Perfect 7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Kerala

Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a paradise of lush greenery, tranquil backwaters, pristine beaches, and vibrant cultural heritage. Whether you are looking for luxury or budget-friendly travel, this 7-day itinerary will help you explore Kerala’s most iconic destinations.

Day 1: Arriving in Kochi – The Queen of the Arabian Sea

Start your Kerala adventure in Kochi, a beautiful port city rich in colonial history and cultural vibrance.

Things to Do in Kochi:

Fort Kochi – Explore the charming old town with its Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences.
Chinese Fishing Nets – Witness the iconic fishing nets at the waterfront, especially during sunset.
Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) – Discover the history of the Cochin royal family.
Jew Town & Paradesi Synagogue – Visit India’s oldest active synagogue.
Kerala Kathakali Centre – Experience a live performance of traditional Kathakali dance.

Best Places to Stay in Kochi:

Luxury: Brunton Boatyard, Grand Hyatt Kochi
Budget: Old Harbour Hotel, Le Colonial

Day 2: Munnar – The Enchanting Tea Plantations

Drive 4-5 hours from Kochi to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its rolling tea plantations and cool climate.

Things to Do in Munnar:

Tea Gardens & Tea Museum – Take a guided tour of the tea estates.
Eravikulam National Park – Spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
Mattupetty Dam & Echo Point – Enjoy boating and scenic views.
Attukal Waterfalls – A mesmerizing waterfall nestled in the hills.

Best Places to Stay in Munnar:

Luxury: The Panoramic Getaway, Fragrant Nature Munnar
Budget: Tea Harvester, Green Valley Vista

Day 3: Thekkady – Wildlife and Spice Plantations

Head towards Thekkady (3-4 hours drive), home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Things to Do in Thekkady:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary – Take a boat ride to spot elephants and other wildlife.
Spice Plantation Tour – Learn about Kerala’s famous spices.
Kathakali and Kalaripayattu Performances – Enjoy cultural performances.
Bamboo Rafting – Experience an adventurous rafting trip inside Periyar Lake.

Best Places to Stay in Thekkady:

Luxury: The Elephant Court, Spice Village
Budget: Wildernest, Jungle Palace Homestay

Day 4: Alleppey – The Venice of the East

Drive down to Alleppey (Alappuzha), famous for its serene backwaters and houseboat experiences.

Things to Do in Alleppey:

Houseboat Cruise – Spend the night on a traditional Kettuvallam houseboat.
Alleppey Beach – Relax at the golden sandy beach.
Marari Beach – A less crowded paradise near Alleppey.
Revi Karunakaran Museum – Explore exquisite Kerala art and artifacts.

Best Places to Stay in Alleppey:

Luxury: Lake Palace Resort, Xandari Riverscapes
Budget: Bamboo Lagoon, Malayalam Lake Resort

Day 5: Kumarakom – Serene Backwaters & Bird Watching

A short drive from Alleppey takes you to Kumarakom, a peaceful village known for its bird sanctuary and luxury resorts.

Things to Do in Kumarakom:

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary – Spot migratory birds like Siberian cranes.
Vembanad Lake – Go on a sunset cruise.
Ayurvedic Spa Treatment – Rejuvenate with Kerala’s traditional Ayurvedic therapies.

Best Places to Stay in Kumarakom:

Luxury: Kumarakom Lake Resort, Coconut Lagoon
Budget: Mango Kerala Homestay, Backwater Breeze

Day 6: Kovalam – Beach Bliss & Ayurveda

Head south to Kovalam, one of Kerala’s finest beach destinations.

Things to Do in Kovalam:

Lighthouse Beach – Enjoy sunbathing and beachside cafes.
Hawa Beach & Samudra Beach – Peaceful spots for relaxation.
Ayurvedic Massages & Yoga Retreats – Try authentic Ayurvedic therapies.
Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple – Explore ancient sculptures.

Best Places to Stay in Kovalam:

Luxury: The Leela Kovalam, Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra
Budget: Beach Hotel Neelakanta, Jasmine Palace

Day 7: Trivandrum – Cultural & Historical Wonders

Finish your journey in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), Kerala’s capital city.

Things to Do in Trivandrum:

Padmanabhaswamy Temple – Visit one of the world’s richest temples.
Napier Museum & Zoo – Explore Kerala’s heritage and wildlife.
Shanghumukham Beach – Enjoy a relaxing sunset.
Veli Tourist Village – A scenic picnic spot with boating.

Best Places to Stay in Trivandrum:

Luxury: Vivanta by Taj, Hilton Garden Inn
Budget: The Royal Heritage, Hotel Galaxy Inn

Best Time to Visit Kerala

Winter (October – March): Ideal for sightseeing and backwater cruises.
Monsoon (June – September): Best for Ayurvedic treatments.
Summer (April – May): Great for hill stations like Munnar and Thekkady.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day Kerala itinerary offers an unforgettable mix of nature, culture, wildlife, and relaxation. Whether you prefer luxury resorts or budget-friendly stays, Kerala has something for every traveler.