7-Day Itinerary in Kerala

Friday, January 12: Arrive in Kochi

In the morning, explore the historic Fort Kochi area with its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace and the Jewish Synagogue. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

• Fort Kochi: INR 0, 4 hours
• Mattancherry Palace: INR 100, 1 hour
• Jewish Synagogue: INR 5, 1 hour
• Kathakali dance performance: INR 300, 2 hours

Saturday, January 13: Munnar

Start your day with a visit to the Tea Museum to learn about the tea production process. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful tea plantations and enjoy a refreshing hike in the hills. In the evening, take a leisurely walk in the charming Munnar town.

• Tea Museum: INR 150, 2 hours
• Hiking in tea plantations: INR 0, 4 hours

Sunday, January 14: Thekkady

In the morning, go on a thrilling boat ride in Periyar Lake and spot wildlife in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation and learn about the region's aromatic spices. In the evening, enjoy a cultural show showcasing traditional art forms.

• Periyar Lake boat ride: INR 350, 3 hours
• Spice plantation visit: INR 100, 2 hours
• Cultural show: INR 200, 2 hours

Monday, January 15: Alappuzha (Alleppey)

Start your day with a scenic backwater cruise in a houseboat, marveling at the tranquil surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Alappuzha Beach and relax by the Arabian Sea. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the beach.

• Backwater houseboat cruise: INR 10,000 (approx.), 6 hours
• Alappuzha Beach: INR 0, 3 hours

Tuesday, January 16: Kovalam

Enjoy a morning at the beautiful Kovalam Beach, sunbathing or swimming in the clear waters. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Kovalam Lighthouse for panoramic views. In the evening, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage.

• Kovalam Beach: INR 0, 4 hours
• Kovalam Lighthouse: INR 20, 1 hour
• Ayurvedic massage: INR 1,000 (approx.), 2 hours

Wednesday, January 17: Varkala

In the morning, explore the famous Varkala Cliff, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Take a dip in the natural mineral springs at Papanasam Beach. In the afternoon, visit the Janardanaswamy Temple and enjoy a sunset yoga session on the beach.

• Varkala Cliff: INR 0, 2 hours
• Papanasam Beach: INR 0, 3 hours
• Janardanaswamy Temple: INR 0, 1 hour
• Sunset yoga session: INR 300, 1 hour

Thursday, January 18: Trivandrum

Explore the rich heritage of Trivandrum by visiting the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple in the morning. In the afternoon, explore the Napier Museum and Zoo. In the evening, take a stroll in the gardens of Kanakakunnu Palace.

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: INR 0, 2 hours
• Napier Museum: INR 20, 2 hours
• Kanakakunnu Palace: INR 0, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the sleepy village of Kumarakom, known for its serene backwaters and bird sanctuary. Another off-the-beaten-path destination is Wayanad, offering lush green forests, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. Locals also love exploring the hill station of Ponmudi, with its misty mountains and picturesque landscapes.

Check hotel and flight prices here.