9-Day Ultimate Kerala Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Kashi Art Cafe

Start your day with delicious breakfast options like avocado toast and flavorful South Indian filter coffee.
Located in Fort Kochi, easily accessible by walking.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Fort Kochi

Walk around the historic area to see ancient churches, Chinese fishing nets, and colonial architecture.
Anglo-Indian influences are prevalent; walk around to explore at your own pace.
Free, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Ginger House Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Kerala cuisine while overlooking the water.
Located near the waterfront, a short walk from Fort Kochi.
INR700, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Jew Town & Jewish Synagogue Visit

Explore the vibrant market and witness the beauty of the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth.
Jewish Synagogue is a short distance from Fort Kochi, take a local auto-rickshaw.
INR300, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Sunset at Fort Kochi Beach

Relax at the beach and enjoy the stunning sunset views of the Arabian Sea.
Easy access on foot from Jew Town.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Old Harbour Hotel

Indulge in a fine dining experience with a diverse menu featuring local and international flavors.
A short walk from Fort Kochi Beach.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Kochi

Kochi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Boulangerie

Savor freshly baked pastries and coffee to fuel your day ahead.
Near Fort Kochi, easily reachable on foot.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Kochi Biennale

Visit the ongoing contemporary art exhibition set in various venues around Fort Kochi.
Most venues are walkable from each other.
INR500, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Rice Boat

Experience a unique meal on a houseboat with exquisite Kerala cuisine.
Located in Kochi, accessible by car.
INR1000, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Mattancherry Palace

Explore this historic palace featuring beautiful mural paintings depicting Hindu mythology.
Car ride from the restaurant takes about 15 minutes.
INR200, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Visit Spices Market

Roam through the vibrant market bursting with spices, perfect for souvenirs.
Short car ride or auto-rickshaw from the palace.
Free to explore, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Kathakali Dance Performance

Engage in a cultural experience and watch this unique dance form that narrates stories from mythology.
Return to Fort Kochi for the performance; venues are well-marked.
INR600, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Fort Kochi

Wrap up the evening with dinner at The Old Custard House, enjoying a blend of local and contemporary dishes.
Located near the dance performance venue.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Munnar

Munnar, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before departing for Munnar.
In-house dining; check out by 9 AM.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Munnar

Marvel at the scenic drive through rolling hills and tea plantations as you make your way to Munnar.
Follow the NH85 for a direct route; approximately 4-hour drive.
Fuel costs vary by vehicle, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Savor authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine, known for its thali and dosas.
Located in Munnar town, easily accessible upon arrival.
INR600, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Tea Museum

Discover the fascinating history of tea production in Munnar with informative exhibits and tastings.
Short drive from the restaurant.
INR250, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Tea Gardens

Stroll through lush tea gardens, taking in the breathtaking views and cool mountain air.
Guided tours available; local transport or walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Hillview

Enjoy dinner with a view of the tea plantations, offering Indian and continental cuisine.
Located in Munnar, check with the front desk for directions.
INR800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Munnar Adventures

Munnar, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a leisurely breakfast before embarking on your day of exploration.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Eravikulam National Park

Explore the natural beauty and biodiversity of this park, home to the Nilgiri Tahr.
30-minute drive from your hotel.
INR1000, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Chai and Coffee

Enjoy refreshing tea and light bites in a beautiful garden setting.
Located on your way back from the national park.
INR500, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Mattupetty Dam

Take in the picturesque views, and if you're lucky, you might see some elephants.
Short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Boat Ride at Mattupetty

Enjoy a serene boat ride on the dam amidst the stunning hill scenery.
Boat rides are available at the dam entrance.
INR250, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Visit Anamudi Peak

Hike to the highest peak in South India for panoramic views; best suitable for adventure lovers.
Access is via local transport or guided tours.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Spice Tree

Savor a delightful meal at this restaurant known for its sizzlers and Kerala-inspired dishes.
Short drive from the hiking location.
INR900, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Adventure in Thekkady

Thekkady, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for an exciting day ahead with a delicious breakfast at your lodge.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Thekkady

Embark on a scenic drive to Thekkady, known for its rich wildlife and spice plantations.
Follow the NH185 for about 3 hours.
Fuel costs vary by vehicle, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Bar-B-Que

Enjoy a mix of Indian grilled dishes served in an outdoor garden setting.
Located conveniently near the entrance of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
INR800, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Take a guided boat tour through the sanctuary to spot wildlife such as elephants and various bird species.
Boat rides and tours available from the sanctuary entrance.
INR1500, 2.5 hours

4:00 PM

Spice Plantation Tour

Discover the fragrant world of spices on a guided tour through a local plantation.
Tour operators are available at the sanctuary; book in advance.
INR600, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Thekkady

Enjoy a cozy dinner at The Spice Garden restaurant, known for its farm-to-table dining experience.
Located in Thekkady town.
INR900, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Backwaters of Alleppey

Alleppey, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Thekkady, preparing for the next leg of your journey.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Alleppey

Transition to a peaceful setting as you drive towards the backwaters of Alleppey.
It takes approximately 4 hours via NH183.
Fuel costs vary by vehicle, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Halais Restaurant

Taste flavors of Kerala with delicious biryanis and tandoori dishes.
Located in Alleppey town, easily accessible upon arrival.
INR700, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Houseboat Check-in

Step aboard your houseboat and prepare for a relaxing ride through the mesmerizing backwaters.
Houseboats are docked near the Alleppey jetty.
INR6000 per night, 30 minutes for check-in

3:00 PM

Backwater Cruise

Sail through the serene backwaters while enjoying beautiful scenery and spotting local wildlife.
Cruise begins right after check-in; you will be guided.
Included with houseboat stay, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Sunset Dinner on the Houseboat

Enjoy a freshly prepared, delicious dinner on the houseboat as you watch the sunset over the backwaters.
Dinner served on board.
Included with houseboat stay, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Relax at Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast on Houseboat

Wake up to a delightful breakfast prepared on board before departing from the houseboat.
Meal prepared for you on the houseboat.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Varkala

Head towards Varkala, known for its stunning cliffs and beautiful beaches.
Approximately 1-hour drive via NH66.
Fuel costs vary by vehicle, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Relax at Varkala Beach

Spend the morning soaking up the sun and relaxing on the sandy shores.
Direct access to the beach from the main road.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at El Mar Restaurant

Indulge in fresh seafood dishes with a beautiful view of Varkala Beach.
Located along the beach promenade.
INR900, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Janardhana Swami Temple

Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, sitting atop a hill.
A short trek (about 10 minutes) from the beach.
Free, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Head to Papanasam Beach

Enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the serene atmosphere of this less crowded beach.
Easily reachable by walking from the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Ayurvedic Spa Treatment

Rejuvenate with a traditional Ayurvedic massage at a local spa.
Spas located throughout Varkala; payable via direct booking.
INR2000, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Cafe del Mar

Enjoy a laid-back evening dining on the terrace with some of the best sunset views.
Located a short walk from the beach.
INR850, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Kovalam Beach Relaxation

Kovalam, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel in Varkala

Savor a leisurely breakfast before heading to Kovalam.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Kovalam

Enjoy a scenic drive of approximately 30 minutes to the iconic Kovalam Beach.
Follow the NH66 for fastest route.
Fuel costs vary by vehicle, 30 minutes

9:30 AM

Relax at Kovalam Beach

Spend your morning enjoying the sun and sea at one of the most popular beaches in Kerala.
Beach access from the main road; reachable by foot.
Free, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Freewilly Cafe

Taste delicious fusion dishes while enjoying the beach vibes.
Located on the beach promenade.
INR700, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Lighthouse Beach

Stroll along the cliffs, witnessing stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the lighthouse.
Walking distance from Kovalam Beach.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Water Sports

Engage in water sports activities like parasailing and jet skiing for an adrenaline rush.
Various operators on the beach; pay on site.
INR1500, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Relax at the Beach

Unwind with a swim or simply bask in the sun.
Beach is directly accessible.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Rachel's

Wrap up with a delightful dinner featuring local delicacies and seafood.
A short walk from Lighthouse Beach.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Final Day in Trivandrum

Trivandrum, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel in Kovalam

Enjoy your last breakfast by the beach before heading to Trivandrum.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Trivandrum

A brief drive takes you to Trivandrum, Kerala's capital.
Follow the NH66 and then NH47 for a quick arrival (30 minutes).
Fuel costs vary by vehicle, 30 minutes

9:30 AM

Visit Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Marvel at the architectural brilliance of this sacred temple, a significant site for Hindus.
Located in the heart of Trivandrum; parking available nearby.
Free (dress code applies), 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Napier Museum

Learn about the eclectic collection of ancient artifacts, art, and natural history.
10-minute drive from the temple.
INR100, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at 10 Cuts of Beef

Dive into one of the best restaurants in Trivandrum, with a unique menu focusing on beef dishes.
5-minute drive from the museum.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore Kovalam Beach (if time permits)

If time allows, return to Kovalam for some beach time before departure.
Short drive back to Kovalam.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Return Car and Depart

Finalize your adventurous trip by returning the rental car at the airport and preparing for departure.
Car rental services available at the airport.
Variable cost depending on rental agency, 1 hour
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