Kerala 7-Day Itinerary

Sunday, January 21: Kochi Arrival

Morning: Start your trip by arriving in Kochi and head to Fort Kochi. Explore the charming streets lined with colonial buildings, visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets, and admire the heritage architecture.

Afternoon: Visit the Mattancherry Palace, a Portuguese palace known for its stunning murals and artifacts. Take a walk through the Jew Town area and browse the antique shops and spice markets.

Evening: Watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance at a local theater and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Kerala.

• Fort Kochi: Entry is free, estimated time: 2-3 hours
• Mattancherry Palace: Entry fee: INR 5 (Indian Nationals), INR 100 (Foreign Nationals), estimated time: 1-2 hours
• Kathakali Performance: Ticket price can vary, estimated time: 2-3 hours

Monday, January 22: Munnar Tea Estates

Morning: Depart for Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea estates. Visit the Lockhart Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea cultivation in the region.

Afternoon: Explore the tea plantations and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea amidst the scenic beauty. Visit the Mattupetty Dam and take a boat ride on the serene reservoir.

Evening: Enjoy a peaceful walk through the aromatic spice gardens, where you can learn about various spices grown in Kerala.

• Lockhart Tea Museum: Entry fee: INR 100 (approx.), estimated time: 1-2 hours
• Munnar Tea Plantations: Free entry, estimated time: 2-3 hours
• Mattupetty Dam: Entry fee: INR 10 (Indian Nationals), INR 50 (Foreign Nationals), estimated time: 1-2 hours

Tuesday, January 23: Backwaters and Alleppey

Morning: Travel to Alleppey, the gateway to Kerala's famous backwaters. Embark on a houseboat cruise and marvel at the serene waterways, lush greenery, and village life.

Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch prepared on the houseboat using local ingredients. Experience the tranquility of the backwaters as you cruise along.

Evening: Witness a stunning sunset over the backwaters and spend a peaceful evening on the houseboat.

• Houseboat Cruise: Price varies based on the duration and type of houseboat, estimated time: 6-7 hours

Wednesday, January 24: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Morning: Travel to Thekkady and visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark on a jungle safari and spot wildlife such as elephants, tigers, deer, and various bird species.

Afternoon: Take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding forests and hills. Visit the spice plantations and learn about the cultivation of different spices.

Evening: Attend a traditional martial arts and cultural performance at the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre.

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Entry fee: INR 25 (Indian Nationals), INR 300 (Foreign Nationals), estimated time: 4-5 hours
• Boat ride on Periyar Lake: Entry fee: INR 150 (Indian Nationals), INR 450 (Foreign Nationals), estimated time: 1-2 hours
• Kadathanadan Kalari Centre: Ticket price can vary, estimated time: 2 hours

Thursday, January 25: Kovalam Beach

Morning: Head to Kovalam, a popular beach destination in Kerala. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands and taking a refreshing swim in the Arabian Sea.

Afternoon: Explore the Lighthouse Beach and indulge in water activities like surfing, kayaking, or enjoying an Ayurvedic massage.

Evening: Watch the mesmerizing sunset from the Hawa Beach and savor delicious seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.

• Kovalam Beach: Free entry, estimated time: 4-5 hours

Friday, January 26: Trivandrum City Tour

Morning: Visit the iconic Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum, known for its architectural beauty and religious significance.

Afternoon: Explore the Napier Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing a collection of ancient artifacts, sculptures, and paintings.

Evening: Take a leisurely stroll through the lush green lawns of the Kanakakunnu Palace and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.

• Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Free entry, estimated time: 2-3 hours
• Napier Museum and Art Gallery: Entry fee: INR 20 (Indian Nationals), INR 150 (Foreign Nationals), estimated time: 2-3 hours
• Kanakakunnu Palace: Free entry, estimated time: 1-2 hours

Saturday, January 27: Wayanad Exploration

Morning: Travel to Wayanad, a scenic hill station known for its lush green landscapes and wildlife. Visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and spot elephants, tigers, and other animals in their natural habitat.

Afternoon: Explore the ancient Edakkal Caves and discover their fascinating prehistoric rock carvings. Take a nature walk in the picturesque Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary.

Evening: Enjoy a serene boat ride on the Pookode Lake and soak in the tranquil surroundings.

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Entry fee: INR 80 (Indian Nationals), INR 400 (Foreign Nationals), estimated time: 4-5 hours
• Edakkal Caves: Entry fee: INR 40 (Indian Nationals), INR 200 (Foreign Nationals), estimated time: 2-3 hours
• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Entry fee: INR 10 (Indian Nationals), INR 100 (Foreign Nationals), estimated time: 2-3 hours
• Pookode Lake: Entry fee: INR 10 (Indian Nationals), INR 100 (Foreign Nationals), estimated time: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kerala, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Take a backwater village tour in Kumarakom to experience the authentic rural life. Visit the Theyyam performances in Kannur to witness the vibrant folk art form. Explore the offbeat hill station of Vagamon, surrounded by lush green meadows and enchanting valleys. Kerala has a lot to offer beyond the popular tourist destinations, so make sure to explore these lesser-known attractions for an enriching experience.