Kickstart your tour in Kochi, the commercial hub of Kerala. Also known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” this coastal city offers a mix of cultural and historical landmarks, including the Chinese fishing nets, the Mattancherry Palace, and the St. Francis Church. Kochi also offers a vibrant food scene and a bustling spice market to explore.
Start your day early and head to Munnar, a picturesque hill town known for its tea plantations, misty hills, and stunning views of the Western Ghats. Take a guided tour of the tea estates or traverse through the rugged terrain and charming valleys to see some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the area, including the Lakkam Waterfalls and the Athirapilly Falls.
Thekkady is filled with adventure activities and wildlife trekking options. After a hearty breakfast, head to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary for a boat ride along the Periyar Lake, and take a guided tour of the spice plantations. Nature lovers will enjoy taking a guided trek in the hills of Thekkady, which offers stunning views and untamed flora and fauna.
Spend the day in one of the most coveted spots in Kerala, Alleppey, known for its backwater cruises and picturesque houseboats. Explore the serene waters of the Vembanad Lake, and observe the local life and culture of the villages along its banks. A houseboat ride in the backwaters is a must-do, as it offers an exceptional experience to unwind and relax amidst nature.
Indulge in a leisurely day at Kovalam Beach, known for its crescent-shaped shoreline and scenic beauty. Located near the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, this beach town is popular amongst tourists and locals alike for its clean, blue waters and soft sandy beaches. You can also visit the iconic lighthouse on the beach, and explore the many seafood stalls that dot the shoreline.
Head to Varkala Beach for a unique experience, as this small town is perched on a coastal cliff and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. You can walk the cliff and take in the panoramic views, or indulge in some yoga or meditation classes at one of the many ashrams that dot the area. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the lip-smacking seafood cuisines offered by the local shacks.
End your tour in Kumarakom, a serene village situated on the shoreline of the Vembanad Lake. Explore the bird sanctuary, and take a guided houseboat ride to observe the intricate network of lagoons, canals, and estuaries carved by the lake. The quaint village is also famous for its backwater resorts, where tourists can unwind and soak in the authentic culture and cuisine of Kerala.
To make the most of your Kerala tour, add a few more days to your itinerary so that you can explore some of the other major attractions, including the hill town of Wayanad and the historical town of Fort Kochi. If you have lesser time, you can skip the bird sanctuary in Kumarakom and allocate some time to do an elephant ride in Thekkady or indulge in some Ayurvedic treatments in Kovalam. Note that Kerala is a tropical destination, so pack comfortable clothing, insect repellent, and sunscreen to avoid the harsh sun.