Ultimate 5-Day Kerala Itinerary: Nature, Culture, and Cuisine in God’s Own Country

Day 1: Historic Kochi Exploration

Kochi, Kerala, India on June 18, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Kashi Art Café

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at this artsy café in Fort Kochi, known for its healthy options and unique ambiance surrounded by artwork.
INR300, 1h

9:30am

Fort Kochi Walking Tour

Explore colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church and Jewish Synagogue on a guided walking tour to immerse in Kochi's rich history.
INR500, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Fusion Bay

Enjoy fresh seafood specialties in this cozy restaurant overlooking the waterfront, offering a mix of local and continental flavors.
INR700, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Mattancherry Palace

Also known as Dutch Palace, this 16th-century structure showcases beautiful Kerala murals and royal artifacts, open until 5pm.
INR15, 1h

5:00pm

Sunset at Marine Drive

Relax by the waterfront promenade and enjoy a lovely sunset view of the backwaters and boats sailing by.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Rice Boat

Dine at this floating restaurant inside the Taj Malabar Resort, famous for authentic Kerala cuisine and seafood delicacies.
INR1500, 2h
View Hotels

Day 2: Munnar Tea & Hills

Munnar, Kerala, India on June 19, 2025

7:00am

Drive from Kochi to Munnar

Embark on a scenic 4-hour drive through lush green landscapes and winding mountain roads to the hill station of Munnar.
INR2000 (taxi), 4h

11:30am

Breakfast at Rapsy Restaurant

Fuel up with traditional Kerala breakfast dishes like appam and stew at this popular local spot in Munnar.
INR250, 1h

12:30pm

Visit Tea Museum

Discover the history of tea plantations and processing in Munnar at the Tata Tea Museum, open until 5pm.
INR20, 1h

2:00pm

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy authentic South Indian vegetarian meals in a clean and comfortable environment.
INR350, 1h

3:30pm

Eravikulam National Park

Visit this protected park to see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy panoramic views of the Western Ghats. The park is open till 6pm.
INR250, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Rapsy Restaurant

Return for a warm dinner featuring Kerala-style non-vegetarian dishes like Kerala beef fry and fish curry.
INR600, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 3: Wildlife in Thekkady

Thekkady, Kerala, India on June 20, 2025

7:00am

Drive from Munnar to Thekkady

A scenic 3-hour drive south to the wildlife sanctuary region, stopping for views of spice gardens along the way.
INR1500 (taxi), 3h

10:30am

Breakfast at Mother’s Veg Plaza

Light and fresh South Indian breakfast preparations in a casual setting near Thekkady town.
INR200, 45m

11:30am

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Boat Ride

Cruise on Periyar Lake, spotting elephants, deer, and birds amid the lush forest surroundings. Tours operate till 3pm.
INR350, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Thekkady Restaurant

Sample local flavors like Kerala fish curry with rice and tapioca in a cozy restaurant.
INR500, 1h

3:30pm

Spice Plantation Tour

Explore the aromatic spice gardens where cardamom, pepper, and vanilla are cultivated; the tour lasts about 1.5 hours.
INR300, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ambadi

Upscale dining featuring traditional Kerala cuisine with beautiful ambiance.
INR1200, 2h
View Hotels

Day 4: Backwaters of Alleppey

Alleppey, Kerala, India on June 21, 2025

7:00am

Drive from Thekkady to Alleppey

Travel for about 4 hours to the backwater town famous for its houseboats and scenic canals.
INR2000 (taxi), 4h

11:30am

Check into Houseboat

Board a traditional Kerala houseboat for an overnight cruise on the backwaters, enjoying the serene environment.
INR5000, N/A

12:00pm

Lunch on Houseboat

Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala-style seafood and vegetables served onboard as you drift along palm-lined canals.
Included in houseboat cost, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Nearby Villages by Boat

Optional smaller boat excursions to nearby villages to see traditional village life and crafts.
INR500, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner on Houseboat

Feast on traditional Kerala dishes with fresh local ingredients, enjoying the peaceful night on the water.
Included in houseboat cost, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 5: Beach Relaxation Kovalam

Kovalam, Kerala, India on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Drive from Alleppey to Kovalam

Approximately 4-hour drive south to the popular beach town with golden sands and palm-lined shores.
INR2200 (taxi), 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Neptune Restaurant

Dine beachfront with fresh seafood and Kerala specialties, open till 10pm.
INR800, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Lighthouse Beach

Spend the afternoon sunbathing, swimming, and taking in views of the historic lighthouse at this serene beach.
Free, 3h

5:30pm

Ayurvedic Spa Treatment

Indulge in a traditional Ayurvedic massage or therapy at one of Kovalam's reputed wellness centers, bookings recommended.
INR2000, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Moonlight Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed meal with fresh seafood and vegetarian options with beach views.
INR900, 1h30m
View Hotels