How many days do you need in Kerala?

This itinerary covers 5 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 5 days trip to Kerala. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

5-Day Kerala Road Trip Itinerary: Explore the Backwaters and Beaches

Day 1: Explore Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Art Café

Enjoy a hearty breakfast surrounded by local art, with options like fluffy omelettes and fresh fruit.

INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets

Witness the iconic fishing nets in action and interact with local fishermen.

Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Mattancherry Palace

Discover the historical and architectural marvels of this 16th-century palace.

INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dal Roti

Savour delicious North Indian dishes, especially their naan and curries.

INR 600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Paradesi Synagogue

Explore one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth of Nations.

INR 50, 1 hour

4:00PM

Stroll through Jew Town

Enjoy exploring the quaint shops and antiquities in this historic area.

Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Sunset at Fort Kochi Beach

Relax and watch the breathtaking sunset at this picturesque beach.

Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Rice Boat

Indulge in fresh seafood and local Kerala dishes in a stunning waterfront setting.

INR 1200, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Kochi

Day 2: Scenic Drive to Munnar

Munnar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Fort Kochi Hotel

Start your day with a traditional Kerala breakfast featuring puttu and kadala curry.

INR 500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check out and drive to Munnar

Start your journey into the Western Ghats, enjoying lush landscapes along the way.

Fuel INR 800, 3-4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Delight in authentic South Indian meals served with a smile in Munnar.

INR 600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tea Estate

Tour a picturesque tea estate and learn about the tea-making process.

INR 200, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Rose Garden

Wander through a beautifully curated garden filled with various roses and plants.

INR 150, 1 hour

5:30PM

Visit the Attukal Waterfalls

Experience the refreshing beauty of the natural waterfalls amidst the forest.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Hillview

Enjoy a warm dinner with a breathtaking view of the hills around you.

INR 900, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Munnar

Day 3: Adventuring Thekkady

Thekkady, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Spice Tree

Choose from an offering of local and continental breakfast options to fuel your day.

INR 500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Thekkady

Drive through winding roads enjoying scenic views, reaching Thekkady in approximately 3 hours.

Fuel INR 800, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Barbeque Nation

Savour a variety of grilled meats and sides at this famous chain.

INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Periyar National Park Boat Ride

Take a boat ride through the national park to spot wildlife and enjoy the tranquil waters.

INR 1100, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Spice Plantation

Join a guided tour of a spice plantation and learn about various spices grown in Kerala.

INR 300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Evening Nature Walk

Experience a guided nature walk to appreciate the exotic flora and fauna of Thekkady.

INR 500, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Thekkady Wild

Enjoy outdoor dining with an array of traditional Kerala cuisine featuring local ingredients.

INR 1000, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Thekkady

Day 4: Relax in Alleppey

Alleppey, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aashirwad

Enjoy a traditional Kerala breakfast before checking out of your hotel in Thekkady.

INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Alleppey

Head towards the picturesque backwaters of Alleppey on a scenic 4-hour drive.

Fuel INR 1000, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at cafes along the backwaters

Stop and enjoy a fresh seafood meal at a backwater café, soaking in the views.

INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Houseboat Cruise

Unwind on a houseboat, traversing the serene canals and observing local life.

INR 5000, 3 hours

6:00PM

Sunset on the Houseboat

Enjoy a splendid sunset as you cruise through the tranquil backwaters.

Included in previous cost, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner on the Houseboat

Indulge in a freshly prepared Kerala-style dinner served onboard.

Included in previous cost, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Alleppey

Day 5: Beach Day at Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast on the Houseboat

Enjoy a delicious breakfast as you continue your houseboat journey in Alleppey.

Included in previous cost, 1 hour

9:30AM

Disembark and Drive to Varkala

Check out from the houseboat and drive the serene 2 hours to Varkala.

Fuel INR 600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The German Bakery

Stop for a meal in Varkala, with their famous pancakes and healthy bowls.

INR 500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Sunbathing at Varkala Beach

Unwind on the pristine sandy shores and take a dip in the Arabian Sea.

Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Cliff Walk

Stroll along the picturesque cliff, dotted with cafes and shops offering stunning views.

Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Yoga Session by the Beach

Join a local yoga class for relaxation and rejuvenation beside the waves.

INR 800, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Fish Pelican

Savour local seafood dishes while enjoying a cozy ambience overlooking the beach.

INR 1000, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Varkala

Step 1 Outline Preview:

5-Day Kerala Road Trip Itinerary: Explore the Backwaters and Beaches

Day 1: Explore Kochi

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

7:30PM

Day 2: Scenic Drive to Munnar

8:00AM

9:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

5:30PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Adventuring Thekkady

7:30AM

9:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

6:00PM

7:30PM

Day 4: Relax in Alleppey

8:00AM

9:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

7:30PM

Day 5: Beach Day at Varkala

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

5:00PM

6:30PM

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