Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

A Week in Kerala: Exploring God's Own Country

Tuesday, October 17: Kochi Arrival

Welcome to Kochi, the gateway to Kerala! Start your journey by exploring Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. In the morning, visit the iconic St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Jew Town, home to the famous Paradesi Synagogue. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of storytelling through dance and music.

  • Fort Kochi: INR 100, 3 hours
  • St. Francis Church: Free, 1 hour
  • Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue: INR 10, 2 hours
  • Kathakali Performance: INR 400-800, 2 hours
Wednesday, October 18: Alleppey Backwaters

Embark on a serene backwater cruise in Alleppey, often called the "Venice of the East." In the morning, board a traditional houseboat and meander through the interconnected canals, witnessing the enchanting landscapes and local village life. Enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine on board. In the afternoon, visit the Alappuzha Beach, known for its golden sands and vibrant sunsets. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and savoring delicious seafood.

  • Backwater Houseboat Cruise: INR 6,000-10,000, 6 hours
  • Alappuzha Beach: Free, 2 hours
  • Local Markets: Variable, 2 hours
Thursday, October 19: Munnar Tea Gardens

Travel to Munnar, a hill station famous for its picturesque tea gardens. In the morning, visit the Kundala Lake and enjoy a peaceful boat ride amidst the misty mountains. Explore the Tea Museum to learn about the region's tea production in the afternoon. Witness the beautiful Mattupetty Dam and its surrounding lush greenery. End the day with a visit to the Echo Point, where your voice reverberates in the stunning natural surroundings.

  • Kundala Lake: INR 100, 2 hours
  • Tea Museum: INR 120, 2 hours
  • Mattupetty Dam: INR 10, 1 hour
  • Echo Point: Free, 1 hour
Friday, October 20: Thekkady Wildlife Safari

Experience the wild side of Kerala in Thekkady. Start your day with an exciting wildlife safari in Periyar National Park, home to elephants, tigers, and various other species. In the afternoon, take a nature walk through the spice plantations and learn about the region's abundant flora and fauna. Enjoy a traditional Kathakali martial arts performance in the evening, showcasing the region's cultural richness.

  • Periyar National Park Safari: INR 1,500-3,000, 4 hours
  • Nature Walk: INR 250-500, 2 hours
  • Kathakali Performance: INR 200-500, 2 hours
Saturday, October 21: Varkala Beach Retreat

Head to the coastal town of Varkala, known for its stunning cliffside views and pristine beaches. Spend the morning relaxing on Papanasam Beach, famous for its healing waters. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. As the sun sets, visit the Varkala Cliff, lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.

  • Papanasam Beach: Free, 3 hours
  • Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1 hour
  • Varkala Cliff: Variable, 2 hours
Sunday, October 22: Wayanad Adventure

Start your day by exploring the scenic beauty of Wayanad. Visit the breathtaking Soochipara Waterfalls and refresh yourself in its cool waters. In the afternoon, discover the ancient Edakkal Caves, famous for their prehistoric rock carvings. Enjoy a jeep safari in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and encounter diverse wildlife. As the day winds down, savor a traditional Kerala cuisine at a local restaurant.

  • Soochipara Waterfalls: INR 50, 3 hours
  • Edakkal Caves: INR 40, 2 hours
  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Jeep Safari: INR 300-500, 3 hours
  • Local Restaurant: Variable
Monday, October 23: Kovalam Beach Retreat

Conclude your Kerala adventure by unwinding at the pristine beaches of Kovalam. Spend the morning leisurely strolling along the sandy shores of Lighthouse Beach. Indulge in Ayurvedic spa treatments in the afternoon, Kerala's renowned traditional healthcare system. In the evening, explore the Hawa Beach, also known as Eve's Beach, and witness breathtaking sunset views.

  • Lighthouse Beach: Free, 2 hours
  • Ayurvedic Spa Treatments: Variable
  • Hawa Beach: Free, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, make sure to visit Bekal Fort, a hidden gem in Kasaragod. This centuries-old fort offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Meenmutty Waterfalls in Wayanad, a spectacular waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Locals love to relax at Marari Beach near Alleppey, a peaceful and less-crowded beach with serene natural beauty.

For more information on hotel and flight prices, check here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version