the picture-perfect tropical vibe. Golden sands, thrilling water sports, swaying palms to hammock between, secluded stretches with views reserved just for you. And if that’s not enough, a whole host of sites to visit beyond the beach, like the Halcyon Castle, Rock Cut Cave Temple, Neyyar Dam, Vellayani Lake, Napier Art Museum & Gallery and Shri Chitra Art Gallery. With so much to offer, Kovalam surely deserves to be part of your Kerala trip. 

Holidays in Kerala get even more magical when you visit the beautiful district of Kumarakom, where the backwaters cut through lush farmlands, paddy fields and coconut groves. Offering exceptional vistas and the solitude to truly enjoy them. Here you’ll not only get to tick staying on a houseboat off your itinerary, but also experience exciting activities like yachting at Vembanad Lake, one of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes. As well as cultural tours of local heritage sites like Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, St. Mary’s Church, Jama Masjid, and the Shiva Temple. 

Known for its breezy paddy fields, thriving tea, coffee and spice plantations, pristine mountainsides, vibrant history, and culture, Wayanad promises a refreshing getaway from life as you know it. Discover just what makes the Western Ghats one of the world’s top bio-diversity hotspots. Trek, hike and explore to your heart’s content. Especially up the Ambukuthi Hills, where at the top awaits a must-visit historic monument, the Edakkal Caves. Most recommended place on your Kerala package.

A true traveller’s pick of places to visit on a trip to Kerala, Kozhikode — or Calicut as it was known — is a significant location on the historic map of Kerala, and indeed India. For it is where famed explorer Vasco Da Gama first landed. The once-bustling trade port is now a spectacular fusion city, with nature and heritage co-existing to form its own unique ambience. Where you can spend your holidays in Kerala on quaint beaches, old world temples, the wild mangroves, or a craft village. 

Visit one of the twelve protected wildlife sanctuaries, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, as part of your Kerala holidays. Get as far away from city life for a close up view of nature at its finest, in the heart of the stunning Anamalai Hills. The area is home to over 28 mammals including leopards, tigers, elephants, and deer. While a whopping 225 bird species and 52 reptiles also share these forests. All creatures big and small, co-exist here. And for a brief while, you can join them and feel truly connected to nature. 

Here are our picks of food that you should taste in Kerala:

Idiyappam & Curry

Parippu curry, appam & ishtu, puttu & kadala curry.

Idiyappams are almost like noodle cakes, made of rice flour, salt and water. Its unique texture is what makes the side such a staple across all of Kerala. While the plain flavour allows for myriad curry pairings, be it egg, vegetarian, meat, or seafood. The most common combination is Idiyappam and egg curry. A filling meal that can be had for lunch or dinner, and a truly authentic regional culinary experience. Must try dish on your Kerala trip.

Every part of India has its own dal. And Kerala is no different. Here you will find the delicious, homely goodness of Parippu Curry, made of small gram lentil, ghee, and spices. Taste familiar flavours at an elevated level, that you can have by itself or accompanied by rice. Almost all local restaurants will have Parippu Curry on their menu, so there’s no reason for you to miss out on this mouthwatering staple. 

One of the traditional culinary specialties that you must try on your trip to Kerala, is Appam with Ishtu. Like many South Indian delicacies, appams are made of fermented rice flower along with coconut milk and water, and a sprinkle of jaggery. They are soft, yet crisp-edged pancakes that must be had with a local version of a stew, which can be vegetarian or meaty, as per your preference. A sumptuous feast of native ingredients that captures the state’s blended heritage. Try this delicacy on your next Kerala trip.

Start every day of your holidays in Kerala with a hearty local breakfast. With dishes like Puttu, a steamed rice cake stuffed with grated coconut, that is served with fresh bananas or Kadala Curry, which is a lovely black chickpea preparation. A super affordable and yummy local specialty that’s easy to find all over Kerala. 

Things to Do in Kerala

Below are our recommended things to do during Kerala Tour:

Watch the Neelakurinji bloom

Try the many exotic teas, stay in a houseboat, watch the snake boat race, live in a treehouse, watch theyyam.

For the lucky few, a Kerala tour promises a rare natural phenomenon that can only be witnessed once every 12 years — the bloom of the Neelakurinji flowers. When the western hills of Munnar, are engulfed by the stunning carpet of these purple native flowers.

From tea gardens upon hilltops to street-side chai vendors, sample all the many flavours and varieties of tea that are grown and prepared across Kerala, especially in Idukki. A spectacular view comes with every brew. 

Very few holidays present you with the chance to live on a houseboat, that too on the magnificent backwaters . This unique experience simply cannot be passed over. So plan a few nights of your Kerala trip accordingly or select a Kerala tour package that includes a thrilling houseboat stay.

The Snake Boat Race, held in the backwaters of Alleppey is a good reason to book a Kerala tour package between August-September, to witness the marvellous snake carved boats being oared across the waters, alongside colourful Onam celebrations.

Houseboats aren’t the only special accommodation you can find in Kerala. Many resorts and lodges offer treehouses that are rustic in charm yet modern in finishing. Just one of the many Kerala tour experiences that leave you in the loving lap of nature. 

Add an artistic touch to your Kerala package by including a Theyyam performance in your itinerary. This North Kerala tradition is a sight to behold, with music, dance and theatrics all included. Discover local rituals and legends, packaged into one spectacular extravaganza.

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GOD’S OWN COUNTRY

A Journey to the Spice Garden of India! A Rendezvous with Mother Nature's Untouched Beauty, a Tryst with the Mighty Arabian Sea & the Magical Backwaters!

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THE MAGICAL BACKWATERS

Unravel the Mesmerising Beauty of the Silent Backwaters with a Houseboat Cruise! Check-In into the “Kettuvallams” For a Fun-Filled and Memorable Holiday in Kerala!

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Stunning Beaches & Rustic Cultures

Experience the Grandeurs of Kerala! Visit the Spectacular Beaches in Kerala; Revel in the True Essence of Beach Culture & Traditions while in God’s Own Country!

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KERALA TOUR PACKAGES

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Kerala Tour Packages

Planning for a Kerala trip in 2023 - 2024? Here are our most popular and trending Kerala tour packages! Pick your favorite and explore the best of God’s Own Country!.If you wish to dive deeper and soak in the culture of Kerala, you should opt one from our more than 100 Kerala tour packages. Whatever the budget, from standard to luxury, our Kerala tour packages are customizable as per your wants. Be it a sightseeing tour across the beaches of Kerala, a tour in the lush green spice plantations, a wildlife tour in the untouched forests of Thekkady or a romantic getaway Kerala tour package for the newly wed. We offer them all!

PLACES TO VISIT

1. mattupetty dam, munnar.

The dam and the lake are the highlights of this place. The serenity of this place will make you fall in love with it. Also, the place is known as “Cattle Village”. The name comes from the famous Indo-Swiss farm project that happened here.

2. Mattancherry Palace, Kochi

The place is a Portuguese Palace. It was popularly known as the Dutch Palace. The palace has some wonderfully detailed murals that depict scenes from epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata.

3. Periyar National Park, Thekkady

The national park is spread over 357 sq. km of land. Periyar National Park is a tiger and elephant reserve. Its main attraction is the wildlife sighting aboard a boat in the Periyar Lake.

4. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall, Kumarakom

The waterfall is an ideal picnic spot to spend time with your family and loved ones. The water falling down the mountain is so clean and white that it can be compared to milk. Also, the St. Mary’s church is located at the top of the waterfalls.

5. Alappuzha Beach, Alleppey

The beach has a huge network of freshwater rivers, lakes and lagoons. Every year, the Nehru Trophy Boat Price event takes place at this very beach. In addition to the beach, the Alappuzha Lighthouse is also a popular tourist attraction here.

6. Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam

This beach is a crescent-shaped beach. It offers a wide range of food outlets situated around the shoreline. Also, a number of beach sports are available at the beach.

7. Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Trivandrum

It is said that according to the Bhagavad Gita, Balarama had visited this very temple and made offerings to the Lord. Many visitors come here to seek blessings of the Lord. Also, an important note is that visitors need to follow a strict dress code to enter the temple.

8. Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad

The dam was initially built with the aim of aiding the Kakkayam Hydroelectric project. But now the dam also makes for a great picnic spot. The trek around the dam offers spectacular vistas of the surroundings around you. Also, the speedboat ride is a must.

9. Vagamon Lake, Vagamon

The lake is the pride and highlight of Vagamon. The pedal boats and rowing boats at the lake help you burn calories and enjoy the view of the surroundings from the middle of the lake.

10. Vizhinjam, Poovar

The place has scenic, white sand beaches and a rock-cut cave. It also houses a shrine that is dedicated to Vinandhara Dakshinamurti. In addition to that, there is also a marine aquarium.

11. St. Angelo’s Fort, Kannur

The fort was built by the first Portuguese viceroy of India in 1505. The fort offers fascinating views of Moplah bay and Dharmadam Island.

12. Madiyan Koolom Temple, Kasargod

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali and is famous for the annual Puttu Utsavam. Another famous festival at the temple is Kalasham.

THINGS TO DO

1. bathe elephants, kodanad.

Imagine giving a bath to an elephant? At the Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary, you can actually do that. It is one of the major things to experience in Kerala. You can also take an elephant safari and even feed elephants.

2. House Boat Stay, Alleppey

When in Alleppey don’t miss out on the experience of sailing in a houseboat. Although there are many things to do in Kerala the houseboat stay and ride is a different experience altogether.

3. Shikara Rides, Alappuzha

Alappuzha offers some stunning views of the backwaters. On your Shikara ride, you will overlook the beautiful coconut trees and also see an array of birds flying above you. Indulging in this fun activity is a must.

4. Snake Boat Race, Alappuzha

The Snake Boat Rice in Alappuzha is one of the most amazing things to do in Kerala. If you feel you are far away from the lake then you can even rent a boat to look at the race from close-by.

5. Stay In a Tree House, Wayanad

If you wish to get closer to nature and experience the natural surroundings then you are at the right place in Wayanad. The tree house stay also offers activities like rappelling, rock climbing, nature walks and mountain biking.

6. Spice Tour, Thekkady

A tour of the spice plantations in Munnar is a must. One can taste some authentic black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and the exotic vanilla and meanwhile also explore the farms on a nature walk.

7. Visit the Coffee Plantation, Wayanad

Drinking coffee at the place where it is made is an experience of a lifetime. You can learn about the whole coffee making process that goes from plucking the green coffee beans to finally getting that perfect brew in the last one.

8. Watch Theyyam, Kochi

Watching Theyyam is considered one of the best things to do in Kerala. The performance is staged in various temples of North Kerala. Watching this exceptional dance form will definitely make you feel alive.

9. Try Tea Flavours, Munnar

The place is a haven of tea leaves. The Tea Estate has a 100-year-old factory and the factory generates various types and flavours of tea. You can also purchase these flavours from the factory.

10. Bird Watching, Kumarakom

Nature Lovers, this is the place for you to be at. Take your binoculars along and enjoy bird watching at the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. You can spot rare migratory birds such as egret, heron, waterfowl and the Siberian crane.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Kerala is best when explored in the winter season. The summers in Kerala are too hot for comfort and hence it is best to be avoided. Also, the main monsoons keep the state wet all throughout the season. Although it can be a beautiful amalgamation of scenic views, it becomes difficult to explore outdoor activities during the monsoons.

So the best time definitely is during the winter season. One can enjoy adventure activities, go boating and trekking and all this while being comfortable.

HOW TO REACH: FOR INDIAN CITIZENS, FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVELLERS

There are three international airports located in Kerala; Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, Kochi International Airport and the Calicut International Airport. The airports are connected to both India as well as international cities.

Kerala is well-connected to all the major cities of India. Kerala has around 200 railway stations in Kerala. They connect places both within and outside Kerala.

The roads of Kerala are a breeze to drive/ride on. The state is directly connected by road to neighbouring states of South India; like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Other than that the National Highway nos.47, 17 and 49 connect Kerala to the rest of the country.

CULTURE OF KERALA

Kerala is a land of cultural diversity and it houses various religions, communities, regional cultures and language variations.

The culture is like a chain made of different coloured beads. The state is rich in rain forests, its ancient trade relations with foreign lands, entry of immigrant communities during different periods, agricultural tradition, cuisine and its tradition of art – literature –science and all of this makes the state what it is today.

Thought the culture and tradition of the state are hundreds of years old but it is still alive in the hearts of the locals.

FOOD OF KERALA

1. puttu and kadala curry.

Puttu is a cylindrical steamed rice cake that is cooked with coconut shavings. This is a popular breakfast item in Kerala and a portion of the staple food. It is usually served with Kadala Curry, which are essentially black chickpeas.

2. Appam with Stew

Anybody from Kerala can vouch that this dish is Kerala’s favourite dish. Appam is basically rice pancake with soft and thick centres. It is usually paired with a southern style stew making it Appam with Stew.

3. Idiyappam

The dish is basically made of rice flour, water and salt. Then numerous strands of vermicelli are entwined together to make this version of an Appam.

4. Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu (Spicy Chicken Fry)

Chicken Fry is a must. This version of a chicken fry is something that is served on a banana leaf, the chicken is fried with onion, garlic, chilli, vinegar and coriander. The fiery taste adds to its taste.

5. Kerala Prawns Curry

Missing out on the Prawns Curry in Kerala is criminal. The prawn curry is sprinkled with chilli, salt, pepper and then dipped in lots of coconut milk, jaggery and then finished with curry leaves.

6. Beef Fry

The paralyzing flavours of this dish will make you fall in love with it. The beef fry is coated with curry leaves, ginger garlic paste and mustard leaves giving it the authentic flavour that is boasts of.

7. Malabar Parotha

The Parotha is mouth-watering street food of Kerala. It originates from the Malabar region. The dish has a flaky, crispy and crumbly texture. It melts in your mouth and leaves behind a sweet taste.

8. Fish Molee

Fish Molee is nothing but lightly fried fish made into a stew. It is cooked in an earthen pot for that authentic taste with coconut milk and kokum and spices along with fresh green chillies.

9. Banana Fritters

A favourite tea time snack in Kerala is the Banana Fritters. Ripe bananas coated in plain flour and deep fried in oil is what makes of this dish.

10. Palada Payasam

This dish is prepared during the festival of Onam. The dish is made out of rice, sugar, milk and ghee.

Planning for a Kerala trip? Here are our most popular and trending Kerala tour packages! Pick your favorite and explore the best of God’s Own Country!.If you wish to dive deeper and soak in the culture of Kerala, you should opt one from our more than 100 Kerala tour packages. Whatever the budget, from standard to luxury, our Kerala tour packages are customizable as per your wants. Be it a sightseeing tour across the beaches of Kerala, a tour in the lush green spice plantations, a wildlife tour in the untouched forests of Thekkady or a romantic getaway Kerala tour package for the newly wed. We offer them all!

POPULAR KERALA HOLIDAY PACKAGES

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Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey Tour   Read More

Starting @ Rs 8,999/-

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Cochin – Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey   Read More

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Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Kovalam   Read More

Starting @ Rs 13,999/-

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Starting @ Rs 16,999/-

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Enchanting Kerala Family Tour   Read More

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Glorious Family Holiday Kerala   Read More

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Exotic Family Tour Kerala   Read More

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Munnar – Thekkady – Kumarakom   Read More

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Bangalore – Kodaikanal – Ooty – Coorg   Read More

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Coimbatore – Ooty – Wayanad – Coorg   Read More

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Ooty – Munnar – Kodaikanal Tour   Read More

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EXPLORE THE LAND OF KERALA

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FAIR & FESTIVALS

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HOW TO REACH

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DESTINATIONS

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ATTRACTIONS

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HILL STATIONS

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destinations

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Attractions

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Hill Stations

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Enchanting Kerala Family Tour

Glorious family holiday kerala, rejuvenating family kerala tour, exotic family tour kerala.

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Kerala Family Holiday Package

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Enchanting Backwater Tour Kerala

Hills & backwaters tour of kerala, beaches & backwaters tour of kerala, tour across the backwater in kerala.

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Enthralling Hill Station & Backwater Tour

Enchanting hill station tour of kerala.

Starting @ Rs 10,999/-

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DelightFull Hill Station Tour of Kerala

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Ooty Munnar Kodaikanal Tour Packages

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Relaxing Beach Tour Kerala

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Rejuvenating Beach Holiday

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Beautiful Beaches of Kerala

Starting @ Rs 14,999/-

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Breathtaking Beach Excursion

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The Begining of Us In Kerala

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Exotic Honeymoon Kerala

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Seved With Love Package

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Love & Serenity In kerala

Kerala travel guides.

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Want to customise your Kerala trip? We can tailor-make Kerala tour packages for you!

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KERELA TOUR PACKAGES FROM CITIES

  • Kerala Packages from Delhi
  • Kerala Package from Pune
  • Kerala Package from Ahmedabad
  • Kerala Package from Chennai
  • Kerala Package from Mumbai
  • Kerala Package from Surat
  • Kerala Package from Nagpur
  • Kerala Package from Mysore
  • Kerala Package from Trivandrum
  • Kerala Package from Bangalore
  • Kerala Package from Jaipur
  • Kerala Package from Goa
  • Kerala Package from Hyderabad
  • Kerala Package from Lakshadweep
  • Kerala Package from Karnataka
  • Kerala Package from Kolkata

TOP CITY WISE TOURIST PACKAGES

  • Cochin Tour Packages Kovalam Tour Packages Kumarakom Tour Packages Munnar Tour Packages Thekkady Tour Package Trivandrum Tour Package Vagamon Tour Packages Wayanad Tour Packages Honeymoon Tour Packages

KERALA TOUR PACKAGES BY THEMES

  • Pilgrimage Tour Packages for Kerala
  • Christmas Tour Packages for Kerala
  • Adventure Tour Packages for Kerala
  • Diwali Tour Packages for Kerala
  • Hill Station Tour Packages for Kerala
  • New Year Tour Packages for Kerala
  • Onam Tour Packages for Kerala
  • Weekend Tour Packages for Kerala
  • Kerala Tour Packages for Family
  • Kerala Tour Packages with Price
  • Kerala Tour Packages for Couple
  • Kerala Honeymoon Packages

KERALA TOUR PACKAGES BY DURATIONS

  • Kerala tour for 2 Nights/ 3 Days
  • Kerala tour for 3 Nights/ 4 Days
  • Kerala tour for 4 Nights/ 5 Days
  • Kerala tour for 5 Nights/ 6 Days
  • Kerala tour for 6 Nights/ 7 Days
  • Kerala tour for 7 Nights/ 8 Days
  • Kerala tour for 8 Nights/ 9 Days
  • Kerala tour for 9 Nights/ 10 Days

MOST POPULAR KERALA ITINERARIES

Searching for the best tour itineraries to discover god’s own country? Here are some of the most popular and suggested itineraries which you should consider while booking your next Kerala tour package.

Kerala Backwaters with Historic Sites:

This 3-days Kerala tour is a gateway to the pristine beauty of God’s Own Country. Within the three days of this tour, visitors can enjoy the magical appeal of the silent backwaters while having a glimpse of the colourful cultures and diverse history.

NOTE: Visitors can also join this amazing Kerala tour from Alleppey (or Alappuzha) on the second day.

Day 1: Arrival in Ernakulam & transfer to Fort Kochi. | Full day sightseeing around Chinese fishing net, Pardesi Synagogue, St. Francis Church, and several other popular landmarks. | Cultural show in the evening in Greenix village. | Exciting tuk-tuk rides can also be arranged by evening. | Relish delicious seafood dinner around Princess Street.

Day 2: Drive to Alleppey; around 61km. | Check-in into a houseboat . | Full-day houseboat cruise. Countryside experience.

Day 3: Early morning departure to Ernakulam. | Relax, get freshened up and board an evening flight to onward destination. Tour ends here.

NOTE: If visitors plan to take an overnight bus, they can revel in the bustling charm of MG Road in the evening.

Beach & Heritage Tour in Kerala:

Visit the stunning beaches in God’s Own Country! Enjoy the prismatic beauty of the Arabian Sea, play with the waves, laze around the golden sands, and curate fun-frolic moments while having a tryst with Kerala’s heritage and culture!

Day 1: Arrival in Trivandrum (or Thiruvananthapuram). | Transfer and check-in into a hotel in Kovalam. |Leisure day with scrumptious seafood.

Day 2: Full-day activities around Kovalam Beach. | Delight in appetizing delicacies within the sea-side cafes.

Day 3: Transfer to the gorgeous Varkala Beach. | Indulge in an array of beach activities throughout the day. | Enjoy a gala evening with live music and delectable seafood.

Day 4: Transfer to Thiruvananthapuram. | Sightseeing around popular tourist sites like Zoological Gardens and Museum, Shree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, and PutheMaliga Palace Museum. | Tour ends here.

Best of Kerala Nature Tours:

Within the 5 days of this amazing Kerala nature tour, visitors will get acquainted with the pristine and untouched beauty of God’s Own Country. Be it a fascinating wildlife park, lush plantations, silent backwaters, or adventure activities, this tour has everything in store!

Day 1: Arrival in Ernakulam. | Check-in into a hotel in Fort Kochi. |Day tour to historic landmarks and silent backwaters.

Day 02 & Day 03: Transfer to Kumily. | Visit Periyar Tiger Reserve. | Drive back for lunch. | Post lunch activities include jeep safari, nature walks, jungle trails, and bamboo rafting. | Day ends with boat cruise in the Periyar Lake.

Day 04 & Day 05: Transfer to Munnar through the cardamom plantations. | Arrive in Munnar and check-in into a hotel for a leisure day. | Indulge in plantation walk on the next day. | Visit to the popular Kanan Devan Tea Museum. | Tour ends with an overnight bus journey to Ernakulam.

KERALA TOURISM

Kerala – the ‘Queen of the Malabar Coast’, is indeed one of the most gorgeous and enticing holiday destinations in the entire country. Adorned by the enchanting charm of the Arabian Sea, guarded by the lofty Western Ghats, jotted with numerous lagoons, and strapped by a chain of canals, this picturesque holiday casts a magical spell on all its visitors! Fondly called ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala boasts of its bountiful beauty and prismatic offerings. Whether planning vacations with family members, friends, solo or with your colleagues, Kerala Tourism will keep you enchanted with its array of offerings and mesmeric beauty. Blessed with a pleasant and heart-warming climate, this scenic tourist destination is a year-round destination. If you are planning to visit this magical abode with your family and is yearning for fun and leisure, you must plan your Kerala trip during September to March (or winter). Weather during this period remains cool and equally dry; you can simply lay back with your family or friends, and revel in the marvelous beauty of Kerala. This is also the most befitting time for couples to plan their honeymoon in Kerala and fill in their lives with only love and romance! For the nature lovers, adventure seekers and others alike, June to August (or monsoon) proves to be the ideal time to visit Kerala. During these months, the state welcomes the monsoon showering and blooms with all the charms and grace of Mother Nature! Visiting Kerala between March to May (or summer) can be a bit perplexing! However, it is the best time to meander around the Kerala beaches and enjoy the essence of Kerala Tourism in full galore!

WHY BOOK KERALA TOUR PACKAGES WITH US?

While most of the tour operators and organisers assure you with destinations, we promise to offer you an experience! Our experience and keen to showcase the best of Kerala Tourism makes us one of the most trusted and preferred tour operators for Kerala. With us, you will not only visit places, but will also get to live the experience. Most of our tour packages are hand-picked by local experts, and also allows the you to tailor them according to your convenience. Whether a national or an international tourist, our Kerala tour packages are designed to fit everyone. Plan your Kerala holidays with your family, friends, colleagues, or solo, and enjoy the true colours and warmth of Kerala’s bountiful beauty and hospitality with us! We organize affordable and luxury tours from all major parts of the country. To name a few, we operate and organize tours from Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, and almost every part of India. Join us for an extremely fun-frolic, exciting and memorable Kerala experience; join us for an experience that will last forever in your mind! Information on Tourist Visas, Foreign Exchange, Tourist Visa Extension, and other Kerala Tourism queries can be obtained from Official Website of Kerala Tourism or from the Government Website of Department of Tourism, Kerala.

KERALA TOUR – THINK NATURE, UNRAVEL NATURE AND GET EUPHORIC

Introduction.

Kerala – a name that tickles every wanderlust, is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the world! Exuberant beaches, tranquil backwaters, flamboyant houseboats, cascading waterfalls, evergreen plantations, rustic homestays, towering peaks, diverse wildlife, enthralling activities, rich culture, or even historical wonders; you just think of any, Kerala tour packages will fulfil all your dreams! One state, many emotions; yes, that's the charm and allurement visitors get to unravel while in Kerala. Book Kerala tourism packages to discover its flawless beauty, step into a riot of colours, explore hidden gems of Mother Nature, and lot more with your family and friends!

KERALA TOUR & KERALA TOUR PACKAGES

Can you think of any destination that can rekindle life into you and inspire to break free all the man-made barriers? Or do you know any travel destination where the endless ocean meets the silent backwaters, where cultures greet you in the humblest of ways, where traditions bind everyone and usher harmony into the ambience? In case, you find it tough to find the answers, come with us to explore a piece of heaven on earth! Get smitten by the travel bug in you as you walk through the pristine nature, relish stays at the buoyant houseboats, rediscover history, fall in love with the backwaters, treat your taste buds with authentic culinary delights, and much more with our Kerala holiday packages. Whether you are beach goer or seeking to rejuvenate yourself with Ayurvedic massages and spa-therapies, planning for a romantic getaway amidst the misty mountains or simply let loose the shutterbug in you, our hand-picked Kerala tour packages assures you a dream-come-true experience in God's Own Country!

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All our tour itineraries are planned by travel experts with more than two decades of industry experience. They are the ones who are well-acquainted with each corner of Kerala. The way our experts plan the Kerala holiday packages, you won't miss out a single tour destination even during the shortest of duration. Moreover, our tour experts never allow you to get tired; they are well-versed with how to keep the excitement going!

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Unlike other Kerala tour operators, we ensure 'same-price, double excitement' Kerala tour packages throughout the year! No matter, what time of year it is, we offer the most affordable and budget-friendly Kerala holiday packages without compromising with your fun-frolic. Our range of top-notch hotel offerings, own fleet of luxury vehicles and houseboats, and other tailor-made services makes your tour the most memorable one!

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All the hotels included in our Kerala tour packages are double-checked before your check-in. Our tour planners and experts visit each of these hotels personally to check their standards. Starting from the welcome rituals to room services, amenities to activities, dining to other facilities, our tour experts inspect every aspect to make your stay pleasant. Also, our bulk booking allows you to book these hotels at their actual prices even when Kerala tourism reaches its peak!

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Wapiti Travel

A 7 day Kerala itinerary perfect for first-timers

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: March 11, 2023

The make-up is done in such a way that you might think that the actors wear a mask.

Are you wondering what’s the best Kerala itinerary? You came to the right place.

Kerala is super green with lots of palm trees.  

We loved the seemingly endless lush green nature of Kerala, a paradise for nature lovers and for those who want to relax for a few days.

In this Kerala travel blog post, we share our complete Kerala trip itinerary.

So definitely keep reading.

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There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.  

In a hurry? Here we share our Kerala trip plan for 7 days

If you don’t have time to read through the full 7 days Kerala trip itinerary,  use this overview to get an idea of the things to do each day and save it for later.

  • Day 1-2 Kochi ( Cochin ):  Chinese Fishing Nets, the Pardesi Synagogue, the St. Francis Church, walk through Princess street, Mattancherry Palace, attend a Kathakali dance show.
  • Day 3-4 Munnar:  Visit the tea plantations, Mattupety Dam, Echo Point, and Top Station. Go hiking, visit Eravikulam National Park, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Day 5-7 Allepey, Kumarakom, and Cochin: Relax in Allepey, cruise the backwaters, make a Shikara boat ride, take an Ayurveda massage.

Table of Contents

India essentials 

  • To find  cheap flights to India, click here.
  • Most travelers need a visa for India. The easiest way is to apply for an e-visa through  a Visa agency. Click here to see prices and submit your application.
  • For more inspiration on what to do and to see in India, take a look at our  2 weeks in India itinerary  and our  Rajasthan itinerary.
  • Here you can find an overview of  the best India group tours . If you are specifically looking for  group tours that visit Kerala, click here.
  • Last but not least, make sure you have good  travel insurance.

Definitely take a Kerala backwaters tour while in Kerala

Kerala tour itinerary 7 days 

In this 7 days Kerala travel itinerary you will discover most of Kerala’s highlights. 

Day 1-2: Kochi (Cochin)

If the use of Cochin and Kochi gets you confused you’re not alone. 

Both names refer to the same city.  Kochi is the official name but many people still use the unofficial Cochin which was used by the British occupiers.

Kochi is the major airport in Kerala.  The airport is served by many domestic and international flights.

Depending on how late you arrive in Kochi we would recommend staying one or two nights.

Our driver was waiting for us at the arrivals hall.  In hindsight, we can now tell you that we are glad we had arranged one.

Although the distances that you will cover to visit these Kerala sights are nothing compared to the kilometers we traveled in the Northern part of India it is still a much more comfortable way of traveling.

45 Amazing facts about India you should read before you go

The St Francis church is not to miss when visiting Cochin

Kochi sightseeing

I’m not sure if you have ever been to Rajasthan.

If you have we can tell you that Kerala will be a whole different experience. It could just as well be another country.   

It’s a very tropical city with lots of water and palm trees and if somebody would have told us that we were no longer in Indian but in Thailand instead we could have believed him.

Here we share the best things to do in Kochi.

Things to do in Fort Kochi

Kochi is the economic capital of the state of Kerala. 

It is a big city but the highlights are all located in the same part of the city called Fort Kochi and can be covered in a half-day.

We visited the Chinese Fishing Nets, the Pardesi Synagogue, and the St. Francis Church.  Along the way we walked through Princess street, the place to hunt for souvenirs, snoop around bookstores or relax with a drink and some food.

Next, we went to the Mattancherry Palace, also called the Dutch Palace.  It’s a beautiful small palace with some awesome mural paintings.  It can in no way be compared to any of the palaces we visited in Rajasthan.

The museum does a good job of showcasing the many differences in the life of the Maharaja between the north and the south of the country.

Kochi is also a good place to attend a Kathakali dance show. This is a story play that originated in Kerala and is still unique to this region. 

The show kept us amused for the full hour.  Although we lost the storyline somewhere halfway, the costumes, make-up, and acts alone justify attending the show.

You can see a similar Kathakali show in Munnar if your agenda wouldn’t allow you to attend the show in Kochi.

Here you can find more places to visit in Fort Kochi. 

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Where to stay in Cochin

Le méridien cochin.

le Méridien Cochin India

We stayed in  the Meridien Cochin  and had a wonderful time. We had a very big comfortable room and enjoyed the delicious breakfast.  The staff was very accommodating and even invited us to the miss Kerala election that was held in the hotel. We would definitely stay here again if we would return to Cochin.

Check prices and availability:

Booking.com

If you aren’t convinced of this hotel, you will find a lot of other hotels in Cochin on Booking.com: Booking.com

Day 3-4: Munnar

From Kochi, we continued our journey towards the hill station of Munnar.

Driving time:  112 km- approximately 4 hours.

Things to do in Munnar

Munnar is a great location to spend 2 days.  Best of all is that the temperature is really enjoyable as it is higher up in the mountains.  It might even feel a little chilly when you’re acclimatized to the temperatures in the other parts of India.

So bring a warm jacket or sweater.

The main tourist attraction of Munnar are the many tea plantations. Did you know that India is famous for producing one of the best teas in the world? 

You can’t miss them, all roads in the area zigzag through the tea plantations. 

The sight is so spectacular that I think we may have asked our driver a hundred times to stop for a picture.

Munnar Hill Station, India

Several tea plantations are open to visitors. 

Some of them have a small museum where you can see how tea is made in the factories. 

There’s also the tea museum that tells more about the history of tea in this region.

For an even more authentic experience, you can book an organized tour that takes you on unpaved routes deep into the fields.   You will meet some of the tea pickers and see how they still mostly manually pick the leaves.  Did you know that they collect around 100kg of leaves every single day?

We loved the tea plantations so much that we would almost forget the other sights of Munnar. 

Once we sort of had enough of the impressive vistas on the tea plantations we headed to the Mattupety Dam, Echo Point, and Top Station.

Except for Top Station, the sights in themselves are not that special but the roads that take you there are all the more. 

Along the way, you pass several photogenic waterfalls as well as many more incredible vistas.

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Munnar is also surrounded by some beautiful national parks.

Eravikulam National Park is located half an hour outside Munnar and is the habitat of the almost extinct Nilgiri Tahr . 

Almost 2 hours North of Munnar is Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary where you can spot elephants and deer (and even leopards if you are really really lucky).

Hiking is another excellent way to witness the beauty of the region. 

Several gorgeous hikes and trekkings can be done ranging from easy to rather difficult but most are unmarked and require a guide.

If you plan on doing a lot of hiking, we would advise you to wear hiking leggings. They are a lot more comfortable than shorts when you plan on hiking a lot.

In the evening you can attend the Kathakali as well as Kalaripayattu shows.   The latter is a very energetic martial arts show.

Kalarippayattu Show, Munnar, India

Where to stay in Munnar 

Fragrant nature munnar.

Fragrant Nature Munnar India

The Fragrant Nature Munnar hotel is gorgeous and beautifully situated on the top of the valley amidst the jungle.  It is surrounded by tea and spice plantations. The hotel has comfortable and well-equipped rooms and is run by helpful and accommodating staff. The view from the room is outstanding.

Check prices and availability: Agoda

Day 5-7: Alleppey-Kumarakom-Cochin

Kumarakom and Alleppey are both nice places to end your vacation in Kerala. They are located on opposite sides of the Vembanad lake. 

We ended our vacation with some quality time in a resort in Kumarakom but you can also spend some relaxing days in Alleppey.

We have included a short comparison between the two to help you pick the best destination for your vacation.

Driving time: 175 km- approximately 4-5h

This is amazing Kerala experience

Should you go to Alleppey or Kumarakom?

This depends on what you want to do.

If you want to cruise the backwaters and stay a night on a houseboat you might want to choose for Alleppey.

The boats leave from both locations but Alleppey has by far the biggest choice for a backwater cruise.

You won’t find a lot of resorts in Alleppey, these are all located along the lakeside in Kumarakom.

Kumarakom is the most flexible of the two as it allows you to combine a stay in a resort with an overnight cruise in a houseboat.  Some of the resorts have their own houseboats and offer this as a package.

You should know that although a Kerala backwater cruise lasts almost a full day the boat will only sail for about 6 hours. 

Local regulations reserve the lake for the fishermen at night, all houseboats need to dock by 5:30 PM. 

The majority of the 6 hours are also spent on the lake, most Kerala houseboats are too large to navigate the narrow channels of the backwaters where you can really experience daily life.

The small boats called Shikara offer an alternative way to see the backwaters. You can charter these per hour as a couple or family.

An advantage of these small boats is that they can navigate the narrow channels and because it’s a private tour you can ask the driver to stop if you want to take pictures.  We saw a lot of colorful birds so there’re plenty of picture opportunities.

We arranged a 2-hour Shikara boat ride. It seemed like 2 hours was enough although the scenery is really stunning. This cruise was one of the highlights of our trip to Kerala as the backwaters are so peaceful and beautiful. I think the backwaters might be the reason why they call this state “God’s own country”.

full kerala trip

If we would go back we would definitely opt for a Shikara again.

The Shikara boats leave from the Kavanattinkara boat jetty in Kumarakom.  This is close to the entrance of the bird sanctuary and your boat ride will actually take you along part of the edge of the sanctuary.   The sanctuary is a nice place to enjoy nature but the dense forest will make it difficult to spot birds. 

You can combine your boat ride with a visit to the sanctuary, just know that you will probably see more birds during the boat ride than during your forest trek in the sanctuary.

This region in Kerala is also famous for its Ayurveda massages. 

Ayurveda is a buzzword that’s popping up all over the world.  What you may not know is that it originated in India several thousand years ago.  It’s a way of life that revolves around creating peace and harmony in the body by aligning different energy channels, called chakras. 

The Ayurveda oils that are used have medicinal and detoxing properties.

You should try an Ayurveda massage if you currently suffer from insomnia or high levels of stress.

We had our massage at an Ayurveda Massage Center but you will see that most hotels offer these massages as well.

If you like to combine a backwater tour with a massage, this is the perfect tour for you. 

Where to stay in Alleppey 

Angel queen houseboat.

Angel Queen houseboat Alleppey India

A lovely boat with a top deck for great viewing. The boat has comfortable bedrooms with ensuites. The meals that are served are delicious and the scenery divine.

A good option for a relaxing and comfortable trip.

If you aren’t convinced of this houseboat, you will find a lot of other houseboats in Alleppey on Booking.com: Booking.com

Where to stay in Kumarakom?

Park regis aveda kumarakom.

Park Regis Aveda Kumarakom India

Classy resort with beautiful rooms that look out over the pool. Excellent food and service at the restaurant.  Very courteous and friendly staff. The hotel offers a complimentary sunset cruise. 

A beautiful peaceful place on the lake.

If you aren’t convinced of this hotel, you will find a lot of other resorts in Kumarakom on Booking.com: Booking.com

full kerala trip

Best time to visit Kerala

The best period to visit Kerala is from September to March although it can rain occasionally until December.

We had some daily scattered showers in October.  They usually occurred somewhere during the afternoon but not to that degree that it affected our travel plans for Kerala.

Kerala has an overall enjoyable climate whole year-round.  Most visitors prefer the above period because it’s warm but not too hot and there’s only a small chance to have vacation days ruined by rain. 

There are some popular activities in Kerala in this period. 

One is the Kumarakom Boat race in September and October and there is also Cochin Carnival which is widely celebrated in January.

This is the most popular tourist season and that is reflected in the hotel prices.

You will have to pay more for your accommodation, certainly around the year-end period.

As of April, the temperatures start rising towards 30 degrees and more.  Most tourists avoid Kerala during these months.

It’s a great time to explore the region if the heat doesn’t bother you, the hotel rates are lower and there will be fewer crowds.

In general, there will be plenty of sun during the daytime. 

Chances of heavy showers and thunderstorms towards evening increase as April ends and May kicks in.

June, July, and August is monsoon season in Kerala. 

The temperatures are hot and humid and almost daily there will be some heavy showers. 

Floods are not uncommon during this time of the year so it may be difficult to get around.

If your travel plans are limited to this time of the year and you are looking for a nature destination, we would recommend you to consider a trip to Borneo.

Cheap Flights to Kerala

If you want to score  cheap flights to Kerala we advise you to have a look at Momondo  and  Skyscanner.   

Both are flight aggregators that compare several hundreds of booking sites and give you an overview of the best flights and the cheapest sites to book them. 

Momondo and Skyscanner are both very good at finding good deals, of the two, Momondo is probably the one with the most intuitive user interface.

Visa requirements for India

With the exception of residents of Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives everybody needs a visa to enter India.

Recently the country has introduced e-visas.  You can find out if you’re eligible to apply for an e-visa on the government’s e-visa website .  The website also lists the fees.  These vary by country. (see point 4 of the instructions)

Note that the Indian government charges the fee regardless of whether your application has been approved or not.  The fee is seen as a processing fee and therefore non-refundable.  It’s always charged, even if your application would be rejected due to an unclear picture or an unreadable scan of your passport.

This made us a little uncomfortable and we decided to apply for our e-visa through a visa agency so that our information would be subject to an additional review by the agency before it was finally submitted.

Apply for a travel visa with VisaHQ: Visa for India

When you want to apply for the e-visa yourself make sure to do this directly on the official government website.  Ignore sites that falsely claim to be official like the one below, they add significant service charges to your application, more than reputable visa agencies such as iVisa.  The official e-visa site run by the government is  https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ .

full kerala trip

Take a car and driver or join an organized tour

We always prefer to explore a country on our own. Primarily for the freedom that it gives us but also because it feels more authentic if you mingle with the locals on public transportation and in the streets.

We did some research but it wasn’t really easy to find something that worked for us. 

There’re buses that go to the hill stations but you would need an additional taxi or tuk-tuk to get to your hotel as many of them are spread out across the region and not really within the limits of those stations.

Then you will also have to make arrangements with a taxi or tuk-tuk to take you to the various sights, or you could book an organized tour.

Car and driver

In the end, we opted for a private chauffeured tour as it looked much easier.  

To book a private chauffeured tour you need to provide the company with your planned itinerary. This is because the price not only depends on the number of days but also on the number of kilometers that you will travel.

If you’re not sure about your itinerary for Kerala you can finetune it together with the company.

Most companies will be able to book your accommodations as well but you’re free to arrange your hotels yourself if you prefer.

Your driver will be waiting for you at the airport in the arrivals hall.  From this point on you have all the freedom about how you fill in your days.  We were well prepared and had a list of things that we wanted to see and do. Our driver always had some extra suggestions ready.  Each evening we made the final arrangements with him for the next day.

It worked out really well and turned out to be a comfortable way to visit Kerala.

If you are looking for a car and driver, take a look here. 

Joining an organized tour 

If you don’t have time to create your own itinerary or just don’t want to go independent, then you could also join an organized tour. 

TourRadar is an online travel agency specialized in multi-day tours.  Their well-arranged interface makes it easy to compare package tours from different operators.

They have several 7 days Kerala tour packages.

A tuk tuk in India

Tipping in India

There’s something strange about tipping in India and it took some time before we got a hold about when and how much we should tip.  Tipping, in India known as Baksheesh, is not common and didn’t exist before tourism became popular in India.  You will hardly ever see a local give a tip.

Westerners introduced the custom of tipping, maybe because poverty can be confronting, but our driver was quick to remind us that we didn’t need to be overly generous.

The Baksheesh has already found its way in the culture and staff in restaurants that see a lot of tourists now seem to expect tips from foreigners.

We sometimes noticed how we got treated differently than an Indian couple sitting at the table next to us.  Mostly regarding the bill because the service was equally good regardless of skin color, language, or origin.

We usually tipped about 10% in restaurants.

Make sure to check the bill for a service charge before you tip. 

Some restaurants will add this automatically, others don’t. 

We did try to hand the tip subtly to our waiter because we often noticed how restaurant managers were quick to collect the tips that were left on the table and they just disappeared in their own pockets.

The tipping policy was not any more clear in hotels. 

We noticed how luxury hotels seemed to have a no-tipping policy. 

We had some small rupees handy (the guideline is 50 rupees per bag) each time we arrived in a hotel but the porters in most luxury hotels were very fast to leave to the room. We often didn’t have the chance to hand over the tip. 

On the occasions where we did, they were overly grateful.   

Less luxurious hotels often showed a completely different picture. 

Hotel porters in these hotels would put on a whole show and acted like our bags weighed at least 50kg each. 

They clearly expected a tip and did not make a start to leave the room until we handed them the Baksheesh. 

We tipped the first group with pleasure, but the 2nd group gave us a bad feeling.

“If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay at home.” 

If you have a car with a driver it is also expected that you tip your driver for good service. 

Our driver was always on time and even acted as a guide whenever he could. 

He would tell us more about the places that we visited and would always offer suggestions about the places where we could go to. 

If you’re happy with the services of your driver the suggested tip is 200 INR per day per person. 

If you’re sharing a driver with a larger group you can lower these amounts, a tip of 800INR/day is very generous.

Scams in India

We encountered various small scams but luckily nothing that was too bad.

Most of them occurred in Rajasthan but you will be confronted with them in all public and touristic places all over India, even in temples.

Do not accept any free things that are offered to you.  Once you have accepted the so-called gift they will ask money in return.

Overall we had the impression that things weren’t as bad in Kerala as in Rajasthan but we prefer to share our tips anyway.

A small piece of advice is to not be annoyed too much by these scams.  If you allow them to influence your mood it will just ruin your experience.  Let it go and move on. It’s not worth ruining your trip over it.

Know how much you need to pay

We experienced how Indians shamelessly dared to ask a twentyfold of the official price for snacks or drinks. 

A coke in an ordinary Indian supermarket was suddenly more expensive than what we would pay in a fancy bistro along the Champs-Elysée. 

Although you clearly know that this cannot be correct it’s hard to negotiate a fair price if you do not know this price. 

After we overpaid once our driver showed us where could find the official price.

All drinks and snacks should have the price printed on them.  If the bottle or package is not showing the price or the price has been barred just move on and find a trustworthy seller.

We visited most sites with our driver and when we did he told us the entry fees we needed to pay. 

Most of the time these were also clearly indicated at the ticket offices. Prices for foreigners are more expensive than those for locals. 

Luckily the difference is not that big here than it was in the North where foreigners often paid the fifteenfold or twentyfold of locals.

Most entrance fees can be paid with a credit card or cash. 

Monuments that are run by the government often have some discount for credit card payments. 

 When paying cash make sure to check your change, short-changing is not uncommon in India.

The chances are smaller that they will try to pull short-changing tricks on you if you clearly show the notes that you hand over or even mention how much cash you give them.

Something else we experienced, although in New Delhi, is that people pretended to be ticket vendors although the entrance is free. 

This happened at the Jama Masjid mosque. 

Scammers stopped us at the entrance and rather aggressively asked us to pay 300 INR per person and an additional 300 INR for each camera.

Because we knew the entrance was free we ended up only paying the camera fee and saved 600 INR.

2 days in Jaipur, a detailed itinerary. 

If you plan on visiting any monuments look up the price online before you go.

Price indication on water bottle (India)

Adapter for electrical appliances

India uses a mix of electrical plugs type C (also known as Europlug), D and M .  The type C plug is similar to what is used in most European countries. 

The Type M plug has three round pins in a triangular pattern and looks similar to the Type D plug, the only difference being that its pins are much larger.

Type M pins are used for bigger appliances.

Since we are from Belgium, we did not need an adapter.

If you have problems using type C plugs in Type D sockets you should try to insert an object with a fine tip into the top hole while inserting the plug.

Stay healthy

Maybe it was the temperature that was slightly more pleasant or maybe the kitchen hygiene is just better, whatever the reason was, once we arrived in Kerala we were released of the famous Delhi belly.

We still obeyed the following rules:

Avoid drinking any tap water or brushing your teeth with it.  Try to steer clear from any food that may have been washed in it like salads and order any soda’s without ice.

Indians have the lowest rate of meat consumption in the world. India has 500 million vegetarians, that are more vegetarians than the rest of the world put together.

The country offers perhaps the world’s most fabulous choice of vegetarian food so it may be a good choice to go veggie for the duration of your stay in India.

Undercooked or rotten meat can do a lot more harm than a badly prepared vegetarian dish.

full kerala trip

Expenses abroad can be seriously inflated by fees from your bank or credit card.  That’s why I’m a huge fan of my  N26 account.   

The account is available to most EU residents.

 The  checking account  is free as well as the associated Mastercard and there’s no exchange rate provision when you use to card for payments abroad. 

There’s a 1,7% exchange rate provision when you withdraw money abroad but even that is free with  the premium Black Mastercard.  

The app is another great feature of the card, you can follow your expenses in real-time and instantly block your card if you see any signs of fraud.

When paying cash double-check the amount you hand over to the cashier and double-check the notes you get back.  Shortchanging is, unfortunately, a common practice in India.

Also, check the quality of the notes you get back.

It doesn’t matter so much for small notes (anything up to 100INR) but don’t accept any notes over 100 that are damaged or have been written on. 

We had one 500 rupee note with some yellow marks on it and it took us a while before somebody wanted to accept it.

We stayed in both 3, 4, and 5-star hotels. 

The level of service in all of them was excellent but we noticed how the cleanliness was significantly lower in 3-star hotels. 

We found dust on the shelves, old worn towels, raffled carpet in the corridors, sticky tables in the restaurant, and pigeon poop all around the pool. 

What we didn’t find was toilet paper in the public toilets. 😊 Not what we would expect from a 3-star hotel but you have to keep in mind that the standards for cleanliness are different in India.

Indian cities are often very hectic and noisy and we were often happy that we could relax in a comfortable hotel after a busy day.

We would recommend taking slightly better hotels then you usually take so that you can unwind and relax after a hectic day.

Travel Insurance 

Last but not least… I’m not sure how good or bad Indian hospitals are. 

I do want to believe that they have a higher standard of cleanliness than the average Indian restaurant but still, I rather don’t experience it myself.

We never had anything serious happen on any of our journeys around the world but we never take any risks, better safe than sorry…  That’s why we always travel with good travel insurance.

If you don’t have travel insurance yet, check out HeyMondo or Safetywing . Both companies over good travel insurance for a competitive price.

HeyMondo Travel Insurance

SafetyWing Insurance

We had an amazing week in Kerala.

The backwaters are incredibly beautiful and although this is the third time that we visit tea plantations they keep on inspiring us to snap hundreds of pictures.

Kerala has everything you need for a lovely vacation. 

There’re fantastic hotels in all price classes.

One thing I noticed about hotels in India is that the service is always excellent.  Cleanliness is somewhat troublesome in 3-star hotels (we did not stay below 3 stars) but the service remains spotless.

Nature lovers as we are we were definitely charmed by the beautiful nature of the state. 

If we would come back we would certainly do some trekkings and maybe even try one of the bounty beaches to relax afterward.

If you like this article, pin it

Kerala itinerary

Bharat Taxi

Friday 27th of December 2019

Thanks for sharing your itinerary for the trip, Kerala is very beautiful city and there have many places to visit for sightseeing. I really appreciate this post, all images are so beautiful, Thanks for sharing this post.

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If your traveling is all about taking time out to reconnect with nature and recharge your soul, Kerala will make the perfect holiday destination. From the people, the culture, and the pristine scenic locations ranging from sandy beaches and tropical jungles to the serene backwaters, Kerala will make you remember how life should be.

Kerala is Traditional but Forward Thinking

For most visitors, a trip to Kerala will be like taking a journey through a time when life was simple and less complicated. However, a relaxed lifestyle steeped in old-time traditions hasn't stopped the local population from keeping pace with the modern world where it counts. For instance, education is highly prized, and literacy is almost universal throughout Kerala. Newspaper readership is one of the highest in the world. One of the most significant concerns for tourists traveling the world is healthcare while in foreign lands. Medical care isn't a problem in Kerala, as all medical services are free and provided by Government hospitals.

The People of Kerala

Keralans are friendly, welcoming people, but as you tour the area, you may notice that the women have a deep and abiding fascination with gold. You won't find a woman in Kerala who doesn't have at least one or two gold pieces on their person.

Women love their gold, but all the men wear their mustaches with pride. Kerala girls find mustaches on men handsome and dignified, so it's no surprise that all men maintain at least one, but often both.

Unlike many other parts of the world, the women of Kerala are just as active as men in the government. If you want to look at a part of the world that's doing great things for the empowerment of women, then Kerala can show you how it's done.

Life in Kerala is scenic, pristine, and inextricably intertwined with nature. You can't help but feel the beautiful locale has helped shaped the culture and laid-back welcoming nature of Kerala's people.

Far away from the hustle and bustle of India's major cities, you won't feel like a tourist in need of forced entertainment for the sake of the mighty dollar. Instead, you will be treated more like an honored guest or a friend who hasn't visited for a while.

Walk down the street, and you will be greeted with happy smiles from the local populace as they go about their day.

Keralan people are proud of their state, heritage, and unhurried, relaxed lifestyle, where the distractions of technology have taken a back seat to peace and serenity.

Things To Do in Kerala

As we mentioned, Kerala is a fantastic location for witnessing the glory of nature and soaking up the serenity.

Every scenic experience you could want is represented in Kerala's tourist attraction. There are sandy beaches and forests full of wild animals, exotic birdlife, and cheeky giant squirrels. Quiet waterways, scenic lakes, and breathtaking mountain views are also reasons Kerala is such a popular tourist destination.

Take your pick and enjoy the ultimate luxury at one of the many resorts in Kerala, where you can relax in comfort, style, and safety in a private cabin.

Enjoy a boat trip down one of Kerala's many breathtaking backwater locations, where the pace of life is slower and more relaxed. Houseboats are available for those who want to immerse themselves in Keralan culture and take in all that the backwaters have to offer.

Hill stations are some of the most historical and popular destinations in Kerala. Looking out over the plains below and taking in the view of rolling green hills and miles of tea plantations while filling your lungs with fresh mountain air is not an experience you will soon forget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for the Kerala Tour

How much will a kerala trip cost.

The cost of a Kerala trip can vary widely depending on factors like the duration, type of accommodation, activities, and your travel preferences. Typically, a moderate budget can range from $500 to $1500 per person for a week-long trip, but it's best to get a personalized quote from a tour operator for a more accurate estimate.

Which month is best for Kerala?

The best time to visit Kerala is from September to March when the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy the lush greenery and cultural festivities. However, the choice of the month depends on your preferences, as some travelers prefer the monsoon season (June to August) to experience the romantic rains.

Which travel agent is the best in Kerala?

There are several reputable travel agencies and tour operators in Kerala. To determine the best one for your needs, consider factors such as customer reviews, the range of packages offered, pricing, and the company's reputation in the industry.

Which is the best tour company for Kerala?

The "best" tour company for Kerala can vary depending on individual preferences. Look for tour companies that have a strong reputation, specialize in Kerala tours, offer excellent customer service, and provide packages that align with your interests and budget.

Which tour package is the best?

The best tour package for Kerala depends on your interests and budget. Some travelers prefer adventure packages, while others opt for cultural experiences or honeymoon packages. It's essential to choose a package that aligns with your desires and includes the destinations and activities you wish to explore.

How do I choose a tour package?

To choose the right tour package, consider your interests, budget, and the duration of your trip. Research different tour operators read reviews, and compare itineraries. Be sure to communicate your preferences and expectations with the tour operator to ensure a tailored experience.

What are the 3 main types of package tours?

The three main types of package tours include: a. Group Tours: These tours involve traveling with a group of people, typically with a fixed itinerary and set departure dates. b. Private Tours: These tours are customized for a single traveler, a couple, or a small group, allowing for more flexibility in the itinerary and travel arrangements. c. Custom Tours: Custom tours are entirely tailored to your preferences, allowing you to design your itinerary, accommodation, and activities.

How is the tour cost calculated?

Tour costs are calculated based on various factors, including the duration of the trip, type of accommodation, activities, meals, transportation, and any additional services included. Tour operators use these factors to determine the overall cost of the package.

Is it cheaper to book a tour?

The cost-effectiveness of booking a tour depends on several factors. Booking a tour can often provide cost savings through group rates and pre-negotiated deals. However, it's essential to compare the cost of booking a tour with planning the trip independently to ensure you're getting the best value for your budget and preferences.

Where is Kerala situated?

Kerala is a small state located in the southern part of India. It is a slender strip of land wedged between the Eastern slopes of the Western Ghats mountain range to the East and the Arabian Sea to the West. Approximately 4 percent of the state's total land area comprises wetlands. Kerala's natural landscape covers an area of 12,477 square kilometers, which accounts for 32.1% of the state's total land area. The state has a coastal region stretching over 587.8 kilometers and boasts 11,305 square kilometers of lush forest area.

Why is Kerala renowned?

Kerala's fame can be attributed to several key factors:

  • The Western Ghats, which include one of the world's ten most biodiverse regions, are a part of Kerala. These "hot-spots" are areas teeming with diverse flora and fauna, featuring a high percentage of species that are unique to the region.
  • Kerala is a 100% literacy state, boasting a highly educated and progressive society.
  • Known as a paradise on earth, Kerala's natural beauty, backwaters, and unique houseboats attract visitors from around the globe.
  • Kerala offers an array of diverse tourist attractions, including backwaters, hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, plantations, pristine beaches, Ayurveda wellness, rich biodiversity, and a strong commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism practices.

What are the must-visit Tourism Places in Kerala?

When planning your Kerala travel, make sure not to miss these top tourist destinations:

  • Experience a stay on a houseboat, floating along the tranquil backwaters.
  • Stroll through the lush tea estates of Munnar, where the landscape is adorned with rolling hills and tea plantations.
  • Enjoy a serene boat ride in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, surrounded by diverse wildlife and lush greenery.
  • Purchase aromatic spices from Thekkady, known for its spice markets.
  • Unwind on the sun-kissed beaches of Kovalam or Marari, where relaxation meets natural beauty.
  • Savor a traditional Kerala meal served on a banana leaf, a unique culinary experience.
  • Treat yourself to an Ayurvedic rejuvenation massage, a holistic wellness practice.
  • Explore the historical sites of Fort Cochin, known for its rich heritage and colonial architecture.
  • Visit the Padmanabha Swamy Temple, considered one of the world's wealthiest temples.
  • Delight in a seafood feast along the shores of Kovalam Beach, known for its delectable coastal cuisine.
  • Head to Varkala Beach for surfing and kayaking adventures along the stunning coastline.
  • Travel to Wayanad to experience lush green landscapes and a cool, refreshing climate.

Kerala is a treasure trove of unique experiences and breathtaking natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking diverse and enriching adventures.

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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.

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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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Mysore Coorg Wayanad South Packages

Mysore Coorg Wayanad South Packages

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Relaxing Kerala ( Deluxe)

Relaxing Kerala ( Deluxe)

Verdant Kerala ( Deluxe)

Verdant Kerala ( Deluxe)

Reverting Kerala ( Deluxe)

Reverting Kerala ( Deluxe)

Popular kerala tour packages, kerala tour packages faqs.

Q. Which is the best backwater destination in Kerala? A. As you sort through Kerala tour packages, make sure it includes Kumarakom in your itinerary. Kumarakom is that dreamy backwater getaway that a typical picture-postcard from Kerala is made up of. An upmarket destination with its smattering of exclusive resorts fringing the backwaters with their personal jetties for you to make evening trips on the Vembanad Lake and catch a sunset. Kumarakom is serene with huge patches of water thick with water lilies. Sit out on the balcony of your resort and you will be able to spot fishermen with their nets hauling out the catch of the day or the locals going about their job in their wooden boats. Kumarakom is green, atmospheric and offers you a quietude that is unique to it. Q. Is a houseboat stay in Kerala expensive? A. Most Kerala holiday packages comprise a night’s stay in a houseboat. It could be availed as houseboats come in a range of budgets. The houseboats can be hired for a day trip, to catch a sunset, for spending a night or consecutive nights. The cost of a houseboat stay would depend on that. There are prominent hotel chains such as Taj that offer luxury houseboat stays panning over a few days where you would have your personal butler cooking you fresh meals as per your order and your houseboat would have a bedroom, bathroom, lobby, kitchen and sit-out and you can watch the backwater scenery through the day. Look out the window or sit on your deck and watch day turn into night, the colours of the changing sky and experience something you never would otherwise on a hotel stay. Q. What major international airlines operate to Kerala? A. Among European carriers there is Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Finn Air, Air France, Al Italia, Virgin Atlantic, Swiss Air, Austrian Airlines and Swiss Air. American carriers include Delta Airlines, American Airlines and United Airlines. The Asian carriers include Emirates, SriLankan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Etihad, Kuwait Airways, Oman Air, Malaysian Airlines, Gulf Air, and Qatar Airways. Q. What is the best season to visit Kerala? A. October to March is the best time to visit Kerala. At this time Kerala experiences a mild winter which means there is none of the humidity of the monsoons and no sweltering heat of the summer months. The daytime is bright and sunny, the skies are clear and mellow wind wafts in from the sea around sundown. This is the best time to drift on a houseboat in the backwaters of Kumakarom or Alleppey, soak up the sun on the Kovalam beach, take a jetty ride to the Jewish synagogue in Cochin, set out on a jungle safari in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary or simply cool your heels off in Munnar. No better time to enjoy Kerala’s vivid scenery. Q. What is a good place in Kerala for leisure and Ayurveda? A. Varkala is the best choice as it ticks both the categories. It is a laid-back getaway with cliffs fronting a turbulent sea, a lineup of coconut groves, regular yoga session planned by the hotels and resorts, cafes serving the fresh catch of the day, afforded by the setting are several Ayurveda clinics and resorts that specialise in Ayurvedic therapies complete with their resident doctors and nutritionists. Q. Is Uber available in Kerala? A. Only three cities in Kerala have Uber; namely Trivandrum, Cochin and Thrissur. A typical intercity Uber trip is between Cochin to any part of Kerala. In such an arrangement, you need to pay the return kilometre rate like in a regular taxi. You can also book an Uber ride from Alleppey and Kottayam provided it is headed to Cochin alone. Q. Is it safe to stay in a houseboat? A. There are houseboats meant for a day trip and there are overnight houseboats. The latter can further be categorised into Deluxe, Premium and Luxury categories. Make sure you are booking a houseboat stay with a reputed provider or the houseboats belong to a prominent hotel chain. There will be a full crew attending to you and you won’t have any discomfort, save for the minor insects that creep up on-board. Make sure you have researched your provider well before zeroing on an overnight stay. Q. Is it okay to visit Kerala in the monsoon? A. July to September is the rainy season in Kerala when the state draws its shutters and goes indoors. The beaches are empty, the attractions are abandoned in this season, even the local shacks shut shop. If you at all have to visit in monsoon to see the backwaters in their rain-soaked glory, visit late September when the heavy rains have subsided. Q. What are the top places to shop for silk sarees in Kerala? A. Parthas Textiles outlet in Trivandrum, Pulimoottil Silks in Thrissur, Ethnic Weaves in Trivandrum, Seematti in Kottayam, Kalyan Sarees in Kannur, Kalyan Kendra in Kozhikode, Jayalakshmi Silks in Kochi, are among the popular hubs to buy a gorgeous Kerala silk saree. Q. What is a great honeymooning destination in Kerala? A. The backwaters of Kumarakom offer the perfect retreat to honeymooning couples. Add to it the presence of the mighty Vembanad Lake that makes the sunsets here more colourful and the scenery more dramatic. Munnar too is a cosy getaway for honeymooners, but nothing like the backwaters to enjoy a few days of serene country scenery with the soft gurgle of waters always in the background. Q. Is alcohol served aboard houseboats? A. Houseboats typically do not come with stocked bars as serving alcohol anywhere in Kerala requires a special liquor licence. But houseboats let you bring in your own alcohol; sometimes they even pick up beer locally and serve it to you. There is no law against enjoying your own alcohol on a houseboat. Q. Where does the Nehru Trophy Boat Race take place in Kerala? A. The fabled Nehru Trophy Boat Race or the snake boat race takes place on the Punnamada Lake near Alleppey. It happens annually in August on its second Saturday. The sight of watching more than 100 rowers navigate on their punted canoes through this approximately 2 kilometre stretch competing with each other as they make it to the finishing line, is a sight to behold.

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Alleppey, Kerala

Best Kerala Tour Packages

Munnar thekkady tour package.

Tea Estate, Munnar

About the destination:

Experience the incredible journey of the Munnar Thekkady Tour, which takes you to the heart of Kerala. Beginning in the vibrant city of Kochi, where history and modern life merge. Then you explore the lush tea gardens and misty mountains of Munnar. The adventure continues in Thekkady, where you'll cruise on Periyar Lake, encountering exotic wildlife amidst lush forests. This package connects you with the natural beauty and vibrant culture of "God's Own Country," that is, Kerala.

Quick info:

Duration:  4 Days, 3 Nights

  • Start Point : Kochi
  • End Point:  Kochi

Route:  Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady - Kochi

4 Days Munnar Alleppey Tour Package | Free Athirappilly Waterfalls ticket

Kerala

About the tour :

Embark on a captivating 4-day Munnar Alleppey Tour that transports you to the breathtaking landscapes of Munnar, where lush tea gardens and cool mountain breezes await. Explore tea factories and immerse yourself in nature's embrace. Then, experience the serenity of Alleppey's backwaters, where you'll float on traditional houseboats, surrounded by swaying palms and rustic villages. This short journey promises memories of nature's beauty, tranquil boat rides, and the warmth of the local people.

  • Duration:  4 Days, 3 Nights

Start Point:  Kochi

  • Route:  Kochi - Munnar - Alleppey - Kochi

Best Kerala Family Tour | FREE Cheeyappara Waterfall Tickets

Backwaters of Kerala

Get ready for the family adventure of a lifetime with our Best Kerala Family Tour! This tour is all about creating incredible memories with your loved ones while exploring the most captivating destinations in Kerala. You'll dive into the multiple destinations and explore the vibrant landscape, culture, and cuisine, which will make everyone in the family excited. This package includes Munnar, known for its tea plantations; Thekkady, for wildlife sanctuaries; and Kumarakom, for serene backwaters. So the combination journey will strengthen your family bonds and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Duration:  6 Days, 5 Nights

  • Route:  Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady - Kumarkom- Kochi

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Luxury Weekend Delight to Kerala

Munnar, Kerala

About the destination :

Picture a weekend of luxury and escape in the captivating beauty of Kerala. Our Luxury Weekend Delight to Kerala is all about indulgence and relaxation, giving you a taste of this incredible state's culture and natural beauty in just a short time. Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Kochi, where you'll explore history, lush tea plantations, and delicious local cuisine. You can unwind at a luxurious resort and take leisurely walks through the tea gardens, ensuring a weekend of pure bliss. It's a quick escape that combines culture and nature with a touch of luxury. 

  • Duration:  3 Days, 2 Nights
  • Route:  Kochi - Munnar - Kochi

Kerala Tour Package For 5 Days

Sky view of Kerala

About the Tour:

Kerala is a wonderful place with many different things to enjoy. There are beautiful mountains, clear blue lakes, waterfalls in the jungles, and relaxing Ayurvedic treatments. You can savor spicy seafood, see amazing animals, watch lively traditional dances, and witness exciting boat races. Kerala is often called "God's Own Country" because it's so stunning, especially with the Arabian Sea nearby. It's a great destination for a peaceful vacation in the hills, offering lots of magical experiences for visitors.

Route:  Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady - Alleppey- Kochi

Duration:  5 Days & 4 Nights 

Start Point/End Point: Kochi

Kerala Family Vacation

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Kerala is a state in South India that has been bestowed with nature’s mesmerizing beauty. The breathtaking beauty, the serene backwaters, lush tea gardens, and pristine palm-lined beaches, make Kerala an ideal destination to plan your escape. They fondly call it 'God's Own Country' for a good reason. When it comes to a perfect family vacation, there's no place like Kerala for the place has a perfect natural setting to have an excellent getaway and create moments to be cherished for a lifetime.

Quick Facts:

  • Duration:  5 Days, 4 Nights

Start Point:  Thiruvananthapuram

Route:  Thiruvananthapuram - Kovalam - Alleppey - Kumarakom - Kochi

Note : The Rajamalai National Park (Eravikulam National Park) is closed during February and March or until further notice due to the breeding season of Thars.

No better way to spend your weekend than at Wayanad

Kerala Tour Package For Family

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About the Destination: 

Flaunting awe-inspiring hill stations and long coastlines, Kerala has gained a lot of popularity as one of the top tourist destinations of the world. This wonderful state is defined by a plethora of amazing treasures including craggy mountains, aromatic spice plantations, sunny beaches, sprawling tea estates, rolling meadows, pristine beaches, and colorful culture. While popular tourist places like Munnar, Alleppey, Thekkady, and Kochi will let you know the beauty of Kerala, you also need to try the drool-worthy local culinary wonders to make sure you understand the real taste of the state. Furthermore, you can never have enough of Kerala if you do not carry home some of the authentic local produce of the place that can lure you with the memories of the state until your next visit with another amazing Kerala trip package for your family. Conclude the trip after enjoying a sightseeing tour of the metropolis city with your family, visiting Marine Drive, Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church, and Jewish Synagogue.

Quick Info:

  • Route:  Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady - Alleppey - Kochi

Duration:  5 Nights & 6 Days

End point:  Kochi

5 Nights 6 Days Kerala Tour Package

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About the Destination:

Kerala, a jewel of a tourist destination in the southern part of the country, is known for its alluring charm and beauty. Embraced by the Malabar Coast, jotted by lush coconut groves, and fringed by a network of canals, holidays in Kerala or God’s Own Country are all about the pristine and untouched beauty of Mother Nature.

Kerala has been blessed with enigmatic hills, mouth-watering cuisines, and distinctive culture, making it a unique destination for travelers. Whether you are looking for a luxury escape or a budget getaway, a beach or the hills, forest, or ancient town, the best tourist places in Kerala will come together to offer you something just right for you.

Duration:  6 Days & 5 Nights

Start/End Point:  Kochi

Escapade to Kerala | In the Lap of Nature

Alleppey Houseboat, Kerala

There is no exaggeration in Kerala’s status as God’s own country, for how else does one explain its gorgeous 600-kilometer stretch of undisturbed coastline skirting the Arabian Sea, the palm-fringed beaches, a network of languid backwaters home to vibrant rural life, the misty tea-covered Western Ghats, wildlife reserves teeming with endemic flora and fauna and spice plantations running rampant on its valleys and hill slopes. One of the country’s cleanest states, and perhaps the friendliest too, it is an absolute delight traveling around, visiting the historical temples and museums in Trivandrum, getting a slice of the maritime history in Cochin (Kochi), or taking a boat ride to islands like Mattancherry to trace its Jewish roots. Add to it a culture that is defined by colorful folk art and dance forms, a cuisine that is subtle yet generous in its use of spices, and a passion for Ayurveda that promises to soothe frazzled nerves. Simply slacken your stride and let all its sights and smells envelop you.

Route : Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady - Alleppey - Kochi

Duration : 5 Days & 4 Nights

End Point : Kochi

Note : The Rajamalai National Park (Eravikulam National Park) is closed during February and March due to the breeding season of Thars.

Glorious Kerala - Romantic Escape | Free Sri Chitra Art Gallery

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Whenever someone wants to have a romantic escape amidst the serene backwaters, unspoiled beaches and sprawling tea plantation, the first place that comes to mind is Kerala for it is an ideal destination to spend some quality time with your beloved. They fondly call it 'God's Own Country' for a good reason. It never fails to fascinate its visitors for the place has a perfect natural setting to have an excellent getaway and create moments to be cherished for a lifetime. From witnessing the beauty of Kerala backwaters in Kumarakom to experiencing the beachside bliss in Kovalam, this package has a lot to offer to its visitors.

End Point:  Thiruvananthapuram

Route:  Kochi - Munnar - Kumarakom - Kovalam - Thiruvananthapuram

Romantic Getaway to Kerala

Tea Estate in Munnar

Whenever someone plans to have a romantic getaway in the midst of serene backwaters and golden, shimmering beaches, the first place that comes to mind is Kerala. The breathtaking beauty, serene backwaters, lush tea gardens, and pristine palm-lined beaches make Kerala an ideal destination for honeymooners. It never fails to fascinate its visitors, for the place has the perfect natural setting to have an excellent getaway and create moments to be cherished for a lifetime.

Quick info :

  • Start Point:  Kochi

Best Of Kerala With Houseboat Stay | Free Periyar National Park Ticket

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Commence on the best of Kerala with Houseboat Stay and immerse yourself in the natural and cultural wonders of "God's Own Country." Starting in the historic streets of Kochi, where ancient forts and bustling markets attract Then you’ll move to Munnar, with its misty mountains and lush tea gardens. The adventure continues in Thekkady, where you'll explore lush forests and encounter wildlife in their natural habitat with an exhilarating boat ride on Periyar Lake. Finally, you'll find yourself in Alleppey's backwaters, where you will be staying on a traditional houseboat. This tour is an opportunity to connect deeply with the essence of Kerala.

Quick facts:

  • Duration: 5 Days, 4 Nights

Start Point: Kochi

  • End Point: Kochi
  • Route: Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady - Alleppey - Kochi

Supreme Kerala Tour With Houseboat Stay

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Get ready for the ultimate journey with our Supreme Kerala Tour with Houseboat Stay, which will sweep you away to the most incredible destinations. Starting in the bustling city of Kochi, you'll dive into culture and cuisine, then head to the lush tea plantations of Munnar for some breathtaking scenery. In Thekkady, you'll explore wildlife and spices, and finally, in Alleppey, you'll float along tranquil backwaters on a traditional houseboat, enjoying the peaceful serenity of this unique experience. It's a journey that will fill your senses and create memories to treasure forever.

  Quick info:

Kerala Couple Delight with Trivandrum | FREE ticket to History Museum

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Whenever someone plans to have a romantic getaway in the midst of serene backwaters and golden shimmering beaches, the first place that comes to mind is Kerala. The breathtaking beauty, the serene backwaters, lush tea gardens, and pristine palm-lined beaches, make Kerala an ideal destination for honeymooners. It never fails to fascinate its visitors for the place has a perfect natural setting to have an excellent getaway and create moments to be cherished for a lifetime.

Duration:  7 Days, 6 Nights

Start Point:  Thiruvananthapuram

Route:  Thiruvananthapuram - Kovalam - Alleppey - Thekkady - Munnar - Kochi

Kerala Sightseeing Tour -To The Kerala Backwaters

Houseboat in Kerala

Embark on the ultimate Kerala adventure with our sightseeing tour to the Kerala backwaters. This journey takes you through the heart of Kochi, where history and modernity coexist, to the misty tea gardens of Munnar, the wild beauty of Thekkady, the serene backwaters of Alleppey, the sun-kissed beaches of Kovalam, and the cultural richness of Thiruvananthapuram. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty, taste the rich cultural tapestry, and connect with the warm-hearted people of "God's Own Country."

Quick facts :

End Point : Thiruvananthapuram

  • Route:  Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady - Alleppey - Kovalam - Thiruvananthapura

Kerala 7 Days Tour Package

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About Kerala 7 days Tour Package:

Kerala is one of the most lively states in the country that entices people from all over the world with its own famous culture and landscape. Kerala, a land of cultural diversity, is a complete whole made up of a perfect blend of various religions, communities, regional cultures, and language variations. Rich rain forests, ancient trade relations with foreign lands, entry of immigrant communities during different periods, agricultural tradition, traditional cuisines, and love for art, literature, and science, all these together make up the beautiful land of Kerala.

End Point: Trivandrum

Route: Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady - Alleppey - Kovalam - Trivandrum

Duration: 7 Days 6 Nights

Best Romantic Escape to Kerala

Marari Beach, Kerala

Embrace the perfect romantic escape in Kerala is an experience one should not miss. The beauty of serene backwaters, lush tea gardens, pristine palm-lined beaches, and magnificent architecture make this destination a wonderful place for a luxurious escape. They fondly call it 'God's Own Country' for a good reason. It never fails to fascinate its visitors for the place has a perfect natural setting to have an excellent getaway and create moments to be cherished for a lifetime. From an amazing houseboat stay in Alleppey to an amazing drive to Periyar, an area known for its Tiger Reserve and spice plantations, this package offers visitors a lot.

Route:  Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady - Alleppey - Kovalam - Thiruvananthapuram

Vehicle: Etios / Dzire / Similar

Kerala Grandeur - Luxurious Holidays

Tea Estate in Munnar

Discover the incredible culture and enchantment of Kerala while enjoying the finest in luxury. Kerala, known as God's Own Country, is a place that never fails to captivate its visitors, offering the perfect natural backdrop for an extraordinary getaway and the creation of memories that will be treasured forever. From experiencing the allure of the stunning hill station in Munnar to embarking on a breathtaking journey to Periyar, renowned for its Tiger Reserve and spice plantations, and concluding your adventure at Alappuzha, India's world-famous backwater tourist destination

Luxurious Escape to Kerala

Cheeyappara Waterfalls, Kerala

Experience the luxury of the land that holds the beauty of the serene backwaters, lush tea gardens, mystical waterfalls, and so much more. They fondly call Kerala 'God's Own Country' for a good reason. It never fails to fascinate its visitors, for the place has the perfect natural setting to have an excellent getaway and create moments to be cherished for a lifetime. From a beautiful houseboat stay in Alleppey in the midst of palm-fringed landscapes to an amazing drive to Periyar, an area known for its Tiger Reserve and spice plantations, this package has a lot to offer its visitors.

Quick Facts :

  • Duration : 6 Days, 5 Nights
  • End Point:  Kochi
  • Route: Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady - Alleppey - Kumarakom - Kochi

Lavish Kerala Tour - Beachside Bliss

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To embrace the luxury in Kerala is an experience one should not miss. The beauty of serene backwaters, lush tea gardens, pristine palm-lined beaches, and magnificent architecture make this destination a wonderful place for a luxurious escape. They fondly call it 'God's Own Country' for a good reason. It never fails to fascinate its visitors for the place has a perfect natural setting to have an excellent getaway and create moments to be cherished for a lifetime. From an amazing houseboat stay in Alleppey to an amazing drive to Periyar, an area known for its Tiger Reserve and spice plantations, this package offers visitors a lot.

Route:  Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady - Alleppey - Kovalam - Thiruvananthapuram

Best Things to Do on Kerala Trip

Cycling through paddy fields, kuttanad.

Cycling Through Paddy Fields, Kuttanad

Backwater Excursions at Alappuzha Beach

Backwater Excursions at  Alappuzha Beach

If you are cherishing the idea of spending your vacations soaking the green beauty, then stride into a country boat and delight a voyage through the slender waterways. The backwater excellence relies on restricted channels. To appreciate the wide assortments of landscapes and freshness of thin trenches you should definitely opt for the backwater cruise.  This outing will clarify each eye of the slender trenches in the backwater. While cruising through these waterways in a boat you will get to experience many intriguing parts of everyday life in the land and additionally on water.   Wake up to a mystical dawn on the watercraft encompassed by the water and bird on their morning foray. Set a cruise in the morning from R-Block; appreciate the journey till Pallathuruthy as you wander through the emerald waters of the Vembanadu Lake and the Kuppupuram North Jetty.

Must Check:  Kerala Tour Packages From Delhi                         Munnar Honeymoon Tour Packages

Elephant Ride in Thekkady

Elephant Ride in Thekkady

What could be a better way to enjoy the serene and peaceful beauty of Kerala than with an elephant ride on your Kerala tour packages? Thekkady in Kerala, India's biggest natural wildlife sanctuary is a fantasy goal for any traveler going to India. Also, the best thing about this wildlife is the Elephant ride which will be an ordeal of a lifetime. Elephant ride is another fascinating movement accessible for vacationers in Thekkady.  These elephant rides give vacationers ideal perspectives of the flavour ranches which are a part of the course crossed amid the ride. The light tender breeze that as a rule graces the zest manors are fit for restoring the fragrance of spices. With an elephant ride, you can reach the places which are not easily accessible in the National Park.

Also Checkout:  Kerala Tour Packages From Nagpur                              Munnar Honeymoon Package For 2 Nights

Watch a Kalaripayattu Show

Watch a Kalaripayattu Show

Stay in a Treehouse in Wayanad

Stay in a Treehouse in Wayanad

Head out for an exotic stay in a tree house in Wayanad and make some special memories with your beloved on your Kerala tour packages. On the off chance that you are searching for a quiet and calm excursion away from the hustle and bustle of life for unending relaxation then you should definitely try sating in a tree house in Wayanad.  These tree houses are made of interesting cover rooftops and bamboo dividers and some are made of wood and bamboo with substantial netted windows. Whether you are going with your companions or family, this will be a lifetime encounter for you. Invest some quality energy with your friends and family at the highest point of a tree encompassed by the wilderness. In the evening sip a cup of tea enjoying the scenic beauty of that place.

Must Checkout:  Kerala Tour Packages From Vadodara                              Alleppey Packages

Paragliding in Vagamon

Paragliding in Vagamon

While you are in Kerala you can’t miss this interesting activity. Paragliding is said to be one of the most exhilarating sports in Vagamon, a verdant spot in green Kerala. Surrounded by grassy hills lands, and crisp clear mountain air, you will be hovering excessively up like a bird in the air.

You are going to be taking off from the second biggest top in South India, Amruthamedu. Another intriguing thing is where you will be flying from a 10km lengthy ridge with three, 3000 ft from high to backside.  So guys, make your weekend a special one with this exciting activity in Vagamon. You Can Also Book:  Kerala Honeymoon Packages From Pune                                     Wayanad Tour Packages

Stay in a Houseboat in Alleppey

Stay in a Houseboat in Alleppey

Take a Bike Ride in Idukki

Take a Bike Ride in Idukki

One of the best bike rides in Kerala is in Idukki, a hill station perched in the mountains and surrounded by lush greenery. Explore the adventurous 35km route and follow the dirt roads on your bikes. Pave your way through all the short climbs while admiring the landscape filled with colorful and sprawling plantations of cardamom and tea. Cyclists will be able to enjoy the scenic tall mountains, vast plains and subtropical forests throughout their adventurous journey. Timings - 6 Am-6 Pm Entry Fee - Minimum Rs.20 (extra Rs. 50 for the camera) Book Now:  Kochi Packages                      Thekkady Tour Packages

Taste Local Drink Toddy

Taste Local Drink Toddy

If you prefer to taste some local drinks while in Kerala then you must definitely try Toddy. Known as the local drink of Kerala, this drink will surely make you feel a bit light after a long tiring day. Toddy is an alcoholic beverage gathered from the sap of different types of palm trees like date palms, coconut palms, and Palmyra.

It is otherwise called palm wine, Kallu in South India, palm flavour or hard stuff/tadi or neera in North India. What could be a better way to spend your time along with your friends while tasting a glass of Toddy? This time it’s time for some extra fun in Kerala. Also Book:  Cochin Tour Packages                       Wayanad Tour Package From Chennai

Get an Authentic Kerala Ayurveda Massage

Get an Authentic Kerala Ayurveda Massage

With the Kerala tour packages, you can rejuvenate yourself after a long tiring week with an authentic Kerala Ayurveda Massage. This exotic Ayurvedic massages helps in the stimulation of optimal blood circulation and expel toxins from the body. The massage also renders deep relaxation and rejuvenates for the body and mind. 

This is one of the best ways to get rid of your pain and refresh your body, mind, and soul. Moreover, this mass also helps in prevent aging and degeneration. The heat and steam which is used during your massage allow the medicated oils to seep into the body and nourish from the inside. Must Book:  Wayanad Trip From Bangalore                       Wayanad Tour Package From Calicut

Watch a Kathakali Performance in Varkala

Watch a Kathakali Performance in Varkala

Admire the traditional and elegant Kathakali dance performances at Varkala cultural center. During the Kerala trip, visitors can witness the whole process starting from the extensive make-up routine of the artist till the end of the performance. A perfect blend of animated expressions with hand gestures and facial expressions, along with mimes can be discovered in a Kathakali Performance in Varkala. The entire performance depicting the scenes from different epics like Mahabharta, are translated into English, for tourist’s better understanding. Location - PPQ2+H25, Varkala, Kerala 695141 Timings - 6.30 PM -8 PM on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday Entry Fee -  400 per person Also Checkout:  Alleppey Tour Packages From Chennai                              Alleppey Packages From Bangalore

Trek to Chembra Peak, Wayanad

Trek to Chembra Peak, Wayanad

It almost the end of the year and most of you have been definitely planning for an outing. This time make it something different as you head out for an exciting trek to Chembra Peak in Wayanad. Feel that adrenaline rush as you trek to the highest point of the impressive Chembra Peak, situated close to the heart moulded Chembra Lake in Wayanad. 

Climb to the highest point and admire its astounding scenic beauty. Chembra top borders Nilgiri slopes in Tamil Nadu and Vallarimala in Kozhikode. From the town of Meppady you can achieve the crest through strolling. Must Checkout:  Munnar Packages From Mumbai                              Munnar Packages From Coimbatore

Spice Plantation in Wayanad

Spice Plantation in Wayanad

Visit Tea Plantation in Munnar

Visit Tea Plantation in Munnar

Parasailing at Payyambalam Beach

Parasailing at Payyambalam Beach

Boating in Banasura Sagar Dam

Boating in Banasura Sagar Dam

Best Places to Visit in Kerala

Poovar island, trivandrum.

Poovar Island, Trivandrum

If you are planning to explore some of the historic places in Kerala, then Fort Kochi is a must visit for you. This is a must visit place in Kerala. Each and every nook of this island is steeped in historical past, there's something amusing awaiting you.  Spend your evening while jogging down the streets of this historical land. 

The architecture of the quiet streets on this enclave may be very certainly European, with nice houses developed by using wealthy British merchants, and Dutch cottages with break up farm house doorways. At the water’s edge, there may be a bus stand, boat jetty and foods and drinks stalls.

Jatayu National Park

Jatayu National Park

Kovalam Beach

Kovalam Beach

Located 16 km away from the south of the city Kovalam is a beach town by the Arabian Sea in Thiruvananthapuram city. This beach has been a most loved destination for the travelers and is a must visit place for people during their Kerala tour. A huge rocky promontory on the shoreline has made a lovely sound of quiet waters perfect for ocean washing.

Soak on the amazing beauty of this place and also sunbath in the beach. Another interesting thing is that the shoreline complex incorporates a string of rest houses, Ayurvedic resorts, shopping zones, swimming pools, Yoga and Ayurvedic knead focuses etc.

Soochipara Falls

Soochipara Falls

TATA Tea Museum

TATA Tea Museum

Visit the inspiring TATA Tea Museum in your Kerala Tour Packages, and relive the history of Munnar city from becoming one of the largest producers of tea. Witness the old machinery used to produce tea, while walking through the memory lane from the captured moments showcasing the efforts of planters who conquered their goal of making Munnar one of the greatest tea producers in India. After gaining the history, stroll from the CTC tea processing area and get to try varieties of tea flavors. While sipping your cuppa of tea lay your eyes on the marvelous sundial, made in 1913. Made by the Art Industrial School, Nazareth, Tamil Nadu, the sundial is placed on a huge granite block for the display. Location - KDHP House, NH 49, Nullatanni, Munnar, Kerala 685612 Timings - 9 am-4 pm (Tuesday-Sunday) Entry Fee - Adult – 75 INR per head  Child (Age group – 06 to 12 years) – 35 INR per head  Camera – 20 INR

Bekal Fort, Kasargod

Bekal Fort, Kasargod

Vadakkunnathan Temple

Vadakkunnathan Temple

Vadakkunnathan, an ancient temple purely dedicated to Lord Shiva situated in the center of the city is a must visit on your Kerala Tour. The temple is a classic example showcasing the authentic Kerala architecture with four monumental towers located on each side. Explore the beautiful murals, paintings and sculptures depicting scenes from the epic Mahabharata. Known as one of the national buildings of India, visitors can experience the peaceful and spiritual connection by walking through the paved way surrounded by the lush green flora. The place provides an incredible 360 degree view of the whole city as it is situated in the center of Thrissur. The temple holds an annual festival Thrissur Pooram, where all the neighboring temples participate. Location -  Swaraj Round N, Kuruppam, Thekkinkadu Maidan, Thrissur, Kerala 680001 Timings - 4am-11am, 5pm-8.30pm

Athirappilly Waterfalls, Thrissur

Athirappilly Waterfalls, Thrissur

Hawah Beach

Hawah Beach

Hawa Beach also known as the Lighthouse Beach is a must to include in your Kerala Package, as it showcases the culture, food, and beauty of the city. Find your own spot and relax under the breezy trees while sipping a glass of wine and enjoying the perfect ocean scenery. Take a sunbath while deciding the seafood menu offered by the shacks present on the beach. Explore the whole ocean on a boat ride or one can enhance their surfing skills through the large waves. Enjoy some beach volleyball or celebrate a lazy day with your favorite book and some tanning breeze. Watch the sky change its colors and get mesmerized by the moonlit dancing on the night waves. Location - Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam, Kerala 695527

Sakthan Thampuran Palace

Sakthan Thampuran Palace

Include Sakthan Thampuran Palace, an ancient Kerala-Dutch palace in your Kerala Tour Package. The palace was known as Vadakkekara Palace before its reconstruction in the year 1795. The architecture of the palace is a treat to your eyes as it provides paved floors with exclusive Italian marble, surrounded by extra thick walls and high roofs. The place was rebuilt by Ramavarma Thampuran, but in 2005 it was converted into a museum by the state government of Kerala. Explore the history and beauty of the palace and relish the comfortable and pleasant atmosphere. The tomb of Saktan Thampuran Rama Varma is also preserved in the palace itself, decorated with an ornamental wall. Location - Stadium Rd, Chembukkav, Thrissur, Kerala 680020 Timings -  10am-4pm

Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple

Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple

Plan your Kerala tour around the famous annual festival Thrissur Pooram, in which Paramekkavu Bhagavathy showcases their famous caparisoned elephant procession. Tourists from all over the world visit the temple to witness this auspicious moment. The temple is dedicated to Devi Vaishnavy, and is known as one of the largest Bhagavathy temples in Kerala. Witness a beautifully carved wooden structure of the idol, along with Lord Ganapati and  Lord Veerabhadra. The Temple complex is made of two major shrines, i.e. Paramekkavu and Melekkavu, known for their architecture and colorful murals. People of Kizhakkumpattukara village consider Goddess Bhagavathy as their main deity.  Location -  Paramekkavu Devaswom Building, Round East, Thrissur, Kerala 680001 Timings - 4.30am-11.30am, 4pm-9pm

Neyyar Dam

Include the serene Neyyar Dam in your Kerala Package, as one of the most scenic destinations. Imagine standing at a height of 56m, and feeling a light cold breeze passing through your hair while your eyes are witnessing a picturesque view of the western ghats. This rubble masonry gravity dam is a relishing treat of nature, mostly empty, the place is considered as one of the best picnic spots of the city. The main river flow starts from Kallikkadu and ends in the Arabian sea. Capture aesthetic photos of mother nature for your social media and explore the wildlife of the place in Lion safari. Location - G4PW+392, Kallikkad, Kerala 695572 Timings - 8am-7pm Entry Fee - 10 (for Indians), Rs. 100 (for foreigners). Rs. 250 to 400 for safari and boat ride.

Valiyathura Pier

Valiyathura Pier

Witness one of the most beautiful dusks in Kerala at the Valiyathura Pier, a seaport situated in the capital city of the state. Embrace yourself for a panoramic view of the Arabian sea with endless water and musical waves crashing through the bottom of the pier. Wander through the long bridge and end up at the end of the pier, sit and inhale the spiritual wind to relax your dizzy mind and capture the essence of the picturesque view of the ocean. This is a popular place among photographers, as it provides an array of colorful sky to capture the journey of the sun down.  Location - Valiyathura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695008 Timings - 10am-6pm

St. Mary's Forane Church, Alleppey

St. Mary's Forane Church, Alleppey

This particular church located in the Alleppey district is considered to be one of the oldest Catholic-Syrian churches in India. The old-world white façade along with the brilliant craftsmanship adds to the charm of the structure. Devotees from India and around the world make it a point to visit the church and offer prayers. 

There are rock inscriptions which detail the history of the church. In fact, the church is surrounded by some ancient artifacts which are important to the culture and heritage of the place. Therefore, this church should definitely be visited for the very fact that it stands as a beacon of religious austerity.

Periyar National Park, Thekkady

Periyar National Park, Thekkady

Cheeyappara Waterfalls

Cheeyappara Waterfalls

Varkala Beach, Thiruvananthapuram

Varkala Beach, Thiruvananthapuram

Mattancherry Palace, Kochi

Mattancherry Palace, Kochi

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Kerala Top Attractions

Kerala

Experience the wonders of Periyar National Park! Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, this biodiverse sanctuary offers a captivating blend of wildlife and pristine landscapes. Embark on thrilling jungle safaris and encounter majestic elephants, tigers, leopards, and diverse avian species roaming freely in their natural habitat. Discover lush forests, shimmering streams, and cascading waterfalls as you trek through its verdant trails.Boating on the tranquil Periyar Lake provides a unique opportunity to spot wildlife congregating at the water's edge. As a responsible eco-tourism destination, the park promotes conservation efforts and sustainable tourism.Whether you're an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene retreat amidst nature's bounty, Periyar National Park promises an unforgettable and enriching experience in the lap of pristine wilderness.

Elephant Junction

Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Thekkady in Kerala, India, Elephant Junction stands as a beacon of unique and responsible tourism. The place offers an enchanting escape into the world of elephants, where visitors can forge deep connections with these gentle giants while fostering conservation efforts.At Elephant Junction, the focus is not merely on entertainment but on education and ethical interaction. One of the highlights is the opportunity to embark on elephant rides through verdant forests and winding pathways. As you sway gently atop these magnificent creatures, you'll gain a new perspective on the surrounding natural beauty, creating lasting memories.Bathing sessions are another remarkable aspect of the experience. Engaging in the playful act of washing these elephants brings out their affable nature. As you assist in their care routine, you'll develop a profound understanding of their behaviors and mannerisms, establishing a sense of empathy for these remarkable beings.Guided tours at Elephant Junction provide a comprehensive insight into the lives of these animals. Knowledgeable guides share information about their habitats, diets, social structures, and the challenges they face in the wild. This not only enriches the visitor's experience but also raises awareness about the importance of elephant conservation.What sets Elephant Junction apart is its commitment to responsible tourism. The facility adheres to ethical standards that prioritize the well-being of the elephants. They ensure that the animals' living conditions are as close to their natural habitat as possible, guaranteeing a comfortable and stress-free environment.Moreover, Elephant Junction actively contributes to the conservation of elephants in the region. By promoting awareness and understanding among visitors, they play a vital role in safeguarding these magnificent creatures from various threats they face in the wild.In conclusion, Elephant Junction in Thekkady is more than a tourist attraction; it's an immersive journey into the world of elephants that leaves a lasting impact. Through activities like elephant rides, bathing sessions, and educational tours, visitors not only create cherished memories but also contribute to the preservation of these iconic animals. It's a harmonious blend of adventure, education, and responsible tourism that continues to captivate hearts and minds, fostering a sense of admiration and empathy for these majestic beings.

Kadathanadan Kalari Center

One of the most interesting Thekkady tourist places is Kadathanadan Kalari Center – a place famous for enjoying Kalaripayattu martial arts, the traditional self-defence practices of Kerala.The place emanates an air of culture and historical heritage of Kerala. It is designed to ensure the safety of guests – as well as enjoying the performance of the martial arts. You can also learn martial arts at different levels here – basic, intermediate and advanced.

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An Itinerary for a lush road trip in Kerala, India

Brightly coloured houses, reticent but smiling locals, and low-lying clouds. Undulating Tea Estates spread out as far as the eye can see, mystic spice plantations and coffee farms spread over acres, walls covered with bright red hibiscus flowers, and roads lined with sunflowers. A road trip in Kerala is a delightful assault to the senses – the colours, the smiles, and the landscapes are bound to leave the traveller in you reeling with joy.

Kerala Road Trip Itinerary

Suggested itinerary for a road trip in Kerala

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a road trip in Kerala before I divulge the route we took and provide tips and tricks to making the most of a road trip to Kerala in 2 weeks:

  • Tea Estates and hills at Munnar or Wayanad (3-4 days)
  • Spice Plantations and wildlife at Thekkady (3 days)
  • Backwaters and houseboats at Kumarakom or Alleppey (3 days)
  • Beaches at Varkala or Kovalam (3 days)
  • City life in Kochi, with a day trip to Athirappilly (2 days)

Our itinerary for a road trip in Kerala

Of course the itinerary charted above is flexible. You can weed out places based on personal preferences and the amount of time at hand. We had just 10 days in Kerala, so we decided to skip the beaches of Varkala and Kovalam. Here’s the route we followed on our road trip in Kerala:

map for our road trip in Kerala

Budgeting for your road trip in Kerala

Let’s start with the logistics first – car rental and expenses. The overall cost of this road trip will depend on the city of departure and the hotels you choose. Kerala boasts of some stunning hotels and you can choose everything from bespoke hideaways to homestays, depending on your budget and personal preferences. Here’s a list of expenses other than accommodation

  • Domestic flights to Coimbatore/Kochi cost under £100/INR 10,000 from most cities in India
  • A rental car will set you back by approximately £20-£30/INR 2000-3000 per day depending on the car you choose.
  • We spent £45/INR 4500 on fuel for a 10 day road trip. This amount will increase if you decide to drive down to Kovalam.
  • It’s easy to eat for less than £5/INR 500 at little eateries across Kerala. They serve delectable food and have a variety of local delicacies on offer. There are also several fine-dining restaurants in the area and some of our favourites are mentioned in the article below.

Driving and Renting a car for your road trip in Kerala

You know just how much we love driving around in new places and this was no exception. Driving in Kerala is much easier than Ladakh (our last road trip in India). Roads are in good shape and drivers are not aggressive. However do beware than this route featured hilly drives and hairpin bends by the dozen, so drive yourself only if you have previous experience driving in hills. Having said that, we loved driving in Kerala. We would recommend it if you’re a seasoned driver who enjoys road trips.

We would definitely recommend renting with an Indian rental company while you are in India as they understand the nuances of the market well. We’ve rented with Myles Cars in India before and enjoyed their service, so we decided to stick to the same provider this time around too. We picked up our car –  Mahindra XUV 500 – from Coimbatore airport. It was

full kerala trip

10 Essential Experiences on your road trip in Kerala

  • Prance in the tea estates of Munnar
  • Go for a wildlife safari at Periyar National Park
  • Buy fragrant local spices and loose leaf tea for friends and family back home
  • Visit a coffee farm
  • Go canoeing in Vembanad Lake
  • Stay in a houseboat as your explore the backwaters of Kerala
  • Sample Toddy, an alcoholic drink made from the sap of the palm tree
  • Try local delicacies such as Meen Pollichathu (fish wrapped in banana leaf), Meen Curry (spiced fish curry), Avial (vegetables in a coconut curry), dosas (savoury crépes), and Ulli Theeyal (shallot curry)
  • Hunt down waterfalls at Chelarkovil or Athirappilly
  • Make friends – locals in the area are friendly and helpful. Talk to them, pick their brains about scenic spots in the vicinity, and share a meal (or two) with them.

Girl in munnar tea estates kerala road trip

Best time to visit Kerala

The months between November and February are perfect to visit Kerala. Expect moderate temperatures and lush green estates. Of course these are peak months, so expected higher rates and crowds at popular places. We wanted to avoid the tourist hordes, so we visited during March, which is a shoulder month. It was perfect but some days did tend to get extremely hot and humid, especially in the backwaters.

July and August are popular with tourists too as this is peak monsoon season. Kerala’s monsoons are special – expect an abundance of greenery and beautiful waterfalls.

Day by day itinerary for a road trip in Kerala

Day 1: fly into coimbatore and drive to munnar.

This day is reserved for arriving in Munnar, the first stop on your road trip of Kerala. Fly into Kochi or Coimbatore. We chose Coimbatore International Airport because it is serviced by Myles.  We picked up are rental car at the airport and kick started our road trip.

Roads are in great shape and there are lots of supermarkets and restaurants on the way. Stock up on snacks, fruits for your road trip. There’s no need to go overboard as hot food is readily available during the length of this road trip in Kerala. Stop at Thoovanam Falls on the way  – the gurgling waterfall is worth a pitstop only if you’re visiting during monsoon months (July & August)

The scenery will begin to change dramatically as you inch closer to Munnar. The searing sun will give way to a nip in the air. Winding roads punctuated with undulating tea plantations and rolling hills will welcome you to the area.

Accommodation in Munnar

Munnar town is quite crowded and chaotic. We suggest staying in a hotel in a village called Chinnakanal. The village is a convenient forty minute drive from Munnar. Here it is possible to stay in a hotel or homestay in the midst of gorgeous tea plantations. Two hotels that boast of great views in the area are Terrace Greens and Club Mahindra. We chose the former for our stay in Munnar – rooms at Terrace Greens aren’t luxurious but they are spacious and well-equipped. Food is tasty. However the lack of wifi in the rooms lets it down.

The hotel is nestled in the countryside, so make sure you stock up on provisions beforehand. Munnar is twenty kilometres away and Surianelli village, which has a large bustling market, is just 5 kilometres away

tea estates munnar kerala road trip

Days 1-4: Explore Munnar and Chinnakanal

There are lots of things to do in the area but waking up to the sight of endless tea plantations would have to be one of my favourite experiences in Munnar. Low hanging clouds float over verdant tea estates, lending magic to the proceedings.

But we weren’t just exploring tea estates or photographing them. Here’s a list of other things to see and do in the area:

  •  Anayirankal Dam and Lake: a picturesque boating and picnic spot, Anayirankal Dam and Lake provides photo opportunities by the dozen.
  • Mattupetty Dam and Lake: one of the most popular sites in the area, it tends to get quite crowded. We didn’t love the viewing area but really enjoyed driving along the lake.
  • Top Station and Echo Point: Combine your trip to Mattupetty Dam with a drive to Echo Point and Top Station. This makes for an incredibly scenic drive. Expect gorgeous views of the Western Ghats and magical low-lying clouds everywhere.
  • Kolukkumalai tea estate: A bumpy ride gets you to the world’s highest tea plantation, where tea is picked and processed in a traditional fashion. Kolukkumalai is gorgeous and definitely worth a visit.
  • A traditional tea factory: It should be illegal to leave Munnar without visiting a traditional tea factory. Watch tea leaves being painstakingly picked and processed into high-quality tea. Make sure you pick a bag or two for friends and family back home.

vendor in Munnar on Kerala Road Trip

Day 5: Drive from Munnar to Thekkady

After luxuriating in the green environs of Munnar for a few days, it is time to continue with your road trip of Kerala. Start early as the drive from Munnar to Thekkady is one of the prettiest ones – you will want to stop for photographs every few kilometres.

The drive begins, quite predictably, with endless stretches of tea estates. Gradually these get replaced by spice plantations and coffee farms. Roads snaking through Kerala’s Cardamom Hills are lined with bright red hibiscus flowers and chrome sunflowers. Every once in a while, purple wild flowers make an appearance, as if to add even more colour to the landscape.  Check in to your hotel on reaching Thekkady.

Accommodation in Thekkady

Try to opt for an experiential hotel in the area. Choosing a hotel that in the midst of a spice plantation amplifies the experience manifold. We stayed in Shalimar Spice Garden . Shalimar Spice Garden is a rustic yet luxurious hideaway in Thekkady. The hotel is located in the middle of 30 acres of spice plantations. Rooms are well-equipped, spacious, and boast of huge balconies. The hotel boasts of a gorgeous pool area dotted with hammocks and swings. The in-house restaurant serves delectable food. We loved our stay at Shalimar Spice Garden and would recommend it wholeheartedly.

Indian couple on Kerala road trip

Days 5-8: Explore Thekkady and Periyar National Park

Spend your days in Thekkady exploring its rich spice plantations, the Periyar National Park, and its surroundings. Here are a few of our favourite things to do in Thekkady on your road trip of Kerala:

Visiting Periyar National Park

Boat tours are coveted at the park because tickets are limited. Apparently you can book tickets online but despite multiple attempts, we were unable to do that.  If you want to get on a boat safari at Periyar National Park, then plan on getting up early. Get to the entrance of Periyar National Reserve by 5.45 am, park your car, get your entrance tickets (INR 65 for Indian Nationals and £3.5/INR300 for foreign nationals) and board the bus operated by the Forest Reserve. If you get onboard the first bus, chances are you’ll get a ticket for the much coveted boat ride (£2/INR150) . This is what we did but to be honest, we didn’t see much (except for a couple of stray birds). The Periyar Lake is pretty early in the morning. But the boat safari at Periyar National Park is definitely not worth the effort, especially if you’ve been to other destinations rich in wildlife such as South Africa or Australia. If you want to visit the National Park, opt for a Jeep Safari at Gavi instead.

Other than visiting Periyar National Park, here are a few of our favourite things to do in the area.

  • Chellarkovil: The area boasts of waterfalls and cascades during monsoon season. There was no water at the waterfalls when we visited. But the sleepy village of Chellarkovil makes for a great drive and offers sweeping views of the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu too. It’s also a great picnic spot, so make sure you pack a snack or two.
  • There are some great treks in Kurushmala Hills – it’s better to opt for guided treks in the area
  • The bustling town of Kumily is the gateway to scenic drives in the Periyar Valley. Pandikuzhi is a great place to stop for a picnic or a few photographs.

Periyar National Park road trip in Kerala

Day 8: Drive from Thekkady to Kumarakom

This drive isn’t the most scenic of the lot as it passes through lots of busy towns and chaotic villages. If you enjoy hiking, make sure you go for a short hike to Eagle Eock in the village of Parunthumpara on the way to Peerumedu . It offers a vantage point from where one can drink in views of the neighbouring valleys, mountains, and villages. Also try stopping in one of the villages on the way for a meal or a cup of coffee – experience everyday life in a village, explore Kerala’s pastel churches, or photographs its brightly-coloured houses. Upon reaching Kumarakom, you will start spotting glimpses of Kerala’s iconic backwaters and lagoons. Check into your hotel and prepare to be smitten by this quaint village of canals.

Accommodation in Kumarakom

The backwaters of Kerala boast of some stunning hotels. On the recommendation of dozens of friends and readers, we booked a pool villa at CGH Earth Coconut Lagoon Resort . And we couldn’t be happier about it. It is definitely one of the prettiest hotels we’ve EVER stayed at (and we’ve stayed in thousands!). You can park your car at their private parking at Kumarakom Jetty and board their boat, which brings you to the hotel. We promise you will fall in love with the hotel almost as soon as you float into the reception area. The hotel complex resembles a traditional village, intersected by canals and lagoons. We chose a room overlooking the backwaters of Kerala – rooms are luxurious and boast of modern amenities. Can’t recommend this one enough!

girl at the iconic backwaters of Kerala at Kumarakom

Days 8-12: Explore the backwaters of Kerala and experience life on a houseboat

The backwaters of Kerala will seduce you in no time. Spend your days taking in the stunning scenery.

  • Go for a languorous canoe ride on Vembanad Lake or a sunset cruise in the backwaters.
  • Treat yourself to a traditional Ayurvedic massage, which is bound to leave you feeling rejuvenated.
  • Savour local delicacies such as Meen Pollichathu (grilled fish) or Karimeen curry (spicy fish curry), and  Sadya (traditional vegetarian feast) at meal times.
  • Go for a bird-watching walk – Kumarakom bird sanctuary is famous for hundreds of species of birds and attracts bird enthusiasts from all around the world.

Spend your last night in Kumarakom on a houseboat. This is an experience like no other. Make sure you choose a traditional houseboat fashioned out of reed, cork, and bamboo. We spent the night on a 1 bedroom houseboat by Spice Coast Cruises and loved the experience. The evening was spent sailing past duck farms, busy villages, and floating shops. We watched the sun set over the backwaters from the comfort of our houseboat. We devoured a three course meal as the day metamorphosed into night. Most of the evening was spent lounging on the boat while staring at the stars. Make the most of it as it will soon be time to drive out of Kumarakom.

Sunset from a houseboat in Kerala

Days 12-15: Fly back or continue to the beaches of Kerala

If you have a few more days in Kerala, you should drive from Kumarakom to the southern tip of the state to explore its beaches. Varkala is a perfect pit stop if you like beach destinations sprinkled with bohemia. If you enjoy classic luxury, then choose a decadent hotel in the coastal town of Kovalam .

We had just 12 days in Kerala, so we drove back to Coimbatore International Airport from Kumarkom and boarded our flight back to New Delhi. You can also spend a night or two in Kochi on your way back to Coimbatore. Make sure you drive to Athirappilly Waterfalls if you’re in Kochi.

The Athirapally Waterfalls need to feature on your itinerary for a road trip in Kerala

That’s it – an idyllic 2 week road trip in Kerala, India. This road trip offers a plethora of panoramas, sights, and cultural experiences – it is bound to leave you rejuvenated! We loved our time in Kerala and can’t wait to go back!

Want to experience our road trip in Kerala with us? Check out our vlog from Kerala

Planning a trip to Kerala? Read about our favourite hotels in Kerala

Love road trips? Read about our 14 favourite road trips around the world

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Bruised Passports – Q&A with Savi and Vid

81 thoughts on “ an itinerary for a lush road trip in kerala, india ”.

Wow,the pics… Perfect road trip amidst greens! Made me cast back my trip 🙂

So happy you enjoyed reading about our road trip in Kerala Indu 🙂 We loved every bit of it

Hey Hi guys. I am huge fan of your blog. The road trip itenary suggested by you for kerala is amazing. Can i go in the rainy season for the same road trip??

Hey Priyanka – thanks a ton. So happy you enjoyed reading about our road trip in Kerala 🙂 You can go during rainy season but do beware than some roads can get blocked due to heavy rain during that time of year

Beautiful description about my home state. Wayanad is also another beautiful place which is located in north Kerala. You can drive to Bandipur via Wayanad to Ooty- Coonnor and get back to Coimbatore.

Thanks a ton Remya – wish we had time for Wayanad and Ooty on this trip but that gives us a reason to be back soon 🙂

You people are doing a great job I have been seeing your videos and reading your blogs and they are really helpful. Planning vacations are now just reading one of your blog away. Savi and Vid I am a travel enthusiast and you both are my role models. Thank you

This itinerary looks so perfect. I LOVE kerala and keep going back for long weekends (I am from Bangalore). Now I want to visit again! The photos are just brilliant, couldn’t take my eyes off them! The houseboat looks so pretty and charming and cozy. 🙂 You guys should visit Coorg and Sakleshpur next. I am sure you would love both places!

Thanks Ramya 🙂 The houseboat made for quite the experience. We are contemplating going to Coorg next – hope it happens super soon

My native is on your way to Thekkady to Kumarakom, but I should say that I have not visited most places in this place. But your post and these beautiful pictures are inspiring me to explore more of Kerala as soon as I can.

Wow – that’s the greatest compliment EVER Elizabeth. So happy to hear we’ve encourage a Keralite to explore her own state – yay 🙂

I’ll be dreaming of gorgeous tea plantations and house boats tonight, that’s for sure! You guys are the reason my travel lustlist is growing at such a fast rate, haha! You guys have made Kerala sound perfect ??

Aww thanks Adele – hearing from you always makes our day. Travel lustlist growing too fast? That’s our work done then 😉

Beautiful description with jaw droppings pictures. I too had a road trip covering a few parts of Kerala. Must say Kerala is b’tful and need not say how it’s named ‘God’s Own country’. U guys have summed it up so well. My houseboat is dues and will be making it sometime soon. Thanks for reminding me of what I missed. ?? Also, I would second to Remya. Take a drive to Wayanad and go through the raw beauty it has. Staying at Bandipur jungle resort is another amazing experience. Looking forward to your next post. Much Love to U both. ??

Thanks Akanksha – so happy you enjoyed reading the article. Hope you make it to a houseboat soon 🙂 We’ll definitely take that drive to Wayanad sometime in the near future 🙂

I am planning a trip to Kerala, and I am sure I will be stealing most of this itinerary. Thank you. 🙂

Glad you enjoyed it Kaveri – have fun in Kerala 🙂

Kerala is beautiful place of India and it is full with beautiful things. Natural beauty is one of the best attraction. it have one of the biggest beaches of india and so stunning photos you shared.

We are happy to know that you enjoyed seeing the pictures we clicked in Kerala. It is a beautiful place and our trip there was nothing less than magical in the true sense.

Beautiful pictures and article AS ALWAYS! I’ve read quite a lot of travel blogs but this is the only one which does not have even one article which is anything short of amazing! Oh and don’t know why,but mention of my hometown Coimbatore made me super happy! 😀

Thank so much – so happy to know you feel that way. A lot of thought and time goes into putting together each article, so your comment is truly appeciated 🙂 Also, hi five for Coimbatore

The peppercorn picture is the best! Did you ask them to do something funny, or did they just do that on their own?

Thanks Lori – I didn’t. Just struck a conversation and captured it while talking to them 🙂

Perfect itinerary. Sunset from a houseboat picture looks so magical. I like the way you’ll write.

Hey Loreta – great to hear that. Thanks a ton 🙂

Beautiful pictures guys! I am planning a road trip to kerala from hyderabad. We have like 7 days in hand. Not possible to cover all of it I guess.Any itinerary suggestions??

Hey Ruhi – unfortunately we haven’t driven that route yet. Sorry about that 🙂

Hello Savi and Vid, so after reading your this blog post multiple times and checking google again and again, we went for Munnar last week 27th Aug 2017. And yeah we did cover main points you suggested at Munnar..It was raining for first two days but on the day of actual sight seeing, it was lovely sunny out.. Vid, I must tell you, I try to click pictures like you do, the locals, the lush green tea plants and all.. and output is always great. Big Thanks to you both.. Yeah we used public transport for Coimbatore to Munnar , Munnar to Alleppy..KSRTC buses..BOM to Coimbtore and Cochin to BOM flight. PS: We Skipped early morning Thekkady boat ride too 😛

Cheers, Ashay

Thanks a lot for the beautiful message. It’s amazing that you used public transport and covered so much – well done 😀

Do share your photos with us if you get the chance.

WOW I am going to India for the first time next week and have been reading your blog like crazy! Your photos are AMAZING, what kind of camera do you use? Would you say maxi dresses are ok for rajasthan if they are high on the neck but show shoulders? I am in love with all your oufits–such great style !

Hey Sierra – thanks a ton 🙂 Maxi Dresses are ok for Rajasthan but just carry a scarf along to cover your shoulders in busy marketplaces or near religious sites

A very detailed, inspiring and informative post 🙂

Thank you Jo- glad you liked it 🙂

Amazing pictures ..and a very detailed explanation ..next in my list …I have followed ur Slovenia iternary and Kerala in my next bucket list ..Thanks Savi and Vid

Thank you so much Kriti – hope you had a great time driving in Kerala

Very very helpful ! Thanks a ton 🙂

You’re welcome 🙂 Hope y ou enjoyed your road trip in Kerala

I’m coming to kerala with two friends next month! What was your favorite part of your trip? We are thinking about giving thekady a miss and concentrating on munnar and kumarakom/alleppey, curious to hear your opinion of it we only have a week, what would you cut out of your intinerary!

Hey Sierra,

Our favourite part has to be Kumarakom and the night we spent on the boat house. YEs, we’d give Thekaddy a miss and spend longer in Munnar/Kumarakom

For this whole trip which places did you need to take the inner permit for your vehicle? I am wondering as i am also planning the same roadtrip on this route with Myles. Thank you ?

From my recollection we did have to take permits in different places but don’t really remember how many places. But I do remember that it wasn’t difficult at all and we didn’t have to do anything in advance

Hi Can u guys suggest me best resort in kovalam i am travelling in june with 1 kid

Hey we stayed at CGH Coconut lagoon and can’t fault it 🙂

wow, these include a lot of information relating to Munnar, its very use full for every visitors. If you are looking for the best resorts and hotels in Munnar http://themunnarqueen.in/

Hey savi n vid.. I love to see yr post on insta.. they r amazing… V r planning for kerala trip.. n i have heard abt bamboo rafting in thekary.. any experiance of it..

Credibility of the post is highly appreciable with the benefits are fantastic. Can view the best work of budgeting trip for Kerala, within the single page of this blog. Not needed for guide at all !!

Hi Savi & Vid. I have been closely following you on Instagram and your posts on travel make me jealous. Wish I could go roam the country (leave aside the world) more frequently. I am mesmerized by every post of yours.

Anyways I have been planning a trip to Kerala in December (we shall start from Kochi) for 4 days/3 nights. My friends and family suggested Munnar-Takkady-Kumarkom (1 night stay at a boathouse). We would reach Munnar by afternoon as we would definitely stop for various waterfalls along kochi-munnar route. But we would stay only 1 night in munnar (I wanted to stay 2 days) and leave next day morning around 11 am for tekkady. Do you think this plan can get hectic? Or should we skip Tekkady/Periyar altogether for a more relaxed holiday? Any suggestions on an itinerary? Any places you feel we should not miss around Munnar (like chinna kanal) if we decide to stay there for 2 days?

Your suggestions could be of great help. Please help out!!

Definitely seems hectic – you won’t be able to enjoy at all 🙂 Best to spend 2 days in and around Munnar and then head to Kumarakom

Hi savi and vid

Loved your post so much that we ended up planning similar itinary for my 31st birthday. Everything u have written , have almost witnessed it. Love every details you put in your every pic. Keep sharing your amazing travel stories and keep inspiring us. Pls tell where we can share pictures with you guys.

Hey Ritika 🙂

Thank you so much – glad you had a great time 🙂 You can either email us the photos at bruisedpassports {at} gmail {dot} com or send us a message on our Instagram: @bruisedpassports 🙂

What a beautiful post and I love the pictures! Kerala is most beautiful place and top tourist destination in India. Munnar is my favorite place in Kerala, it is adorned with lofty mountains, lush greenery, misty clouds, waterfalls and much more. Thank you for sharing the wonderful travel guide for Kerala.

Happy to hear you enjoyed our experience in Kerala 🙂

You know the feeling you get when you stumble upon juuuuust the perfect itinerary , that resonates totally with how you would want your trip to be…this was it ! Thanks for sharing this, so, so helpful write up !

That’s MUSIC to our ears 🙂 Do share your photos whenever you visit 🙂

Hey guys, Thank you so much for sharing this information. I really like to visit munnar.

Happy to hear that!

I have plan to go for summer vacation and search for where to go and reached on your blog where I see Kerala is best place for holiday destination and I will plan for kerala in next week. Thanks for sharing amazing content and photos.

Happy to hear that 🙂

Hi Savi and Vid,

I discovered your Youtube channel a while back and was instantly impressed, inspired and not to mention, instantly subscribed. I’ve enjoyed the many trip reports there and so when I was “Googling” about itineraries for our upcoming Kerala trip and found a link to your blog, it definitely brought a smile and a feeling that this is going to be it. And after going through it and seeing the pictures, I’ll say I was not disappointed at all.

Anyway, to the subject. As I mentioned it’s going to be a Family Trip – 6 adults, Two kids (2 yr and 1 yr). The dates – 20th-27th September. Unfortunately, we don’t have many days. So my question is, can your itinerary be modified to 7 days and will the season be good? Also, I checked Myles but they don’t have availability on those days. Any other Car Rental recommendations would be appreciated.

Thanks. Anticipating a reply, even though this blog post is quite old now.

Thanks for your message. Yes you can definitely fit this into 7 days – spend 2-3 days in and around Munnar, 2 days in Thekkady, and 2 nights in Coconut Lagoon 🙂

Haven’t really tried any other rental agency – perhaps you could try Zoomcar?

Have a great road trip in Kerala and share photos with us 🙂

Appreciate the response. We ended up going for 8 days and hiring an Innova. We did 2 days in Kovalam, 2 in Varkala, 1 in Alleppey, 2 in Munnar and 1 in Kochi. It was a great trip. I haven’t uploaded any photos because I’m too lazy for that, unlike you guys. Keep up the good work and happy travels! By the way, just saw your Arctic Cruise video…so awesome!

Nice content and pics especially the sceneries that you have captured are awesome.

Thanks Ram!

Your post is completely fantastic, fabulous and inspiring! Lovely one! Awesome captures. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks a ton Sarah – so happy you found our tips for a roadtrip in Kerala helpful 🙂

Hey guys! Loved the article and the pictures <3 I am planning a road trip to Kerala with my parents and I've included almost all the suggestions given in this itinerary. Also, can I get a suggestion on the kind of clothes I should carry for a comfortable trip in Kerala? I would be travelling there in mid-February. Thank you.

Carry breathable cotton fabrics 🙂

Thanks a lot , nice info, i had been around kerala many times, but planning with family by road from bangalore, your info is really great thanks again

You’re welcome Raji. Hope you have a great road trip to Kerala 🙂

It’s a very beautifully weaved post and very informative as well. Love the pictures.

Thanks for sharing a very nice blog post.

Heyy Savvi and Vid! I have a question: for Houseboats and backwaters, which is a better place to visit : Allepey or Kumarakom?

Hey both are great but we like Kumarakom better

Thanks for sharing nice post

Thanks for sharing a very nice blog post

Nice blog… Visit Oshin Hotels in Wayanad on your next trip to Kerala. https://oshinhotels.com/

Your vivid descriptions and beautiful photos transport readers to each destination, making it feel like we’re right there with you. I appreciate the personal touch you bring to your travel experiences, offering insights that go beyond the typical tourist spots. It’s evident that your passion for exploration shines through every post

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The Best Kerala Itinerary for 7 Days or More

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In this post, I’ll share with you the best Kerala itinerary 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

Kerala – God’s Own Country

With an area of 38,863 square kilometers, Kerala is one of the smaller states in India. Located in the western coast it has the best of both the worlds – mountains and the sea. And it is steeped in ancient folklore, vibrant dance forms and unique culinary experiences for travelers.

Kerala is a state of contrasts .

It has the hot and humid beaches on one side and the cool and high-altitude hill stations of the other.

It is one of the most culturally rooted places on earth yet also famous for progressive political ideology.

It’s a state that has preserved forests and natural resources like no other yet managed to be economically prosperous.

A state that is highly political, but allures people from everywhere seeking serenity.

A state with a literacy rate of nearly 100% yet also a state that often makes to news for religious dogmatism thriving in some areas.

I could go on about the socio-political paradox of Kerala that continues to intrigue and perplex me. But let’s stick to the more practical details here.

The Best 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.

🚙 🚗 Rent a  Zoomcar  for self-driving in your Kerala Road Trip 🚔

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 Kerala Itinerary

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 explore the backwaters, beaches and churches.

Day 10: Scenic 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? Comment here or even better, post your queries on the awesome Backpack & Explore Facebook community .

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

full kerala trip

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

full kerala trip

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 .

YouTube video

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

full 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.

full 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)

💸Secure your vacation with travel insurance from Visitors Coverage

🚗Book local transport on 12Go

🚴‍♂️  GetYourGuide for thematic guided tours

🚶🏼‍♂️ Free walking tours on Freetour

🛏️ For hostels around the world, check out Hostelworld

🛍️ Myntra for travel fashion and Amazon for travel gear

Leaving upto its tourism tagline "God's Own Country", Kerala is the perfect destination for experiencing human culture in the lap of nature. I have curated the best Kerala itinerary for different duration of trips and the only travel guide that you need to read before planning your trip to this mesmerizing state of India. #Kerala #travelGuide

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

full kerala trip

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

16 Comments

full 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.

full 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

full 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.

full kerala trip

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

full 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

full 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

full 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!!

full 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

full 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

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Kerala <span>Tourism</span>

Kerala Tour Packages with Price & Itinerary | Kerala Tourism

Kerala , a quite small place in the Southwestern tip of India is known as the Paradise on Earth. Definitely you might have heard about this beautiful green land mainly as a land of paddy fields and tall coconut trees, but its lot more than that. The phrase God's Own Country seems to be completely justifying once we start exploring this land with our Kerala Tour Packages.

Kerala the green paradise in India is a world famous tourist destination. The green vegetation, serene backwaters, palm fringed beaches, rocking waterfalls, exotic hill stations and a wonderful variety of wildlife tells you the reason why it is called God’s Own Country.

From adventure hills to serene backwaters everything regarding this place is unique and wonderful. If you want to visit this heavenly place and its unspoilt natural beauty, Holidays DNA is there to plan every minute details of your Kerala trip in the most perfect way.

Kerala Tourism , a division of Holidays DNA introduced so many attractive tour packages to Kerala for all travellers to enjoy the serene beauty of this small beautiful land.

Our Kerala tour packages offers you an overview of the serene backwaters, pleasant and divine ambiance of hill stations, exotic wildlife sanctuaries, the refreshing feel of warm sand and waves in the golden beaches in a very affordable price with high quality service and hospitality.

Apart from the breathtaking beauty of this serene places our customized tour packages to Kerala also offers you therapeutic and rejuvenating Ayurveda treatments.

Holidays DNA has proved itself the most leading brand in the travel industry ever since it started. We know the value of your time and money so we are offering you many attractive “tour packages to Kerala”.

These Kerala packages are designed for a hassle free journey in an affordable budget. You can choose your package from a variety of Kerala packages depending on your budget.

The highly efficient travel professionals of Holidays DNA have designed the packages to Kerala keeping in mind the different needs of our customers. The destinations in Kerala are not far apart and with its eye catching beauty and peaceful ambiance the journey itself is an amazing experience.

With Kerala Tourism you can feel the spiritual atmosphere of various temples and see the beautiful temple architectures in Kerala which will be a nice enchanting experience. Our Kerala tour packages also offers you to explore so many historically important monuments like forts, colonial buildings etc which tells about the glorious past of this peaceful state.

Apart from these there are so many other attractive features included in our Kerala tour packages which will help you relax your soul and take you away from the tensions of your day to day life.. Traditional houseboat cruise , stay at beach resorts and enjoying the beautiful sunsets, exploring the wildlife etc are some of those which will bring you close to nature and give a new start for the rest of your life.

The geography of Kerala is amazing with Western ghat on one side and Arabian sea and Indian Ocean on the other side. This diverse geographical features of Kerala gives rise to innumerable number of beaches and backwaters. Not only this, the tall mountains and deep valleys of Kerala is a getaway from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Its like a fairy tale to stand on top of this hills with the beautiful blue sky touching your head and the clouds floating on the greenery. No other place can give you such an experience. Take a ride through the Kerala roads. Relax and hang out in the beaches or various scenic spots in Kerala .

Kerala has a rich vibrant culture and the people of Kerala are very simple. You may be amused by the sight of simple village life. The people in Kerala are totally happy with the life they are leading unlike other people.

When the villagers in Kerala gives you a warm welcome, imagine yourself living in those peaceful villages surrounded by the greenery of nature and a bunch of nice people.. It's a fresh experience to see beauty in its pure form. The beautiful places in Kerala will enlighten your heart.

When talking about Kerala one can’t avoid mentioning the delicious Kerala dishes . Kerala has a variety of vegetarian and non veg dishes. The Kerala sadhya and spicy fish curry of Kerala once you tasted you will not forget in your whole life. Take a break from your hectic schedule and indulge yourself in the pleasure of Kerala.

Holidays DNA provides you with perfect travelling solutions to your journey to this fascinating place. Our Kerala tour packages include accommodation, sightseeing, taxi services etc. We provide best accommodation options in luxury as well as budget hotels along with the stay in beautiful resorts which will be a great experience.

There are so many places to visit in Kerala and we ensure the sight seeing without rush. With various tourism packages by Holidays DNA we make your Kerala visit a dream come true.

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How to Plan a Trip to Kerala

How to Plan a Trip to Kerala

4 reasons to visit kerala.

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Keralan Food

Best time to visit kerala.

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Tailor-Make Your Kerala Itinerary

Kerala now reopens to travelers. From February 14, 2022, all travelers can enter India without quarantine or nucleic acid test as long as you're fully vaccinated.

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.

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 accommodation.

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.

Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)

  • Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
  • Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
  • Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.

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full kerala trip

We made a private tour through South China in January 2024. Altogether Chengdu was the highlight. We had an incredible day at Emeishan. In Chengdu our guidewas Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

full kerala trip

Other highlights are too many to mention but here are a few Ken taking us to the Terracotta Warriors and our food tour in Xian was amazing,

Our day volunteering at the Panda Base was truly unforgettable. Helen, our guide, provided us with invaluable insights about Chengdu and the pandas, enriching our tour with her knowledge and expertise. We're grateful to Helen for accompanying us throughout the day and showcasing the highlights of China.

We had a booking with China Highlights through Silvia Ye who guarenteed a perfect organisation. In Chengdu our guide was Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

We traveled to China during the Chinese new year and we had Kris as our guide and he is simply knowledgeable,helpful and great.

We visited Guilin for 2 days and stayed in the Guilin Waterfall hotel. Guilin was absolutely beautiful! Our guide, William, was very knowledgeable and kind! He taught us so much about Guilin and the surrounding area! We really enjoyed trying the specialty rice noodles of Guilin. Our highlight was the Li river cruise.

Amazing tour and the guide Mr. 贺霄 was very accommodating with our needs and request as we have bought our 2 years old with us. Well explained for all the place we visited. Any additional cost were informed well ahead and didn't felt any pressure if we opt not to go for additional detour. The trip was relaxing/ laid back/no rushing with zero shopping!

We had an amazing to China. Our tour guide Martin in Shanghai was super knowledgeable, caring and very flexible with our itinerary. When my wife got sick in the Shanghai, he was able to arrange an English-speaking doctor on the spot and took us to the clinic. On top of the that, Martin and the driver stayed with us at the clinic for the whole duration and drove us back to the hotel afterwards. His genuine concern for our welfare and willingness to go the extra mile did not go unnoticed, and we were deeply touched by his kindness and compassion.

Guilin, but mostly Yangshuo was at the tail end of our China adventure so there was a lot to live up to. Having a guide like Gary Wei meant that our trip ended on a high! We arrived in Guilin very late from an 11 hour train journey. Gary met us with gifts of fruit, sweet bread and cakes which was so unexpected and thoughtful.Gary's knowledge of the area was exceptional and his attention to us the same. He really took our children under his wing - even tuning in to annoying sibling rivalry and managing to keep the peace very well! Gary was our personal photographer at times and even our Taiji instructor, making a beautiful video of us all doing Taiji in a scenic setting :)The cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is definitely worth taking and we enjoyed our few nights in the area, riding bikes along the river, doing a cooking class and enjoying the scenery

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full kerala trip

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

    Kerala backwater day tour was a mesmerizing experience. the houseboat was comfortable and clean, offering a delightful ride through the canals and lakes. Authentic Kerala cuisine onboard was a delightful bonus. The knowledgeable staff added depth to the journey, sharing insights about the local culture and ecology. A must-do for anyone visiting ...

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    A Romantic Week in Kerala - Honeymoon Special. 7 Nights / 8 days. Rs. 79 549. Luxury - Colours Of Kerala. 8 Nights / 9 days. Rs. 81 399. Kerala tour packages - Book Kerala packages including flights, hotels & sightseeing. Go on a Kerala trip with Thomas Cook starting at Rs. 12,199 & travel safely.

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

    Kerala backwater day tour was a mesmerizing experience. the houseboat was comfortable and clean, offering a delightful ride through the canals and lakes. Authentic Kerala cuisine onboard was a delightful bonus. The knowledgeable staff added depth to the journey, sharing insights about the local culture and ecology. A must-do for anyone visiting ...

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    Book Kerala tour packages from eKerala tourism at best price. Choose from our 51+ customised holiday packages for a memorable trip to Kerala. ... However, it is the best time to meander around the Kerala beaches and enjoy the essence of Kerala Tourism in full galore!

  6. A 7 day Kerala itinerary perfect for first-timers

    Here we share our Kerala trip plan for 7 days. If you don't have time to read through the full 7 days Kerala trip itinerary, use this overview to get an idea of the things to do each day and save it for later. Day 1-2 Kochi ( Cochin ): Chinese Fishing Nets, the Pardesi Synagogue, the St. Francis Church, walk through Princess street ...

  7. Discover Exquisite Kerala Travel and Tour Packages Since 1999

    Discover the best Kerala travel and tour packages from the best Tour Operator. Explore the stunning beauty of Kerala Tourism with our customized itineraries. Toggle navigation +91 8111 864 888 (IN) ... There are sandy beaches and forests full of wild animals, exotic birdlife, and cheeky giant squirrels. Quiet waterways, scenic lakes, and ...

  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. Kerala Tour Packages

    Relaxing Kerala ( Premium) 3 Nights. Seller : Yatra. Munnar (2) Alappuzha (1) Take a trip to Kerala, a place to experience peace and tranquillity. Also, known as the God's Own Country, it is a must-visit place for those who admire natural beauty and are interested in spending a peaceful vacation.

  10. Kerala Tour Packages

    India. Kerala. 55 Kerala Tour Packages | Upto 50% Off February SALE. Browse through a wide range of Kerala holiday packages with exciting offers at Thrillophilia. Book customized Kerala trip packages with exciting deals & offers. Kerala, a captivating state in South India, is renowned for its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

  11. An Itinerary for a lush road trip in Kerala, India

    Here's a suggested itinerary for a road trip in Kerala before I divulge the route we took and provide tips and tricks to making the most of a road trip to Kerala in 2 weeks: Tea Estates and hills at Munnar or Wayanad (3-4 days) Spice Plantations and wildlife at Thekkady (3 days) Backwaters and houseboats at Kumarakom or Alleppey (3 days ...

  12. Plan Your Trip to Kerala

    Plan Your Trip to Kerala. Kerala Tourism. Stay Here Redirect . LANGUAGES ENG. Visits since 1 Apr 2023 11,516,775 . Visits since 1 Jan 2007 53,378,364. EXPERIENCE KERALA; ... Just by providing a few simple details about the trip, you'll be guided to a well planned and organized tour using our Intelligent tour planner. All your queries shall be ...

  13. The Best Kerala Itinerary For 7 Days Or More

    Rent a Zoomcar for self-driving in your Kerala Road Trip 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.

  14. Kerala Tour Packages with Price & Itinerary

    The phrase God's Own Country seems to be completely justifying once we start exploring this land with our Kerala Tour Packages. Kerala the green paradise in India is a world famous tourist destination. The green vegetation, serene backwaters, palm fringed beaches, rocking waterfalls, exotic hill stations and a wonderful variety of wildlife ...

  15. How to Plan a Trip to Kerala

    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.

  16. The Ultimate KERALA Itinerary Guide 2021

    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.

  17. 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.

  18. Kerala Tourist Places

    Kerala Tour Plan 🌴 Kerala Total Budget with COMPLETE GuideHey my Family 🏝🏖, This is MY Kerala Tour 😃, In this video You will know about Kerala Tourist Pl...

  19. Kerala Itinerary: The Perfect 5 Days in Kerala 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.

  20. Places to Visit in Kerala

    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 ...

  21. Southern India: Tamil Nadu & Kerala

    Indulge your senses on this 12-day tour of southern India, featuring the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Discover Tamil Nadu's cultural wealth as you explore its ornate Hindu temples, sacred cities, and French-colonial towns. Cross over the Western Ghats into biodiverse Kerala and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of tea and spice plantations, jungle, forests, and lakes, and rivers.

  22. 222 Kerala Family Packages

    222 Kerala Family Packages - Book Kerala Packages With Free Cancellation.

  23. Kerala Tourist Places

    Kerala Tourist Places | Kerala travel budget | kerala tour plan & budgetHI everyone ,I hope You will like the video ...Make sure to like , comment & subscrib...

  24. To see India's future, go south

    The southern five of India's 28 states (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana) contain 20% of the population, but account for 30% of its loans and for 35% of the flow of ...