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Family Tourist Places in Kerala

Here is the list of family tourist places to visit in kerala:, quick navigation.

Alappuzha (Alleppey) is known as ‘the Venice of the East’. Offering the best tourist places in Alleppey, this charming place is the hub of Kerala’s backwaters and is home to a huge network of backwaters and more than thousand houseboats. The houseboats you find in the backwaters of Alappuzha are in fact a reworked version of the Kettuvallams of olden times. Kettuvallam is a Malayalam word, ‘Kettu’, means living structures and ‘Vallom’ means boat. In the olden days, kettuvallam or boat with a thatched roof that covers over wooden hulls was used to carry tons of rice and spices. The modern houseboats are equipped with all the comforts of a good hotel room like air conditioners, modern toilets, cozy living rooms, a kitchen and even a balcony for angling. An uninterrupted view of life in the backwaters fringed with coconut trees can be enjoyed from a houseboat. A perfect place to unwind with its laidback canals and lush greenery. The Alappuzha beach with a 137-year-old pier extending into the sea and an old 17th-century lighthouse built by the Portuguese add to the magic of the place. It is famous for its boat races, marine products, and coir industry. So get ready to wander around this small but chaotic city center and bus-stand area, with its modest grid of canals. Head west to the beach or in practically any other direction towards the backwaters and Alleppey becomes elegant and greenery-fringed, waning into a watery world of hamlets, punted canoes, toddy shops and, of course, houseboats. Float along and gaze over paddy fields of succulent green, curvaceous rice barges and village life along the banks. Indeed, it is here that nature has spent upon the land her richest bounties. Come and explore the best tourist places in Alleppey.

Top Experiences To Do in Alleppey

Boasting of unspoiled forests and a rich flora and fauna, Thekkady is a nature lover’s paradise in India. Situated in Kerala, God’s own country, Thekkady is a beautiful little city which is home to the largest tiger reserve in India. Thekkady boasts of a pleasant and cool climate throughout the year, making it suitable for a visit whenever you want to. It offers tourists a laid-back vacation with the opportunity of enjoying nature at its absolute best, in the middle of scintillating backdrops and scenic landscapes. Having greenery all around, Thekkady has numerous cardamom, tea and coffee plantations, several magnificent mountains, waterfalls as well as pristine rivers. Thekkady is home to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of the best places you can go to observe wildlife and catch a glimpse of the magnificent tigers. Thekkady is also a great place for bird watching, with several jungle safaris offering an experience like no other. Some of the other famous tourist attractions in Thekkady include the Mangla Devi Temple, which is quite old and is considered a must-visit place for religious people. Other places you can visit here are the plantations near Odamade, Murukkady and Vellaramkunnu. You can also spend some much-needed time of relaxation in the small village of Chellarkovil. Tourists can enjoy many different adventure activities including trekking, rafting, jeep safaris, bamboo rafting and many more. One of the best activities you can enjoy here is exploring the dense forests on an elephant safari. Thekkady is also known for is spice markets, where you can get to experience the vibrant culture of Kerala. This is one place which will leave you wanting more every time you come here on a holiday, with its backwaters, pleasant climate and an all-over attraction.

Top Experiences To Do in Thekkady

With the Western Ghats to the east and the Vembanad Lake to the west, the Kottayam City is known for its extraordinary qualities. Kottayam is a cultural mecca and a scenic haven. It is an honor for the town to be the first in India to achieve 100% literacy. With its beautiful backwater stretches, highlands, verdant paddy fields, majestic hillocks, plantations and waterways, this place is sure to enchant you. In addition to its relaxing atmosphere, the lush greenery and clean air make this an ideal location for healing and relaxing activities Poonjar Palace, Juma Masjid, Malliyoor Sree Maha Ganapathi Temple, etc. are just some of the many ancient and fascinating shrines in Kottayam. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a well-known destination for birdwatchers from all over the country. Marmala waterfall is a refreshing treat for the eyes and senses. The villages of Nattakom and Panachikkad provide a break from the commotion of the city. From enjoying the scenery in the pristine Nadukani, taking part in the annual festival of Phalguna Utsavam, exploring the tranquility of Vaikom and Kottathavalam, taking a backwater cruise to indulging in thrilling water adventures; Kottayam tourism offers something for everyone. Summers in Kottayam are hot and humid due to the city's tropical climate. The monsoon season lasts from June to September. The best time to visit the town is between September and February when the weather is cooler and suitable for excursions and activities.

Vagamon hill station sits on the border of the Idukki and Kottayam districts of Kerala and is renowned for its beautiful scenery. Located 1,100 feet above sea level, it is a small plantation hamlet in Central Travancore, India. Lush valleys, green hills, and pine forests make Vagamon City one of the most beautiful places in Kerala. The hill station is surrounded by majestic tea plantations, stunning waterfalls, and mind-blowing meadows, offering a sight to capture and cherish. In Vagamon, there are a number of places where you can just relax and take in the beautiful scenery. The Vagamon pine forest is a popular filming location. Nature-lovers adore Marmala waterfall, Thangal Para is a great place to take a spiritual vacation. With so many places to explore and see, Vagamon tourism can surely satisfy all types of travelers. One of the most popular activities in Vagamon is a family picnic in the green meadows. It's enthralling to experience eternal bliss and peace of mind in the Vagamon hills. It is the ideal getaway for tourists who want to see sunsets and sunrises, go on thrilling adventures, eat local cuisine, and soak up the natural beauty. The weather in Vagamon is tropical cool, with plenty of rain throughout the year. It experiences a pleasant climate all year. Vagamon is a year-round destination, but the best months to visit are after the monsoons, from June to September, or before the summer, from March to May.

Top Experiences To Do in Vagamon

Thrissur, commonly referred to as Trichur, is built around a 65-acre hill called Thekkinkadu Maidaanam. It is at a distance of 304 km from Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. For being associated with spirituality, culture and religion, Thrissur is also called the “Cultural Capital” of Kerala. Thrissur welcomes visitors to its beautiful beaches, lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and a variety of other attractions, making it an ideal location for experiencing Kerala’s surreal beauty from up close and personal. Thrissur City, a majestic land rich in tradition and culture, is one of the best places to visit for a holiday. The Athirappilly Waterfalls, Vilangan Kunnu, Punnathur Kotta, and Shakthan Thampuran Palace are just a few of the many attractions in Thrissur. Kudakkal Prambhu and Chowannur Cave are just two examples of its wealth of archeological treasures. When you visit Thrissur, you’ll notice that there’s something new to see around every corner. Thrissur Tourism offers a wide range of entertaining and thrilling activities to keep you occupied during your vacation. There’s something for everyone in this area, from houseboat stays to water activities, cave explorations, and waterfall awe-inspiring natural wonders. Thrissur experiences the tropical monsoon climate. Summer lasts from March to May and is the hottest time of the year. Winter from December to February makes the ideal time for a blissful vacation.

Have you traveled to that land made on seven hills by the seashores, characterized by undulating terrain of low coastal rich green hills, which our father of nation once called, “The Evergreen city”? The tourist places in Trivandrum are amazingly beautiful and will leave you spellbound for sure. Trivandrum! Where the rainbow mist covers the mountains of flowers, butterflies color the sky and breathtaking sight to boast of charming beaches, alluring temples, historic monuments, spectacular palaces, wonderful backwaters, and tea, coffee and spice plantations with a vintage royal taste amalgamated with the harmonious blend of contemporary and modern styles.

Ruled by lovers of art and architecture, this splendid beach city breathes in its natural and historical significance with lots of facets of a metropolitan culture still clinging back to its cultural roots. Emerged from one story only to delve deep into another, this city glows green in dappled sunlight filtering through dark green trees, greeting the backwaters that open up into the Arabian Sea. The tourist places in Trivandrum in houses beautiful places. The old house on the hilltop still wears its steep, gabled roof of fresh memory and the temples have distinctively and remarkably found a golden space in its geography and into the books of history that have already been written or will be.

Trivandrum has held its beauty over these amorphous years where the memory has only just begun. The capital and the largest city of Kerala is full of beginnings and no ends, and everything is for forever.

Top Experiences To Do in Trivandrum

Lavish green land of Munnar

Munnar was once the British summer retreat, and it is noted for its mild climate and natural beauty. The mist-shrouded undulating hills pierced by the winding road, the dark emerald green plantation, and the few lone buildings in the midst will make you fall in love with this location right away. Munnar is a favourite honeymoon spot for couples. It's also a great spot for environment lovers, animal aficionados, and adventure seekers. Boating, hiking, and paragliding are all options. Munnar is one of the ideal tourist places for family in Kerala for kicking off your shoes and soaking in tranquility. Activities :

1. Visit at Munnar tea plantation & tea factory 

3. Visit the wild elephant village at anakulam.

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Wildlife of Thekkady at Periyar Tiger Reserve

Thekkady, located in Kerala, is noted for its extensive biodiverse forests and savanna grasslands. Thekkady is known as the "home of the wild" because of its biggest park, Periyar National Park. Various Indian species with major qualities relating to both land and air can be found in this location, adding to Thekkady Wildlife One of the reasons why wildlife photographers and enthusiasts frequent this location is because of this. Periyar Tiger Reserve is named after the nearby Periyar River, which flows through Thekkady, Kerala. Open grasslands, deciduous woods, semi-evergreen forests, and the Sholas (tropical evergreen forest) are the four types of vegetation found in this reserve. During your visit to one of the notable tourist places for family in Kerala, you will be able to capture sights of Malabar squirrels, tigers, Birds, Deer, Reptiles, and Wild pigs. Also Checkout:  Kerala Honeymoon Packages

Tea Gardens

Munnar's beautiful tea estates are like a bit of heaven plucked from the sky. These magnificent Tea plantations in Munnar, perched many feet above sea level and featuring hazy skies above and green cushioned fields below, are a must-see for every traveller Tea estates strewn across wide swaths of land are guaranteed to entice you with their seductive beauty and charm. If not, they will always offer you a steaming cup of tea while you sit and gaze at the idyllic scene in front of you Activities : -Taste a wide range of tea species -Take a tour of the estates -Capture picture-perfect sights all around

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The stunning Fort Kochi beach is located on India's western coast and is hailed as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea.' It's one of the peaceful family tourist places in Kerala that welcomes guests with a picturesque outlook and natural beauty. It is highly regarded by visitors and locals alike for its clear water and serene atmosphere. This beach provides a relaxing setting to unwind and chill out, whether you are alone or with your loved ones The old fort, which is a beautiful example of European architecture, and the annual Kochi Festival, which takes place every year on the white sands of Fort Kochi Beach, are the main attractions of this beach. A vacation to a beautiful beach is like a dream come true Activities : -Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets -Visit St. Francis’ Church -Watch a Kathakali dance performance

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Kappad Beach

The lovely spot known as Kappad Beach, located 16 kilometres from Kozhikode in the south Indian state of Kerala, was discovered by the Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama in the 15th century. It is tucked away from the city's hustle and bustle, making it a great beach vacation spot for relaxation The beach environment contains multiple coconut plantations and extensive stretches of silvery sands soaked by lathered surf that washes up and down the coastlines and is dotted with intriguing rock formations on all sides. It's also known as Kappakadavu Beach, and it's one of the most well-known family tourist places in Kerala, located about 16 kilometres from Calicut Activities: -Take a boat ride -Swim in the pristine backwaters -Play beach games with your friends or family -Take a houseboat cruise down the river to Kappad

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Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach

Kerala's only drive-in beach, Muzhappilangad Beach, is one of the well-known family tourist places in Kerala. A 4-kilometre stretch of sand greets you around 7 kilometres from Thalassery in Kannur, where you may simply drive along while taking in the beauty of the lovely Malabar Coast Along the journey, one can sample delicacies from a variety of shacks that serve traditional Malabar cuisine. The black rocks shield the beach from strong currents, making it a popular swimming spot. This is a wonderful way to unwind and soak up the sun on this well-kept beach Activities : Paragliding, Parasailing, Power Boating, Catamaran Trips.

Must Check:  Kerala Tour Packages From Ahmedabad

Munroe Island

Munroe Island, also known as Mundrothuruthu, is a beautiful and spectacular inland island located in the district of Kollam, near the confluence of the Kallada River and the Ashtamudi Lake. Colonel John Munro, a former princely state of Travancore resident who, during his stay here, integrated several backwater regions by digging canals, gave the island its name The island is famed for its splendid beauty and scenic views, adding to the already fascinating God's own country's sheer beauty and charm. This hidden gem is made up of eight islands that are connected by minor water canals and lakes. Activities: -Relish a wide variety of delectable home-cooked meals -Take a peaceful stroll along the canal's beautiful, green banks. -Admire the rustic architectural treasures of Munroe Island's protected village, which is still unknown to most people today. -Interact with the island's residents to learn about their way of life and culture.

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Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

This 643.66-square-kilometre area, located in the Chittur taluk of Palakkad district, is home to a diverse range of animals. Around 40 mammalian species, 47 fish species, and 250 bird species call this place home. They share their home with 124 different butterfly species and around 1000 different bug species. As the Bison and Spotted Deer make their way to open grazing land, the Terrapin perches on a piece of wood. Bush frogs and Mugger Crocodiles hide in their own territories, while egrets and cormorants make a racket. The squirrels make a warning shriek somewhere in the woodland. The magnificent Tigers own this land. Activities : Safari tours, Camping, Trekking

Must Checkout & Book:  Kerala Tour Packages From Chennai                                            Wayanad Tour Packages

HiLite Mall

HiLite Mall is the largest mall in North Kerala, located on the Palazhi bypass in Kozhikode's Malabar region. The massive shopping complex sprawls over a tremendous area of 1,400,000 square feet, making it the state's second largest and one of the country's largest malls (130,000 m2). The huge game zone on the site is the main draw for the children. The area includes a bowling alley, flashy automobiles, a dark mansion, video games, and a variety of other cutting-edge technology games. The HiLite Mall, which already has a food plaza, is getting ready to open a fresh new eight-screen multiplex. Activities : Shopping

People Also Ask About Kerala

Which are the best tourist places for families in kerala.

1.Poovar Island:  Have you ever seen a lake, a beach, a river, or the sea meet the land in India? There's a good chance you haven't. So pack your bags and fly to Poovar Island in Kerala, near Thiruvananthapuram, for a Maldivian-style luxury break. 2.Kottayam:  This Kerala district is a nature lover's paradise, bordered on all sides by hill stations, backwaters, cathedrals, the Western Ghats to the east, and the Vembanad Lake to the west. Spice and rubber plantations are surrounded by lush nature. 3.Kozhikode:  Kozhikode is a seaside town in Kerala that is often referred to as Calicutt in English. Close to the famed Kappa Beach, from which Portuguese explorers sailed to India. Furthermore, this coastal town is so lovely that your children or parents will feel as if they are strolling down a European boulevard lined with lush green trees and Instagram-worthy homes. 4. Thrissur:  Thrissur is a Kerala district with seven taluks and is noted for the River Estuary (Azhimukham) intersection at Chavakkad Beach, where it meets the Arabian Sea. Thrissur is one of the best destinations to visit in Kerala with family as a result of this amazing phenomenon. Thrissur Zoo and State Museum, which dates back to 1885 and is one of the best family tourist places in Kerala with kids on a two-day trip, is located relatively close to Cochin.

What are the best activities to do in Kerala?

1. Watch The Neelakurinji Bloom:  Eravikulam National Park is one of Kerala's most popular tourist destinations because of the Neelakurinji flower, which blooms just once every 12 years and provides a remarkable experience. While hiking to the top of the hill, you can also spot the Nigiri Thar, an endangered mountain goat. Exploring Eravikulam National Park is the perfect option and one of the must-do things in Kerala for you if you're looking for something to do in Kerala other than meandering through tea gardens and tasting their flavours in a cup! Plan a trip to Kerala in December and enjoy yourself! 2. Try Varied Tea Flavors:  This idyllic spot is a must-see for anybody visiting Kerala. Munnar, 3 hours from Kochi, is a one of the best family tourist places in Kerala  to stock up on locally grown tea. One of the must-do things in Kerala is to visit the Kannan Devan Plantation Museum to see tea production and sample various teas. Visit the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate and a 100-year-old factory by hiring a jeep from Suryanelli. 3. Stay In A Houseboat:  Alleppey, around 4 hours from Thiruvananthapuram, offers breathtaking views of the backwaters. You will view a variety of birds in addition to the village life and the coconut trees. The double-deck boats, which cost Rs 600 per hour, provide a 3-4 hour trip, one of Kerala's must-do activities, without the expense of a houseboat. Do you enjoy shikara rides and birdwatching? On your Kerala vacation, you must participate in this entertaining activity at least once. 4. Watch The Snake Boat Race:  One of the most amazing things to do in Alleppey, Kerala, is to see the colourful Snake Boat races. Snake boat races are usually between July and September, especially during the Onam festival, and experiencing this exhilarating festival is one of the top things to do in Kerala. You may even rent a boat to watch the race from a distance and cheer on your favourite team as they race by one another. Alleppey, which is accessible from Ernakulam, is the closest station..

What is the best time to visit in Kerala?

What is kerala famous for, how much does a kerala trip cost, is kerala expensive to travel, what are the best kerala tour packages that we can book with thrillophilia.

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Kerala Top Attractions

Experience the wonders of Periyar National Park! Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, this biodiverse sanctuary offers a captivating blend of wildlife and pristine landscapes. Embark on thrilling jungle safaris and encounter majestic elephants, tigers, leopards, and diverse avian species roaming freely in their natural habitat. Discover lush forests, shimmering streams, and cascading waterfalls as you trek through its verdant trails.Boating on the tranquil Periyar Lake provides a unique opportunity to spot wildlife congregating at the water's edge. As a responsible eco-tourism destination, the park promotes conservation efforts and sustainable tourism.Whether you're an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene retreat amidst nature's bounty, Periyar National Park promises an unforgettable and enriching experience in the lap of pristine wilderness.

Here, you will get to feed these gentle giants, understand their daily routines, and even capture these moments with them. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights into elephant conservation and the importance of ethical interactions. Elephant Junction also offers an educational journey into the lives of elephants, promoting wildlife conservation. With various packages, from short visits to full-day adventures, it is a place where memories are made and awareness is raised.

One of the most interesting Thekkady tourist places is Kadathanadan Kalari Center – a place famous for enjoying Kalaripayattu martial arts, the traditional self-defence practices of Kerala.The place emanates an air of culture and historical heritage of Kerala. It is designed to ensure the safety of guests – as well as enjoying the performance of the martial arts. You can also learn martial arts at different levels here – basic, intermediate and advanced.

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11 Best Family Places to Visit in Kerala on Your Fun Vacation

Kerala – God’s Own Country has some extremely beautiful tourist destinations getting tourist attention from all over the world. Known as the Spice Capital of India, Kerala has been the central destination for travelers worldwide. Families with kids prefer coming to Kerala for holidaying as the state offers so many activities for kids. From enjoying boating to elephant ride to houseboat stay to water activities, kids can feel pampered while in Kerala. There are many best places to visit in Kerala for family like hill stations, hamlets, backwaters, commercial cities, and many more places to explore.

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There are numerous best places to visit in Kerala with family that are absolutely worthy to visit. All of the places mentioned below are family-friendly and are safest to travel with family.

11 Best Places to Visit in Kerala with Family Trip

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1. Alleppey

Why visit Alleppey with Family : Your family will feel mesmerized while floating on pristine backwaters, and a stay in a quaint houseboat is a worthy experience.

Alleppey is listed among the top family places to visit in Kerala . The backwater trips, houseboat stays , and serene locations make Alleppey one of the most popular places to explore. In fact, Alleppey is called the Venice of the East. Also while in Alleppey with family, don’t forget to book a houseboat for a stay which is the key attraction.

Activities for Kids: Buy Souvenirs, go for Nightwalk, Visit Temples, take part in the snake boat race, etc.

Nearby Tourist Attractions : Alappuzha Beach, Marari Beach, Krishnapuram Palace, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Marari Beach, Revi Karunakaran Museum, Punnamada Lake, etc.

Ideal Time to Visit : September – May

Best Tour itinerary : – 5 Nights 6 Days Kerala Houseboat Tour Package Must Read : – 10 Best Places to Visit in Alleppey Enquiry for Kerala Tour Packages More Packages

Why to visit Munnar with Family : Munnar is known as the tea capital of Kerala, and your family will love walking amidst the lush green forestation.

Munnar is a very popular hill station in Kerala. The most famous family destination in Kerala , Munnar is located at a height of 1600mts above sea level. Munnar is heaven due to endless tea gardens, narrow lanes, and spice-scented fresh air.

Munnar once was the summer capital for the British and is an ideal place for sightseeing. You can visit huge tea plantation areas here. Small bungalows, cozy homestays, and the presence of lavish hotels make Munnar one of the most romantic destinations in Kerala.

This little yet beautiful town attracts tourists from across the globe all through the year due to so many places for family trip in Kerala . The tea estates, Eravikulam national park, Mattuppetty Dam, etc. are just a few of the main attractions here that can be visited with family and kids.

Activities for Kids : Visit Echo Point, Plantation Resort, Kolukkumalai, Eravikulam National Park, etc. If you have kids of 15 years of age, paragliding and mountain biking at Anamudi Peak and Rajamala Hill are important activities to do in Munnar with family.

Near Tourist Attractions: Life of Pi Church, Meesapulimala, Blossom Park, Pothamedu ViewPoint, Attukal Waterfalls, Cheeyappara Waterfalls , etc.

Ideal Time to Visit : October to March

Must Read: – 10 Best Resorts in Munnar with Private Pool 10 Best Places to Visit in Munnar

3. Kumarakom

Why visit Kovalam with Family : To enjoy some peaceful time under the shade of the coconut trees and for doing watersports activities.

Located near Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a quiet little hamlet presenting alluring sceneries, pleasant weather, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. From backwaters to authentic Kerala cuisine to fresh coconuts, you can enjoy them to the fullest here. Don’t miss out on visiting waterways, lakes, aromatic coconut grooves, and fresh paddy fields, while in Kumarakom with your family members.  Home to one of the most popular bird sanctuaries in Kerala, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is spread on more than 14 acres of land and is a major attraction here among kids.

Places to Visit : Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kathakali Performance, visit Kovalam Beach, Samudra Beach, and Hawa Beach.

Nearby Tourist Attractions : Aruvikkuzhi waterfall, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom Backwaters, Juma Masjid, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, etc.

Best Time to Visit: September to May

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Why visit Wayanad with Family: To have an unforgettable dining experience with your kids and at the stone age rock carvings on the Edakkal Caves.

Located amidst the mountains of the Western Ghats and Tamilnadu and Kerala’s borders, Wayanad is a picturesque plateau located at a height of 700 to 2100 meters above sea level

If you look for some greener family places to visit in Kerala , then Wayanad is the right place for a family trip . Enriched with godly beauty, serene surroundings, and rich culture, Wayanad presents the perfect blend of nature and man-made heritage. Being home to much lush green vegetation, Wayanad has many refreshing forest places.

Things To Do with kids : Visit Kuruva Island, Pookode Lake, Boating, Camping, etc.

Popular Tourist Attractions: Banasura Hill, Thusharagiri Waterfalls, Thirunelli Temple, Lakkidi View Point, Puliyarmala Jain Temple, etc.

Best Time To Visit : October – May for adventure activities

Must Read: – 24 Best Honeymoon Resorts in Wayanad Wayanad vs. Coorg: Which One is Better for Honeymoon?

5. Thekkady

Why you should visit Thekkady with Family : Kids love nature walks in the forests, especially doing it on elephants. Also, they can explore a huge variety of flora and fauna here.

Thekkady is an ideal forest tourist place to see in Kerala with family . If you are a nature lover, you must visit Thekkady to see almost extinct species of animals like gaurs, tigers, sambars, etc. here. Thekkady has abundant beauty and exotic wildlife and is ideal for trekking. In fact, the path from Moozhiyar to Thekkady Gavi is a widely popular trail in South India.

The Periyar National Park near Thekkady is an amazing place to go with kids’ holidays. The park is located almost at a height of 900-1800 m (approx.) above sea level.

Things To Do with kids : Border Hiking, Thekkady Boating Tours, Bamboo Rafting & Hiking, Jungle Night Patrol

Popular Tourist Attractions: Elephant Junction, Periyar Lake, Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, Deepa World Spice, Ayurvedic Garden, Mullaperiyar Dam, etc.

Must Read: – 23 Best Honeymoon Resorts in Thekkady

Why visit Kovalam with Family : To enjoy watersports activities like paragliding, swimming, surfing, and catamaran rides.

The lighthouse beach of Kovalam is a romantic gateway in Kerala . The Kovalam beach is popular for hosting New Year parties, Ayurvedic treatments, sunbathing fests, and numerous hosting water sports activities. The crescent-shaped coastline always remains full of buzzing activities and is among the best tourist places to visit in Kerala with family .

Located just 13 km away from Trivandrum, Kovalam has numerous popular tourist spots like the lighthouse, Karamana river, Kovalam art gallery, Vellayani lake, Valiyathura pier, Thiruvallam Parasurama temple, etc.

Things To Do with kids : Sightseeing tour, a night in the houseboat, adventure sports, etc.

Nearby Tourist Attractions The Lighthouse, Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, Samudra Beach, Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple, Halcyon Castle, etc.

Must Read: – 14 Best Hotels in Kovalam

Why visit with family : For a relaxing holiday

Bekal is popular for its famous Bekal Fort, which is listed among the best places to visit in Kerala with family . The pleasant weather, vibrant surroundings, and good company make visiting Bekal a great experience. Bekal is among the top family friendly destinations in South India. The ancient fort, long beaches, and numerous estuaries all located in the rich cultural backdrop attracts tourists from all over the world.

Things To Do : Bekal Beach, Bekal Fort, Nityanand Ashram Caves, etc.

Nearby Tourist Attractions: Valiyaparamba Backwaters, Bekal Fort, Ananthapura Temple, Bekal Beach, Kappil Beach, Mallikarjuna Temple, Chandragiri Fort, etc.

8. Kozhikode

Why Visit Kozhikode With Family : To explore the culinary culture of Kozhikode and to get a unique perspective of Kerala.

Kozhikode, which is also known as Calicut, is a leading commercial hub in Kerala and a popular family place in Kerala. The place is popular for its culture, historical places, educational institutions, and culinary experiences. You can see a strong influence of Dutch and British architecture in Kozhikode. The place is ideal for its authentic Malabar food, exotic spices, mouthwatering food, and much more.

Things To Do : Enjoy local food with your family, do shopping

Nearby Tourist Attractions: Kallayi, Tali Temple, Kappad Beach, Mananchira, Conolly Canal, Hilite Mall, Kozhikode Beach, Thusharagiri Waterfalls, etc.

Why Visit Varkala with family: To enjoy water sports and for trying the local Cuisine of Varkala.

Varkala is one of the most famous family places in Kerala seaside and the enticing coastline with cliffs is the main attraction here. With thousands of water-sport activities, this place is an ideal destination for kids and adventure enthusiasts. One can enjoy activities like boat riding, surfing, parasailing, horse-riding, jetting, etc. here. Also, Varkala is an important religious place in Hindu culture and has numerous Hindu temples here.

Things To Do: Water Sports, Varkala Culture Center, Yoga, Local Cuisine, etc.

Nearby Tourist Attractions : Sivagiri Muth, Varkala Beach, Janardhan Temple, Kappil Lake, Papanasam Beach, Anjengo Fort, Janardan Swami Temple, Vishnu Temple, etc.

Must Read: – 24 Best Beach Resorts in Varkala

10. Kuttanad

Located in the Alappuzha region, Kuttanad is another beautiful place in Kerala to explore with family . Here you can experience a rural landscape with charming villages, agricultural lands, backwaters, and rivers. Kuttanad is also famous internationally for the traditional Heritage Agricultural System of Kerala due to canals and inland waterways.

Nearby Tourist Attractions: Punnamada Lake and Pampa River

Things To Do : Savor the scenic view, Take Pictures

Best Time To Visit: October – March as the weather is quite pleasant.

Visit Kochi with family to see the popular forts and monuments here.

Kochi which is also called Cochin is the urban face of Kerala. This coastal cosmopolitan city is located on the shores of the Arabian and Laccadive Sea. Kochi is also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea and once was an important spice trading center on the west coast of India. Here you can experience a blend of Chinese, Portuguese, and British cultures.  Visiting the historical towns of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, in itself is an incredible experience.

Place to Visit: Vasco House, The Jewish Synagogue, Santa Cruz Basilica, Dutch Palace, Pallippuram Fort, etc.

Kerala is the land of never-ending palm groves, pristine sandy beaches, tea plantations, lush and green hills, relaxing backwaters, and mouth-watering food. Located between the Western Ghats in the east and the Arabian Sea in the west, the state of Kerala is truly blessed with abundant geographical and cultural diversity.

With the above family-friendly tourist places in Kerala, you can reconnect with nature and get a chance to explore wildlife, get involved in fun-filled activities at beaches, and relax on a houseboat. So when there is no dearth of places to visit for all travelers in Kerala, make sure you include the most in the family places to visit in Kerala during your next visit and pamper your family.

Get the best Kerala holiday package customized by Honeymoon Bug !!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a question about Best Places to Visit in Kerala with Family Trip? Check out our FAQs below.

If your question isn’t listed here, please contact us .

Which are some of the best places to visit in Kerala with family?

If you look for some amazing places to visit in Kerala with family with kids then visit Periyar National Park, Varkala Beach, Idukki Dam, Wonderla Amusement Park, and Kerala Folklore Museum. These places are highly recommended for families coming with children.

When can I visit Kerala with my family?

Kerala can be visited anywhere in the year. However, the best time to visit Kerala with family is during the winter season as during the winter season, one can enjoy a lot of outdoor activities.

Which is the No.1 tourist place to visit in Kerala with family?

Munnar is amongst the best places to visit in Kerala with family , followed by Alleppey, Kochi, and Wayanad.

Is Kerala good for kids?

Yes, Kerala is an ideal destination for families with kids. There are many family-friendly places in Kerala that will give you an unforgettable holiday experience.

Kerala Tour Packages from Your Cities

Jaya Garg, a BJMC graduate from IP University has a passion for writing informative content and blogs on various topics. Jaya has been contributing to the travel domain with her writing skills. She is currently working as a content writer in Honeymoon Bug since December 2021.

See author's posts

The Ultimate KERALA Itinerary Guide 2021 – 7 Days / 14 Days / 24 Days Guide

Since the travel sector is slowly opening up, I decided to finally embark on a long-awaited trip to Kerala that was on my list for quite some time, taking all the safety precautions. If you want to read the post COVID-19 lockdown guidelines for Kerala, check THIS post out. After traveling in Kerala for about a month, I understand why this place is called “God’s own country”.

If the idea to explore Kerala has been on your mind too, I would highly recommend you to go for it. And to make the planning portion easier for you, here are three different kinds of suggested itineraries to cover most of the must-visit gems in the state that you’ll cherish forever.

7 day Kerala backpackers’ itinerary guide

Vagamon – Alleppey – Varkala

Day 1 – Land at Cochin airport. It will take you three hours to reach Vagamon from Cochin. Watch the sunset from Justin’s peak. Day 2 – Go for a sunrise trek to Ginamala or Moonmala. Roam around the hilly town to enjoy the grandeur of nature. Visit Marmala waterfalls in the afternoon. Also, you may do sunset paragliding if you want to indulge in some adventure. Day 3 – After an early breakfast, leave for Alleppey . After a three-hour journey, head to the floating bazaar for local food and shopping. Day 4 – Have breakfast and go for a 3-4 hour Shikara ride with Oscar cruise (personal recommendation). Have lunch at Taste of India. Head back to the city and go to Marari beach to chill. Roam around the beautiful city and yes, don’t miss the food (shappu meen curry, or Kerala Sadhya)! Day 5 – After breakfast, head towards Varkala . Walk around the cliff beach and enjoy the lit coastal street. Try cafes like Inda cafe or True Thomas. Day 6 – Try surfing in the morning. Chill by the beach/ hire a scooter and explore the small town of Varkala. Lunch at Babu farm (near the black sand beach) for garlic butter prawns. See the black sand beach, go shopping for junk jewelry, Itra, cork yoga mats etc. Have dinner at God’s own country kitchen. Day 7 – Have breakfast and head to Thiruvananthapuram airport to depart (1 hour away from Varkala).

14-day Kerala rejuvenation itinerary guide

Athirappilly – Vagamon – Varkala – Alleppey – Kochi

Day 1 – Arrive at Cochin airport, travel to Athirappilly for two hours. Spend the night in Athirappilly. Day 2 – Go to the falls in the morning for a beautiful view and then after lunch head to Vagamon (4 hours journey). Relax during the night and watch the starry skies. Day 3 – Go for a sunrise hike to Justin’s point and chill there for a while. Have lunch and head for an offroad experience or a sunrise trek to Moonmala or Ginamala. Day 4 – Chill in the morning and head to Marmala waterfalls. You can take a tour of the Uluppuni Tunnel. After lunch, go for a paragliding experience and watch the classic Vagamon sunset skies. Day 5 – Spend the morning walking through Murugan Hill before lunch. After lunch, head to Varkala (4.5 – 5 hours road journey). Visit God’s own country for dinner. Day 6 – Start your day in Varkala, with a yoga session by the beach, and have breakfast at Inda Cafe. Roam around the Varkala coastline and explore local shops. Day 7 – Go to Babu farm for breakfast and go to the black sand beach nearby. Next, hire a scooter and cover the insides of the town. Have food at Darjeeling cafe or bait and hook. Day 8 – Spend your morning on the bright sunny beaches of Varkala. Leave for Alleppey (3-hour journey) after an early lunch. Once you reach Alleppey, go to the floating bazaar or canal bazaar for a local dinner. Day 9 – Start your day with a light breakfast and taking a walk through the Marari beach. Go for a Shikara ride (lasts 3-4 hours) and go to Taste of India for a local food experience. Head back to the hotel/place of stay and relax by the beach sunsets of Alleppey.

Day 10 – Learn about the art of Kalaripayattu and go to Cafe Catamaran by the beach for lunch. Canal Bazar in Alleppey is a wonder and you should not miss it. Go there for food and shopping for spices, oils, decor items, etc, and have dinner at the Canal Bazaar with a local street food shop. Try what they suggest (I suggest crab roast or puttu kadala).

Day 11 – Head to Kochi after breakfast (1.5 hours drive). Take a ferry ride in Kochi and then head to Sri Muruga Cafe for a local style early dinner. Day 12 – Start your morning exploring the Chinese fishing nets of Kochi. For lunch, go to Jew town and visit the Paradesi synagogue or jew synagogue. Must have biryani at Kayees Rahmathullah cafe for lunch and go to fort house restaurant for a beautiful relaxing dinner with a view. Day 13 –  Take a beautiful sunrise walk by Cherai beach in the morning and then have some local breakfast. Head to princess market for shopping and lunch at Qissa Cafe. Explore Mattancherry Palace and St. Francis church or spend time by the marine drive. Day 14 – After breakfast, head to the Cochin airport and depart.

24 Day Ultimate Kerala Itinerary Guide

Kozhikode – Wayanad – Thrissur – Athirappilly – Munnar – Thekkady – Vagamon – Varkala – Alleppey – Kochi

Day 1 – 3: Kozhikode

Day 1 – Arrive at the Calicut International Airport and introduce yourself to the lively city of Kozhikode . Have lunch/ dinner at the popular S.M. (sweet meat) street. Day 2 – Go for a backwater ride in the morning and visit Lions’ Park. Head to the Kozhikode beach in the evening to hang out and enjoy the soothing sunset. Day 3 – Go to Kappad beach in the morning and then head towards Wayanad (3-hour drive).

Day 3 – 6: Wayanad

Day 3 – Arrive in Wayanad by the evening. Stargazing in Wayanad is one of the most amazing experiences of the little hilly town. Day 4 – Head to Wayanad tea gardens in the morning. Have lunch at the Clay Hut restaurant. Go to the Banasura dam before 4 p.m. to catch a view of the sunset. Don’t forget to shop for coffee beans and grab a local payasam. Day 5 – Start your day with a bamboo boating experience in Kuruva island (closes at 4 p.m.). Roam around the tea gardens and hike to the beautiful Chembra Peak. Day 6 – Rent cycles in the morning and bike along the Nilgiris. Post an early lunch, head towards Athirappilly (a 9-hour drive).

Day 6 – 8: Athirappilly

Day 6 – Reach Athirappilly by the night and relax through the evening. Day 7 – The main attraction in Athirappilly is the iconic Athirappilly waterfalls. You can also visit the Vazhachal waterfalls. Day 8 – Have a hearty breakfast and leave early for Munnar (a 4-hour drive).

Day 8 – 10: Munnar

Day 8 – Arrive at Munnar , a slightly colder town in Kerala. Visit Anayirankal/Mattupetty Dam and Lake. Day 9 – The tea capital of Kerala, Munnar, has a lot to offer when it comes to splendid vistas. Start your day with visiting the Munnar tea plantation and estate. After lunch, drive to the Top Station and Echo Point for a sunset view. Day 10 – Just before leaving for Thekkady, drive up to the Anamudi Peak. Start your journey to Thekkady after lunch. (a 3 hour drive)

Day 10 – 12: Thekkady

Day 10 – Arrive in Thekkady , a town that offers many green hikes and treks. Day 11 – Spend a day in Periyar National Park among the flora and fauna. (I suggest you to check whether the safari is open with the hotel/accommodation you have chosen for your stay.) Day 12 – Explore spice plantations and don’t forget to visit the Chellarkovil waterfalls. After lunch, leave for Vagamon. (a 2 hour drive)

Day 12 – 15: Vagamon

Day 12 – Arrive at Vagamon and don’t miss the night sky full of stars. I recommend to stay at Zostel Vagamon or Winter Vale Green Stay Resorts. Day 13 – Vagamon has hikes and viewpoints that offer some of the best sunrise experiences. Head for an afternoon hike/drive to Marmala Waterfalls, where you can cliff jump into a pool which is 30-40 ft deep. Spend your evening gawking at the beautiful falls among the lush green. You can also go for a sunset paragliding experience. Day 14 – Start your morning with breakfast and an optional off-roading experience with Zostel Vagamon. Trek up to the Ginamala or Moonmala trek. Day 15 – Have an early breakfast and say goodbye to Vagamon. Start your journey to Varkala. (a 4.5 hours drive)

Day 15 – 18: Varkala

Day 15 – Welcome to Varkala , the bohemian land of rejuvenation and delicious food. Once you reach Varkala in the evening, spend time by the Cliff beach. Don’t forget to have dinner at God’s Own Country. Day 16 – Start your morning early and rent out a scooty/bike. Ride through the coastal street of Varkala and enjoy the best of both worlds. I highly recommend going to @inda_cafe and @truethomas.in for wholesome meals, the first one for continental food and the second for Indian/Kerala cuisine. Continue your scooty ride to the Black Sand beach and bask in its serenity. Day 17 – Two must-have adventures await you in Varkala – surfing through the day and or a sunset backwaters ride at the Kappil beach. Day 18 – Go to North Cliff beach in the morning and walk along the boardwalk, filled with shops that sell antiques to itras and junk jewellery to hippie clothes. Leave from Varkala post lunch and head to Alleppey. (a 3 hr drive)

Day 18- 21: Alleppey

Day 18 – Arrive in Alleppey by the evening and relax at your accommodation. I stayed in a homestay called Lemon Dew which is right by the beach. You can also opt for a homestay which is next to the backwaters or closer to the boat jetty. Or a nice resort by the backwaters. Day 19 – Begin your journey in Alleppey with a Shikara ride. (lasts 3-4 hours) You may opt for @oscar_cruise for the same. Don’t forget to take a stop at Taste of India for some delectable local food. Spend your evening in the Canal Bazar or Floating Bazar for shopping and local experiences. Garlic Butter Prawns and Shappu Meen Curry should be dishes on your bucket list. Day 20 – Visit the serene town of Kumarakom for the bird sanctuary, backwater lakes and the unbeatable sunsets. Alternatively, you can opt for a Houseboat experience in Alleppey. Houseboats are beautiful from the inside, but they only sail through bigger channels of the backwaters, so you miss out on the smaller ones. But having said that, it is still very relaxing and enjoyable to be inside one and sailing in one of Kerala’s largest lakes called Vembanad lake. If you want to opt for an eco-friendly houseboat experience (a boat that runs on solar power as opposed to diesel), find Thara Eco Boat on booking.com or alternately contact @oscar_cruise ! Day 21 – Spend your morning chilling by the Marari beach. Leave for Kochi after lunch and shopping (a 1 hour journey).

Day 21 – 24: Kochi

Day 21 – Arrive in Kochi and head to Sri Muruga Cafe for a local style dinner. Day 22 – Start your day in the Jew Town of Kochi, that adorns the iconic art and culture of the state. Don’t forget to visit Paradesi Synagogue while in Jew Town. Day 23 – Take a walk to the Cherai Beach in the morning for a beautiful south sunrise. Spend some time by the iconic Chinese fishing nets of Kerala. A biryani meal at Kayees Ramathulla cafe is a must! Day 24 – Soak in the end of your trip through Kerala because it’s time to head back home!

That’s it – now you have a base to start planning your trip according to your preference of time period. Kerala is undoubtedly a gem of a place that offers unmatched sights, experiences, and memories. If you have any other query related to traveling in Kerala, ask away in the comments section!

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The Best Kerala Itinerary for 7 Days or More

Last Updated on May 9, 2024

In this post, I’ll share with you the best road trip itinerary for Kerala based on my experience of travelling to the state again and again in the last 6 years.

Kerala is a culturally rich, liberal, and breathtakingly beautiful state of southern India. It's vastly different from the northern side of India both in landscape and cuisine. So, planning what to do here on a limited time can be overwhelming.

I will help with your Kerala trip planning with an itinerary for Kerala for 7 days with ideas to modify it for longer or even shorter durations.

If you already have a basic knowledge about the state, then jump to the Kerala itinerary .

I' ve tried to cover all bases in the post to help you plan a trip to Kerala . Expand the table of contents below and jump to the relevant section if you want to.

The post contains affiliate links for tours, hotels etc. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

The Best 1-week Kerala Itinerary at a glance

While you can tweak as per your liking after reading the full article, this is the plan I recommend for your first vacation in Kerala.

Day 1: Reach Kochi via train or flight and then hire a cab (or rent a self-drive car) for your Kerala trip. Explore Kochi and end the day with a Kathakali performance.

Day 2: Drive to Alleppey or Kumarakom and stay in a houseboat. It's time to rejuvenate in luxury after the hectic sightseeing at Kochi.

Day 3 & 4: Drive to Munnar on day 3 and explore the exceptional beauty of nature. You will need to stay at-least 2 nights in this resplendent hill station.

Day 5: Drive to Thekkady for wildlife safari and to witness the Kalarypayattu performance.

Day 6: Drive to Kovalam for some luxury experiences, much needed after the hectic sightseeing in the hills

Day 7: Drive to Trivandrum for exploring the historic charms and shopping before you depart.

In a 10-day Kerala itinerary you can include a day-trip to the Athirapally waterfalls from Kochi. From Thekkady you can drive to Varkala – an offbeat coastal paradise.

From Varkala you can easily visit the Jatayu Earth center – a new landmark in Kerala. Then drive to Kovalam the next day and depart from Trivandrum on the 10th day.

You can go slightly off-the-beaten track even in a packed 7-day Kerala tour. Skip the wildlife experience in Thekkady for a day trip to Athirapally waterfall. Or stay near the Varkala beach instead of Kovalam.

First time in Kerala? I recommend booking Kerala tour with Sangine Holidays . You can ask them to customise based on your preferences.

2 Weeks Itinerary for Kerala Roadtrip

Most of the tourist destinations and international airports are concentrated in the southern part of Kerala. So, most of the shorter Kerala tours are also designed to explore the south. Entire northern half of Kerala is therefore left out in my 7 and 10-day itinerary above.

If you can plan 2 weeks in Kerala , you could see how the culture and cuisine transform as we move from north Kerala towards the south, even in this rather tiny state.

Northern Kerala towards the Karnataka border has a strong Arabic influence in their culture, architecture and cuisine. Here you're more likely to get the best type of non-vegetarian dishes like Keralite biryani, chicken curry etc.

As you move towards the south you notice a distinct change. Towards the hills in the south there is a dominant influence of Hinduism. You'll find a plethora of pure vegetarian restaurants serving Appam-ishtew, idli, iddiyappam etc . 

On the coastline, there is a larger European influence in the monuments but also a blend of old Hindu culture as seen in the attire and performances. So, here's how I'd plan a longer itinerary of Kerala for 2 weeks .

Day 1: Take a train or overnight bus to Kasargod from Bangalore or anywhere else.

Day 2: Explore Bekal Fort , beaches and backwaters of Kasargod

Day 3: Drive (or take a bus) to Sultan Bathery in Wayanad . Take a wildlife safari there

Day 4: Visit Edakkal Caves and Banasura Sagara Dam in Wayanad

Day 5: Trek to Chembra Peak in the morning. Have a brunch and drive to Palakkad

Day 6: Explore Palakkad – Palakkad Fort, Malampuzha Dam and Hanuman Temple

Day 7: Drive to Kochi via Athirapally falls

Day 8: Exploring Kochi

Day 9: Drive 126 km to Alleppey and take a houseboat tour

Day 10: Explore Alleppey and drive to Munnar

Day 11: Exploring the best of Munnar and Chinnakanal

Day 12: Skip Thekkady and drive to Varkala

Day 13: Take a memorable day trip to Munroe Island

Day 14: Explore Varkala and drive to Kovalam

Day 15: Drive to Trivandrum for departure

🙋‍♀️Want to custom-design your Kerala itinerary and have some questions? Join the awesome Backpack & Explore Facebook community – a safe place to discuss all your queries and concerns about traveling in India

A quick note on name of the places

Because of the colonial history of India, many popular destinations have an anglicized name that were coined by the European colonizers. The names have been reversed to their original form post indepedence.

However, because of the complex pronunciation, people unofficially refer to them by their anglicized names. So, before you get confused by these names, here is a short lexicon of Kerala's cities for you.

• Cochin is the anglicized name for Kochi (which is not at all difficult to pronounce)
• Calicut is the anglicized name of Kozhikhode (pronounced as “koh-ree-kode”)
• Trivandrum, the capital of the state of Kerala is the anglicized name of Thiruvananthapuram (a proper tongue-twister challenge for foreigners)
• Alleppey is the anglicized name of Alappuzha , city in the namesake district

One Week in Kerala – The Plan in Details

So, let's dive deeper into the wilderness of Kerala and take a virtual tour that will make you fall in love with the state.

Day 1 in Kerala – Arrive at the Historic Kochi

Kochi is the unofficial tourism and cultural capital of Kerala. It has a well-connected railway station as well as an international airport. So, this is a great place to start your trip.

As soon as you arrive, bargain the rates for a local cab. Normally the rates start from Rs. 12/km for lower-end 4-seater cars, and the fares would go up for the type of car, number of seats, travel season, night rates etc.

You can check the rates here to have a fair idea of the current rates and avoid being scammed.

Kochi is a bustling modern city haunted by a long, intriguing history. It's the place believed to be Vasco da Gama's passage to India .

Then there's the oldest Jewish quarters in India that you can find in Kochi, the Pardesi Synagogue standing as a tall testimony to the thousand years of religious tolerance in India.

There are the Dutch Palace , Portuguese churches as well as remnants of the Bristish colonialism. And thriving despite centuries of brutal invasions and colonial atrocities are the age-old pagan art forms that you can witness through dance performances, artefacts in the markets and music.

Kochi's beauty lies not in its architectural grandeur but in the unique stories behind the buildings, the streets and corners.

Kochi Sightseeing Plan

Assuming you reached Kochi at around 10 am, you can drive directly to Mattancherry Palace . The Mattancherry Palace also known as the Dutch Palace was actually a monument gifted by the Portuguese to the Indian raja. It was later extended and renovated by the Dutch in 17th century.

After a tour of the palace, enjoy a walking tour of the Jew Town and visit the Pardesi Synagogue .

Then drive back to Fort Kochi . There are some amazing places here for having a delicious lunch.

I have created a map here for a walking tour of Kochi.

The best way to explore Kochi in one or two days is with a local tour guide. Check our my recommendations below.

🌟A guided walking tour of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry with a local

🌟A private tuktuk tour with hotel pickup. This is suitable for people of all ages and small families

Stay near Fort Kochi , so that you can easily walk to the beach to see the photogenic Chinese fishing nets in the evening during the golden hour. Then return to Fort Kochi for dinner and an enthralling Kathakali dance performance in the Kerala Kathakali Center. It is one of the eight classical dance forms in India and also one of the most difficult dance forms in the world.

Best places to Stay in Kochi

Hotel Marine Inn – A 5-star luxury hotel located at the Marine Drive, in close proximity to Kochi's highlights Casino Hotel – CGH church – A sustainable 5-star luxury property located midway between Marine Drive and the Dutch Palace. In the mid-range and budget category, Fort Bridge View hotel located in Fort Kochi is the perfect place.

Check out other options and get best prices below.

Day 2 – Relax in the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarkom

After an exhausting, yet fulfilling day exploring Kochi, it's time to relax in the backwaters of Kerala. Today we will drive 55km to Alleppey, often touted as the Venice of India .

But before that we can wake up early and walk to the beach to catch a glimpse of the sunrise and explore the morning markets.

After a wholesome breakfast at hotel, we set out for Alleppey or Kumarakom. They are on two sides of the Vembanad lake – the largest natural lake in India.

You can either stay in a houseboat or in a hotel on the banks of Vembanad lake . 

A day in Alleppey

Assuming that you started from Kochi at around 10 am you will reach comfortably by 11:30 am. Kochi is a bustling city with heavy traffic, so we need to account for that time.

Take a boat-ride for 3-6 hours to explore the beauty of canals, watch the birds enjoying the sun and the blossoms of the lake, and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

While on your boat or Shikara, visit the Pathiramanal island to say “hi” to the thousands of birds that flock into the magical backwaters during winter.

Stop midway at a village, to relish on sea-food prepared with fresh catch of the day mixed with Kerala's spices. If you book a houseboat for stay you can have a traditional fish-meal for lunch in the boat itself.

On our trip, we stayed in a lakeside cottage and hired a shikara for maneuvering through the narrow canals and have lunch at one of the villages on the lakeside.

After the soulful trip, take some rest in the afternoon to avoid the scorching sun. Then drive to explore the beaches, churches and temples of Alleppey.

Next visit the Alleppey lighthouse, Alleppey beach and the loveliest Marari beach at sunset.

Once again, a paid trip will help you optimize your short time in Alleppey. These are the best-rated tours.

🌟 A 6-hour private Shikara cruise through the canals and lakes of Alleppey

🌟 There's a popular 2-day houseboat trip from Kochi to Alleppey to explore the backwaters of Alleppey and then return to Kochi Port.

Best places to Stay in Alleppey

Lemontree Vembanad Resort

☑️Affordable luxury ☑️Houseboat and Cottages

A 4-star luxury hotel on the banks of Vembanad lake, with options to stay in houseboat as well as lake-view cottages. You can read my full review here

Xandari Riverscapes

☑️Organised houseboat tours

A fleet of luxurious houseboats floating in the backwaters of Kerala.

Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey

While I haven't stayed here, I have always been impressed by the hospitality at Sterling properties in India. They are great options for affordable luxury accommodations .

Day 3 in Kerala trip plan: Drive to Munnar

Munnar is one of my favorite places in India. I think it is the best hill station in south India which despite the hype, manages to leave you awestruck at its raw natural beauty.

Speckled with waterfalls, adorned by lush green tea gardens, and pine forests, and surrounded by lofty hills, Munnar does seem like God's own country.

While most people stick to places near the Munnar town, the outskirts, especially the Chinnakanal region is breathtaking.

On Day 3, you have to drive about 180 km from Alleppey to reach Munnar. While driving you will bid goodbye to the coastal warmth and move higher towards the hills.

As you enter the serpentine roads of the Western Ghats , turn off the AC and wind down the windows of your car.

The temperature has suddenly dropped, and the scenery has completely changed within a 4-hour drive. Watch out for the scenic viewpoints at every turn.

Try not to stop everywhere you want to, lest you get late, or the driver gets annoyed.

Don't have a fixed itinerary for the day. Rather just stop and absorb the beauty around you wherever you can.

I highly recommend staying away from the city center and close to some tea garden. Keep an eye for the numerous waterfalls as well while driving to your hotel.

Best places to Stay in Munnar

Sterling Munnar

☑️Family Activities ☑️Best Location

Located in Chinnakanal area right opposite to the Tata Tea Garden, this is where we stayed on our second trip to Munnar. A perfect place to stay on a family vacation, with great activities for kids as well as the elderly.

Elephant Passage Resort

☑️5-star luxury ☑️Great Views

Located 25km from city center, this is the most affordable 5-star luxury you can get in Munnar. There's jacuzzi rooms, infinity pool and great views of nature.

Day 4 – Exploring Munnar

After a fulfilling brunch at hotel or outside, you can set off for a long exhausting tour of Munnar. One day may not be enough, but here's an itinerary covering the most memorable places in Munnar.

Drive to Eravikulam National Park right after breakfast. You need to set aside at least 2-3 hours for the trip, because of the long queue for tickets, the safari bus-ride and exploring on foot.

The beauty of this sensitive Nilgiri-biosphere is awe-inspiring. You will lose the idea of time while exploring the waterfalls and spotting the Niligiri tahr (an endangered species of animal found here) while walking in the forest. 

After this, head to Kanan Devan hills for a tour of the Tea factory

Then drive to Mattupetty Dam . If it is too crowded (which likely it will be), then drive to Kundala lake for a boat ride. 

And then, skip Top Station and save yourself some time for the other spectacles.

Similarly, if you want to watch the elephants, Carmelagiri is a touristy location where you can ride on them. But a more offbeat place for Elephant sighting is the Anayirangal Park (aka the Elephant Abode) in Chinnakanal . For more such tips and detailed guidance on your Munnar trip, check out my Munnar itinerary .

Like any other hill stations, most places close by 5pm. Stop at the Lockhart viewpoint on your way back to the hotel.

Shall I tell you a secret?

Skip the tea factory tours in Munnar and instead head to Kolukkumalai in the early morning.

Technically it's in Tamil Nadu state, but Chinnakanal is the closest getway to this hidden paradise on earth which also has one of the world's oldest and higest tea-factory .

Take a tea factory tour here instead after a bumpy jeep-ride.

Day 5 – Thrilling Thekkady

Thekkady is situated only 90 km away from Munnar, but it can take about 2.5 – 3 hours to reach because of the hair-pin belts. It is the home to Periyar National Park, the abode of Royal Bengal tigers among many other stealthy predators.

It's also significant for religious pilgrims as this is where the trek to the Ayappa Temple of Sabrimala begins.

Make sure you stay close to the Periyar National Park which is the center of all the activities in Thekkady itinerary.

Thekkady Sightseeing Plan

Assuming you started from Munnar at 9-9:30, it will be almost noon by the time your reach Thekkady.

Head to the reception of the Periyar National Park and get the brochure for all activities they offer and their timings

First you can go on a jeep ride through the tea and spice plantations. It will also take you to Ottakathalamedu, a hill-top from where you cans see magnificent panoramic views.

Then, after a quick lunch it will be time for the unmissable Periyar Lake Cruise . You will see a host of migratory birds in the lake, deer and antelopes on the banks, and, if lucky, you have a chance to spot elephants here too. 

Spend the evening shopping in Kumily and then head on to Mudra Cultural Centre to witness Kalaripayattu . This is an ancient martial art form which is both brave and beautiful.

If you have the energy, you can also book a thrilling night safari in the forest. Or simply rest at night; you've had a long day already.

Best places to Stay in Thekkady

Abad Green Forest Resort ☑️Best Location

Located in the Periyar National Park area, this 4-star property is the best place for luxury jungle experience.

Chrissie's hotel ☑️Pocket-friendly

This is one of the most popular pocket-friendly property near Periyar National Park. It's also pet-friendly!

Day 6 – Pamper yourself at Kovalam

Our trip is coming to an end soon. But don't be sad as it's time to drive to Kovalam. Located approximately 215 kilometers (134 miles) from Thekkady, it will take around 5-6 hours by road.

While like everywhere else in Kerala there's a plethora of options available for different budget types, I highly recommend booking a beach-side spa resort in Kovalam.

In most places in Kerala you can easily stay in budget hotels and explore outdoors all day. But Kovalam and the Alappuzha regions are famous for Ayurvedic Spa and medicinal treatment. Why not pamper yourself a bit here?

Kovalam itinerary for the day

Assuming you started from Thekkady at 9 am, it will be almost 3pm by the time you reach Kovalam.

You can stop for lunch on your way to the hotel, or have lunch immediately after checking in.

You can then head off to the  three beautiful beaches of Kovalam  – the  Lighthouse beach , the  Hawah beach  and the  Samudra beach . You can trek to the short cliffs for capturing amazing views.

You can spend the entire evening strolling in the beaches or go for an  Ayurvedic spa massage .

Best places to Stay in Kovalam

🥇 Raviz Kovalam (formerly Leela Kovalam)

☑️Stunning Location ☑️5-star Luxury

Located at the cliff-top the views from this hotel is heavenly. The water looks vanilla-blue from here.

Samudra Leisure beach resort

☑️Pocket-friendly☑️Spa available

At nearly half the rate of Raviz or Taj, you can enjoy luxury at pocket-friendly rate . This also has a wellness center for Ayurvedic spa.

Day 7: Bidding goodbye from Trivandrum

The last day of a vacation always makes your heart heavy. But don't worry, we still have a lot to do today before we depart from Trivandrum in the evening. 

It is located only 19 km away from Kovalam and you can reach easily within 30 minutes through the smooth coastal road. But before that we will take a detour to Poovar, a floating town in the Poovar lake near Kovalam.

After a delectable lunch in the Poovar island you can drive to the airport for final departure.

A guide to Kerala Trip Planning

Now that you have your Kerala trip plan and a detailed 7-day itinerary of Kerala, I want to share some practical information to help you travel. Here are a few travel tips and trivia about Kerala that you need to know before going on this vacation.

How to reach Kerala?

Kerala is well-connected by air, rail, and road. There are three main international airports located in Kochi , Trivandrum , and Calicut respectively. Several railway stations connect Kerala to other parts of India.

All the destinations mentioned here can be covered on the most scenic road trips from Bangalore , the city where I live in.

🚙 🚗 Rent a  Zoomcar  for self-driving all the way in Kerala 🚔

Going around in Kerala

While I'm all for exploring India solo, I get that it can be a bit overwhelming if you're not a local. So, your best bet is to rent a cab with an English-speaking driver.

But hey, if you're up for a little adventure, local transport like KSTDC buses work great for inter-city travel, and tuk-tuks are your go-to for getting around town.

If you're the kind who likes to take the wheel, you can also book a self-drive car. Just make sure to download the maps and have an online translator app handy.

📲 Getting simcard is difficult in India for foreign nationals. The easiest way to stay connected is with an India e-sim . 🤳

Cuisine and Dining in Kerala

While you have a plethora of “safe” options in most hotels in India, Kerala's authentic cuisine is a must-try.

Rice is the staple food of Kerala and most of the dishes are just the most innovative, mind-boggling ways you can use rice. These are my favorite Keralite dishes.

• Kerala porotta aka Malabar porota(a white-flour Indian bread) with fish-curry
• Appam-stew ( Appam is a type of pancake made of fermented rice flour and coconut milk which is usually had with a vegetable stew)
• Iddiyappam with curry (looks like idli made of rice noodles)
• Puttu with curry (Putti is a cylindrical shaped steamed rice cake)
• Karimeen Fry
• Bamboo chicken biriyani

Although known for sumptuous sea food and one of the few states in India where beef preparations are mainstream, Kerala is actually a great place for vegans.

Many of the authentic dishes as you can see in my list above use only vegan ingredients sourced locally.

If you have time, and want to do something memorable, take a home cooking class of Kerala cuisine

What is the best time to visit Kerala?

The best time to visit Kerala is between November to January . This is the winter season, when coastal Kerala is still hot but comfortable. Rest of the year is extremely hot and humid, except for the Western Ghats region.

If you want to spend most of the time in the Western Ghats of Kerala, you can visit any time of the year.

In fact, if you want to see the famous boatrace in Alapuzha , you should plan your trip around August . This is the peak monsoon season, so temperatures cool down significantly. It will still be humid in the coastal region, but the hills will look spectacular.

The boat races are held as part of the “Onam” celebrations. It is the harvest festival of Kerala, and one of the most important days in Malaylam Calendar.  ( Malaylam is the native language of Kerala, also the native culture).

Just check for the weather reports before embarking on road-trip in the monsoon . 

A few more Frequently Asked Questions Answered

How many days are enough for kerala.

You cover the best of Kerala on a tight schedule in 7 days. This is usually the most practical time-frame most people have for spending in one state of India.

If you can extend your stay to 10 days, you will have more time to explore some of the destinations and enjoy some excursions.

If you are on an India tour and can't afford a week for Kerala , 5 days should be enough to enjoy the unmissable experiences – natural beauty of Munnar, the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom and the pristine beaches of Kovalam along with some cultural performances.

Ofcourse the longer you stay the better.

How to explore Kerala in 5 days?

A Kerala trip plan for 5 days should ideally have 1 day in Kochi for historic sightings, 1-day Alleppey for experiencing the backwaters and some amazing clean beaches and 2 days in Munnar for blissful Western Ghats experience.

On day 5, drive from Munnar to Kochi via Athirapally Falls. That's what I suggest because I love Munnar. However, you can squeeze in Thekkady on Day 3 and skip Athirapally Falls.

If you are visiting Kerala for the first time and have only 5 days, I highly recommend this packed 5-day Kerala trip by Saffron India Tours .

What souvenirs can I bring back from Kerala?

You can bring the best quality of Indian spices – cardamom, cloves, cinnamon etc. What most people would ask me to bring whenever I travel to Kerala is “ Banana chips “. These thinly slices dried bananas deep-fried in coconut oil is a delicacy that can travel with you back to your home easily.

Besides I highly recommend buying Kerala cotton or Kerala silk sari. You can also buy “ Mundu ” for men in the same material. The white saris or mundu with golden border is a specialty.

Is Kerala safe for solo travelling?

Kerala is one of the safest states in India for tourists. Women usually don't face lecherous stares or bad behavior in public places in Kerala. You are less likely to be scammed as a tourist. Only thing that scares me is the speed at which people drive in the hills in Kerala.

How expensive is Kerala?

In my experience I have found Kerala more expensive than the other states of south India when it comes to tourism. It is certainly the most famous tourist destination in south, and the tariff for cabs, fun-activities, etcetera is relatively higher.

Having said that it is completely affordable for budget backpackers with good hostels and homestays starting from Rs. 1000/- per day.

You cover the best of Kerala on a tight schedule in 7 days. This is usually the most practical time-frame most people have for spending in one state of India. If you can extend your stay to 10 days, you will have more time to explore some of the destinations and enjoy some excursions. If you are on an India tour and can't afford a week for Kerala , 5 days should be enough to enjoy the unmissable experiences – natural beauty of Munnar, the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom and the pristine beaches of Kovalam along with some cultural performances.

Closing Thoughts

I hope this article inspires you to travel to this amazing state and make memories of a lifetime. I will leave you with a list of my favorite travel sites for travel planning in India. 

If you liked this post, you may also find these articles interesting.

Best of Karnataka – One state, many worlds

Best of Enchanting Tamil Nadu

I have already linked detailed itineraries to the places mentioned in my post. But here they are again for you to read and save for later.

Munnar travel guide

Thekkady travel guide

Wayanad itinerary

Kasargod (Bekal) travel guide

Top Travel Sites in India for 2024

🏨 Booking.com  for the best hotel prices (Price match and free cancellations)

🚗Get discounts on package tours and special experiences with Viator

🚶🏼‍♂️ Free walking tours on Freetour

🛏️ For free accommodations, use Trusted House Sitters

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17 Comments

Wow! I never realized all there is to do in this region, and I love the itinerary. Thanks for the pointers and great list of things to see and do!

Thanks a lot Meggie.

I have been to Kerala 23 years ago! I really loved it but I was only there for a very short time. I remember seeing the houseboats on the backwaters and thinking I’d like to come back someday and do that. This is excellent information you have provided. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you so much for reading. Hope you come for another trip.

That’s a long time. I hope you come again to see what has changed and spend a night in the houseboat

I’ve had the opportunity to visit Kerala on four occasions within the past three years, and each visit brings forth a fresh allure. My most recent visit o Kovalam refreshed me for at least the next couple of months.

Thanks for this comprehensive post. Now I know what exactly to look for in my next trip.

Great post! The thing that draws me to Kerala is how lush, green and gorgeous the natural landscape can be. Places like the waterfalls at Munnar are just stunning and it would be fantastic to see all the wildlife. Oh, and then the food! 😀

Thank you so much. I hope you visit soon

Wow that beach view is amazing – did you have a favorite one? I have never heard of Kerala but have enjoyed reading about it as I am trying to learn more about the different states of India. Will be saving this for my trip to India!

Thanks a lot Natalie. My favorite beach in Kerala is Kovalam. I love the Marari beach too. Glad to help further if you’re planing a trip to Kerala

What a stunning place to visit- those waterfalls are amazing. And I would definitely love to take a boat ride to see elephants, how awesome!!

What a wonderful guide — so much excellent information!

And the history of the region — I never knew! Thank you!

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts

Munnar and tea gardens are sooo on my list! I was planning a visit in 2019 while working remotely from Pune, but didn’t get around to it, as work got too busy. But looking at your recommendations, definitely a must-visit!

thanks a lot Alina Hope you get to take this trip soon

I love the Munnar waterfall as well as the idea of a 6 hour cruise! The animals look cute and so glad you can see them from the bus.

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How to Plan a Trip to Kerala (Guide for First-timers 2024)

4 reasons to visit kerala.

• Top 7 Places to Visit
• Best 11 Things To Do
• Festivals and Events

Keralan Food

Best time to visit kerala.

• Best Accommodation
• How to Travel

Tailor-Make Your Kerala Itinerary

Kerala is often called God's Own Country because of its incredible natural beauty and charm. This South Indian state is a tropical paradise with beautiful waterfalls, bountiful wildlife, and a laid-back and peaceful vibe.

If you want to explore the main highlights of Kerala, your trip should be at least 4-5 days but a full 7-8 days is better. The top 3 places to visit in the state are Kochi with its great food and culture, Munnar with its expansive tea plantations, and Alleppey with its canal networks.

In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about planning your trip to Kerala including why you should visit, where you should go, what you should do, what to expect with food and accommodation, as well as a sample itinerary for your trip.

• Kerala is the perfect place to visit for travelers who are looking for a relaxing and laid-back trip to India or those who have visited India once before.
• In Kerala, visitors can explore tea and spice plantations, take a boat ride through rural backwater villages, try great food, and experience Ayurveda or yoga retreats.
• The top places to go in Kerala include Cochin, Munnar, Periyar National Park, and Alleppey.
• Kerala has excellent heritage hotels and gorgeous resort accommodation that offer spa services and Ayurvedic treatments.
• The best time to visit Kerala is from December to February, but those who don't mind hot weather can also visit from March to May.

Kerala is not usually the first place that travelers think of when they start planning a trip to India, but it is the perfect location to relax and is especially great for travelers who have already visited the Golden Triangle and have seen classic India.

While the rest of India tends to be chaotic, crowded, and dry, Kerala is tropical, laid-back, and peaceful. The culture here is unique and the scenery and wildlife are unbeatable.

1. Culture and cuisine that are refreshing and different from anything else in India

Kerala is a small piece of land that contains a large mixture of unique cultures. From the influence of the Portuguese, Arabs, and Chinese that you will find in Kochi to the rural villages of the backwaters, in Kerala travelers can experience parts of India that are often unseen.

The uniqueness and diversity of Keralan culture can also be seen in the local cuisine. Out of all the states in India, Keralan food is the most loved for its sweetness, fresh seafood, and mixture of aromatic spices that provide a depth of flavor without too much heat.

2. An abundance of opportunities to experience Ayurvedic treatments or do yoga

Kerala is the best place to go to experience Ayurveda which is one of the world's oldest and best-known forms of traditional medicine. This state is known for its Ayurvedic retreats that give clients unique treatment plans to cure their ailments naturally.

Kerala also offers yoga retreats and classes for people of all levels. Yoga enthusiasts can take a few classes or enroll in a longer and more intense program that involves meditation and spiritual awakening.

3. The state is absolutely full of unique wildlife and animals

Kerala has more than 25 wildlife reserves and its vast jungles are teeming with beautiful wild animals like elephants, Bengal tigers, and monkeys.

Periyar National Park is one of the state's biggest wildlife reserves covering almost 100 square kilometers of jungle. This is one of the best places to see Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. The park also includes lots of other critters like flying squirrels and macaques.

4. A tropical paradise with beaches, jungles, and forests

The state's absolutely beautiful scenery is one of the reasons that Kerala that draws so many visitors and continues to leave them awestruck. The coasts are lined with white-sand beaches that are bordered by the Arabian Sea on one side and tall palm trees on the other.

Once you leave the coast, you can head into the villages of the backwaters which are small patches of farmland separated by deep canals with blue waters full of lotus flowers.

In the hill stations near the Western Ghats, visitors can take in the lush green mountain forests and the local tea and spice plantations. In the national parks, you'll find the dense jungles, calm lagoons, and picturesque waterfalls.

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Top 7 Places to Visit in Kerala

Although Kerala is a small state, it has a lot to offer and many incredible places that are worth visiting.

Travelers who have 4-5 days can spend time in Kochi, Munnar, and Alleppey.

Those who have 7-10 days can also add visits to some of the state's other beautiful destinations such as Periyar National Park or some top beaches.

Kochi or Cochin is often called the 'Gateway to Kerala' and is the first place travelers will visit upon their arrival in the state. Kochi was originally an important port city during the spice trade and was once a Portuguese colony . The city has also been influenced by the Arabs, British, Dutch, and Chinese.

Walking through Fort Kochi, visitors can take in the charming colonial architecture, see the Chinese Fishing Nets at sunset, stop inside a spice shop to try the locally grown pepper or cardamon, and relax in boutique coffee shops near the Arabian Sea.

Munnar is Kerala's most famous hill station which was originally founded by the British as a place to grow tea. Today, Munnar is still famous for the variety and flavors of tea it produces. It also has coffee plantations and spice farms that grow everything from ginger and garlic to vanilla, cloves, and cardamom.

Munnar is located in the Western Ghats and because of its higher elevation is a great escape from the heat and humidity of the rest of the state. Here you can stay in a resort and spend your days taking in the rainforest scenery or touring aromatic plantations.

3. Alleppey

Alleppey is the name of a small island that is located in Kerala's famous backwaters . The backwaters are an area of Kerala with many small villages and farms that are separated by a complex system of canals . The people in these villages have their own unique culture and language.

The best way to explore this area is to rent a houseboat. Houseboats are comfortable and private boats that come with a captain and a chef and take travelers on excursions through the backwater canals.

4. Periyar National Park

Periyar National Park is located in Thekkady and is one of the most popular wildlife reserves in South India. This is a great eco-tourism destination where travelers can explore the jungles and see animals in their natural habitats instead of in captivity.

In Periyar, visitors can take a safari through the jungle or boat through the waterways in search of Bengal tigers, wild Asian elephants, and mischievous monkeys.

5. Varkala Beach

Varkala Beach is one of the best beaches in India due to its striking views and location. Varkala is a long stretch of land that is bordered by sheer cliffs on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other.

When visiting, travelers can stay in resorts and hotels on the cliff that overlook the beach and sea below. Varkala is becoming more and more popular these days but is still less developed than Kovalam while also offering plenty of beach shacks and shops for travelers.

6. Kovalam Beach

Kovalam Beach is the most popular and most developed beach in Kerala. This is the perfect place to go if you are looking for plenty of things to do, great restaurants, and adventure sports.

Kovalam is a great place to get a traditional Ayurvedic massage which will helps your body achieve balance and calm. Kovalam is full of massage parlors and most hotels here offer Ayurvedic treatments too.

7. Marari Beach

Marari Beach is located about 30 minutes north of Alleppey and is a quieter and less developed beach that is off the normal tourist track.

Marari is the perfect place to go after taking a tour of the backwaters on a relaxing houseboat. Here you can continue your relaxation by spending some time on the sand near the coconut groves.

Get some inspiration about  How to Plan an Affordable Luxury Trip to India .

Best 11 Things To Do in Kerala

A good way to figure out where you want to go in Kerala is to first decide which experiences you are most interested in.

Check out the top 11 things to do in Kerala below:

1. Cruise Through the Backwaters

One of the most popular things to do in Kerala is to explore the backwaters on a houseboat. Taking a houseboat through the canals of local villages is an incredibly relaxing experience. On the boat, you can sit on the upper deck and unwind while your personal chef and captain take care of the rest.

Taking a cruise through the backwaters gives travelers an opportunity to see culturally unique villages that would otherwise be difficult to reach. It is also a great way to take in the tropical scenery of the Keralan countryside.

2. Get an Ayurvedic Treatment

Ayurveda is a traditional medicine practice that includes many different methods to bring the body back into balance through a variety of techniques that have been studied for 5000 years.

Those who are interested in learning more about Ayurveda can spend some time at an Ayurveda retreat where they will get a personal diagnosis and treatment plan. Most hotels and resorts in Kerala offer Ayurvedic massages for those who are curious but don't want to take the retreat route.

3. Relax with Yoga

Kerala is a popular destination for travelers who want to learn more about yoga and meditation from the place they originated.

Yoga practitioners of all levels can spend time at an Ashram where they will learn about the principles of yoga and follow a strict schedule and regimen. There are also plenty of options for more laid back yoga retreats that include yoga on the beach and massage treatments.

4. Take a Cooking Class

Keralan cuisine is famous for the way it achieves a perfect balance in the use of local spices and ingredients. Compared to North India, Keralan food is lighter and sweeter in flavor.

Taking a cooking class is a great way to get hands-on experience with this important part of Keralan culture. In your class, you can learn how to make the classic sambar (veggie curry), dosa (a flat rice batter crepe), fish masala, and more.

5. Explore the Tropical Jungles and See Native Wildlife

Kerala has a large variety of national parks and wildlife reserves. The most famous is Periyar which is a great place to see wild tigers and elephants while on a jungle safari.

Eravikulam is a beautiful park that is located near Munnar and is full of great forest treks and famous waterfalls and Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful parks in the state with its expansive evergreen forests.

6. Visit a Tea Plantation

Kerala is one of the top tea producing states in India and has some of the best plantations that grow the most high-quality tea. The Munnar hill station is covered in tea fields and plantations that visitors can explore.

All the tea in Munnar is handpicked by field workers to ensure quality. After exploring the plantations, travelers can hike around the surrounding hills or check out the local Tea Museum.

7. Explore the Spice Plantations

The high elevation hills of Munnar aren't just perfect for growing tea but are also great places to grow a variety of spices. The spices grown on plantations in Munnar have long been very lucrative for the state of Kerala and were once considered to be highly valuable by merchants from Europe, China, and the Ottoman Empire.

When exploring a spice plantation, you'll find a variety of spices including cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, mace, and ginger all growing in their separate sections of the field.

8. Take a Food Tour

When talking about Kerala, one thing that is always mentioned is its incredible food. While it might seem like we are over exaggerating when we say Keralan food is amazing, our proof is in the travelers who return from India with nothing but love for this fresh and balanced cuisine.

The best way to experience everything that Keralan cuisine has to offer is to take a food tour. These tours often include cooking classes, visits to plantations, and lots of sampling and tasting.

9. Join in a Festival

Because the culture of Kerala is completely different from the rest of India, the state also celebrates unique and interesting festivals. Participating in a festival is one of the best ways to understand more about India's complex relationship with religion and local heritage.

Onam is Kerala's biggest festival of the year and is celebrated in late August or early September. This festival lasts for 10 days and includes large feasts, traditional Kathakali dance performances, music, intricate rangoli decorations, rituals, and boat races.

10. Hike Through the Lush Green Landscape

The Himalayan region of India is the most famous amongst trekkers who are interested in difficult climbs at high elevation. Kerala offers a different type of hiking that is more relaxed with the goal of taking in rural villages and tropical scenery.

The Western Ghats are the best area in Kerala for hiking or walking tours. Here you will find a large variety of landscapes including shrub forests, tropical jungles, evergreen forests, and rolling grasslands. On your walks, you will also see plenty of local wildlife including birds and small animals.

11. Unwind at the Beach

Kerala has a long coastline filled with beautiful tropical beaches that are surrounding by tall palm trees and the Arabian Sea.

Besides relaxing in the sun, Kerala's beaches offer plenty of things to do. In recent years, many beaches have become popular places for Ayurveda or yoga retreats where clients can learn about these traditional practices while also catching some rays.

The Keralan coast is also the best place to try local seafood dishes. Here, fish is caught and then immediately brought into restaurants where it is freshly cooked. Nowhere else does fish masala taste better than on the beaches of Kerala.

Festivals and Events in Kerala

While the most important festival for most Indians is Diwali, the most important holiday of the year in Kerala is Onam . Onam is a 10-day celebration that occurs in early September and is celebrated through many rituals and events.

During Onam, travelers can watch as people perform pujas or rituals at temples and celebrate in the streets of Kochi with dance performances and music. Onam is also famous for the beautiful rangoli which are designs that are made from colored rice and flowers.

Kerala also holds many temple festivals that celebrate one specific temple with rituals and parades of painted elephants. Our favorite temple festival is Thrissur Pooram which is celebrated at Vadakkunnathan Temple.

Other great festivals to experience in Kerala include Theyyam , the 800-year-old celebration of deities, and the boat races including Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Alleppey.

If there is one thing that travelers can't stop talking about in Kerala, its the food. While food all over India is incredible, Keralan food is beloved by so many for its fresh ingredients, sweetness, and flavor that includes many spices but is not too hot.

One of the most famous and commonly eaten dishes in Kerala is fresh fish masala . This dish includes the catch of the day cooked in a spice-filled coconut sauce.

Another great thing to try in Kerala is the South Indian dosa . Dosas are a typical South Indian breakfast food that are made from rice batter and are fluffy and light pieces of flatbread. Dosas are often dipped in sauces or gravies like sambar.

Hotels and resorts in Kerala often have great chefs that serve some of the best authentic local food along with some western options. Eating in your hotel for lunch is a great way to get an introduction to Indian food. We also recommend eating in specialty restaurants or cafes to try out some local specialties.

If you want to learn more about Keralan food and spices, then make sure to take a cooking class to get first-hand experience with how authentic local food is made.

Kerala has a tropical and humid climate.

The best time to visit is typically from December to February when the state experiences dry and slightly cooler weather. This is the high season for tourism in Kerala which means higher prices on accommodation and travel. With Asia Highlights , you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure ( detail⇒ ).

It is possible to visit Kerala during the hot season from March to May. During this time you can expect hot and humid days with temperatures typically 28 and 32°C (82 and 90°F). The hot season is the best time to visit Kerala's wildlife reserves because the animals are more active in hot weather.

Kerala experiences a long monsoon season that typically lasts from June to November. The state actually gets hit with two monsoons. The first brings the most rain and lasts from June to September. Kerala sometimes experiences flooding at this time.

The second monsoon hits in November and December, but brings much less rain and can be a great time to visit for those looking for more affordable prices on yoga retreats or Ayurveda resorts.

Best Accommodation in Kerala

Kerala is the perfect place to spend your holiday if you are interested in staying in beautiful colonial heritage hotels or resorts with pools, spas, and massage treatments. No matter where you go in Kerala, you'll be able to find great options for accommodation.

Check out some of our recommendations below:

Cochin is the largest city in Kerala and was once colonized by the Portuguese. This area's unique history makes it the perfect place to stay in a beautiful heritage hotel. We love the Taj Malabar Resort & Spa for its old-world charm, first-rate spa, and views of the harbor.

We also love the Trident Cochin for its 5-star facilities, beautiful gardens, and Ayurvedic center. If you would like to stay in a beautiful location that's farther away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, you can check out Le Meridien Kochi which overlooks the Cochin backwaters and has two beautiful restaurants that serve great western and Indian dishes.

Munnar is Kerala's best hill station and is famous for its cool and comfortable weather. This is a great place to stay in a luxurious hotel with views of the surrounding tea plantations.

One of our favorite hotels in Munnar is Fragrant Nature Munnar which is located in the mountain forest surrounded by wildlife. This hotel offers comfortable bungalows with mountain views and cozy fireplaces. Fragrant Nature also has a restaurant with all-day dining that serves North and South Indian cuisine.

We also love the Windmere Estate for its great views and location near the aromatic coffee and spice plantations and Ragamaya Resort & Spa for its luxurious rooms and on-site authentic Ayurvedic treatments.

When traveling to the backwaters of Alleppey, you will spend at least one night on a houseboat. If you would like to stay in the area for a longer period, then there is nowhere better than at a homestay. Homestays are a great way to get to know the local people. Most homestays in Alleppey offer simple but comfortable accommodations.

Our favorite homestays include Venice Castle and the Bella Art and Meditation House .

How to Travel in Kerala

In order to get to Kerala, most people will fly into the Cochin International Airport. This airport receives flights from many domestic cities including Delhi and Mumbai and a few international flights as well.

Once you have arrived in Kerala by plane, the best way to travel throughout the state is with a private chauffeured car. Hiring a chauffeured car is quite affordable in India and is the most convenient and comfortable way to travel in Kerala.

Here are the normal travel times by private car:

• Cochin to Munnar: 4 hours
• Munnar to Periyar: 4 hours
• Periyar to Alleppey: 3.5 hours
• Alleppey to Cochin: 2 hours

It is also possible to travel between these cities by bus. Local buses normally take longer than traveling by a private car and are often uncomfortable and crowded.

While there are some trains in Kerala, train travel is not as convenient as other methods of transportation. Kerala is a very hilly state that is full of dense jungles and wet lowlands making building large highways and train routes difficult.

At Asia Highlights, we tailor-make the itinerary of every guest to suit each traveler's specific interests and travel goals.

Our basic Kerala itinerary consists of visiting Cochin, Munnar, Periyar, and Alleppey. Go ahead and take a look to get some inspiration and then contact us if you would like to make changes or add on different destinations.

There are many benefits of taking a private tour of Kerala. Through a private tour, you will be able to see the best parts of this beautiful state conveniently and comfortably. The cost of a private tour includes a chauffeured car, private English-speaking guide, breakfast and lunch, and your gorgeous hotel.

Day 1: Arrive in Cochin

On the first day of your Kerala journey, you will arrive at the Cochin International Airport and then will be met by one of our representatives at the arrivals gate. Afterward, you will be introduced to your private chauffeur who will take you to your hotel.

Feel free to spend the rest of the day relaxing at the hotel spa or exploring nearby neighborhoods.

Day 2: Cochin

On your second day, your private guide will take you around this ancient port city to explore the streets of Fort Kochi and other areas. Here you can learn about Cochin's diverse heritage by visiting the Dutch Mattancherry Palace, Portuguese Santa Cruz Basilica, and the St Francis Church which is believed to be one of the oldest churches in India.

In Cochin, you can also take a cooking class, visit spice shops, relax in high-end restaurants, and explore local art galleries.

In the evening, head to the waterfront to see the fisherman using the famous Chinese fishing nets and get great photos of the sunset over the Arabian Sea.

Day 3: Munnar

After Cochin, you will take a private transfer to Munnar where the weather is cooler and the vast tea plantations are surrounded by misty jungles. Here, you can spend your first day touring a tea plantation, visiting the tea museum, or simply taking in the views of the surrounding forests from your hotel.

Day 4: Munnar

Wake up in the early morning to take a trek through the gorgeous forests and surrounding hills. On your trek, you will see various animals and plants and take in the beautiful views.

After your hike, you can check out some of the local coffee and spice plantations to learn more about Kerala's flavors. You can also take an excursion to the nearby Eravikulam National Park.

Day 5: Periyar

Spend the next morning in Munnar at your hotel spa or sipping a cup of tea while taking in the surrounding scenery. In the afternoon, you transfer to Periyar National Park via private car.

Day 6: Periyar to Alleppey

Wake up in the early morning to take a jungle walk with a park ranger to see monkeys, deer, giant squirrels, and some beautiful birds. Jungle walks typically last for around 3 hours and it's important to wear good shoes and comfortable clothes.

For those who don't want to walk, it is possible to take a boat safari through the jungles. Periyar National Park has wild Bengal tigers but spotting them often takes multiple days spent inside the park.

Day 7: Alleppey and the Backwaters

In the afternoon, head to Alleppey where you will meet the captain of your gorgeous houseboat. Spend the afternoon cruising through the canals and trying authentic local cuisine.

You can sit on the boat's upper deck to catch some sun with views of the surrounding villages.

Spend the night on the boat in your own private room.

Day 8: Return to Cochin Airport

The next morning, your driver will meet you at the docks and take you back to Cochin where you can catch your flight to your next destination.

Explore Kerala with Asia Highlights

If you want to see the best destinations in Kerala and have meaningful cultural experiences along the way, then look no further than Asia Highlights. At Asia Highlights, we make tours that are specifically created to fit the needs of each individual customer. Let us plan your trip for you so that you can just relax and prepare for your dream vacation.

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10 Best Places for a One Day Trip in Kerala with Family or Friends

Kerala, has been honored with global responsible tourism award in 2023 and  has a plethora of places to visit. Family, friends, or solo – plenty of options for all. Keralas mind-blowing natural beauty and gorgeous landscapes are a testimony to its pristine climate and ethereal scenic views. Every year, thousands of tourists from all over the world visit this magnificent place in appreciation of its enormous attractions. These are just some of the best places for a one day trip in Kerala that offer diverse experiences to make your visit truly memorable.

List of  Places for a One Day Trip in Kerala

Dreaming of a quick escape from the daily grind? Imagine a one-day trip from vibrant destinations in Kerala, from Delhi, Chennai , Mumbai or Bangalore?

Beyond the usual talk of vacations and weekends, the idea is to discover a rejuvenating break for a One Day Trip in Kerala amid hectic routines and stressful jobs. Amidst weeks of tedious work and running between home and office, the thought of a day off becomes a breath of fresh air. The beauty of a one-day trip is that it won’t dent your wallet or create workplace issues. Delve into the best places for a single-day trip in Kerala, promising a stress-free day to unwind and recharge your body and mind.

You can either plan for a long trip or a one day trip in Kerala. For people who prefer to venture into a mini vacation, here is a list of places for one day trip in Kerala.

1. Kanthaloor, Munnar

Munnar is one of the incredible best places for one day trip in Kerala with family.  Kanthalloor is a village in Munnar which won a gold medal for the best tourism villages from the Government of India .  Kanthalloor Village achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first panchayat in the country to introduce women-friendly tourism practices through collaborative programs with UN Women. Notable initiatives included the implementation of the ‘destination security’ scheme and the development of special women-oriented tour packages. Situated in close proximity to the renowned Munnar in the Idukki district, Kanthalloor Village initially participated in the ‘PEPPER’ participatory tourism initiative before transitioning to the STREET project. This transformation was made possible through active community engagement and the dedicated efforts of the village panchayat.

ALSO SEE- Top 8 Hill Stations In Kerala

Nestled in the majestic Western Ghats mountain ranges, the quaint hill station is a paradise on earth. It is a mesmerizing experience to immerse in its astonishing beauty – adorned with lush green mountains, pristine valleys, beautiful hamlets, and the spread of spice and tea plantations through huge acres of land. For adventure lovers, there are plenty of activities to indulge in like – hiking, trekking, walking across the mountain trails and amid the plantations, safaris, and camping.

The key attractions in Kanthallooor and Munnar are:

• Mattupetty Dam
• Eravikulam National Park
• Anamudi Peak
• Tata Tea Museum
• Pothamedu View Point
• Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
• Lakkom waterfalls
• Chinnar wildlife sanctuary
• Attukad waterfalls
• Carmelagiri Elephant park

The best time to visit Kanthalloor

The pleasant and comfortable climate of Kanthalloor in Munnar helps tourists to plan for a visit any time of the year. Still, the best time to visit is between September and March, when the climate is at its best.

How to reach Kanthalloor?

Munnar is a hill station, hence it does not have its own airport or railway stations. If you want to travel by air, then the nearest airport is at Kochi from where you have to travel a distance of 125 km by road to reach Munnar. For people traveling by rail, the nearest railway station is at Aluva, 110 km distance away. If you want to travel from different parts of Kerala or the nearby states by road, then it is a good recommendation as the enigmatic beauty of Munnar is a treat to the eyes.

ALSO SEE- Best time to visit Kerala (UPDATED for 2024) -Temperature, Weather and Climate

2. Idukki Dam

Idukki is a quiet and peaceful place, away from the humdrum of daily life. It is one of the most exotic places for one day trip in Kerala. You can spend quality time in the vicinity of nature, calm and in solitude. The weather is cozy and comfortable, perfect to chill out with friends and family. If you want to engage in some interesting activities, then Idukki has innumerable opportunities like trekking, hiking, camping, boating, walking, and safaris. Additionally, Idukki houses various sightseeing spots for tourists to venture out like dams, waterfalls, parks, lakes, and forests. These astounding attractions embellish Idukki with their enchanting flora and fauna.

The key attractions in Idukki are:

• Kalvari Mount
• Ramakkalmedu
• Meesapulimala
• Cheeyappara waterfalls
• Anayirankal dam reservoir
• Panchalimedu
• Valara waterfalls
• Sita Devi lake
• Hill View park
• Chathurangapara view point

 ALSO SEE-  Munnar Trekking-Top 10 Experiences to Unleash your adventurous spirit in Munnar

Best time to visit Idukki

Like Munnar, Idukki can be visited any time of the year mainly due to its pleasing climate. The weather is almost soothing throughout the year. But if you still want to churn out the best of the environment at Idukki, then you can select the winter season between November and February for your visit.

How to reach Idukki

To reach Idukki, you can either travel by air or reach the nearest airport at Kochi which is 132 km away from Idukki. Or you can reach the nearest railway station at Theni, 60 km distance away from Idukki. You can also travel by road via buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.

ALSO SEE- 75 best things to do in Kerala  (with Photos)

3. Periyar National Park, Thekkady

For wildlife lovers, Periyar National Park in Thekkady is one of the good options and best places for one day trip in Kerala. The national park is the residence of numerous animal and bird species, You can observe them in their natural habitat, a desire for every wildlife admirer. The park offers night walks and safaris for the visitors. You can opt for any of them and move around to entertain yourself with the breathtaking flora and fauna. There are various kinds of wild plants, trees, and flowers in the park for you to be acquainted with. Some of the popular birds and animals in the park are the Bengal tiger, leopards, sambar deer, Indian bison, and lion-tailed macaques.

ALSO SEE- Thekkady Boating -Online Booking, Timings, Cost, Fare for Foreigners and Indians (Updated)

The key attractions in Periyar National Park are

• Guided cloud walk for 3 to 4 hours
• Camping inside the jungle
• Bamboo rafting and hiking
• Tiger trail trekking and camping
• Jungle patrol
• Boating on Periyar Lake
• Touring around Abraham’s spice garden
• Walking along the Connemara tea factory and witnessing the tea plantations and production

Best time to visit Periyar National Park

Almost every place in Kerala is good to visit throughout the year and the Periyar National Park is not an exception. But if you are eager to witness the greenery at its peak then the monsoons are the best time to visit, the months between September and October.

How to reach Periyar National Park

Kottayam is the nearest railway station, located at a distance of 97 km from the park, and can be availed via cabs, and buses. Kochi is the nearest airport, 150 km away from the park. If you want to travel by road, then you can check out the private and public buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.

ALSO SEE- Best Treehouses in Thekkady

Wayanad is a place, adorned with scenic views and picturesque environments. It is truly one of the breathtaking places for one day trip in Kerala with family and friends. The lush green vegetation and the foliage bring in a sense of calmness and pristine feeling to the people visiting this awesome place. If you are an adventure lover, then you will love to be involved in many activities like hiking, trekking, nature walks, and safaris. For bird watchers, it is an awesome place to watch many local and migrating birds. Another exciting experience at Wayanad is to stay in a treehouse, an eco-friendly option to soak into the magnificent atmosphere around. Moreover, if you love to mingle with the local tribals and be familiar with their life and culture, then you can willingly do so.

ALSO SEE – Munnar or Wayanad-Which is better? The Complete Guide

The key attractions in Wayanad are:

• Edakkal caves
• Lakkidi view point
• Soocipara waterfalls
• Kanthanpara waterfalls
• Chembra peak
• Pookode lake
• Wayanad wildlife sanctuary
• Banasura Sagar dam
• Meenmutty waterfalls
• Bansura hill
• Karapuzha dam

Best time to visit Wayanad

Wayanad is best during the winter season between the months of November and February. The weather is soothing and ideal for a vacation. Days and nights are quite charming to stroll around in the city.

How to reach Wayanad

If you want to avail the rail, then the best is to reach Kozhikode railway station and travel a distance of 110 km by cab or bus to reach Wayanad. The other option is to travel via air. The nearest airport is at Calicut, 54 km away from Wayanad. By road options are also available, you can try to avail of private and public buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.

5.Kumarakom

Kumarakom is one of the most fascinating and enticing places for one day trip in Kerala. Located at the banks of Lake Vembanad, Kumarakom is a famous for backwaters and houseboat trips. If you are a bird watcher, then Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a perfect place for you. Do not miss cruising along the lake  in a houseboat and immerse yourself in nature’s scintillating beauty. You can observe various species of  both local and migratory birds. Kumarakom is famous for Ayurvedic treatments, spa therapy, and meditation practices and you can avail of the facilities for a healthy lifestyle.  Kumarakom is one of the best places for one day trips from Kochi

ALSO SEE – Top 10 One Day Trips from Kochi

The key attractions in Kumarakom are:

• Kumarakom bird sanctuary
• Vembanad lake
• Aruvikuzhy waterfalls
• Kumarakom craft museum
• Pathiramanal island
• Kumarakom backwaters
• Kottayam locality
• Vagamon locality
• Vaikom Mahadeva temple
• Thanneermukkom Bund bridge
• Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva temple

Best time to visit Kumarakom

The weather at Kumarakom is soothing and charming, and humidity is less especially between the months of September and March. Hence it is the best time to visit Kumarakom.

How to reach Kumarakom

By air, the best option is to reach the nearest airport at Kochi, which is 80 km away from Kumarakom. By rail, the nearest railway station is at Kottayam, a traveling distance of 16 km from the city. Another option to reach Kumarakom is by boat ride from Muhamma. You can also avail private and public buses, cabs, and autorickshaws to travel via road.

ALSO SEE- 50+ Kerala Houseboat Packages(Updated)

6. Ponmudi, Kerala

An offbeat destination, Ponmudi in Kerala is one of the spectacular places for one day trip in Kerala. Nestled within the Western Ghats and surrounded by gushing waterfalls, meandering streams, sparkling springs, lush green tea and spice plantations, sloping mountains, and dense wild forests – it’s truly an ecstatic experience at Ponmudi. For adventure lovers, there are plenty of options for hiking and trekking, immersing into mind-blowing fauna and flora. You can observe the famous Agadthyakoodam peak from this place. There are options for Ayurvedic treatments and therapies at Ponmudi, so do not forget to avail the opportunity.

ALSO SEE- Ponmudi hills– Best Places to Visit & Things to do

The key attractions in Ponmudi are:

• Kallar Meenmutty falls
• Ponmudi Upper Sanatorium
• Peppara wildlife sanctuary
• Ponmudi hilltop
• Agasthyamalai
• Veli Lake Tourist village
• Shendurney wildlife sanctuary
• Mankayam waterfalls
• Koyikkal palace
• Varkala beach

The best time to visit

The months between October and March are the best and preferred time to visit Ponmudi. The town blooms with nature’s splendid aura and charm, indeed creating a sensational experience and an opportunity to mingle in its beauty.

How to reach

Ponmudi can be accessed via road as there are plenty of buses from various parts of the state and nearby cities. Both the nearby airport and railway stations are at Thiruvananthapuram, 60 km away from Ponmudi.

7.Alleppey, Kerala

Alleppey is part of the Kuttanad region, often referred to as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala.” This low-lying region is known for its vast paddy fields, unique farming practices below sea level, and scenic landscapes. Alleppey is home to beautiful beaches, including Alappuzha Beach. The coastline provides a serene setting for relaxation and offers picturesque views of the Arabian Sea. The pier at Alappuzha Beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

A visit to Kerala is incomplete without Alleppey. So if you get a chance to be on a one-day trip to Kerala, then do not miss out on this popular backwater destination , flourishing with greenery and the backwaters. The place is frequented by tourists from all over the world and throughout the year. It offers an idyllic experience of cruising along the backwaters in a houseboat while treating the eyes to the magnificent landscape and the scenic beauty. The houses of the fishermen along the banks of the backwaters add a rustic charm to the entire place. You can visit the village and munch on some seafood delicacies. Watching the local and migrator birds is another enticing activity at Alleppey.

ALSO SEE- 10 Best Places to visit in Alleppey

The key attractions in Alleppey are:

• Alappuzha lighthouse
• Alappuzha beach
• Marari beach
• Krishnapuram palace
• Punnamada lake
• St. Andrew’s Basilica
• Thumpoly beach
• Sree Krishna Swamy temple
• Chakkulathukuva Sree Bhagavathi temple

Best time to visit Alleppey

The temperature at Alleppey is extremely soothing and the weather is pleasant during the winters mostly. Months between October and February are preferable. However, you can visit at other times of the year to avoid the crowds.

How to reach Alleppey

Alleppey has its own railway station hence it’s easy to travel via rail. If you are traveling by air then the nearest airport is at Kochi, 75 km away from Alleppey. Otherwise, you can avail of buses and cabs to reach Alleppey.

Kochi serves as the gateway to Kerala, given its strategic location along the Arabian Sea. The city has played a crucial role in the cultural and economic exchanges between India and other nations. Kochi, also called Cochin, boasts a rich historical legacy as a prominent port city that has facilitated trade for centuries, drawing merchants from diverse regions—Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Known for its cultural diversity, Kochi is a unique fusion of Indian, Arab, Chinese, and European influences. Fort Kochi, with its well-preserved colonial architecture, harbors landmarks like Santa Cruz Basilica and the burial site of Vasco da Gama. The iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, a symbol of Kochi, operate through an ancient mechanical method. Jew Town hosts the historic Paradesi Synagogue, while the Kochi-Muziris Biennale celebrates contemporary art. Marine Drive offers scenic views, and Mattancherry Palace showcases murals from the Ramayana. Cochin International Airport is globally recognized for its solar-powered operations, and Kochi’s spice markets reflect its historical ties to the spice route.

ALSO SEE – 15 Tourist Places to visit in Kochi Kerala

The key attractions in Kochi are:

• Mattancherry palace
• Indo-Portuguese museum
• Santa Cruz Basilica
• Ernakulam Shiva temple
• Paradesi Synagogue
• Kodanad Elephant training center
• Fisherman’s Khauf

Best time to visit Kochi

The best time to visit Kochi is the Months between October and February. The weather is calm and pleasant with a soothing breeze.

How to reach Kochi

The best thing about Kochi is it has its own railway station and airport. You can go to different parts of the city by bus and cab.

9.Kollengode, Palakkad

Kollengode, in Kerala’s Palakkad district, is not just a village; it’s a cultural wonderland with a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and religious importance. Just 26 km from Palakkad town, it’s now a popular destination with loads to offer. Here’s what makes Kollengode a must-visit:

In the past, it was ruled by the Vengunad Swaroopam, a fancy title given by Hyder Ali in the 18th century. The rulers, known as Vengunad Nambidis, had a strong influence. This history adds a unique charm to Kollengode.

ALSO SEE – Nelliyampathy Tourist Places-Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do

Now, the village is a treasure trove of historical and religious spots. The Kollengode Palace, showcasing traditional Kerala architecture, is like a time capsule with artifacts and paintings from the Vengunad dynasty. The Kachamkurissi Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is an ancient marvel among the 108 Divya Desams. Add in the Seetharkundu Waterfall, Govindamalai Hill, and Nelliyampathy Hills, and you get the perfect blend of culture and nature.

The key attractions in Kollengode  are:

• Kollengode Palace
• Kachamkurissi Temple
• Seetharkundu Waterfall
• Govindamalai Hill
• Nelliyampathy Hills

Best time to visit Kollengode

The best time to visit Kollengode s the Months between October and February. You have a good chance of sighting the green paddy fields and hills and hence should not miss the opportunity.

The nearest airport is at Coimbatore, 70 km away from Coimbatore. The nearest railway station is at Palakkad, 26 km away from Kollengode. Buses and cabs are available from the various cities of Kerala to reach the place.

Kannur is a small town, bearing similarity to Kochi in terms of its historical significance. Along with its enigmatic natural beauty, Kannur is a witness to many monuments, historical structures, ancient ruins, and many other buildings from the yesteryears. It is indeed one of the phenomenal places for one day trip in Kerala. Being located near the beach, you can stroll along while enjoying the sea waters.

The key attractions in Kannur are:

• Payyambalam beach
• Muzhappilangad beach shoreline
• St. Angelo Fort
• Arakkal museum
• Vismaya water park
• Aralam wildlife sanctuary
• Ezhara beach

The best time to visit Kannur is during the winter, months between November and February. You will love the slight chill in the air, refreshing as well as pure.

The nearest airport is at Kochi, 128 km away from Thekkady. Kannur has its own railway station. Buses and cabs are also available from the various parts of Kerala to reach the place.

Hope the listing of the places for one day trip in Kerala will be of real help and you can easily plan for your vacation or a weekend getaway with your family and friends and even solo and enjoy your one day trip in Kerala.

ALSO SEE – Top 6 Resorts to Stay in Kannur

When you embark on a one day trip in Kerala, you can choose to gracefully sail along the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey or immerse yourself in the tranquil landscapes of Wayanad. Whichever path you take, Kerala assures you a day filled with indelible memories. Whether drifting lazily on a houseboat, surrounded by picturesque greenery in Alleppey, or finding solace in the serene ambiance of Wayanad’s natural wonders, each experience promises to etch moments of beauty and tranquility into your memory. Kerala, with its diverse landscapes and cultural richness, ensures a one-day escape brimming with the magic of unforgettable encounters.

About George Joseph

Hello, I'm George Joseph and a travel advisor at Iris Holidays. I'm here to help you travel in Kerala through useful tips and helpful articles. Don't forget to get a FREE Customised Holiday Itinerary from me if you are planning to visit Kerala.

In case you have any questions, you can ask it in our Ask a Question and I would be happy to help you.

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• She Traveled To The Best Places To Visit In Kerala With Her Mom, And Was Beyond Awestruck!

27 Mar 2023

Bitten by the travel bug, I was excited to the core to plan a trip for I and my mother. I wanted the trip to be all about spending some quality time with my mother, and while I pen down my experience , I am glad to share that we were totally thrilled to explore some of the best places to visit in Kerala .

Trip Type: A relaxed getaway with mommy dearest Duration: 5D/4N Budget: INR 33,300 (Land Package Only) Agent: The Roomie Inclusions: Accommodation at the Green Trees Resort in Munnar, Coffee Routes in Thekkady, Private A/C Deluxe Houseboat in Alleppey, sightseeing, breakfast, railway station transfers, cab charges, GST, and taxes Exclusions: Train fare, Lunch, dinner, driver charges, travel insurance, surcharges, and personal expenses

Our Itinerary For The 5D/4N Trip To Kerala

Day 1: Arrival at Thrissur, transfer to Munnar, enroute Cheeyappara Waterfalls, and Valara Waterfalls, check-in at the Green Trees Resort, leisure time, dinner, overnight stay

Day 2: Breakfast, local sightseeing of Munnar, Tata Tea Museum, Eravikulam National Park, Echo Point, Mattupetty Dam, Munnar Elephant Ride, Pothamedu View Point, dinner at the hotel, overnight stay

Day 3: Breakfast, early morning check-out, drive to Thekkady, check into Coffee Routes hotel, leisure day, Jungle Jeep Safari, Thekkady Elephant Ride, dinner, overnight stay

Day 4: Early morning check-out, drive to Alleppey, check into the Houseboat, cruise the backwaters, explore the Alleppey beach, dinner, overnight stay on the houseboat

Day 5: Breakfast, check-out from the houseboat, drive to Cochin, transfer to the airport, return journey

On deciding that we want to explore the best of Kerala, we found about TravelTriangle while we were searching for suitable packages online. And as skeptical as we were, it turned out to be just the opposite of what we were thinking.

Considering myself lucky to have entrusted my holiday experience to TravelTriangle (who did a brilliant job by the way) , we booked a 5D/4N trip of which we stayed two nights in Munnar, one night in Thekkady, and two days in Alleppey. Making the most of such an amazing chance to experience most beautiful side of mother nature, here’s what I experienced while I explored the best places to visit in Kerala .

                                                  20 Places To Visit In Kerala In December 2022

Kerala Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

A holiday in Kerala will fill you with memories. Witness pristine backwaters with comfortable houseboats, lush green hill stations, waterfalls, and plantations of tea and spice. Indulge in an ayurvedic massage or taste exotic cuisines. Book a Kerela holiday on TravelTriangle. Best prices guaranteed.

Spellbinding Cochin Family Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,750

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Marvelous Kerala Tour Package of Alleppey 3D/2N @ Rs 7,500

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Alleppey-Kovalam Family Package 4D/3N @ Rs 9,000

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Wonderful Kerala Family Tour 5D/4N Package @ Rs 12,800

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Delightful Kerala Family Tour 8D/7N Package @ Rs 21,700

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See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

Breathtaking Munnar

On the first day, we arrived at Thrissur and were transferred to the hotel in Munnar as per our request. On the way, we just couldn’t take our eyes off the deep valleys . After working for hours tirelessly and following that monotonous route everyday, for those who’re always in search of the reset button, for them Munnar is the key, as it is one of the best places to visit in Kerala .

Lush and widespread green tea plantations with mystical views is all what I wanted and I got exactly just that on this perfect getaway. We were also excited to explore the beautiful Cheeyappara Waterfalls, and Valara Waterfalls on our way to Munnar. And the Green Trees Resort booked via TravelTriangle was totally the best in class.

20 Best Tree Houses In Kerala That Are Perfect For An Intimate Nature Date In 2022

Post resting for the day and reviving from all the tiredness, we enjoyed the best of local sightseeing on the second day of our trip in Munnar. From exploring the Tata Tea Museum, to the Echo Point , we were just left in an awe. Sitting on an arm chair, sipping on that hot cuppa of freshly brewed tea, and looking over the mist-clad hills were few of the experiences in Munnar that enhanced our journey and gave us exceptionally good vibes!

Thrilling Thekkady

On the third day, we kickstarted the day pretty early and post a delicious breakfast, we check-out out of the hotel and were on our way to Thekkady which is one of the best places to visit in Kerala. Located close to the Kerala-Tamilnadu border, we reached the pre-booked Coffee Routes hotel in about three hours.

Post relaxing for a while, we chose to experience the Jeep safari around here as it is the best way to explore the places around Thekkady. We went on to visit the Periyar National Reserve , and the infamous Periyar River and around that area, we also got to explore a wide range of grape vineyards.

15 Best Villas In Kerala & Finest Homestays That Take You A Step Closer To Nature!

Thekkady also treated us to the majestic waterfalls and hilly terrains which served as a great escapade for us. It was also a great experience for us to watch how the wild elephants looked after their young ones. Post that, it was totally exciting to go on an thrilling elephant rides.

Next up was the visiting the green plantations of the grape vineyards which shared their borders with Tamilnadu as well. Learning about the life-cycle of grapevines and the whole farming process was an enlightening session indeed. And yes, the grapevines were totally delicious of course!

Astonishing Alleppey

On the fourth day, we checked out of the hotel in Thekkady post breakfast, and were on our way to the surreal backwaters of Alleppey . On reaching the port, we checked-into a private houseboat and started our journey and our last day in God’s own country, Kerala.

Our first impression of Alleppey was truly a heaven on earth. We spent a complete day on the backwaters and cruised along the shoreline which were dotted with lined coconut trees. It was so peaceful, serene, blue, and calm, that I couldn’t ask for anything else on this trip.

Alleppey was totally in contrast with Munnar, but equally beautiful, elegant, and one of the best places to visit in Kerala . We witnessed how fishing is done in the backwaters, and how people make their living out of it. Another experience that we truly enjoyed was that of the age-old authentic Kerala massage which was relaxing to the core.

Kerala Cuisine: 21 Dishes That Make The State The King Of Culinary Art In 2022

Having indulged in such beautiful experiences, we spent a great night cruising the backwaters on the houseboat. Left speechless and with a bagful of memories, we checked out of the houseboat the next morning, and set back on a safe return journey.

In a nutshell, it was one of the best holidays I have ever been on. Be it Munnar, Thekkady, or Alleppey, Kerala is undoubtedly the golden destination of India. With so much to explore in this beautiful land, I would love to return to Kerala for sure!

Overall Experience With TravelTriangle

It was one of the best decisions to have entrusted my holiday experience to TravelTriangle. From the hotels to the experiences, they delivered nothing less than the best. Would love to book my next trip with them and talking about Kerala, any trip to this magical land would be worth the experience!

Highlights Of Our Trip

• Exploring The Tea Plantations Of Munnar
• Enjoying The Elephant Ride
• Backwater Cruising In Alleppey

Low Points: None as such!

Are you also looking forward to explore the best places to visit in Kerala? Well, worry not! All you have to do is just customize an enticing trip to Kerala with TravelTriangle , and let us take care of the rest!

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Visit In Kerala

What are the best places to visit in Kerala with family?

Some of the best places to visit in Kerala with family are Alleppey, Thekkady, and Munnar. These places have many amazing tourist attractions making it worthwhile and a must-have experience.

Is Kerala worth visiting?

Kerala is definitely worth visiting. The beautiful mountains, pristine beaches and many other places such as Rose Garden, Elephant Garden, and Tea Factory make the experience worth it.

What is Kerala known for?

Kerala is known for not just one but many things. The unique traditions and culture, unmatched natural beauty, serene backwaters, picturesque hills & landscapes, and beautiful beaches add to Kerala’s popularity.

Which is better Kovalam or Varkala?

Both Kovalam and Varkala are special in their own ways. Beaches in Kovalam such as Eve Beach and Lighthouse Beach are very beautiful but they are pretty crowded too. Whereas, beaches in Varkala are quiet, serene and beautiful.

Is Kerala a safe place to visit?

Yes, Kerala is quite a safe place to visit. In fact, it is one of the safest places to visit in India. Laws are strictly enforced and practiced in Kerala and the crime rate is pretty low.

What is the best time to visit Kerala?

The best time to visit Kerala is October to March when it’s pleasant and you would be able to explore the destination comfortably at your pace. Visit the place during this time to get a truly wonderful experience.

What can I shop for in Kerala?

Shell showpieces, spices, tea, Nettipattam, Coir products, and sarees are some of the many things that you can shop for in Kerala. Shopping in Kerala is a unique and one of a kind of experience.

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

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A 7 day Kerala itinerary perfect for first-timers

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: March 11, 2023

The make-up is done in such a way that you might think that the actors wear a mask.

Are you wondering what’s the best Kerala itinerary? You came to the right place.

Kerala is super green with lots of palm trees.  

We loved the seemingly endless lush green nature of Kerala, a paradise for nature lovers and for those who want to relax for a few days.

In this Kerala travel blog post, we share our complete Kerala trip itinerary.

So definitely keep reading.

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.  

In a hurry? Here we share our Kerala trip plan for 7 days

If you don’t have time to read through the full 7 days Kerala trip itinerary,  use this overview to get an idea of the things to do each day and save it for later.

• Day 1-2 Kochi ( Cochin ):  Chinese Fishing Nets, the Pardesi Synagogue, the St. Francis Church, walk through Princess street, Mattancherry Palace, attend a Kathakali dance show.
• Day 3-4 Munnar:  Visit the tea plantations, Mattupety Dam, Echo Point, and Top Station. Go hiking, visit Eravikulam National Park, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Day 5-7 Allepey, Kumarakom, and Cochin: Relax in Allepey, cruise the backwaters, make a Shikara boat ride, take an Ayurveda massage.

Table of Contents

India essentials 

• To find  cheap flights to India, click here.
• Most travelers need a visa for India. The easiest way is to apply for an e-visa through  a Visa agency. Click here to see prices and submit your application.
• For more inspiration on what to do and to see in India, take a look at our  2 weeks in India itinerary  and our  Rajasthan itinerary.
• Here you can find an overview of  the best India group tours . If you are specifically looking for  group tours that visit Kerala, click here.
• Last but not least, make sure you have good  travel insurance.

Kerala tour itinerary 7 days 

In this 7 days Kerala travel itinerary you will discover most of Kerala’s highlights. 

Day 1-2: Kochi (Cochin)

If the use of Cochin and Kochi gets you confused you’re not alone. 

Both names refer to the same city.  Kochi is the official name but many people still use the unofficial Cochin which was used by the British occupiers.

Kochi is the major airport in Kerala.  The airport is served by many domestic and international flights.

Depending on how late you arrive in Kochi we would recommend staying one or two nights.

Our driver was waiting for us at the arrivals hall.  In hindsight, we can now tell you that we are glad we had arranged one.

Although the distances that you will cover to visit these Kerala sights are nothing compared to the kilometers we traveled in the Northern part of India it is still a much more comfortable way of traveling.

45 Amazing facts about India you should read before you go

Kochi sightseeing

I’m not sure if you have ever been to Rajasthan.

If you have we can tell you that Kerala will be a whole different experience. It could just as well be another country.   

It’s a very tropical city with lots of water and palm trees and if somebody would have told us that we were no longer in Indian but in Thailand instead we could have believed him.

Here we share the best things to do in Kochi.

Things to do in Fort Kochi

Kochi is the economic capital of the state of Kerala. 

It is a big city but the highlights are all located in the same part of the city called Fort Kochi and can be covered in a half-day.

We visited the Chinese Fishing Nets, the Pardesi Synagogue, and the St. Francis Church.  Along the way we walked through Princess street, the place to hunt for souvenirs, snoop around bookstores or relax with a drink and some food.

Next, we went to the Mattancherry Palace, also called the Dutch Palace.  It’s a beautiful small palace with some awesome mural paintings.  It can in no way be compared to any of the palaces we visited in Rajasthan.

The museum does a good job of showcasing the many differences in the life of the Maharaja between the north and the south of the country.

Kochi is also a good place to attend a Kathakali dance show. This is a story play that originated in Kerala and is still unique to this region. 

The show kept us amused for the full hour.  Although we lost the storyline somewhere halfway, the costumes, make-up, and acts alone justify attending the show.

You can see a similar Kathakali show in Munnar if your agenda wouldn’t allow you to attend the show in Kochi.

Here you can find more places to visit in Fort Kochi. 

Where to stay in Cochin

Le méridien cochin.

We stayed in  the Meridien Cochin  and had a wonderful time. We had a very big comfortable room and enjoyed the delicious breakfast.  The staff was very accommodating and even invited us to the miss Kerala election that was held in the hotel. We would definitely stay here again if we would return to Cochin.

Check prices and availability:

Booking.com

If you aren’t convinced of this hotel, you will find a lot of other hotels in Cochin on Booking.com: Booking.com

Day 3-4: Munnar

From Kochi, we continued our journey towards the hill station of Munnar.

Driving time:  112 km- approximately 4 hours.

Things to do in Munnar

Munnar is a great location to spend 2 days.  Best of all is that the temperature is really enjoyable as it is higher up in the mountains.  It might even feel a little chilly when you’re acclimatized to the temperatures in the other parts of India.

So bring a warm jacket or sweater.

The main tourist attraction of Munnar are the many tea plantations. Did you know that India is famous for producing one of the best teas in the world? 

You can’t miss them, all roads in the area zigzag through the tea plantations. 

The sight is so spectacular that I think we may have asked our driver a hundred times to stop for a picture.

Several tea plantations are open to visitors. 

Some of them have a small museum where you can see how tea is made in the factories. 

There’s also the tea museum that tells more about the history of tea in this region.

For an even more authentic experience, you can book an organized tour that takes you on unpaved routes deep into the fields.   You will meet some of the tea pickers and see how they still mostly manually pick the leaves.  Did you know that they collect around 100kg of leaves every single day?

We loved the tea plantations so much that we would almost forget the other sights of Munnar. 

Once we sort of had enough of the impressive vistas on the tea plantations we headed to the Mattupety Dam, Echo Point, and Top Station.

Except for Top Station, the sights in themselves are not that special but the roads that take you there are all the more. 

Along the way, you pass several photogenic waterfalls as well as many more incredible vistas.

Munnar is also surrounded by some beautiful national parks.

Eravikulam National Park is located half an hour outside Munnar and is the habitat of the almost extinct Nilgiri Tahr . 

Almost 2 hours North of Munnar is Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary where you can spot elephants and deer (and even leopards if you are really really lucky).

Hiking is another excellent way to witness the beauty of the region. 

Several gorgeous hikes and trekkings can be done ranging from easy to rather difficult but most are unmarked and require a guide.

If you plan on doing a lot of hiking, we would advise you to wear hiking leggings. They are a lot more comfortable than shorts when you plan on hiking a lot.

In the evening you can attend the Kathakali as well as Kalaripayattu shows.   The latter is a very energetic martial arts show.

Where to stay in Munnar 

Fragrant nature munnar.

The Fragrant Nature Munnar hotel is gorgeous and beautifully situated on the top of the valley amidst the jungle.  It is surrounded by tea and spice plantations. The hotel has comfortable and well-equipped rooms and is run by helpful and accommodating staff. The view from the room is outstanding.

Check prices and availability: Agoda

Day 5-7: Alleppey-Kumarakom-Cochin

Kumarakom and Alleppey are both nice places to end your vacation in Kerala. They are located on opposite sides of the Vembanad lake. 

We ended our vacation with some quality time in a resort in Kumarakom but you can also spend some relaxing days in Alleppey.

We have included a short comparison between the two to help you pick the best destination for your vacation.

Driving time: 175 km- approximately 4-5h

Should you go to Alleppey or Kumarakom?

This depends on what you want to do.

If you want to cruise the backwaters and stay a night on a houseboat you might want to choose for Alleppey.

The boats leave from both locations but Alleppey has by far the biggest choice for a backwater cruise.

You won’t find a lot of resorts in Alleppey, these are all located along the lakeside in Kumarakom.

Kumarakom is the most flexible of the two as it allows you to combine a stay in a resort with an overnight cruise in a houseboat.  Some of the resorts have their own houseboats and offer this as a package.

You should know that although a Kerala backwater cruise lasts almost a full day the boat will only sail for about 6 hours. 

Local regulations reserve the lake for the fishermen at night, all houseboats need to dock by 5:30 PM. 

The majority of the 6 hours are also spent on the lake, most Kerala houseboats are too large to navigate the narrow channels of the backwaters where you can really experience daily life.

The small boats called Shikara offer an alternative way to see the backwaters. You can charter these per hour as a couple or family.

An advantage of these small boats is that they can navigate the narrow channels and because it’s a private tour you can ask the driver to stop if you want to take pictures.  We saw a lot of colorful birds so there’re plenty of picture opportunities.

We arranged a 2-hour Shikara boat ride. It seemed like 2 hours was enough although the scenery is really stunning. This cruise was one of the highlights of our trip to Kerala as the backwaters are so peaceful and beautiful. I think the backwaters might be the reason why they call this state “God’s own country”.

If we would go back we would definitely opt for a Shikara again.

The Shikara boats leave from the Kavanattinkara boat jetty in Kumarakom.  This is close to the entrance of the bird sanctuary and your boat ride will actually take you along part of the edge of the sanctuary.   The sanctuary is a nice place to enjoy nature but the dense forest will make it difficult to spot birds. 

You can combine your boat ride with a visit to the sanctuary, just know that you will probably see more birds during the boat ride than during your forest trek in the sanctuary.

This region in Kerala is also famous for its Ayurveda massages. 

Ayurveda is a buzzword that’s popping up all over the world.  What you may not know is that it originated in India several thousand years ago.  It’s a way of life that revolves around creating peace and harmony in the body by aligning different energy channels, called chakras. 

The Ayurveda oils that are used have medicinal and detoxing properties.

You should try an Ayurveda massage if you currently suffer from insomnia or high levels of stress.

We had our massage at an Ayurveda Massage Center but you will see that most hotels offer these massages as well.

If you like to combine a backwater tour with a massage, this is the perfect tour for you. 

Where to stay in Alleppey 

Angel queen houseboat.

A lovely boat with a top deck for great viewing. The boat has comfortable bedrooms with ensuites. The meals that are served are delicious and the scenery divine.

A good option for a relaxing and comfortable trip.

If you aren’t convinced of this houseboat, you will find a lot of other houseboats in Alleppey on Booking.com: Booking.com

Where to stay in Kumarakom?

Park regis aveda kumarakom.

Classy resort with beautiful rooms that look out over the pool. Excellent food and service at the restaurant.  Very courteous and friendly staff. The hotel offers a complimentary sunset cruise. 

A beautiful peaceful place on the lake.

If you aren’t convinced of this hotel, you will find a lot of other resorts in Kumarakom on Booking.com: Booking.com

Best time to visit Kerala

The best period to visit Kerala is from September to March although it can rain occasionally until December.

We had some daily scattered showers in October.  They usually occurred somewhere during the afternoon but not to that degree that it affected our travel plans for Kerala.

Kerala has an overall enjoyable climate whole year-round.  Most visitors prefer the above period because it’s warm but not too hot and there’s only a small chance to have vacation days ruined by rain. 

There are some popular activities in Kerala in this period. 

One is the Kumarakom Boat race in September and October and there is also Cochin Carnival which is widely celebrated in January.

This is the most popular tourist season and that is reflected in the hotel prices.

You will have to pay more for your accommodation, certainly around the year-end period.

As of April, the temperatures start rising towards 30 degrees and more.  Most tourists avoid Kerala during these months.

It’s a great time to explore the region if the heat doesn’t bother you, the hotel rates are lower and there will be fewer crowds.

In general, there will be plenty of sun during the daytime. 

Chances of heavy showers and thunderstorms towards evening increase as April ends and May kicks in.

June, July, and August is monsoon season in Kerala. 

The temperatures are hot and humid and almost daily there will be some heavy showers. 

Floods are not uncommon during this time of the year so it may be difficult to get around.

If your travel plans are limited to this time of the year and you are looking for a nature destination, we would recommend you to consider a trip to Borneo.

Cheap Flights to Kerala

If you want to score  cheap flights to Kerala we advise you to have a look at Momondo  and  Skyscanner.   

Both are flight aggregators that compare several hundreds of booking sites and give you an overview of the best flights and the cheapest sites to book them. 

Momondo and Skyscanner are both very good at finding good deals, of the two, Momondo is probably the one with the most intuitive user interface.

Visa requirements for India

With the exception of residents of Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives everybody needs a visa to enter India.

Recently the country has introduced e-visas.  You can find out if you’re eligible to apply for an e-visa on the government’s e-visa website .  The website also lists the fees.  These vary by country. (see point 4 of the instructions)

Note that the Indian government charges the fee regardless of whether your application has been approved or not.  The fee is seen as a processing fee and therefore non-refundable.  It’s always charged, even if your application would be rejected due to an unclear picture or an unreadable scan of your passport.

This made us a little uncomfortable and we decided to apply for our e-visa through a visa agency so that our information would be subject to an additional review by the agency before it was finally submitted.

Apply for a travel visa with VisaHQ: Visa for India

When you want to apply for the e-visa yourself make sure to do this directly on the official government website.  Ignore sites that falsely claim to be official like the one below, they add significant service charges to your application, more than reputable visa agencies such as iVisa.  The official e-visa site run by the government is  https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ .

Take a car and driver or join an organized tour

We always prefer to explore a country on our own. Primarily for the freedom that it gives us but also because it feels more authentic if you mingle with the locals on public transportation and in the streets.

We did some research but it wasn’t really easy to find something that worked for us. 

There’re buses that go to the hill stations but you would need an additional taxi or tuk-tuk to get to your hotel as many of them are spread out across the region and not really within the limits of those stations.

Then you will also have to make arrangements with a taxi or tuk-tuk to take you to the various sights, or you could book an organized tour.

Car and driver

In the end, we opted for a private chauffeured tour as it looked much easier.  

To book a private chauffeured tour you need to provide the company with your planned itinerary. This is because the price not only depends on the number of days but also on the number of kilometers that you will travel.

If you’re not sure about your itinerary for Kerala you can finetune it together with the company.

Most companies will be able to book your accommodations as well but you’re free to arrange your hotels yourself if you prefer.

Your driver will be waiting for you at the airport in the arrivals hall.  From this point on you have all the freedom about how you fill in your days.  We were well prepared and had a list of things that we wanted to see and do. Our driver always had some extra suggestions ready.  Each evening we made the final arrangements with him for the next day.

It worked out really well and turned out to be a comfortable way to visit Kerala.

If you are looking for a car and driver, take a look here. 

Joining an organized tour 

If you don’t have time to create your own itinerary or just don’t want to go independent, then you could also join an organized tour. 

TourRadar is an online travel agency specialized in multi-day tours.  Their well-arranged interface makes it easy to compare package tours from different operators.

They have several 7 days Kerala tour packages.

Tipping in India

There’s something strange about tipping in India and it took some time before we got a hold about when and how much we should tip.  Tipping, in India known as Baksheesh, is not common and didn’t exist before tourism became popular in India.  You will hardly ever see a local give a tip.

Westerners introduced the custom of tipping, maybe because poverty can be confronting, but our driver was quick to remind us that we didn’t need to be overly generous.

The Baksheesh has already found its way in the culture and staff in restaurants that see a lot of tourists now seem to expect tips from foreigners.

We sometimes noticed how we got treated differently than an Indian couple sitting at the table next to us.  Mostly regarding the bill because the service was equally good regardless of skin color, language, or origin.

We usually tipped about 10% in restaurants.

Make sure to check the bill for a service charge before you tip. 

Some restaurants will add this automatically, others don’t. 

We did try to hand the tip subtly to our waiter because we often noticed how restaurant managers were quick to collect the tips that were left on the table and they just disappeared in their own pockets.

The tipping policy was not any more clear in hotels. 

We noticed how luxury hotels seemed to have a no-tipping policy. 

We had some small rupees handy (the guideline is 50 rupees per bag) each time we arrived in a hotel but the porters in most luxury hotels were very fast to leave to the room. We often didn’t have the chance to hand over the tip. 

On the occasions where we did, they were overly grateful.   

Less luxurious hotels often showed a completely different picture. 

Hotel porters in these hotels would put on a whole show and acted like our bags weighed at least 50kg each. 

They clearly expected a tip and did not make a start to leave the room until we handed them the Baksheesh. 

We tipped the first group with pleasure, but the 2nd group gave us a bad feeling.

“If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay at home.” 

If you have a car with a driver it is also expected that you tip your driver for good service. 

Our driver was always on time and even acted as a guide whenever he could. 

He would tell us more about the places that we visited and would always offer suggestions about the places where we could go to. 

If you’re happy with the services of your driver the suggested tip is 200 INR per day per person. 

If you’re sharing a driver with a larger group you can lower these amounts, a tip of 800INR/day is very generous.

Scams in India

We encountered various small scams but luckily nothing that was too bad.

Most of them occurred in Rajasthan but you will be confronted with them in all public and touristic places all over India, even in temples.

Do not accept any free things that are offered to you.  Once you have accepted the so-called gift they will ask money in return.

Overall we had the impression that things weren’t as bad in Kerala as in Rajasthan but we prefer to share our tips anyway.

A small piece of advice is to not be annoyed too much by these scams.  If you allow them to influence your mood it will just ruin your experience.  Let it go and move on. It’s not worth ruining your trip over it.

Know how much you need to pay

We experienced how Indians shamelessly dared to ask a twentyfold of the official price for snacks or drinks. 

A coke in an ordinary Indian supermarket was suddenly more expensive than what we would pay in a fancy bistro along the Champs-Elysée. 

Although you clearly know that this cannot be correct it’s hard to negotiate a fair price if you do not know this price. 

After we overpaid once our driver showed us where could find the official price.

All drinks and snacks should have the price printed on them.  If the bottle or package is not showing the price or the price has been barred just move on and find a trustworthy seller.

We visited most sites with our driver and when we did he told us the entry fees we needed to pay. 

Most of the time these were also clearly indicated at the ticket offices. Prices for foreigners are more expensive than those for locals. 

Luckily the difference is not that big here than it was in the North where foreigners often paid the fifteenfold or twentyfold of locals.

Most entrance fees can be paid with a credit card or cash. 

Monuments that are run by the government often have some discount for credit card payments. 

 When paying cash make sure to check your change, short-changing is not uncommon in India.

The chances are smaller that they will try to pull short-changing tricks on you if you clearly show the notes that you hand over or even mention how much cash you give them.

Something else we experienced, although in New Delhi, is that people pretended to be ticket vendors although the entrance is free. 

This happened at the Jama Masjid mosque. 

Scammers stopped us at the entrance and rather aggressively asked us to pay 300 INR per person and an additional 300 INR for each camera.

Because we knew the entrance was free we ended up only paying the camera fee and saved 600 INR.

2 days in Jaipur, a detailed itinerary. 

If you plan on visiting any monuments look up the price online before you go.

Adapter for electrical appliances

India uses a mix of electrical plugs type C (also known as Europlug), D and M .  The type C plug is similar to what is used in most European countries. 

The Type M plug has three round pins in a triangular pattern and looks similar to the Type D plug, the only difference being that its pins are much larger.

Type M pins are used for bigger appliances.

Since we are from Belgium, we did not need an adapter.

If you have problems using type C plugs in Type D sockets you should try to insert an object with a fine tip into the top hole while inserting the plug.

Stay healthy

Maybe it was the temperature that was slightly more pleasant or maybe the kitchen hygiene is just better, whatever the reason was, once we arrived in Kerala we were released of the famous Delhi belly.

We still obeyed the following rules:

Avoid drinking any tap water or brushing your teeth with it.  Try to steer clear from any food that may have been washed in it like salads and order any soda’s without ice.

Indians have the lowest rate of meat consumption in the world. India has 500 million vegetarians, that are more vegetarians than the rest of the world put together.

The country offers perhaps the world’s most fabulous choice of vegetarian food so it may be a good choice to go veggie for the duration of your stay in India.

Undercooked or rotten meat can do a lot more harm than a badly prepared vegetarian dish.

Expenses abroad can be seriously inflated by fees from your bank or credit card.  That’s why I’m a huge fan of my  N26 account.   

The account is available to most EU residents.

 The  checking account  is free as well as the associated Mastercard and there’s no exchange rate provision when you use to card for payments abroad. 

There’s a 1,7% exchange rate provision when you withdraw money abroad but even that is free with  the premium Black Mastercard.  

The app is another great feature of the card, you can follow your expenses in real-time and instantly block your card if you see any signs of fraud.

When paying cash double-check the amount you hand over to the cashier and double-check the notes you get back.  Shortchanging is, unfortunately, a common practice in India.

Also, check the quality of the notes you get back.

It doesn’t matter so much for small notes (anything up to 100INR) but don’t accept any notes over 100 that are damaged or have been written on. 

We had one 500 rupee note with some yellow marks on it and it took us a while before somebody wanted to accept it.

We stayed in both 3, 4, and 5-star hotels. 

The level of service in all of them was excellent but we noticed how the cleanliness was significantly lower in 3-star hotels. 

We found dust on the shelves, old worn towels, raffled carpet in the corridors, sticky tables in the restaurant, and pigeon poop all around the pool. 

What we didn’t find was toilet paper in the public toilets. 😊 Not what we would expect from a 3-star hotel but you have to keep in mind that the standards for cleanliness are different in India.

Indian cities are often very hectic and noisy and we were often happy that we could relax in a comfortable hotel after a busy day.

We would recommend taking slightly better hotels then you usually take so that you can unwind and relax after a hectic day.

Travel Insurance 

Last but not least… I’m not sure how good or bad Indian hospitals are. 

I do want to believe that they have a higher standard of cleanliness than the average Indian restaurant but still, I rather don’t experience it myself.

We never had anything serious happen on any of our journeys around the world but we never take any risks, better safe than sorry…  That’s why we always travel with good travel insurance.

If you don’t have travel insurance yet, check out HeyMondo or Safetywing . Both companies over good travel insurance for a competitive price.

HeyMondo Travel Insurance

SafetyWing Insurance

We had an amazing week in Kerala.

The backwaters are incredibly beautiful and although this is the third time that we visit tea plantations they keep on inspiring us to snap hundreds of pictures.

Kerala has everything you need for a lovely vacation. 

There’re fantastic hotels in all price classes.

One thing I noticed about hotels in India is that the service is always excellent.  Cleanliness is somewhat troublesome in 3-star hotels (we did not stay below 3 stars) but the service remains spotless.

Nature lovers as we are we were definitely charmed by the beautiful nature of the state. 

If we would come back we would certainly do some trekkings and maybe even try one of the bounty beaches to relax afterward.

If you like this article, pin it

Bharat Taxi

Friday 27th of December 2019

Thanks for sharing your itinerary for the trip, Kerala is very beautiful city and there have many places to visit for sightseeing. I really appreciate this post, all images are so beautiful, Thanks for sharing this post.

Steal this 7 Days in Kerala Itinerary for the Perfect Trip (2024)!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories KERALA , INDIA

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Having lived in Delhi for over a year and backpacked (almost) all over this country, I couldn’t believe that I still had the southern state of Kerala to check off my list. 

It’s almost could be considered criminal as most tourists flock to Kerala and rave about it. So, on this recent trip to India, I knew that all had to change! 

Thankfully, India Someday came on board to plan out the perfect 7 days in Kerala itinerary for me to make it happen. 

I gave them the number of days I was planning to visit Kerala and they worked out the ideal itinerary to make the most out of my trip there! It really took the stress out of it, as they booked my transport, hotels, activities, the lot. 

I spent a week in Kerala exploring the historic Fort Kochi, frolicking in the tea plantations of Munnar, and cruising down the Alleppey Backwaters. 

Here is my perfect 7 days in Kerala itinerary, make sure you steal it to have the best trip.

Who are India Someday?

India Someday is a trip planning company that is based in Mumbai, India. They specialise in planning travel itineraries for those that want to go to India but don’t necessarily know where to start planning their trip. 

They have extensive contacts with luxury hotels and cosy homestays so you can plan your holiday based on your budget and preferences. 

I personally stayed at a lot of boutique homestay’s while in Kerala and absolutely loved them! They were so unique and the cherry on top (for me at least) was that they were in heritage buildings so you were living the history while there too! 

As well as places to stay, they can plan out your transport to reach each location and organise activities for you too. So, everything will be taken care of. All you have to do is show up and enjoy your holiday. 

To read more about their services, read my full review of India Someday here.

Did you know that India Someday offer 20% off for solo travellers? As a bonus, add on my code “THIRDEYE05” to get an extra 5% off. That’s a whole 25% off your trip!

How to reach Kerala

• By plane: Kerala is easy to access by flight as it has a huge international and domestic airport. I flew into Kerala from Delhi with Vistara and the prices were pretty reasonable for a one-way ticket at £50. But, if you book further in advance tickets can be considerably cheaper. I always use Skyscanner to book flights and compare prices. 
• If you’re flying internationally from the UK straight into Kerala, you can take a flight from Birmingham, Cardiff, London, Manchester, Newcastle and Edinburgh. Most of these stop  over in Dubai, Doha or Delhi first. 
• By Train: Kerala is also accessible by direct train from Mumbai, Goa and Bangalore. I always book my trains online to save the hassle of the dreaded India train company website. You can see my full post on how to book trains in India here . If you’d rather book on the day, you can get a Taktal ticket at the station but chances can be slim!

How to get around Kerala 

Kerala is not the easiest state to navigate with a lot of places, like Munnar and Alleppey, requiring private transport.

Of course, you can take sharing cabs and public government buses to reach main locations, but after that you’re on your own! 

Fort Kochi is easily accessible from Kochi airport and you can get around on foot but if you’re heading to the hill stations, national parks, and the backwaters, this is where it gets a tad complicated. 

Munnar doesn’t really have public buses and the buses that are there stop quite early in the day.

So, unless you’re staying in the hectic Munnar city, rickshaws and taxis can be difficult to secure and book to head to some of the tourist attractions which are spread out in the hills. So, you will need a private car hire anyway.

Luckily, India Someday booked me a private driver for the week while I was staying in Kerala. This was the perfect way to make the most of my time and I highly appreciated the air conditioning as Kerala was scorching! 

I would highly recommend hiring a driver to explore Kerala, or hiring a vehicle to take you around. 

The ultimate 7 days in Kerala itinerary 

So, let’s get started on the 7 days in Kerala Itinerary! It’s good to note that Kerala is HUGE and so there is only so much that you can cover in one week. 

India Someday was on hand to make sure that I saw the best of Kerala in the time that I had and it worked out perfectly. So, I thought I would pass on this onto you.

In this Kerala itinerary, I’ll be covering Fort Kochi, Munnar, and Alleppey. This gives you the perfect balance of heritage, culture, tea plantations, beaches, and backwaters. 

How to get from Kochi Airport to Fort Kochi 

Kochi Airport is around 36 kilometres from Fort Kochi, so I was glad to have a car to take me there. The heat in October was stifling and the air conditioning in the car was a must!

If you don’t have transport booked you will need to book a transfer to the town after your flight. The airport will have pre-paid taxi services that you can buy at the airport.

I would highly recommend these booking counters as they can save you a lot of money rather than negotiating outside of the airport. 

Bus from Kochi Airport to Fort Kochi  

There is also a Volvo bus transfer service from Kochi airport to Fort Kochi if you would prefer.

This is a great budget option at 90 rupees per head and it does have comfortable seats and air conditioning! There is also the option for Non A/C but it would be pretty grim with the heat. 

The only downside is that these do have a strict schedule for timings. But, if you’re not in a hurry, it’s perfect. 

Day 1-2 explore the historic Fort Kochi 

Fort Kochi is the perfect starting place for your Kerala Itinerary. For such a small fishing town, this place is a powerhouse of history!

But, despite the name, don’t expect to find anything remotely resembling a fort here. Okay, except for maybe one canon lol. 

The current history of Fort Kochi really began when a merchant sailor by the name of Vasco de Gama rediscovered the old spice trade route from Europe. He sailed from Portugal to India and landed on the shores of Kerala in 1501.

After a rather unsuccessful meeting on southern shores with the Zamorin (king) of Calicut, he ended up making an alliance with the Rajah (another king) of Kochi.

The deal was, in exchange for defeating the Zamorin, Vasco de Gama had permission from the Rajah to trade and build in the area. Thus, the first settlement in Fort Kochi was born! 

Many of the Portuguese churches and historic buildings are still here today.

Two centuries later the Dutch wanted to take over the spice route and created the Dutch East India Company, a business that equated to over 8 trillion dollars in today’s society! 

Eventually, the British Raj took over power and built more houses, hospitals, train lines, and clubs for those of the Empire to meet. 

Today, since India’s independence, there’s a perfect synergy of colonial heritage, religious temples, and local culture here. Something you’ll notice very quickly as you wander around. 

Read more places to visit in Fort Kochi here

Places to visit in Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is a tiny picturesque fishing village and so it’s really accessible to explore on foot self-guided.

But, if you were looking for a little bit of direction and to learn some history, I would recommend going on a walking tour with Gully Tours .

The ’spice trail’ walking tour allowed me to understand way more of the history than discovering it for myself! 

On our tour, we visited many of the churches, historic buildings, the sea front and I was really impressed with a lot of the street art in the area.

We had lots of fun taking photos against the many ‘Instagram walls’ and visiting some of the trendy art cafés.

One that particularly caught my interest was The Pepper House Café , it used to be a heritage pepper exchange and now it serves up fair trade coffee. 

Chinese Fishing Nets 

No visit to Fort Kochi would be complete without a visit to the famous Chinese Fishing Nets on the seafront.

The legend goes that a Chinese fisherman named Zang He introduced these nets to Kerala over 500 years ago and they’ve stuck ever since. They are a bit of a tourist trap though, so, haggle if you want photos! 

What I also loved about this walking tour was the fact that we visited the colonial side but also the Indian side of town.

This is where you got to see some of the ‘real’ Kochi, where locals go about their day, sell their wares in the market and eat in cafés once the workday is done.

Click here to read tips on how to not get scammed at the fishing nets!

Where to eat in Fort Kochi

We stopped by a local restaurant called Kayeez Rahmathulla Café which is the most popular restaurant in Fort Kochi with locals! 

It was packed and apparently is that way from morning until night. We had an absolute feast of buffalo curry, Kerala roti, rice, and even chai tea and it cost next to nothing. Such a great way to experience life in the city. 

Don’t miss in Fort Kochi – Kathakali performance 

If there is one thing that you must do while in Kerala, it’s visiting a Kathakali dance performance.

You can visit these dance performances all over Kerala, but I had heard that Fort Kochi has the best places to watch.

I was so excited to see that India Someday had included it on the itinerary – I watched the show at the Kathakali Cultural Centre. 

What is Kathakali?

If you’re not aware of what Kathakali is, it’s a historic dance that is inspired by the Hindu epic the Ramayan.

Performers have to train for over six years to be able to perform the craft; that’s the dancers, drummers, singers, and even the makeup artists too! 

What to expect in a Kathakali dance

The first half of the performance is to watch the makeup being applied. The performers apply this themselves and only use natural products with coconut oils.

In Kathakali the characters have yellow and green faces. So, they apply natural face paints to get into character. 

The performers even put flower seeds in their eyes to make their eyes go red – they’re really dedicated to the craft!

Once the makeup has been applied, you learn a little bit about the training for Kathakali.

There is no talking during the performances but the performers learn to move their facial muscles, eyes, hands, legs, eyebrows, and pretty much all of their bodies to make a dancing ‘language’. No wonder it takes years to perfect, as there is so much to remember!

The dancing part of the show was incredible. The storytelling through the body movements was fascinating to watch and, although I didn’t understand all of it, you could definitely tell most of the story by the body language.

Luckily, the centre give you a piece of paper with the story on it beforehand so you can keep up. 

I would highly recommend a visit while you’re in Kerala!

Read more of my top tips for watching a Kathakali show in Kerala

Where to stay in Fort Kochi – Delight Homestay

I was really pleased with the accommodation that India Someday had chosen for me here. I’m a massive fan of historic cities and the fact that I was staying in a heritage property was the cherry on top!

Delight Homestay is one of the oldest homestays in Fort Kochi that dates back 200 years during the Dutch period. The building had so much character and a beautiful garden full of flowers, orchids, trees growing fruits and they even grew their own vegetables here! 

My room was spacious with a double bed, mirror, wardrobes, living area, air conditioning (needed with the heat), and a clean bathroom too.

Every morning I would enjoy breakfast with the family and get to know them a little better. It was such a little cosy retreat and I couldn’t have asked for more. 

The homestay is only a few minutes from the seafront and some of the main attractions in Fort Kochi, so it’s an amazing base for a few days of sightseeing here.

Read my full review of this incredible Delight homestay here

Days 3-5 ascend to the Hills of Munnar

After a few scorching hot days in Fort Kochi, I was really excited to head up to Munnar Hill Station to beat the heat!

Once again, I was really happy that India Someday had booked me a car to get here as there aren’t really any buses that make the journey. Many people drive their own cars, hire a car or take private taxis to get to the top.

Munnar is like an emerald paradise with waterfalls and rolling hills that go on for miles! It’s also famous for its main export, tea, so you’ll see (and taste!) lot’s of it when you’re here.

This hill station is incredibly touristy making a lot of the attractions overcrowded.

It also didn’t help I was visiting over a holiday, so everyone was making their way up here for a few days. But, there are some parts of Munnar where you can explore without endless people – more on that later.

How to get from Fort Kochi to Munnar 

The journey from Fort Kochi to Munnar will take you around 4-5 hours due to the winding switchback roads.

Thankfully, as it’s a big tourist destination, the roads are really well laid and so you don’t have to worry about a bumpy journey.

However, there will be quite a lot of traffic on the way up and some parts of the roads are under construction. But, I was in safe hands with my driver Suresh, who knew how to handle them. 

There aren’t really any tourist buses that head up from Fort Kochi to Munnar and the public buses looked like a bit of a dice with death. So, I would definitely opt for a shared or private taxi to take you up to the hill. 

The benefit of taking a private taxi is that you’ll be able to stop off at places along the way. A lot of places are like tacky ayurvedic shops, spice farms, and even elephant riding centres which I DO NOT recommend. But, I’ll go through some places with natural beauty to stop off at below. 

Read my complete guide to this Kochi to Munnar road trip with sightseeing, food stops, and viewpoints here

Places to stop on the way from Fort Kochi to Munnar 

There are a couple of waterfalls that you have to stop off on your way up to Munnar.

You’ll instantly know the places as you’ll see lots of cars parked up before you get there and there is a reason for that; they are drop-dead gorgeous!

We stopped at two of the most popular waterfalls; Valara & Cheeyapara waterfalls.

The first one, Cheeyapara, was a big photo spot and I’ve never seen so many selfie sticks being taken out. Of course, I had to join in the fun and get a photo.

The second was Valara and apparently, even though it was roaring, this was a light flow compared to monsoon season!  

If you’re looking for places to stop off for food then I would highly recommend The Clay Oven. This place was super clean, the food was hygienic and the toilets were lovely, if you needed a clean bathroom break! 

My driver recommended trying the Kerala feast which was like a thali on a banana leaf. Eating curry on a banana leaf is traditional here so I guess it had to be done.

When the Clay Oven said ‘feast’, I really didn’t know what I was in for! I was a massive plate of rice and around ten little dishes full of curry, chutney’s, dal and then there was even pudding with banana chips and a banana on the side. Then, to wash it all down I had a freshly squeezed pineapple juice. 

Safe to say I was so stuffed afterward but it was incredible local and organic food. The whole bill came to about 270 rupees (£3!) which was a steal.

Places to visit in Munnar 

Munnar is any nature lovers paradise and many visit simply for the epic views alone! But, there are plenty of things to do in the area, so make sure you leave a couple of days to really get the most out of it. 

Read more: 20+ tourist places to visit in Munnar!

Wildlife and Nature Parks

If you’re into wildlife then you have to visit one of the National Parks. We decided to visit Erivakulum National Park where you can have the chance to spot an endangered Nilgiri Tahr deer.

At one point when the British were here, the Nilgiri Tahr almost became endangered with so much hunting taking place. But, now they are protected in this park and there’s lots of conservation going on. 

I was really impressed with the care taken towards the environment too, like no jeeps touring around and people were allowed to walk for the chance to spot one. We were lucky and got to spot not one but three of them near the end gate.

If you didn’t fancy splashing out on a parking ticket, then there is plenty of wildlife to see roaming free on the roadsides. I was really lucky and had the chance to see wild elephants, nilgiri lankur’s, and wild buffalo!

Click here for my essential tips for Erivakulam before you visit

Top Station Route

Did you know that Munnar is close to the border of Tamil Nadu? So, you can head on up to Top Station to see the old trading post of the British Raj. But, you may not see great views on a cloudy day. The best way to see the views is to head out as early as possible before the clouds roll in.

Read more on whether a visit to Top Station is worth it!

There’s also many waterfalls that you can visit and even swim by like Lakkam Falls.

When I went inside, the fish were giving me a natural foot spa. My feet were so soft afterward haha. 

Read more about the gorgeous Lakkam Falls here  or check out the best waterfalls in Munnar here

If you’re interested in seeing some heritage then Munnar has a lot leftover from when the British were here.

Once upon a time, there was a train station that has now been converted into shops or you can visit the oldest church in Munnar.

Christ Church Munnar was built in 1921 and it’s well worth checking out. They even have a London Exchequer sign from years gone by!

In the evening, you must visit Punarjarni to watch some Kerala Martial Arts; Kalaripayattu.

This ancient craft takes years of training and originates from the warriors of Kerala long ago. When I first walked into the theatre, it was like a colosseum. I thought to myself, is this going to be a fight to the death?!

The show involved lots of fighting with wooden sticks, spears, swords, and even jumping through rings of fire! It amazing and I would highly recommend it. 

Don’t miss in Munnar – Lockhart tea plantation

I have to admit, heading up to Top Station was super touristy. Every attraction we stopped at on the way had a queue to even to park up which became frustrating after a while.

But, I was super happy that India Someday had booked me on a tour with Route 49 adventures to off-road into Lockhart Tea Plantation.

We took a private jeep off-roading into the tea plantations and I honestly could not believe my eyes. It was endless tea fields, mountains as a backdrop, and not one tourist in sight! 

Route 49 adventures have a permit so that you can access private tea plantations which made the perfect escape! I loved exploring the plantation and I took LOTS of photos while I was here. 

Off-roading in a jeep can be extremely bumpy but it’s so much fun. We also got to stop at the many villages where the tea plantation workers live and see them working in the fields too. 

Read my top tips for visiting the Tea Gardens of Munnar

Lockhart Tea Museum and Tea Tasting

After taking a lot of photos, we pulled back into tourist town again and went for a tour of Lockhart Tea Museum.

This allowed us to see how the tea was cultivated and made into bags for the cups of tea we drink at home! No photos were allowed inside and you had to wear these super fashionable shoe covers… lovely. 

To finish off our tour we went for a tea tasting at Munnar Tea Tales, unfortunately, the power went out halfway through but as they say, the show must go on!

We tried all sorts of teas like Munnar Green Tea, Pekoe Tea, even Rose Tea. I loved learning about how each tea is made and how the type of tea depends on how it’s produced.

Out of all my trips in Munnar, the adventure to Lockhart Tea Plantation with Route 49 adventures was the best. I had such a great time and, if you want to escape the crowds in Munnar, this is the tour for you!

Where to stay in Munnar – Mistletoe Homestay

I stayed in an amazing homestay called Mistletoe Munnar while I was here. It was a little further out of Munnar City but this was honestly a blessing rather than a curse. 

Munnar City is incredibly overcrowded with traffic pretty much all day and night. So, staying a little bit away from the hustle and bustle was brilliant. 

Mistletoe Munnar is a delightful family-run homestay that has spectacular views of the Munnar Hills. 

My room was spacious with a double bed, desk area and I had a huge bathroom! The highlight was my private balcony that looked right over the rolling hills and I absolutely loved sipping on a cup of tea and enjoying breakfast with the view. 

I actually loved the food so much here that I ate dinner here every night. I would always ask for them to surprise me, as long as it wasn’t too spicy, and each night the meals were delicious!

It’s the perfect base for a few days of sightseeing in Munnar which provides peace and quiet.  Read my full review of Mistletoe Munnar here.

Days 6-7 sail down the backwaters of Alleppey 

After a few days in Munnar, it’s time to head back down to the heat. This time, we were heading to Alleppey!  

Alleppey, or Alappuzha, is somewhere that I had wanted to visit for an age. It looked like such a treat to be floating down the backwaters so I was excited that India Someday had added this onto the Kerala itinerary. 

Most tourists opt for a houseboat while they are here to explore the backwaters. But, I was going to be staying on an island IN the backwaters which sounded amazing. 

After some busy travelling and exploring days, I was happy to take it down a notch and relax.   

Places to visit in Alleppey 

I guess Alleppey doesn’t really have that many ‘top places to visit’ as it’s mainly the backwaters and beaches that tourists come to see.

After our journey from Munnar, we headed straight out to see the Alleppey Lighthouse get an introduction to the area. It’s a huge lighthouse that provides amazing views of the ocean, beaches, jungles, and beyond.

Click here for a 24 hours Alleppey itinerary

Alleppey Beach nearby was also lovely, if a bit overcrowded at sunset.

Like with a lot of Indian beaches, instead of sunbathing with towels like in the West, most people simply stand near the shoreline to paddle in the waves that come crashing in.

But, ladies, don’t come to this beach in a bikini! Most people are fully dressed so it will draw a lot of attention. 

Lastly, you’ll definitely want to prioritise a trip down the backwaters !

Most houseboats have hotel rooms, toilets, showers, and lots of amenities most hotels have. So, you can opt to stay on the backwaters or take a day trip in one from your guesthouse/hotel. The choice is yours. 

Where to stay in Alleppey – Emerald Isle Heritage Villa

India Someday booked Emerald Isle for my stay in Alleppey which is located on an island in the backwaters! This was ideal for me as staying alone on a houseboat for the night wouldn’t be the most fun. 

I loved the fact that Emerald Isle was another heritage homestay. It was a farmhouse that the owner’s great grandfather had built over 160 years ago.

When I was checking in, I even got to see the original deed of lands granted to the family that was carved into a leaf of a palm tree! How cool is that?!

Years ago, the hotel rooms that are now open to guests were used for storage on the farm.

They would store rice, coconuts, grain, and all other types of harvests for the family to trade. Nowadays, the homestay has six amazing boutique rooms that you can spend the night in. My room was where they used to store the rice.

I loved the wholesome Kerala food they served every lunch and dinner time at the hotel. They made the most amazing thali with fresh fish and chicken curries, local Kerala rice, pappad, and more. The chef was also so sweet and always asked me for preferences which was a nice touch. 

Click here to read my full review of Emeral Isle Homestay.

Things to do around Emerald Isle

As part of my stay, Emerald Isle booked in a few resort activities for me to enjoy. 

Firstly, I had a tour around the island in a rickshaw, which was a lovely introduction to the area.

We got to see houses on the backwaters with buffalos bathing in the sun, Christian churches, locals fishing and meeting people which was the best part! 

Ayurvedic Massage

Later, I was booked in for a massage. Can you believe that it was my first massage in India?! Which I think could almost be criminal haha. But, where better to have my first massage than at the home of Ayurveda?! 

Before my massage, she asked me to tell her any pain I was experiencing that she could help me with. As a blogger, I’m usually hunched over my laptop or carrying lots of heavy tech, so I asked her to help me with shoulder pain. 

What I loved is also they asked me how much oil I wanted and if I wanted a soft or hard massage. I guess it was my first time, so I asked her to do medium lol! 

It really, really helped me with my shoulder and back pain and I only wish I was there for a couple of days more to have a few treatments.

Sailing down the backwaters on a Shikara Boat 

As I mentioned before, most tourists opt for a day trip on a houseboat. Included in that would be your boat ride, food, snacks, water etc. So, you can spend all day sailing down the backwaters. 

But, the only thing with a huge houseboat is you can only sail down the main waterways which can get terribly crowded in peak seasons. So, we opted for a Shikara boat.

This traditional boat meant that we could sail down little canals and see the locals which sounded far more fun. 

It was great to see the local fisherman, women washing clothes, families on their houseboats, the local ferries transporting locals to where they needed to be. There were also churches, Mandirs (temples), wildlife, swaying palm trees, all as we floated merrily down the river. 

I would highly recommend taking a boat trip for at least a few hours to make the most of it.

Click here to read more things to do on the backwaters of Alleppey!

Don’t miss in Alleppey – Toddy!

Toddy is something I desperately wanted to try in Kerala, ever since I arrived in India over 3 years ago. It’s a palm wine made out of sap that they source from the palm trees here! You may see some bowls that have been placed on the palm trees as you wander around, that’s where the locals collect Toddy! 

Now most tourists will try toddy in their resort or the bottled stuff on their houseboats. But, I wanted to try a more local experience. I was desperate to visit a toddy shack and so I forced my guesthouse owner to take me to one while I was in Alleppey.

Now most tourists don’t touch toddy shacks, let alone a woman entering one.

But, as I had my guide with me, I didn’t see the harm. They’re not really recommended as they use local water to mix the toddy wine to drink. But, a little taste can’t harm you, right?

Toddy wine will cost you a whopping 60 rupees ;) which is a fraction of the price of local and imported wines here. So, you can fill your boots even on a budget. 

The guy who owned the toddy shack was so proud to serve me and asked me to take some photos. So, here’s a little memoir of my toddy shack adventure. It isn’t for the faint-hearted but it was a lot of fun and something I have wanted to do for an age! 

Click here to read my guide on how to consume Toddy safely in Kerala

Where else is there to visit in Kerala?

If you can spare more than a week in Kerala and would rather see some different places while you’re here, this state is packed with beautiful and diverse locations.

If you’re into beaches, why not visit Varkala and Trivandrum. These beaches are a little less touristy and maybe more fun than Alleppey. 

Or, if you’d like to watch more wildlife, why not visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary for elephants or Periyar National Park for tiger where you have the chance to spot a wild tiger. 

If you really want to go off the beaten track then I would suggest you look to Neeleshwar, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, or Vagamon.

So, that’s your perfect 7 days in Kerala itinerary

I really have to thank India Someday for planning the perfect Kerala Itinerary for my 7 days in Kerala.

With only a week, it felt like there wasn’t much time to explore this huge state but I felt like I had the perfect blend of history, culture, hill stations, wildlife, beaches, and backwaters.

I loved the fact that all of the stress was taken out of my travel plans as everything had been booked and arranged for me.

I knew where I was going, where I was staying, what activities were planned and it all went off without a hitch. 

If you’re ever planning a trip to Kerala, or elsewhere in India, then I would highly recommend using India Someday’s services. They’re incredible efficient and organise your trip around your preferences. 

Another thing I loved is the fact that they use local businesses, tour companies and homestay’s throughout the trip.

These homestays are run by local families and they really allow you to meet locals while you’re here and even, in some cases, feel a part of history too. 

I have a whole post that goes into more details about India Someday’s services and how to book here . Click here to  start planning your trip via this link !

Did you know that India Someday offers 20% off for solo travellers? As a bonus, add on my code “THIRDEYE05” to get an extra 5% off. That’s a whole 25% off your trip!

Save this 7 day Kerala itinerary for later!

With thanks to India Someday for sponsoring my trip to Kerala, although I was a guest, all photos, opinions, and videos are my own. 

Sunday 7th of January 2024

Sophie, your write-up is absolutely fabulous! The allure of Munnar is truly captivating, especially with its tea plantations, wildlife parks, and enchanting waterfalls. Your vivid descriptions have sparked my wanderlust, and Munnar has become a must-visit on my travel list. Thanks for sharing the beauty of this fascinating area in India!

Sophie Pearce

Thursday 11th of January 2024

Thank you so much! I totally agree that Munnar is gorgeous. Sophie x

Kailash Rane

Friday 2nd of December 2022

Found your post interesting to read. Good Luck for the upcoming update.This article is really very interesting.

Thursday 8th of December 2022

Vijay Halli

Monday 22nd of August 2022

Hi. Impressed with the tour details. We are 3 senior citizens, me, my wife and her sister planning to visit Kerala for the first time for 6 D/7N. Wish to visit Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady , Alleppey and Trivandrum. Could you please help us chalk out our intenary and recommend places to stay and tour operators in Kerala for this purpose. Pl share contact numbers if available. We are looking for 3 Star accomodation. Thks

Saturday 27th of August 2022

Hi Vijay, that trip sounds lovely. I can only recommend the places I stayed on my trip and they are all mentioned and linked in the article. In Munnar I stayed at Mistletoe in Kochi I stayed in Delight Homestay and in Alleppey I stayed in Emerald Isle Villas. All were great! Hope this helps and have a lovely time. Sophie x

Shivani Uniyal

Wednesday 27th of April 2022

You've perfectly spend your 7 days in kerala, relaxing and exploring too without any hustle bustle

Thursday 28th of April 2022

Hi Shivani, it was a really good mix of busier days and relaxing ones. I would highly recommend Kerala! :) Sophie x

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Kerala with Kids: Guide to the Top 10 Places to Visit in Kerala

I have wanted to visit Kerala since I saw a story on the house boats there on a travel story back when I was a university student. When Dawn from 5 Lost Together offered to write a guest post on this destination, I had to say yes! It’s great to see how much fun it can be to visit Kerala with kids!

Kerala, a state in the south of India, is quickly becoming a traveler’s hot spot due to its exotic port cities, lush backwater canals, carpeted tea fields and rich culture. With direct flights from the Middle East and Southeast Asia, Kerala is India-lite: a more relaxed, but still exotic taste of India. It offers so much for families and we had a great time visiting Kerala with kids.

What you see in Kerala will depend on the amount of time you are visiting for.  Most visitors will want to visit the most popular tourist places in Kerala including Fort Kochi, the Backwaters and the tea fields of Munnar. If you have more time on your hands, you can add on a beach destination and wildlife viewing to your list of Kerala tourist places.

Family selfie in a rickshaw

Taking the kids to India might seem a bit daunting, but we are here to tell you that India can be a fantastic family destination.  It isn’t the easiest country to travel in with kids, but with proper planning and preparation, the whole family will enjoy India.  Our A-Z Guide to India with kids provides lots of practical advice and things to consider.

We had traveled with our kids in Southeast Asia, but were intimidated by the Indian subcontinent. The first trip we took to the area was to Sri Lanka where we got a taste of the region.  Our next trip was to southern India, spending most of our time in Kerala. We now feel better prepared to tackle the north with our kids and hope to do that trip soon.

Below you will find our guide to the top 10 places to visit in Kerala and tips for planning your visit.

Top 10 Things to Do in Kerala

Fort kochi (often still referred to as cochin).

Chinese fishing nets Fort Kochi

This will likely be your entry point to Kerala and you want to allocate a few days for picturesque Fort Kochi . Fort Kochi has been an important port for traders throughout history and the British, Dutch and Portuguese have all left their mark.

The city’s most famous attraction is the Chinese fishing nets that line Mahatma Gandhi Beach. These hulking contraptions require many men to lift and lower the nets. Our kids enjoyed watching this ancient process and the locals will often encourage tourists to have a try on the nets for a small tip.

The best way to get your bearings in Fort Kochi is to hire a rickshaw driver to take you around for an hour or two. They will stop at the major sites and probably include a stop at their friend’s shop as well. Must see sights include the Dutch Palace, Pardesi Synagogue and Santa Cruz Basilica.

Kids love rickshaws

Kerala is known for its warm and inviting homestays and Fort Kochi offers lots of quaint homestays and guesthouses.  Staying in a homestay allows you to interact with locals on a completely different level.  I learned so much about the culture and life in India at the homestays and many of our hosts became friends in our short time together.  Indians love children and our kids were showered with attention at the homestays we stayed at.

Keralan Performing Arts

Kathakali Performance

Fort Kochi is the best place to see a kathakali performance, where elaborately costumed actors with extensive face paint tell dramatic stories through hand gestures and facial expressions.  Kathakali reminded me of Balinese cultural shows with the style of movement and gestures.  The costumes and face paint are seriously impressive and exotic.

Arrive ahead of the performance time to see the ritual of the makeup being applied.  Our young kids lost interest after the first half hour, but we really enjoyed it.  There is narration in English and while touristy, it was a great cultural experience.

Kalari martial arts demonstration

What our kids liked even better was the Kalarippayat (Kalari) martial arts demonstrations.  The athletes perform steps and postures, often with weapons that will delight the kids and adults.  It was a high energy show without a dull moment.  Our kids were particularly mesmerized by the feats that involved fire.  After the show the athletes happily posed with spectators.  This was one of our kids’ favorite things to do in Kerala.  The Kalari arenas are small and you get to see the stunts up close and personal.

Exploring the Backwaters

This is the experience that most visitors to Kerala have heard about and seen.  The vast network of waterways framed by lush jungle create a mesmerizing sight.

Backwaters punt

or two on the waterways.  These trips will include a crew of 2-4 and all of your meals on the boat.  Many of the boats are luxurious floating hotel rooms with all the amenities you would expect on shore.  However, quality does vary.  Try to see your boat in person before you commit.

The waterways can be really hot and sticky and you may want to make sure your boat has air conditioning.  Mosquitos can also be a nuisance in the humid, wet canals and mosquito nets over the beds are a good idea.

Spend your days taking in the small backwater villages, tasting fresh seafood and fish curries and relaxing.  Depending on your kids, a day of two on board a boat could be really fun or challenging with active little ones.

As an alternative, spend a few hours touring the waterways on a punt-powered boat.  This option is much better for the environment and may be easier to manage with young children.  Spend the rest of your time relaxing and soaking up the peaceful village life at a home stay or guesthouse.  Another great eco-alternative with older children is kayaking through the Backwaters.

The main access point for the Backwaters is Alleppey, 60 km south of Kochi.  However, if you want a quieter location to see the Backwaters, Kerala offers 900 km of waterways throughout the state.  We stayed in a homestay in a quiet, sleepy village practically untouched by tourism.

The Tea Fields of the Western Ghats

Tea fields Munnar

The Western Ghats will be a welcome change from the humidity of the coast.  Munnar is the place to go to explore the tea fields that carpet the hills throughout this region.  The best way to see the area is to hire a driver and car for the day and drive through the tea plantations.  You will want to stop constantly to take in the vista views around every corner.

The Tea Museum is worth a visit to learn about how tea is harvested and processed and our kids actually paid attention to the film explaining the history of the region.

We did a guided trek up one of the mountains and were rewarded with spectacular views over the mountains and tea fields.  A visit to Top Station along the border of Tamil Nadu is another great thing to do here.  Eravikulam National Park is the place to go to see the Nilgiri tahr (mountain goat).  If your kids need a break from sight seeing, our kids loved the newly opened Cowboy Park amusement park at Matupetty Dam.

The road from Kochi may only be 130 km, but it takes about 5 hours to make your way to Munnar.  Plan to spend a few days enjoying the area and drinking copious amounts of local tea.

Ride the Trains

Riding the trains

India has an extensive and well known rail network and is something you should definitely experience.  Our kids loved the open-air carriages and sleeping bunks that folded down.  Yes, the trains are a bit grimy, but that is part of the experience.

For short trips, you can buy a ticket at the station.  However, if you are planning a ride that lasts a few hours, you may want to book in advance.  Some routes are incredibly busy and sell out quickly.  We used a travel agent to book our longer train rides, which was slightly more expensive, but well worth it.

Traveling short distances in sleeper class (the cheapest) is a great way to see local life.  Confusingly, sleeper class is not for sleeping, but will be open-air carriages with hard seats.

We received lots of attention on board the trains and there were always friendly people striking up conversations with us.  One of my favorite memories of our time in Kerala was on a train where we were befriended by a large family.  They bought us chai, squeezed us in next to them and we even kept in touch and met up with them later in our trip.

Stay in a Homestay

One of our favorite homestay hosts with our kids

There are lots of beautiful hotels in Kerala with great amenities.  However, make sure you stay in a homestay at least once on your trip.  Homestays operate like bed and breakfasts and will feel like a real home.  You will be welcomed by your host family and shown amazing hospitality and friendship.  You will have your own room with your own bathroom, ensuring privacy.

Homestays are a wonderful opportunity to truly connect and learn about the local people.  We stayed in a homestay over an important festival and our host included us in the elaborate meal she prepared with their friends and family.  This is an experience we never would have had if we had stayed exclusively in hotels.  A great memory I have is of our kids watching our host prepare poppadums and other foods in a traditional Indian kitchen.

I could go on all day about why homestays are so great.  One of the best reasons to stay in a homestay is that you are supporting small, family businesses.  These businesses allow families to send their kids to college, buy some luxury goods and be self sufficient.

Homestays often include meals in the price and allow you to sample local foods in the region.  Since the host usually serves you a standard meal, you are forced to try dishes you might not normally pick.  This did prove to be difficult for our kids to find foods they liked when we were staying at homestays.

Delicious Food

A typical banana leaf thali

Indian food is delicious and Kerala is no exception.  In Kerala you will find southern Indian food which includes more coconut, local fruits and seafood.  It is fiery nevertheless and I will be honest that our kids struggled with eating while we were in India.  My husband and I loved the home cooked foods we were served in our homestays.  For the kids, even the “toned down” dishes were too spicy for them and they ate a lot of chapatti and white rice.

This is where staying in a hotel and choosing your restaurants would be easier when traveling with children in Kerala.  In the touristy areas, you can find Western foods and our kids were happy for chips and fried chicken.  Even in Indian restaurants, they will usually have a Chinese section of the menu with non-spicy options. Our kids liked the Manchurian dishes which were sweet, as opposed to spicy.

For the adults, there are so many great things to eat in southern India.  Dosa, a thin crepe served with a lentil soup mixture and coconut chutney is great at breakfast or any time of day.  If you want a thali, in Kerala it will often be called simply a meal and will include a variety of curries on a stainless plate or banana leaf.  Don’t forget to try other southern classics like pottu and appam.

Malabar Beaches

Varkala Beach

If you are in Kerala for more than a week, I would suggest adding a beach destination to your itinerary.  The Malabar coast experiences two rainy seasons during the year.  We visited at the tail end of the monsoon and it didn’t impact our trip at all.  Rain, if it does come, only lasts for an hour.  The added benefit is the area is very green at this time of year.

Just south of Kochi and the Backwaters, Varkala is my pick for a beautiful beach with dramatic cliffs along the coast.  This is a backpacker focused area with some smaller resorts and lots of yoga and surfing.  The sea can be quite rough here depending on what season it is, so you will need to be careful with kids.

I recommend choosing a place with a pool to allow the kids to swim no matter how rough the sea is.  We loved super chilled Varkala with its cliff top restaurants and shops.  Watching the sunset go down each evening while enjoying a blend of Indian and western foods, made both us and the kids happy.

Other good beach options are Kovalam in the south and Kannur in the north.  Kannur is 5 hours north of Kochi by train and definitely feels off the beaten path.

See Some Wildlife

Elephant in the wild at Wayanad

India is home to some magnificent wildlife and the lush terrain of Kerala offers up some great wildlife viewing opportunities.  Staying close to Kochi, Periyar National Park is the logical choice.  This can be combined with a trip inland to Munnar.  However, I wouldn’t recommend it.  We found the price of entry expensive, hardly saw any wildlife and they restrict children under 12 from many of the excursions.

Instead, if you have time head north-east to Wayanad.  This rural area is home to the largest group of Asian elephants in the world and we were lucky enough to see a beautiful one on safari.  Wayanad is pure and untouched.  The forests and mountains of the region are great for treks if you are traveling with older children.

Visit During a Festival

Onam flower decoration

We were lucky enough to be in Kerala during the very important Onam celebrations.  Onam is a Hindu harvest festival celebrated in the south in August-September.  During the weeks leading up to Onam, homes and public spaces are decorated with beautiful designs and patterns made out of flowers.  There are boat races, tiger parades, martial arts performances and so much more.

The celebrations culminate in Onam Sadya where a feast is prepared of up to 30 important dishes.  We felt so blessed to have been welcomed into our homestay hosts’ kitchen to share this important meal with them.

Check the calendar when you plan your visit and if there is a special celebration or festival happening, plan to incorporate that into your trip.  Culturally, it adds such great depth to your visit when you can see these elaborate rituals and celebrations.

Kerala Budget

Kerala is a great destination on any budget.  There are luxurious and lavish hotels and guesthouses catering to couples and families that have a high level of service and western style amenities.  These hotels are excellent value as you get luxury at mid-range prices.  There are also lots of budget options available as India has a very low cost of living.

Our budget was $120 AUD/day for our family of 5.  This included our accommodation, all meals, transport and any activities or excursions we did.  We stayed in small homestays, often eating at the homestays and avoided tourist restaurants and expensive excursions.

Getting Around Kerala

You may have heard about how crazy Indian roads are and it is completely true.  Even in the more laid back south, we found the chaos on the roads a bit scary.  There are three ways I would recommend getting between cities.

The first is to hire a car and driver for your entire trip.  This is very common in South Asia and reasonably priced.  We paid $45 AUD/day to have a 5 seater Innova with driver.

You will want to specify that the car has working seatbelts and air conditioning, the driver speaks English and you want to request a safe driver.  We really emphasized this with the travel agent we booked with after having one too many taxi drivers that thought they were race car drivers.

The daily rate includes the driver’s food and nightly accommodation.  Of course you will want to provide the driver with a substantial tip (at least 15%) if you were happy with his services, as the drivers themselves don’t make a lot.   Alternatively, you can hire a car and driver for just a trip between two points.

Renting a car with driver

The second is to take at least one train journey in Kerala.  As I mentioned above, riding an Indian train is a cultural experience in itself.  Even if it is just for a couple of hours, give it a try.  In Kerala, the main train line runs north-south.

The third way to get around is by using the local buses.  We did this a few times and, although they are not terribly comfortable, the extensive network makes getting anywhere fairly easy.  The caveat is that it will take a really long time.  Plan on averaging 20 km/hr.  There are no freeways in Kerala and the roads are so clogged up with traffic that it is impossible to get anywhere quickly.

Our Verdict

We absolutely loved our time in Kerala and found it to be a great destination with kids. Between the colonial Fort Kochi, the lush Backwaters, the green tea fields and rich culture of the region there was so much to love. Kerala provides a great introduction to India.  It is still exotic and culturally rich whilst not being as overwhelming as the North.

You can read more about Dawn and her family’s adventures at 5 Lost Together   and find them on  Facebook , Instagram and Pinterest .

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Kerala, the place of destined beauty is one of the most popular and most visited place in the Southern part of India. People from across the globe come to this place to enjoy the eternal and blissful beauty and capture it forever.

If holidays are at your door and you are thinking of spending your vacation in this Paradise, send to us your details about the trip and we will make a special quote for you. You can also customize your package as per your need.

We provide packages for family tour, group tour and Honeymoon tours. This is a 5 Days and 4 nights stay package.

5 Days Kerala Family Tour Packages

Make a plan with your family and enjoy a mesmerising Kerala Tour. Our executives will help you in getting the information of your Kerala Family Holiday before and after reaching the destination. They will keep all the updates in your trip.

5 Days 4 Nights Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey Family Package

Locations : Munnar (2 Nights), Thekkady (1 Night), Alleppey Houseboat(1 Night)

Starting Price   ₹ 11,300 / Person

Munnar , the top stations in Kerala  surrounded by fabulous attractions like tea gardens, waterfalls, etc. You can enjoy beautiful vision of flora and fauna in Thekkady, is famous about its Periyar national park.

5 Days 4 Nights Munnar, Alleppey, Kochi Family Tour Package

Locations : Munnar (2 Nights), Alleppey Houseboat(1 Night), Kochi(1 Night)

Starting Price   ₹ 11,130 / Person

You can enjoy and explore the beauty of hill stations, tea gardens, waterfalls etc. Then move to the Queen of Arabian Sea to enjoy the attractions like Chinese fishing nets, St.Francis Church, etc.

5 Days 4 Nights Wayanad, Coorg Family Tour Package

Locations : Wayanad (2 Nights), Coorg (2 Nights)

Starting Price   ₹ 10,970 / Person

Chembra Peak, Banasura Sagar Dam, Lakkidi View point, etc are some of attractions in Wayanad. Coorg is recommended place for historical and natural attractions. This will be 100% family oriented Kerala tour packages.

5 Days Kerala Group Tour Packages

Make a Kerala Group Holiday Plan with your friends and family and enjoy the exotic beauty of the place. You will enjoy the land of amazing and beautiful beaches and the flowing backwater. You can also customize your trip. Get in touch with us and we will provide the best Kerala Holiday Package.

5 Days 4 Nights Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey Group Tour Package

Locations : Munnar (2 Nights), Thekkady (1 Night), Alleppey Houseboat (1 Night)

Starting Price   ₹ 8750 / Person

You can celebrate your holidays in Munnar by watching Nilgiri Tahr , Blossom international  park, etc. explore maximum natural attractions. Alleppey back waters will be a unique travel experience through the lakes.

5 Days 4 Nights Wayanad & Coorg Group Tour Package

Starting Price   ₹ 8900 / Person

You can enjoy attractions   of Wayanad like Pookot Lake, Karalad Lake and other historical values. Coorg will be attractive and natural travel destinations with varieties to celebrate your group holidays.

5 Days 4 Nights Munnar, Alleppey, Kochi Group Tour Package

Locations : Munnar (2 Nights), Alleppey Houseboat (1 Night), Kochi (1 Night)

Starting Price   ₹ 8970 / Person

Munnar is the perfect destination to stay and more. There are plenty of attractions in Kerala; out of it Alleppey backwater tourism is amazing. So enjoy before reaching to Kochi with your special people.

5 Days Kerala Honeymoon Tour Packages

This package is designed for our newly wedded customers. Kerala Honeymoon Holiday package is best as you can customize and get all the trip benefits as per your convenience. The main attractions for our newly wedded customers are the beautiful beaches, tea gardens, landscapes, moonlight cruise, a stay in a houseboat and many more. We will make your first trip with your partner after marriage an unforgettable one. Book with us to make your Kerala Honeymoon Tour a memorable one.

5 Days 4 Nights Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey Honeymoon Tour

Locations : Munnar (2 Nights) Treehouse, Alleppey (1 Night), Thekkady (1 Night)

Starting Price   ₹ 24,900 / Couple

Munnar and Thekkady holds important roles in Kerala tourism with attractive destinations like Nilgiri Tahr,Blossom international park, Periyar National Park, Bird sanctuary etc. You will get a special honeymoon boat celebration.

5 Days 4 Nights Wayanad Treehouse, Coorg Honeymoon Package

Locations : Wayanad Treehouse (2 Nights), Coorg ( 2 Nights)

Starting Price   ₹ 23,975 / Couple

Wayanad is very special and attractive destination for Tour Packages with attractions like Pookot Lake, Karalad Lake, Edakkal caves, etc. And enjoy your time in Coorg within the lap of Tree house.

5 Days 4 Nights Kovalam, Alleppey, Cherai Honeymoon Package

Locations : Kovalam (2 Nights), Alleppey Houseboat (1 Night), Cherai Beach Stay (1 Night)

Starting Price   ₹ 25,300 / Couple

Kovalam is the famous beach in Kerala. Alleppey houseboat service will be a special time in your early period of marriage. Cherai is the calm and beautiful place for relaxation.

More 5 Days Tour packages in Kerala

Athirapally – Munnar – Alleppey Tour Package Starting from   ₹  7350/- per person

Cochin – Munnar – Thekkady Tour Package Starting from ₹  7250/- per person

Athirapally – Cochin – Alleppey Tour Package Starting from ₹  7400/- per person

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Two killed as car falls into 600ft deep gorge in Idukki

Idukki: Two people were killed after the car in which they were travelling overturned and fell into a 600-feet deep gorge on Kottayam-Kumily road near Kuttikanam here on Thursday. Four were severely injured in the accident. The deceased are Bhadra (18) and her aunt Sindhu (45), natives of Attingal, Thiruvananthapuram. 

The family met with the accident while returning from Kumily here to their home near Attingal in Thiruvananthapuram. Two people among the injured are said to be in critical condition. The exact cause of the accident is not yet known, police said, adding that the teenager's father was driving the car. 

The car reportedly broke the barricade on the side of the road and plunged into the gorge around 3.30 pm on Thursday. The accident occurred on the stretch of the road from Kuttikanam to Mundakkayam. Those injured in the accident were admitted to Mundakkayam Medical Trust Hospital and Pala Mar Sleeva Hospital. Manorama News reported that the bodies of the deceased were shifted to a private hospital.

8-month-old baby, parents escape unhurt after car slides down 100 ft gorge at Peerumedu

Falling tree kills Idukki woman in moving car; husband, son escape with injuries

(With PTI inputs)

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Suggestions on Kerala Trip Itinerary with elderly parents - Kerala Forum

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Suggestions on Kerala Trip Itinerary with elderly parents

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I do not wish to rush and fit a lot as it would make it hectic for them so my intended Itinerary is something like below:

Arriving at Cochin in the Morning (Stay 1N) - Munnar (2N) via Athirapally - Alleppey (2N)- Kovalam (2N)- Kanyakumari and Return via Trivandrum

No of Adults - 3

Dates - Last week of march

I am trying to keep an open mind (Around 50 - 60K on the budget for dedicated car along with Hotel with breakfast) since i want 3/4* properties that offer the best :

1N Hotel Sealord/Hotel Dunes, Cochin

2N The Leaf, Munnar /Mountain Club

2N Lake Canopy , Alleppey

2N Hotel Samudra, Kovalam

Can you please share some inputs if my budget is good enough/more than enough/not enough ? and also what all places would be nice to cover keeping in mind No trekking/Climbing possible,standard walk-able distances are cool.

If possible I will suggest you to travel by 1st week of April becoz off season rates of the hotels will be starting from 1st April 2018.

Please select SUV type vehicle Innova if possible. Are you looking for One room.

Hotel Dunes will be a better choice.

A 15 minutes walk from the enterence to reach the top of Athirappally falls and a 10 minutes trek drone the fall will take you to the bottom of the waterfall. ( Walking is involved to view the waterfall)

Mountain Club is a beautiful resort with swimming pool but it have too many stairs to reach the accomodation, which tells you that the resort is built up on a steep slope. ( better for honeymoon couples or young couple)

You can also look into" The Fog Resort Munnar "

I will suggest you to stay one night on the banks of the Vembanad lake in Kumarakom , you can look into Backwater Ripples , Lake song etc. And One night stay in Lake Canopy . ( it is only 30km difference between Kumarakom ans Alleppey)

Hotel Samudra is run by KTDC IN Kovalom you can also look into The Travancore Heritage beach resort .

Your budget is ok with 3 persons staying in one room with Innova

Thank you so much for the response.

Yes, I am looking for 1 room, going through some proposals from tour operators who are offering Indigo for 3 person. Hope that would be okay.

Also, Thanks for the note on the waterfall trekking, if the path is defined i think we will be able to manage.

Also, Thanks for mentioning about the roads, I am also looking at the Cuckmere Report along with the Fog which seems like a really good option.

Athirappally has rock layer path till the waterfall.

Do a KERALA PACKAGE DEAL with your requirements and listed hotels From "Reputed Travel Companies" based in Cochin, Kerala . Reputed Travel companies are getting minimum 15% to 40% DISCOUNTS during "OFF SEASON" from HOTELS / RESORTS directly on the rack rates, depends up on the volume of business they are doing each hotels.

Mountain Club or The Fog Resort Munnar some of the leading luxury resorts (both with 4 star+ rating rating) with Club stand with Mountain club and The Fog Resort with 5 star standards.

Cuckmere is 3star property. You budget is enough for better resorts.

Enjoy your Holidays in Kerala with Safety and Comforts.

Thank @AgentKerala, so far i have finalized as below:

2 N Munnar - Cuckmere ;

2 N Alleppey - Lake Canopy ;

1 N Kanyakumari - Hotel Seaview ;

1 N Kovalam - Samudra KTDC,

For these properties + breakfast + A/C Indigo for 3 people the lowest quote from some reputed travel companies i have got so far is 59K for the last week of March (25th onwards) as that's when i can manage my leaves.

Do you think this price is too much or, okay ?

The prices seems good

if you decide to visit Athirapally then you need to account for 1 day only for Athirapally visit from Cochin

We had done nearly same itinerary 2 year ago,can go through our trip report https://www.tripadvisor.in/ShowTopic-g297631-i5501-k8621210-Hello_Kerala-Kerala.html

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Suggestions on Kerala Trip Itinerary with elderly parents - Kerala Forum

• Asia    
• India    
• Kerala    

Suggestions on Kerala Trip Itinerary with elderly parents

• Singapore Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
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• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• India forums
• Kerala forum

I do not wish to rush and fit a lot as it would make it hectic for them so my intended Itinerary is something like below:

Arriving at Cochin in the Morning (Stay 1N) - Munnar (2N) via Athirapally - Alleppey (2N)- Kovalam (2N)- Kanyakumari and Return via Trivandrum

No of Adults - 3

Dates - Last week of march

I am trying to keep an open mind (Around 50 - 60K on the budget for dedicated car along with Hotel with breakfast) since i want 3/4* properties that offer the best :

1N Hotel Sealord/Hotel Dunes, Cochin

2N The Leaf, Munnar /Mountain Club

2N Lake Canopy , Alleppey

2N Hotel Samudra, Kovalam

Can you please share some inputs if my budget is good enough/more than enough/not enough ? and also what all places would be nice to cover keeping in mind No trekking/Climbing possible,standard walk-able distances are cool.

If possible I will suggest you to travel by 1st week of April becoz off season rates of the hotels will be starting from 1st April 2018.

Please select SUV type vehicle Innova if possible. Are you looking for One room.

Hotel Dunes will be a better choice.

A 15 minutes walk from the enterence to reach the top of Athirappally falls and a 10 minutes trek drone the fall will take you to the bottom of the waterfall. ( Walking is involved to view the waterfall)

Mountain Club is a beautiful resort with swimming pool but it have too many stairs to reach the accomodation, which tells you that the resort is built up on a steep slope. ( better for honeymoon couples or young couple)

You can also look into" The Fog Resort Munnar "

I will suggest you to stay one night on the banks of the Vembanad lake in Kumarakom , you can look into Backwater Ripples , Lake song etc. And One night stay in Lake Canopy . ( it is only 30km difference between Kumarakom ans Alleppey)

Hotel Samudra is run by KTDC IN Kovalom you can also look into The Travancore Heritage beach resort .

Your budget is ok with 3 persons staying in one room with Innova

Thank you so much for the response.

Yes, I am looking for 1 room, going through some proposals from tour operators who are offering Indigo for 3 person. Hope that would be okay.

Also, Thanks for the note on the waterfall trekking, if the path is defined i think we will be able to manage.

Also, Thanks for mentioning about the roads, I am also looking at the Cuckmere Report along with the Fog which seems like a really good option.

Athirappally has rock layer path till the waterfall.

Do a KERALA PACKAGE DEAL with your requirements and listed hotels From "Reputed Travel Companies" based in Cochin, Kerala . Reputed Travel companies are getting minimum 15% to 40% DISCOUNTS during "OFF SEASON" from HOTELS / RESORTS directly on the rack rates, depends up on the volume of business they are doing each hotels.

Mountain Club or The Fog Resort Munnar some of the leading luxury resorts (both with 4 star+ rating rating) with Club stand with Mountain club and The Fog Resort with 5 star standards.

Cuckmere is 3star property. You budget is enough for better resorts.

Enjoy your Holidays in Kerala with Safety and Comforts.

Thank @AgentKerala, so far i have finalized as below:

2 N Munnar - Cuckmere ;

2 N Alleppey - Lake Canopy ;

1 N Kanyakumari - Hotel Seaview ;

1 N Kovalam - Samudra KTDC,

For these properties + breakfast + A/C Indigo for 3 people the lowest quote from some reputed travel companies i have got so far is 59K for the last week of March (25th onwards) as that's when i can manage my leaves.

Do you think this price is too much or, okay ?

The prices seems good

if you decide to visit Athirapally then you need to account for 1 day only for Athirapally visit from Cochin

We had done nearly same itinerary 2 year ago,can go through our trip report https://www.tripadvisor.in/ShowTopic-g297631-i5501-k8621210-Hello_Kerala-Kerala.html

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Kerala Hotels and Places to Stay

• Important Travel tips for Kochi, Munnar & Backwaters
• Tips for Kerala tour planning
• A Guide on Kerala Houseboats
• Best time to Visit Kerala
• Trip to Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady, Kumily, Periyar, Kumarakom, Kottayam & Cherrai
• Precautionary Medicines..
• What are the details required while posting a query ?
• Travel options in Kerala