7-Day Kerala Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration in Thiruvananthapuram

Morning: Arrive in Thiruvananthapuram and settle into your accommodation. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, renowned for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance. Temple timings are typically from 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Afternoon: Explore nearby attractions such as the Kowdiar Palace and Neyyar Dam, enjoying scenic views and local culture.

Evening: Enjoy a leisurely walk around or relax at a local restaurant, sampling Kerala cuisine.

Day 2: Jatayu Earth’s Center & Varkala

Morning: Depart for Jatayu Earth’s Center. Spend approximately 2–3 hours exploring the world's largest bird sculpture and adventure park. Operating hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Afternoon: Drive to Varkala Beach (about 2 hours). Check into your beachside hotel and relax while enjoying views of the clifftop Varkala Beach.

Evening: Walk along the cliffs, watch sunset views, and explore local shops and cafes.

Day 3: Alappuzha & Kumarakom

Morning: Head to Alappuzha (about 2.5 hours). Enjoy a Backwaters & Houseboat Cruise; cruises typically start at 8:00 AM, lasting 4–6 hours with costs around ₹3000–₹6000 per boat.

Afternoon: Visit Alappuzha Beach & Pier, Sea View Park, and the historic Lighthouse, built in 1862; entry is about ₹20–₹50.

Evening: Travel to Kumarakom (about 1 hour). Check into a resort near the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and relax.

Day 4: Kumarakom & Thekkady

Morning: Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary for birdwatching; spend around 2 hours. Optional boat rides to Pathiramanal Island are available.

Afternoon: Drive to Thekkady (around 3 hours). Check into your jungle resort and prepare for wildlife safaris.

Evening: Enjoy a Periyar National Park boat safari to spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife. Tours are usually from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM, costing around ₹600–₹1200 per person.

Day 5: Thekkady & Munnar

Morning: Early morning jeep safari or walking tour in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Afterwards, drive to Munnar (approximately 4 hours).

Afternoon: Arrive in Munnar and visit tea estates, taking in the scenic views of lush hills. Optional visit to Eravikulam National Park to see Anamudi Peak.

Evening: Relax at your hotel or stroll through the tea gardens.

Day 6: Munnar & Kochi

Morning: Tour to Anamudi Peak viewpoint; park timings are generally from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM with an entry fee of about ₹150.

Afternoon: Drive to Kochi (around 4 hours). Check into your hotel and explore Fort Kochi with its colonial streets, Chinese fishing nets, and St. Francis Church.

Evening: Walk through Jew Town & Paradesi Synagogue, enjoy local seafood, and explore the vibrant streets.

Day 7: Kochi & Departure

Morning: Visit Hill Palace Museum in Tripunithura, Kerala’s largest archaeological museum. Afterwards, relax at Kallayi Riverfront or enjoy last-minute shopping.

Afternoon: Depending on your flight schedule, depart for your onward journey or relax at your hotel.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple visit: 1 hour, ₹0
• Jatayu Earth’s Center: 2.5 hours, ₹300 per person (entry & activity fees)
• Varkala Beach: 3 hours, free
• Alappuzha Houseboat Cruise: 6 hours, ₹4500 for 6 members
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: 2 hours, ₹50 per person
• Periyar Wildife Safari: 2 hours, ₹600 per person
• Munnar Tea Estates & Anamudi Viewpoint: 3 hours, ₹150 per person (entry fee)
• Kochi Fort & Historical Sights: 3 hours, free
• Hill Palace Museum: 2 hours, ₹40 per person
• Total Estimated Cost: Approximately ₹28,450 (excluding personal expenses, accommodation, and meals)

Tips

For a more relaxed trip, consider extending the stay at key locations like Munnar or Kumarakom. To save time, opt for direct flights or private transfers between destinations. If you're short on time, focus on fewer locations to enjoy each site thoroughly without rush.