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 Cultural and Natural Exploration of Kerala, India

Day 1: Kochi Heritage Tour

Kochi, India on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kashi Art Café

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast in this well-known café in Fort Kochi, famous for its artsy vibe and freshly brewed coffee with delicious local and continental options.

INR350, 1h

9:30am

Fort Kochi Walking Tour

Explore the historic streets of Fort Kochi visiting the iconic Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church—the oldest European church in India—and the vibrant spice markets.

INR0, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Fusion Bay

Dine by the waterfront in this popular eatery offering authentic Kerala seafood delicacies as well as other Indian dishes.

INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Jewish Synagogue and Mattancherry Palace

Visit the historic Jewish Synagogue and the nearby Mattancherry Palace, both showcasing exquisite Kerala architecture and rich cultural history.

INR25, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Marine Drive

Stroll along Marine Drive, a scenic promenade offering sunset views over the backwaters—a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.

INR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Rice Boat

Savour exquisite Pan-Asian seafood cuisine on a boat restaurant, renowned for its ambiance and fresh local ingredients.

INR1200, 1.5h

Find Hotels in Kochi

Day 2: Munnar Tea Gardens

Munnar, India on May 5, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel in Kochi before departure to Munnar to maximise sightseeing time.

Included in stay, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Munnar

Drive approximately 4 hours through scenic landscapes from Kochi to the hill station of Munnar, known for sprawling tea plantations.

INR3000 (for taxi), 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Rapsy Restaurant

Sample traditional Kerala dishes in a cosy local restaurant famous for authentic flavours and homely atmosphere.

INR400, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Tea Museum

Explore the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea production in Munnar, set amidst lush plantations.

INR50, 1.5h

4:00pm

Eravikulam National Park

Enjoy a guided trek at Eravikulam National Park to spot Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Open until 6:00pm.

INR150, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan

Relish South Indian vegetarian cuisine in this popular restaurant featuring classic dosas and thalis.

INR350, 1h

Find Hotels in Munnar

Day 3: Wildlife and Spice Plantations

Thekkady, India on May 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a nutritious breakfast at your accommodation in Munnar.

Included in stay, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Thekkady

Travel 3 hours by car to Thekkady, known for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations.

INR2500 (taxi), 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Green Wood Restaurant

Enjoy local Kerala cuisine in a rustic setting with views of the nearby greenery.

INR450, 1h

1:30pm

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Boat Ride

Take a boat cruise on Periyar Lake in the protected sanctuary to sight animals like elephants, deer, and various birds. Safaris run until 4:30pm.

INR450, 2h

4:30pm

Spice Plantation Tour

Tour spice gardens to see and smell pepper, cardamom, vanilla, and other herbs and spices integral to Kerala’s economy.

INR100, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Thekkady Café

Dine on a range of Kerala and continental dishes in this well-rated local restaurant.

INR500, 1h

Find Hotels in Thekkady

Day 4: Backwaters Experience

Alleppey, India on May 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a fresh breakfast before checking out to leave for Alleppey.

Included, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Alleppey

A scenic 4-hour drive south to Alleppey, famous for its tranquil backwaters and houseboat cruises.

INR3000 (taxi), 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Thaff Restaurant

Sample fresh seafood and other Kerala specialties at this popular local restaurant.

INR450, 1h

2:00pm

Houseboat Cruise

Embark on an afternoon houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters. Experience rural Kerala life and scenic beauty until sunset.

INR3500, 4h

7:00pm

Dinner aboard Houseboat or on shore

Enjoy a traditional Kerala dinner served aboard the houseboat or on shore depending on booking.

Included in cruise fare, 1.5h

Find Hotels in Alleppey

Day 5: Beach Relaxation

Kovalam, India on May 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast on Houseboat

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast aboard the houseboat before disembarking.

Included, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Kovalam

Drive roughly 4 hours south to Kovalam, a famous beach destination near Trivandrum.

INR3500 (taxi), 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Baywatch Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and Kerala specialities with stunning ocean views at this beachfront restaurant.

INR700, 1h

2:30pm

Relax on Kovalam Beach

Spend the afternoon enjoying the sun and sand at Kovalam’s crescent-shaped beaches. Various water sports available.

INR0 for beach access, 3h

6:00pm

Sunset at Lighthouse Beach

Walk to the iconic lighthouse and watch a spectacular sunset over the Arabian Sea.

INR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Sreevatsan Restaurant

Dine on authentic Kerala dishes including fresh fish curry and appam in a relaxed beachside setting.

INR600, 1.5h

Find Hotels in Kovalam

Step 1 Outline Preview:

5-Day Cultural and Natural Exploration of Kerala, India

Day 1: Kochi Heritage Tour

8:00am

9:30am

1:00pm

2:30pm

5:00pm

7:30pm

Day 2: Munnar Tea Gardens

7:00am

8:00am

12:30pm

2:00pm

4:00pm

7:00pm

Day 3: Wildlife and Spice Plantations

7:30am

8:30am

12:00pm

1:30pm

4:30pm

7:00pm

Day 4: Backwaters Experience

7:30am

8:30am

12:30pm

2:00pm

7:00pm

Day 5: Beach Relaxation

7:30am

8:30am

1:00pm

2:30pm

6:00pm

7:30pm

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