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 7-day Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Kochi Exploration

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Visit Fort Kochi

Explore the historical Fort Kochi with its charming colonial architecture and iconic Chinese fishing nets.

Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at Kayees Rahmathulla Cafe

Delight in traditional Malabar cuisine at this famous eatery known for its delectable biryani and seafood dishes.

£10, 1 hour

1:00PM

St. Francis Church and Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica

Discover the fascinating history of these ancient churches, witnessing the blend of Indian and European architectural styles.

£5, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Marine Drive

Unwind by the scenic waterfront, watching the sunset against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Dal Roti

Indulge in North Indian cuisine at this popular restaurant, known for its flavourful curries and freshly baked bread.

£15, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Kochi

Day 2: Nature and Tea Estates

Munnar, India

8:00AM

Visit Eravikulam National Park

Explore the mesmerising biodiversity of the Western Ghats, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and vibrant flora.

£5, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a South Indian thali or dosa at this renowned restaurant, offering authentic flavours in a tranquil setting.

£8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Tea Museum and Estate Visit

Learn about the art of tea-making at the museum before strolling through the lush tea estates, savouring the aroma of fresh tea leaves.

£7, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Mattupetty Dam

Unwind by the serene reservoir, surrounded by picturesque hills and tea gardens, offering a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.

£3, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Rapsy Restaurant

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at this local favourite, savouring a fusion of Indian and Chinese dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.

£12, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Munnar

Day 3: Wildlife and Spice Plantations

Thekkady, India

8:00AM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Embark on a thrilling jungle safari in the sanctuary, seeking sightings of elephants, tigers, and diverse bird species amidst the lush wilderness.

£8, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Spice Garden Restaurant

Relish traditional Kerala cuisine infused with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients, amidst the tranquil surroundings of the spice garden.

£10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Spice Plantation Tour

Discover the allure of cardamom, pepper, and other spices as you wander through the fragrant plantations, learning about their cultivation and uses.

£6, 2 hours

5:00PM

Boat Ride on Periyar Lake

Embark on a serene boat cruise, revelling in the scenic beauty and diverse wildlife along the tranquil waters of the lake.

£5, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Chrissie's Hotel

Savour a delightful dinner at this charming hotel, offering a delectable array of continental and local cuisine in a cosy ambience.

£14, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Thekkady

Day 4: Backwaters and Houseboat Experience

Alleppey, India

8:00AM

Visit Alappuzha Beach

Stroll along the picturesque beach, enjoying the tranquil ambiance and witnessing the local fishing activities along the coast.

Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Board Houseboat for Backwater Cruise

Embark on a scenic backwater journey aboard a traditional houseboat, immersing in the serene beauty of the lush backwaters and coconut groves.

£80, 6 hours

5:00PM

Relax and Enjoy Sunset Views

Unwind on the houseboat's deck, sipping on refreshing coconut water and marvelling at the enchanting sunset over the backwaters.

Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner on Houseboat

Savour a sumptuous dinner featuring delectable Keralan dishes, freshly prepared by the onboard chef, amidst the tranquil backwater setting.

Included in houseboat package, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Alleppey

Day 5: Beach Bliss and Cliff Views

Varkala, India

8:00AM

Relax at Varkala Beach

Unwind on the golden sands, basking in the tropical sun and the soothing sound of the waves, offering a perfect retreat for beach lovers.

Free, 3 hours

11:00AM

Visit Sivagiri Mutt

Explore the tranquil ashram and shrine, perched atop a picturesque hill, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding cliffs.

£3, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Darjeeling Cafe

Indulge in a delightful meal amidst the scenic views, relishing a blend of Indian and continental dishes at this charming cafe.

£12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Cliff Walk and Sunset Views

Stroll along the picturesque cliff walk, marvelling at the panoramic vistas and capturing the breathtaking colours of the sunset over the Arabian Sea.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Abba Restaurant

Savour a delectable dinner at this famous eatery, known for its tantalising seafood dishes and stunning views of the cliff and beach.

£18, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Varkala

Day 6: Waterfront Charms and Ayurvedic Indulgence

Kovalam, India

9:00AM

Relax at Lighthouse Beach

Unwind on the soft sands, with the towering lighthouse casting its mesmerising reflection on the shimmering waters, perfect for a leisurely beach day.

Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bait Restaurant

Delight in a scrumptious seafood feast at this popular beachfront restaurant, savouring the freshest catch of the day and local Keralan delicacies.

£20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Ayurvedic Massage at Sun Tara Beach Resort

Immerse in the rejuvenating benefits of Ayurveda with a therapeutic massage and wellness treatment, offering a perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.

£40, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Vizhinjam Village

Stroll through the quaint village, witnessing the vibrant fishing activities and charming coastal scenes, offering insight into local life and traditions.

Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Tides

Indulge in a delightful dinner at this elegant restaurant, savouring a fusion of international and local cuisine, complemented by stunning ocean views.

£25, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Kovalam

Day 7: Cultural Heritage and Departure

Trivandrum, India

9:00AM

Napier Museum

Explore the rich cultural heritage showcased in this architectural marvel, home to a fascinating collection of historical artefacts and traditional art forms.

£4, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Villa Maya

Savour a gourmet lunch experience at this opulent heritage restaurant, offering an exquisite blend of traditional Keralan and international cuisine.

£30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Kuthiramalika Palace

Discover the regal splendour and intricate craftsmanship of this palace, adorned with ornate wooden carvings and fascinating historical relics.

£6, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Shopping at Chalai Market

Indulge in a shopping spree at this bustling market, perusing through vibrant stalls offering traditional handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.

Depends on purchases, 2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Zam Zam Restaurant

Conclude your adventure with a sumptuous dinner at this renowned restaurant, relishing the diverse flavours of Arabian, Indian, and Mughlai cuisines.

£20, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Trivandrum

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Kerala 7-day Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Kochi Exploration

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Nature and Tea Estates

8:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

8:00PM

Day 3: Wildlife and Spice Plantations

8:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 4: Backwaters and Houseboat Experience

8:00AM

11:00AM

5:00PM

8:00PM

Day 5: Beach Bliss and Cliff Views

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Waterfront Charms and Ayurvedic Indulgence

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:30PM

5:00PM

8:00PM

Day 7: Cultural Heritage and Departure

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:30PM

4:30PM

7:00PM

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