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7-Day Itinerary: Trivandrum, Kovalam, Varkala, Kollam, Allepey, Kochi

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Day 1: Monday, December 18 - Trivandrum

Morning: Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, famous for its intricate architecture and religious significance. Explore the temple complex and learn about its legends.

Afternoon: Head to the Napier Museum, a beautiful art and natural history museum. Admire the exquisite collection of ancient artifacts and artwork.

Evening: Relax at the renowned Kovalam Beach, known for its golden sandy shores and calm waters. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade and witness a breathtaking sunset.

  • Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free entry, suggested time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Napier Museum: Entrance fee INR 20 per person, suggested time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Kovalam Beach: Free entry, suggested time spent: Evening

Day 2: Tuesday, December 19 - Varkala

Morning: Visit the magnificent Janardanaswamy Temple, situated near the Papanasam Beach. Explore the temple's rich architecture and seek blessings.

Afternoon: Head to the picturesque Varkala Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs and sparkling blue waters. Spend time sunbathing, swimming, or indulging in water sports.

Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the Varkala Cliff, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Explore the bustling markets and try local delicacies.

  • Janardanaswamy Temple: Free entry, suggested time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Varkala Beach: Free entry, suggested time spent: Afternoon
  • Varkala Cliff: Free entry, suggested time spent: Evening

Day 3: Wednesday, December 20 - Kollam

Morning: Embark on a scenic backwater cruise through the magnificent Ashtamudi Lake. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and spot diverse bird species.

Afternoon: Visit the historic Thangassery Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of Kollam and the Arabian Sea. Learn about its history and explore the nearby beach.

Evening: Explore the local markets of Kollam and shop for traditional handicrafts and spices.

  • Backwater Cruise: INR 500-1000 per person, suggested time spent: Morning
  • Thangassery Lighthouse: Entrance fee INR 10 per person, suggested time spent: Afternoon
  • Local Markets: Cost depends on purchases, suggested time spent: Evening

Day 4: Thursday, December 21 - Allepey

Morning: Begin your day with a captivating boat ride through the serene backwaters of Allepey. Marvel at the lush greenery, traditional houseboats, and village life.

Afternoon: Explore the Allepey Beach, known for its golden sand and serene atmosphere. Relax by the seaside and enjoy some beach activities.

Evening: Indulge in a traditional Kerala-style dinner cruise on a houseboat. Enjoy the scenic views and savor delicious local cuisine.

  • Backwater Boat Ride: INR 500-1000 per person, suggested time spent: Morning
  • Allepey Beach: Free entry, suggested time spent: Afternoon
  • Houseboat Dinner Cruise: INR 3000-5000 per person, suggested time spent: Evening

Day 5: Friday, December 22 - Kochi

Morning: Begin your exploration of Kochi by visiting the iconic Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace. Admire the stunning murals and historical artifacts.

Afternoon: Wander through the vibrant and bustling Jew Town, famous for its antique shops and the Paradesi Synagogue. Explore the narrow streets and soak in the rich heritage.

Evening: Catch a Kathakali performance, a traditional dance-drama of Kerala. Witness the elaborate costumes and expressive gestures of the performers.

  • Mattancherry Palace: Entrance fee INR 5 per person, suggested time spent: Morning
  • Jew Town: Free entry, suggested time spent: Afternoon
  • Kathakali Performance: INR 200-500 per person, suggested time spent: Evening

Day 6: Saturday, December 23 - Kochi

Morning: Explore the historic Fort Kochi, famous for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Take a walk along the waterfront and visit St. Francis Church.

Afternoon: Visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum to learn about the historical relationship between India and Portugal. Marvel at the unique artifacts and artworks on display.

Evening: Enjoy a sunset cruise on a traditional Kerala houseboat in the scenic backwaters of Kochi. Take in the picturesque views and enjoy a serene atmosphere.

  • Fort Kochi: Free entry, suggested time spent: Morning
  • Indo-Portuguese Museum: Entrance fee INR 10 per person, suggested time spent: Afternoon
  • Sunset Houseboat Cruise: INR 1000-2000 per person, suggested time spent: Evening

Day 7: Sunday, December 24 - Kochi

Morning: Explore the vibrant markets of Kochi, such as the famous Spice Market and Broadway. Experience the hustle and bustle of daily life while shopping for spices, textiles, and souvenirs.

Afternoon: Visit the beautiful Hill Palace Museum, showcasing royal artifacts and gardens. Immerse yourself in the regal history of Kerala.

Evening: End your trip with a relaxing stroll along Marine Drive, a scenic promenade offering beautiful views of the Kochi harbor. Watch the sun go down and bid farewell to this enchanting city.

  • Market Shopping: Cost depends on purchases, suggested time spent: Morning
  • Hill Palace Museum: Entrance fee INR 30 per person, suggested time spent: Afternoon
  • Marine Drive: Free entry, suggested time spent: Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

During your visit, take some time to explore the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the lesser-known Ponnumthuruthu Island, a small island known for its pristine beauty and ancient Shiva temple. Experience the tranquility away from the crowds.


Another local favorite is the Puthenmalika Palace, also known as the Kuthiramalika Palace. Admire the exquisite wooden architecture and explore the royal artifacts, including the horse-shaped brackets after which the palace is named.

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