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 Nature Tour of Kerala, India

Day 1: Explore Kochi

Kochi, India on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kashi Art Cafe

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with fresh baked goods and strong coffee in this charming café known for its artistic vibes, right in Fort Kochi.

INR500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Fort Kochi

Stroll through Fort Kochi to see colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets along the waterfront.

Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Fusion Bay

Taste fresh seafood dishes in a relaxed restaurant serving Indian and continental fusion cuisine.

INR700, 1h

1:30pm

Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue

Explore historic Jew Town’s spice markets and visit the Paradesi Synagogue, one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth.

INR100, 1h30m

3:30pm

Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace)

See the beautiful murals depicting Hindu temple art and Kerala’s royal history inside this renovated palace.

INR75, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Malabar Junction

Relax and enjoy authentic Kerala dishes in a historic heritage home setting in Fort Kochi.

INR800, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Kochi

Day 2: Tea Gardens of Munnar

Munnar, India on June 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Rapsy Restaurant

Start your day with local South Indian breakfast items like appam and stew in this popular Munnar spot.

INR200, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Tea Estates

Visit sprawling tea plantations and learn about tea processing at a factory; enjoy breathtaking scenic views.

INR250, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy traditional vegetarian South Indian dishes at this hygienic and well-known chain eatery.

INR300, 1h

1:30pm

Eravikulam National Park

Explore the park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy trekking trails surrounded by rolling hills. Open 8am to 5pm.

INR120, 2h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Italiano

Sample excellent Italian food with fresh local ingredients in a cozy setting.

INR700, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Munnar

Day 3: Wildlife & Spice Gardens

Thekkady, India on June 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Coffee Grove Resort

Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet amid lush greenery at your resort before your adventure day.

Included in stay, 1h

9:00am

Periyar Tiger Reserve Boat Safari

Take a morning boat ride on Periyar Lake to see wildlife such as elephants, deer, and birds in natural surroundings.

INR150, 2h

11:30am

Visit Spice Plantation

Tour fragrant spice gardens to learn about local spices like cardamom, pepper, and vanilla. Open until 6pm.

INR100, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Aunt Martha’s Cafe

Enjoy Kerala and continental dishes in a relaxed, garden setting.

INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Elephant Ride or Trekking

Opt for an elephant ride through the forest or a guided trekking tour to explore the area up close.

INR500, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Thekkady Café

Savour Kerala specialities including seafood curries in a cozy atmosphere.

INR700, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Thekkady

Day 4: Backwater Cruise

Alleppey, India on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House

Start with South Indian filter coffee and classic dosas at this historic café before your houseboat experience.

INR150, 1h

9:30am

Backwater Houseboat Cruise

Board a traditional houseboat for a tranquil cruise through Alleppey’s picturesque backwaters, observing village life and lush landscapes. Cruises generally start mid-morning and last 4-6 hours.

INR3500, 5h

2:30pm

Lunch on Houseboat

Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala cuisine made with local ingredients served on the houseboat amid stunning views.

Included in cruise, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Thaff Restaurant

Dine on fresh seafood and traditional Kerala dishes in a casual setting near the shore.

INR600, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Alleppey

Day 5: Beach and Relaxation

Kovalam, India on June 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel Samudra

Enjoy a beachfront breakfast with ocean views and a mix of Indian and continental options.

INR500, 1h

9:00am

Relax at Kovalam Beach

Spend the morning unwinding on the golden sandy beaches, swimming, or enjoying water sports. The beach is open all day.

Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa

Experience elegant dining with stunning views of the Arabian Sea, offering fresh seafood and global cuisine.

INR1500, 1h30m

2:30pm

Visit Lighthouse Beach

Walk along the beach to see the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse and visit local shops and cafés nearby.

Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Ayurvedic Massage

Book a traditional Ayurvedic massage at a reputable spa such as Ayurvedic Healing Village to relax and rejuvenate.

INR2000, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Caretta Food Street

Enjoy a variety of Kerala street food options in a lively open-air setting, perfect for your last night in Kerala.

INR500, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Kovalam

Step 1 Outline Preview:

5-Day Cultural and Nature Tour of Kerala, India

Day 1: Explore Kochi

8:00am

9:30am

12:00pm

1:30pm

3:30pm

6:00pm

Day 2: Tea Gardens of Munnar

7:00am

8:30am

12:00pm

1:30pm

5:00pm

Day 3: Wildlife & Spice Gardens

7:30am

9:00am

11:30am

1:00pm

2:30pm

7:00pm

Day 4: Backwater Cruise

8:00am

9:30am

2:30pm

6:00pm

Day 5: Beach and Relaxation

7:30am

9:00am

12:30pm

2:30pm

5:00pm

7:30pm

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