How many days do you need in Kerala?

This itinerary covers 6 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 6 days trip to Kerala. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Explore Kerala: A 6-Day Family-Friendly Rail and Road Trip Adventure

Day 1: Cultural Kickoff

Kochi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Art Café

Start your day with delicious pancakes and fresh juices at this cozy café, surrounded by local art that sets a vibrant tone for your Kerala adventure.

INR600, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Fort Kochi

Wander the charming streets, visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, and admire colonial architecture, soaking in the cultural heritage of Kochi.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kayees Biryani

Indulge in Kerala-style biryani and other local delicacies in this well-known eatery beloved by locals.

INR1000, 2.5 hours

3:00PM

Arrive at Munnar and check-in

Relax at your hotel and enjoy the stunning green tea plantations that blanket the hills around Munnar.

INR3000, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Sunset Viewing at Tea Gardens

Experience a picturesque sunset over the lush tea gardens of Munnar, a perfect way to unwind after a day of travel.

Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy authentic South Indian cuisine, especially their dosa, in a family-friendly atmosphere.

INR1000, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Kochi

Day 2: Nature’s Serenity

Munnar, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Savor a traditional Kerala breakfast with puttu and kadala curry before heading out for a day of exploration.

Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Visit Eravikulam National Park

Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, enjoy a guided nature walk amidst stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

INR500, 1 hour

11:00AM

Tea Museum Tour

Discover the history of tea production in Kerala and enjoy a tea tasting experience at the Tata Tea Museum.

INR300, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Rapsy Restaurant

Enjoy delicious Kerala meals along with a selection of Asian cuisine, ideal for hungry travelers.

INR800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Mattupetty Dam

Take a serene boat ride and capture the breathtaking views around the dam surrounded by hills.

INR400, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Hotel and Relax

Spend some leisure time enjoying the amenities at your accommodation or exploring the nearby shops.

Free, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cliff Mansion

Delight in exquisite local and continental cuisine at this wonderful hillside restaurant, perfect for family bonding.

INR1200, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Munnar

Day 3: Wildlife Adventure

Thekkady, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to energize you for the journey to Thekkady.

Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Thekkady

Enjoy a scenic drive as you descend from Munnar to Thekkady, surrounded by stunning mountain views.

Free, 3 hours

11:00AM

Check into the Hotel in Thekkady

Settle into your accommodation and refresh before starting your activities.

INR3000, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Thekkady Spice Garden

Dine on organic meals prepared with fresh ingredients from the spice garden, while enjoying the surrounding nature.

INR900, 1 hour

1:00PM

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Boat Ride

Take a relaxing boat ride in the sanctuary to spot elephants, deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat.

INR1200, 2 hours

4:00PM

Nature Walk in Periyar

Join a guided walking tour through the jungle, learning about the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Hotel and Refresh

Take the evening to freshen up and unwind after a day full of adventure.

Free, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Bar-B-Que

Enjoy a lively dinner with grilled specialties that appeal to all ages, great for families.

INR1000, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Thekkady

Day 4: Backwaters Bliss

Alleppey, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for your day with a mix of traditional Keralian breakfast staples.

Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Alleppey

Set off towards the captivating backwaters of Alleppey, known as the 'Venice of the East'.

INR800, 2 hours

10:00AM

Check-In at Houseboat

Board your houseboat and set sail through the tranquil backwaters, witnessing the lush landscape.

INR6000 (for the day), 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch on the Houseboat

Relish authentic Kerala cuisine prepared by the on-board chef while surrounded by nature.

Included in houseboat cost, 1 hour

1:00PM

Leisurely Cruising

Enjoy the peaceful scenery as the houseboat drifts through the canals and lagoons, capturing the serene beauty of backwaters.

Free, 3 hours

4:00PM

Visit Local Village

Interact with locals in a nearby village, learning about their daily life and customs.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Return to Houseboat

Head back as the sun begins to set, capturing beautiful photographs of the landscape.

Free, 30 minutes

7:30PM

Dinner on the Houseboat

Indulge in a farewell feast with various traditional Kerala dishes including fish curry, all while floating along the serene waters.

Included in houseboat cost, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Alleppey

Day 5: Peaceful Retreat

Kumarakom, India

7:00AM

Breakfast on the Houseboat

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you continue your journey through the backwaters.

Included in houseboat cost, 1 hour

8:00AM

Check-Out from Houseboat

Disembark the houseboat and transfer by vehicle to Kumarakom.

Free, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Check-in at Spa Resort

Settle into your resort in Kumarakom known for its Ayurvedic treatments and tranquil settings.

INR5000, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Ayurvedic Spa Session

Relax and rejuvenate with an Ayurvedic treatment designed for family wellness, perfect for all ages.

INR3000 (for family), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Resort

Savor health-conscious meals with fresh local ingredients that promote wellness.

INR1000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Bird Sanctuary Visit

Explore Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to a variety of migratory birds, perfect for nature lovers.

INR200, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return and Refresh

Take a break and unwind at the resort after a day filled with exploration.

Free, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at the Resort

Enjoy a relaxing dinner featuring local cuisine while gazing out at the backwaters.

INR1200, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Kumarakom

Day 6: Coastal Culmination

Kovalam, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Resort

Start your final day with a coastal Kerala-inspired breakfast to energize you for the drive ahead.

Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Kovalam

Head towards the beach paradise of Kovalam, famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere.

INR800, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Lighthouse Beach

Relax at Lighthouse Beach, enjoying sunbathing, swimming, or partaking in water sports.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Tides Restaurant

Savor the fresh catch of the day, while overlooking the sea, offering both local and international dishes.

INR1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Samudra Beach

Enjoy the quieter atmosphere at Samudra Beach, perfect for family bonding away from the crowds.

Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Water Sports at Kovalam

Engage in fun family water sports like banana boat rides and parasailing at the beach.

INR2500, 2 hours

5:30PM

Evening Stroll on the Beach

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline, collecting seashells and soaking in the sunset glow.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Bait

Reflect on your adventure over a delightful dinner featuring the freshest seafood and Kerala flavors.

INR1500, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Kovalam

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Explore Kerala: A 6-Day Family-Friendly Rail and Road Trip Adventure

Day 1: Cultural Kickoff

8:00AM

9:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

8:00PM

Day 2: Nature’s Serenity

7:00AM

8:00AM

11:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Wildlife Adventure

7:00AM

8:00AM

11:00AM

12:00PM

1:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Backwaters Bliss

7:00AM

8:00AM

10:00AM

12:00PM

1:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

7:30PM

Day 5: Peaceful Retreat

7:00AM

8:00AM

9:00AM

10:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Coastal Culmination

7:00AM

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

5:30PM

7:00PM

More About Kerala

Plan Your Kerala Trip