Kerala, known as “God’s Own Country,” is a land of timeless beauty, rich traditions, tropical charm, and natural splendor. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a honeymooning couple, or a family seeking a peaceful retreat, Kerala offers the perfect combination of nature, heritage, adventure, and relaxation.
Planning a week-long trip to Kerala can feel overwhelming with so much to see, but we’ve got you covered. Here’s your perfect 7-day Kerala itinerary, covering the best of the state — from backwaters to beaches, from hill stations to heritage towns.
???? Day 1: Arrival in Kochi — The Cultural Gateway of Kerala
Begin your journey in Kochi (Cochin), Kerala’s bustling port city that combines colonial history with modern lifestyle. Once a major spice trade center, Kochi today is a cultural hotspot.
What to Do:
Visit Fort Kochi, where Portuguese and Dutch architecture meets artistic cafés and galleries.
Explore Mattancherry Palace and Paradesi Synagogue.
Witness traditional Kathakali dance performances.
Stroll by the Chinese Fishing Nets at sunset
Where to Stay:
Boutique hotels or homestays in Fort Kochi for a heritage experience.
???? Day 2: Kochi to Munnar — The Hills are Calling (130 km | ~4 hrs)
After breakfast, head towards the enchanting hill station of Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats. The winding roads offer scenic views of valleys, tea plantations, and waterfalls.
What to Do:
Stop at Valara and Cheeyappara Waterfalls on the way.
Visit Tea Museum and walk through lush tea estates.
Enjoy the cool mountain air and relaxing environment.
Where to Stay:
Hill-view resorts or treehouse stays surrounded by tea gardens.
???? Day 3: Munnar — Explore Nature’s Beauty
Spend your full day exploring Munnar’s breathtaking attractions. This region is known for its exotic flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
What to Do:
Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
Check out Mattupetty Dam and take a boat ride.
Trek to Echo Point and Top Station for panoramic views.
Try local cardamom tea and spices.
???? Day 4: Munnar to Thekkady — Wild Encounters (90 km | ~3 hrs)
Next, drive to Thekkady, home of the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s a perfect blend of forest, wildlife, and adventure.
What to Do:
Take a boat safari in Periyar Lake to spot elephants and birds.
Experience spice plantation tours.
Watch a Kalaripayattu (Kerala martial art) performance in the evening.
Optional: Go bamboo rafting or jungle trekking with guides.
Where to Stay:
Eco-lodges or jungle-themed resorts for a wild experience
???? Day 5: Thekkady to Alleppey — Glide Through Backwaters (138 km | ~4 hrs)
No trip to Kerala is complete without a houseboat cruise in Alleppey (Alappuzha). It’s a chance to slow down and enjoy life at the rhythm of nature.
What to Do:
Board a private houseboat in the afternoon.
Cruise through Vembanad Lake and narrow canals lined with coconut palms.
Watch village life, paddy fields, and birds along the way.
Enjoy delicious Kerala-style meals cooked fresh onboard.
Where to Stay:
Overnight on a houseboat with deck seating and lake views.
???? Day 6: Alleppey to Varkala — Relax by the Cliffs (115 km | ~3 hrs)
Disembark from your houseboat and head to Varkala, a peaceful coastal town famous for its cliffside beaches and spiritual vibes.
What to Do:
Relax at Varkala Beach or swim in the Arabian Sea.
Explore Varkala Cliff — lined with cafes, yoga centers, and shops.
Visit Janardanaswamy Temple and Sivagiri Mutt.
Try seafood at a seaside restaurant and catch a perfect sunset.
Where to Stay:
Cliff-view resorts or Ayurvedic wellness retreats
???? Day 7: Varkala to Trivandrum — Final Day in Kerala (45 km | ~1.5 hrs)
On your final day, travel to Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), the capital of Kerala. Use this time to visit historical and cultural landmarks.
What to Do:
Visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest temples in the world.
Explore Napier Museum and Sri Chitra Art Gallery.
Stroll around Shangumugham Beach or take a short trip to Kovalam Beach.
Depart from Trivandrum International Airport in the evening or next morning.
???? Why This Itinerary Works
This 7-day itinerary allows you to experience Kerala’s diverse geography and rich culture — from misty mountains and tropical backwaters to heritage towns and serene beaches. It’s designed to balance sightseeing, adventure, relaxation, and spiritual exploration, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
✈️ Travel Tips for Kerala
Best Time to Visit: October to March (cool and dry season)
Language: Malayalam (English and Hindi widely spoken)
Transport: Private car hire is the easiest. Trains and buses are economical but time-consuming.
Dress Code: Modest clothing, especially in temples. Light cotton clothes work best.
Food: Kerala cuisine is flavorful! Try dishes like Appam with stew, Kerala Sadya, Malabar biryani, and fresh seafood.
???? Bonus: Wellness & Ayurveda Add-On (Optional)
If you have extra time, add a day or two at an Ayurveda resort in Varkala, Kovalam, or Palakkad. These centers offer detox therapies, yoga, and full-body rejuvenation programs under expert guidance.
???? Must-Pack Essentials
Sunscreen and mosquito repellent
Comfortable shoes for trekking and walking
Swimsuit for beaches/backwaters
Camera or smartphone with extra memory
Umbrella or raincoat (especially during monsoon season