Kerala, India
The perfect 7 days itinerary
Kerala, a state on India's tropical Malabar Coast, is known for its palm-lined beaches, backwaters, a network of canals, and lush hill stations. It's also home to wildlife reserves, tea, coffee, and spice plantations, and centuries-old fishing techniques. Kerala's rich culture, vibrant festivals, and traditional cuisine make it a must-visit destination. Here's a 7-day itinerary to explore the 'God's Own Country'.
What to do in Kerala?
This 7 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Kerala. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.
Day 1: Arrival in Kochi and City Tour
Morning
Arrive in Kochi, the gateway to Kerala. Visit the Fort Kochi area, known for its Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture. Explore the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and see the iconic Chinese fishing nets.
Afternoon
Visit the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, and the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations.
Evening
Enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance at a local cultural center.
Day 2: Journey to Munnar
Morning
Depart for Munnar, a hill station known for its sprawling tea plantations. Visit the Cheeyappara Waterfalls and Valara Waterfalls on the way.
Afternoon
Arrive in Munnar and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Explore the local markets and try some local cuisine.
Evening
Enjoy a peaceful evening amidst the lush greenery of Munnar.
Day 3: Exploring Munnar
Morning
Visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Enjoy the panoramic views of the tea plantations and the whole of Munnar from the top of the park.
Afternoon
Visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea making. Take a tour of a tea plantation.
Evening
Visit the Blossom Park and enjoy a boat ride in the Kundala Dam Lake.
Day 4: Travel to Thekkady
Morning
Depart for Thekkady, known for the Periyar National Park. Enjoy the scenic journey through the Western Ghats.
Afternoon
Arrive in Thekkady and visit the Periyar National Park. Enjoy a boat ride on the Periyar Lake and spot wildlife like elephants, tigers, and various species of birds.
Evening
Visit a local spice market and learn about the different spices grown in the region.
Day 5: Journey to Alleppey
Morning
Depart for Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, famous for its backwaters. Enjoy the scenic journey through the lush green landscapes of Kerala.
Afternoon
Arrive in Alleppey and check into a houseboat. Enjoy a cruise through the backwaters and witness the local life along the banks.
Evening
Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal on the houseboat.
Day 6: Travel to Kovalam
Morning
Depart for Kovalam, known for its beautiful beaches. Visit the Vizhinjam Lighthouse and the Samudra Beach.
Afternoon
Spend the day at leisure on the beaches of Kovalam. Try some water sports or simply relax on the beach.
Evening
Enjoy a beautiful sunset on the beach.
Day 7: Departure
Morning
Depart for Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. Visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest temples in the world.
Afternoon
Visit the Napier Museum and the Trivandrum Zoo. Do some last-minute shopping at the local markets.
Evening
Depart from Trivandrum for your onward journey.