How many days do you need in Kerala?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Kerala, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Kerala?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Kerala. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Kerala on a Budget

Day 1: Exploring Fort Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Visit Fort Kochi Beach

Enjoy a peaceful morning by the Arabian Sea, taking in the historic Chinese fishing nets and colorful boats.

Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through Jew Town

Explore the quaint streets, visit the synagogue, and bargain for souvenirs at the antique shops.

Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Art Cafe

Indulge in delicious and affordable fusion cuisine in a charming art gallery setting.

INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Mattancherry Palace

Admire the stunning murals and learn about the history of the region's royal family.

INR 5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Fusion Bay

Savor flavorful seafood dishes at this budget-friendly, cozy restaurant.

INR 400, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Kochi

Day 2: Backwaters Experience

Alleppey, India

8:00AM

Houseboat Cruise

Embark on a serene backwater cruise, passing through picturesque villages and lush greenery.

INR 800 (shared boat), 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on the Houseboat

Enjoy a traditional Keralan meal prepared on board as you continue to admire the scenic views.

Included in cruise cost, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Alleppey Town

Roam around the bustling markets and observe the local way of life near the backwaters.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Thaff Restaurant

Relish authentic local cuisine at this pocket-friendly eatery with a cozy ambiance.

INR 250, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Alleppey

Day 3: Tranquil Nature Retreat

Kumarakom, India

9:00AM

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Immerse in the beauty of nature while spotting various bird species and enjoying peaceful surroundings.

INR 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Coconut Lagoon Restaurant

Savor a simple yet delicious meal overlooking the backwaters at this charming restaurant.

INR 350, 1 hour

3:00PM

Ayurvedic Massage

Pamper yourself with a rejuvenating and affordable traditional Ayurvedic massage experience.

INR 800, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ettukettu Restaurant

Enjoy a satisfying dinner with delectable local flavors in a serene, scenic setting.

INR 300, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Kumarakom

Day 4: Tea Gardens and Nature

Munnar, India

8:00AM

Visit Tea Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through the lush tea plantations and breathe in the refreshing mountain air.

INR 100 (entry fee for tea museum), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Relish a hearty South Indian thali at this popular and affordable restaurant known for its authentic flavors.

INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Mattupetty Dam

Marvel at the picturesque dam and enjoy a boat ride amidst scenic valleys and tea gardens.

INR 20, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Rapsy Restaurant

Treat yourself to delicious and budget-friendly local dishes at this casual dining spot.

INR 250, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Munnar

Day 5: Wildlife and Spice Experience

Thekkady, India

8:00AM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Embark on a budget-friendly guided tour to spot diverse wildlife and immerse in the natural beauty.

INR 250 (entry fee), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Coffee Garden Restaurant

Enjoy a satisfying meal with a variety of choices amidst a cozy garden setting.

INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Spice Shopping

Explore the local markets for affordable, high-quality spices and souvenirs to take back home.

Depends on purchase, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bar-B-Que Restaurant

Relish a delightful barbecue dinner with an array of flavorful options at reasonable prices.

INR 400, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Thekkady

Day 6: Cliffside Relaxation

Varkala, India

9:00AM

Varkala Beach

Unwind on the stunning beach, relish the views from the cliff, and perhaps take a dip in the sea.

Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Darjeeling Café

Enjoy a laid-back meal with a range of international and local dishes at affordable prices.

INR 350, 1 hour

3:00PM

Ayurveda Treatment

Treat yourself to a rejuvenating and affordable Ayurvedic treatment to relax and recharge.

INR 700, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Abba Restaurant

Savor a delightful dinner with ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere, offering budget-friendly options.

INR 300, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Varkala

Day 7: Capital City Exploration

Trivandrum, India

10:00AM

Napier Museum

Discover the intriguing collection of historical artifacts and art pieces at this budget-friendly museum.

INR 20, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Villa Maya

Indulge in a flavorful and affordable spread of traditional Kerala dishes in a heritage villa setting.

INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kuthiramalika Palace

Explore the well-preserved palace and its unique horse-shaped wooden brackets, showcasing local architecture.

INR 25, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Zam Zam Restaurant

Relish a fulfilling meal with a variety of local and international dishes at reasonable prices.

INR 300, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Trivandrum

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Kerala on a Budget

Day 1: Exploring Fort Kochi

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Backwaters Experience

8:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Tranquil Nature Retreat

9:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Tea Gardens and Nature

8:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Wildlife and Spice Experience

8:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Cliffside Relaxation

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 7: Capital City Exploration

10:00AM

12:30PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

More About Kerala

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