Kerala is renowned for its lush green plantations, mysterious backwaters, friendly natives, beaches bathed in breathtaking sunsets, and delicious cuisine served in the traditional manner.
It is located on the Malabar coast of South India and is often regarded as God’s own country. Its 600 km of scenic shoreline is lined with heavily forested palm trees.
Kerala is often described as a paradise on earth. This can be attributed to the fact that the greenery takes on a whole different appearance in this state as you move from the hills of Munnar and Wayanad perched on the western Ghats to the lush backwaters of Allepey and the verdant beaches on Trivandrum.
Kerala is also acclaimed for having ancient temples that are no less than architectural marvels. Its intriguing colonial past and current religious significance will undoubtedly make your trip to Kerala a memorable journey.
The variety of flora and wildlife that this southern jewel holds in every corner will undoubtedly leave you in awe after a delightful trip through it, and you’ll certainly start recommending it to everyone as a preferred travel destination.
You can consider this Kerala itinerary and tweak the days according to your time, while on the hunt for different Kerala tour packages.
Kerala Itinerary overview:
Exploring Kochi. (3-4 days)
The city of Kochi is a significant port in the country and has seen numerous colonial powers step on its lands in their search for the spices and riches of India. Buildings from the 14th and 15th centuries can be found, some of which bear Portuguese, Dutch, British, Arab, and even Chinese influences.
The St. Francis Church near fort Kochi, a small sea-side part of the city is known to be the first European church built in India. This is the famous place where the remains of Vasco da Gama were initially buried before being excavated. The cafes lined up at the Kochi beach are a must-try.
Moving on to Willingdon Island, a man-made island on the port, will allow you to explore the backwaters by boat tours. Another notable location is the Hill Palace Archaeological Museum.
The Folklore Museum, Thirikkakara Vamanamoorthy Temple, where Onam is celebrated, and Ernakulam Shiva Temple, which offers a taste of the rich Hindu culture mixed with colonial history, are some other well-liked tourist destinations.
A beautiful way to end your day is to take a sunset cruise on Marine drive and then witness an evening performance of Kathakali and Kalaripayattu at Greenix Village, a cultural centre.
Tea estates at Munnar. (2-3 days)
A 4-hour trip from Kochi takes you to this charming hill town in the Western Ghats, which is known for its tea estates, waterfalls, and gardens. It is bordered by three rivers: the Madupetti, the Nallathanni, and the Periavaru.
Enjoying a vacation by staying in a treehouse can be a unique experience here that you cannot afford to miss.
Places worth exploring here are the top station that offers breathtaking scenic views, Pothamedu view point, Echo point, Madupetti Dam and Chinnaknal waterfalls.
Thekkady-Periyar National park. (2-3 days)
Periyar National park is the country’s largest Tiger reserve spreading out on a land of 300 square miles. A 3-4 hour drive from Munnar, it is home to rare species of Deer, Elephants and Nilgiri Langurs.
Bamboo Rafting in the catchment area of Periyar lake is a great Leisure activity to indulge in. Setting up a camp on the banks of Periyar Lake is also a unique experience to look for.
Kumarakom Allepey. (3 days)
Allepey is another tourist destination which is a 3-4 hour drive from Periyar. The Bay Island Driftwood Museum is worth exploring. It is a one-of-its-kind museum housing unique wooden sculptures.
The Pallipuram Island on the Vembanad lake is a small pristine village that has white sands and is an ideal location for perfect photographic backgrounds and selfies.
Alappuzha- Varkala. (3 days)
Spend the 5th day in the beautiful town of Alleppey on the Laccadive sea and cruise through its extensive network of sparkling canals and calm lagoons while sipping on the traditional toddy.
Places worth visiting here are Mullakkal temple and Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna temple for their Kerala-style architectural grandeur.
You can also explore the traditional ad fun snake boat race if you happen to visit in August. You can also take your children and let them enjoy the fun rides at Vijay beach park. Another soothing activity to indulge in is the Ayurvedic massage that relaxes your nerves which happens at Punnapra beach.
Varkala is a 3-hour drive from Alleypey and widely known for stunning sea views and sunset.
Varkala- Thiruvananthapuram. (3 days)
Begin your day in Varkala by visiting the Anjengo Fort and lighthouse which is established by the British East India Company in 1696. Other places worth visiting are the Vishnu temple which is believed to be at least 2,000 years old, and the Kaduvayil Juma Masjid, famous among Islamic believers for its healing powers.
A prime attraction of this town is the Kappil Lake contoured by coconut trees. Visit the Varkala Tunnel- a colonial-era architecture which is believed to have taken 14 years to build and was used frequently by sailors on their way to Thiruvananthapuram. The St. Sebastian’s Pilgrim Church is also well known for its calm and beautiful interiors.
You can reach Thiruvananthapuram, which is a 2-hour drive from Varkala, before or after lunch and spend the latter half of the day there.
A must-visit pilgrimage site is the majestic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram. It is not only a sought-after pilgrimage attraction in Kerala but the whole of India.
It is one of the 108 Divya desams, holy abodes of Lord Vishnu, and attracts devotees from all across the nation.
Thiruvananthapuram. (2-3 days)
Visiting the Kanakakunnu palace, Kuthrilamalika palace, the zoological park, and the Napier Museum is the ideal way to cap off your seven-day trip to Kerala.
In order to unwind and revitalise before returning to your hectic life, Kovalam, one of Kerala’s most beautiful beaches, is definitely worth a visit toward the close of your trip.
Before your scheduled departure, take some time to unwind at Thiruvananthapuram’s Veli Beach or by Akkulam Lake. It’s a peaceful way to end this lovely journey.
Kerala is an absolute delight for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the green marvel of nature. If the idea to explore Kerala has been on your mind, let us help you make it a reality.
To make the planning part easier for you, we have curated the most preferred Kerala tour packages based on the recommendations and experiences of our travellers.