How many days do you need in Kerala?

This itinerary covers 9 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 9 days trip to Kerala. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

9-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in Kerala

Day 1: Explore Kochi

Kochi, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Art Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast of fresh local produce and delightful pastries at Kashi Art Cafe in Fort Kochi.

INR 800, 1 hour

10:30AM

Fort Kochi Heritage Walk

Explore the historical sites including the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and the Dutch Cemetery on a fun family walk.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Rice Boat

Enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine with stunning waterfront views at this famous restaurant.

INR 1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Mattancherry Palace

Delve into the history of Kerala at this enchanting palace with its beautiful murals and artworks.

INR 20, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening at Marine Drive

Stroll along Marine Drive and enjoy the sunset while savoring some street food.

Cost varies, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Malabar

Try their signature Malabar biryani to end the day on a delicious note.

INR 1200, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Kochi

Day 2: Travel to Munnar

Munnar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast at your hotel before your journey to Munnar.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Munnar

Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, surrounded by lush green hills and tea plantations.

Fuel charges, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Relish a traditional South Indian meal featuring dosa, sambar, and coconut chutney.

INR 1000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Tea Museum

Discover the history of tea in Munnar and enjoy a plantation tour perfect for family bonding.

INR 200, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Mattupetty Dam

Take a serene boat ride at this picturesque dam surrounded by stunning landscapes.

INR 300, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hill Spice

Enjoy local dishes featuring fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms.

INR 1400, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Munnar

Day 3: Adventure in Thekkady

Thekkady, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast that includes local fruit and traditional dishes.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Thekkady

Head towards Thekkady, known for its wildlife and spice plantations.

Fuel charges, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Bar-B-Que

Savor grilled dishes at this popular spot famous for its meats and vegetarian options.

INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Take a nature walk or bamboo rafting in the sanctuary, perfect for families to connect with nature.

INR 500, 3 hours

5:30PM

Spice Plantation Tour

Learn about various spices and herbs in a guided tour of a local plantation.

INR 300, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Thekkady Spice Garden

Indulge in a dinner prepared with fresh, local ingredients reflecting Kerala's culinary brilliance.

INR 1300, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Thekkady

Day 4: Backwater Bliss at Alleppey

Alleppey, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a breakfast with local flavors to start your day in a great mood.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Alleppey

Journey to the stunning backwaters of Alleppey, famous for its picturesque views.

Fuel charges, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cassia

Dig into local seafood dishes that are a hallmark of Kerala's coastal cuisine.

INR 1000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Backwater Cruise

Experience the tranquil beauty of the backwaters on a houseboat cruise with your family.

INR 4000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Explore Local Markets

Take some time to stroll through local markets for souvenirs and Kerala handicrafts.

Cost varies, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy a dinner that mirrors the culinary essence of Kerala with flavorsome local delights.

INR 1200, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Alleppey

Day 5: Beach Day in Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your seaside adventure with a breakfast featuring tropical fruits and local dishes.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Varkala

Enjoy a scenic drive to Varkala, known for its stunning cliffs and beaches.

Fuel charges, 1 hour

10:30AM

Relax at Varkala Beach

Spend the morning relaxing at the beautiful Varkala Beach and enjoy different water activities.

Cost varies, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Cafe del Mar

Dine at a cozy cafe overlooking the sea with a menu full of delicious options.

INR 900, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Janardhana Swamy Temple

Explore this ancient temple known for its serene atmosphere and stunning architecture.

Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Cliff Walk

Stroll along the cliffs at sunset offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.

Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Heritage

Savor local seafood specialties while gazing at the magnificent sunset mood.

INR 1400, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Varkala

Day 6: Relax in Kovalam

Kovalam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before heading to Kovalam.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Kovalam

Travel to Kovalam, one of Kerala's most stunning beach destinations.

Fuel charges, 30 mins

10:00AM

Sunbathing at Lighthouse Beach

Kick back and relax on this beautiful beach while enjoying some water activities.

Cost varies, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The German Bakery

Savor a fresh and wholesome meal at this beloved cafe specializing in baked goods and coffee.

INR 800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Hawa Beach

Enjoy the serene vibes and scenic beauty of Hawa Beach, perfect for family outings.

Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Ayurvedic Spa Session

Unwind with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatment at one of the local wellness centers.

INR 2000, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Tides

Enjoy dinner with a stunning seaside view and a menu featuring delicious seafood and Asian cuisine.

INR 1600, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Kovalam

Day 7: Culture in Trivandrum

Trivandrum, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast spread before setting off for Trivandrum.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Trivandrum

Make your way to Trivandrum, the capital city filled with cultural experiences.

Fuel charges, 30 mins

10:00AM

Visit Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Explore this ancient temple famed for its stunning architecture, but remember to dress appropriately.

Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Villa Maya

Enjoy a delightful lunch in a stunning heritage setting with local and international dishes.

INR 1800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum

Traverse the historical palace filled with artifacts and learn about the royal family's legacy.

INR 300, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shankumugham Beach

Relax at this beautiful beach where you can indulge in some local snacks from nearby vendors.

Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ariya Nivaas

Finish your day with a homely meal showcasing authentic Kerala flavors.

INR 1000, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Trivandrum

Day 8: Discover Wayanad

Wayanad, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading to Wayanad, known for its beautiful nature.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Wayanad

Travel to Wayanad, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.

Fuel charges, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at 1980's Restaurant

Relish local flavors with a nostalgic touch at this popular family restaurant.

INR 1000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Bamboo Rafting at Wayanad

Have fun with the family while enjoying bamboo rafting on the serene waters.

INR 500 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Visit Edakkal Caves

Discover the prehistoric rock engravings as you explore this archaeological site.

INR 100, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Hilltop

End the day with a hearty meal enjoying the beautiful views and local cuisine.

INR 1200, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Wayanad

Day 9: Culminate in Kozhikode

Kozhikode, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel your day with a delightful breakfast spread before checking out.

Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Kozhikode

Travel to Kozhikode, known for its beaches and rich history.

Fuel charges, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Paragon

Relish Kozhikode biriyani, a local specialty, at this famous restaurant.

INR 1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Kalappalli Beach

Unwind at this serene beach, perfect for family time and fun in the sun.

Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Kozhikode Beach

Take a stroll along the iconic Kozhikode Beach, a great spot for family photos and enjoying local snacks.

Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Rice Bowl

Indulge in local dishes and bid adieu to your wonderful road trip through Kerala.

INR 1200, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Kozhikode

Step 1 Outline Preview:

9-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in Kerala

Day 1: Explore Kochi

9:00AM

10:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 2: Travel to Munnar

8:00AM

9:00AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 3: Adventure in Thekkady

8:00AM

9:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

5:30PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Backwater Bliss at Alleppey

8:00AM

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:30PM

8:00PM

Day 5: Beach Day in Varkala

8:00AM

9:30AM

10:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

4:30PM

6:00PM

Day 6: Relax in Kovalam

8:00AM

9:30AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:30PM

7:00PM

Day 7: Culture in Trivandrum

8:00AM

9:00AM

10:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 8: Discover Wayanad

8:00AM

9:00AM

2:00PM

3:30PM

6:00PM

7:30PM

Day 9: Culminate in Kozhikode

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

5:30PM

More About Kerala

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