Kerala is a country that is so vast and culturally rich that it can’t really be explored in just a few days – you need at least an entire week! A simple ‘Kerala itinerary 7 days’ search on the internet will give you countless sources of information, which may or may not have detailed information.
But, worry not!
We’ve got you covered with a suggested 7-day Kerala itinerary to help you sort out your travel plan.
So just sit back and keep reading!
Kerala Itinerary 7 Days
Day 1: Begin With Kochi
Kochi or Cochin is generally where many travelers begin their Kerala journey.
Why, you may ask?
The coastal town is located at a convenient distance from Munnar, Alleppey, and Thekkady. Kochi has a significant Portuguese and Dutch influence, and it complements well with Kerala’s own culture.
Even though one day for Kochi wouldn’t really do justice to the stunning beauty of this coastal town, it is quite enough to explore some of the more popular tourist attractions here.
You can explore the Kochi Fort, the famous Chinese nets, as well as several bylanes, cathedrals, and beaches.
Some Must-Visit Places To Visit In Kochi
Fort Kochi
Do you too wish to get a glimpse of Pondicherry in Kerala?
Well, Fort Kochi has a similar neighborhood with all the colorful Portuguese and Dutch aesthetics.
It is filled with colonial-era homes and you can also see the famous bamboo fishing nets.
There are plenty of pretty cafes, upscale restaurants, and beautiful cathedrals here to visit, making it quite the photogenic neighborhood.
Santa Cruz Basilica
Located in Fort Kochi, the Santa Cruz Basilica is a stunning architectural marvel and is one of the most famous Basilicas in India.
The exterior is beautifully white washed and complements well with the pastel-colored interiors that are adorned with frescoes and murals.
If you are visiting the Basilica, make sure you also visit the St. Francis Church located nearby.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM; 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Address: X67V+X48, Bastian St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Mattancherry Palace
The Mattancherry Palace was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. It’s marvelous structure boasts of impressive depictions of the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
The palace also has structures like the traditional howdah (animalback carriage), ivory palanquin, ceremonial dresses, and umbrellas used by the royalty.
Entry: INR 2 for adults, children below 15 years of age can enter for free
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Fridays
Address: X755+8P9, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala – 682002
Days 2 and 3: Surround Yourself In Munnar’s Greenery
If you are looking for the best of the best itinerary for Kerala, chances are you will find Munnar making it to every single one of those.
Thanks to its serene location amidst the lush hills and sprawling tea estates, this hill station is a blessing for anyone looking for a cool destination in South India to spend the winters.
The hill station has some of the most lush tea estates in the country as well as scenic waterfalls and natural attractions.
Also, one day won’t be justifiable to spend in this heavenly hill station, so why not stay here for 2 days?
You can do so much – not just lush green tea estates, but also the Tata Tea Museum, the Mattupetty Dam, Munnar Rose Garden, and plenty of waterfalls and viewpoints.
Some Must-Visit Places To Visit In Munnar
Pothamedu Viewpoint
The Pothemadu Viewpoint is one of the best places to visit in Munnar if you want to get breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Also, if you visit the place on a cloudless day, you might even be able to get a glimpse of the Muthirapuzha River and Idukki Arch Dam!
Address: 3357+VJG, Kerala 685565
Attukal Waterfalls
Munnar doesn’t just have green tea estates and breathtaking viewpoints, the hill station is also home to some awesome waterfalls.
The Attukal Waterfalls, nestled between Munnar and Pallivasal is a scenic natural wonder to explore on your own.
If you’re visiting it during monsoon, the experience will be even more worth it.
Address: 3335+9GH, Attukad Waterfall Rd, Pallivasal, Kerala – 685565
Munnar Rose Garden
Though this city is more famous for its Neelakurunji flowers, it is also home to a cozy little garden full of roses!
Amidst the misty hills of Munnar, the Munnar Rose Garden is like a breath of fresh air with the sweet, subtle smell of roses. You can easily plan a day-picnic in the garden and click Pinterest-y pictures too.
Plus, you can also buy seeds of various plants and flowers here for your home garden.
Entry: INR 20 per person, additional INR 30 for carrying a camera inside
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, all days a week
Address: Aluva – Munnar Rd, Rose Nagar, Mattupetty, Munnar, Kerala – 685612
Day 4: Explore An Underrated Gem – Thekkady
Kerala has plenty of underrated places to visit, and Thekkady is a clear standout among them. It is quite close to the Periyar National Park, so if you are planning to stay here for more than a day, you can explore the national park as well.
Thekkady is home to some of the prettiest waterfalls and viewpoints that will treat you with the most stunning sunset views.
Plus, there’s a healthy dose of Kerala’s culture here, keep reading to find out what it is exactly!
Some Must-Visit Places To Visit In Thekkady
Paradise Parunthumpara Hill Viewpoint
Just a 50-minute drive away from Thekkady is a viewpoint that is located almost 1200 meters above sea level.
The Paradise Parunthumpara Hill Viewpoint requires a little bit of trekking, but trust us, the trail will be worth it.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by otherworldly views of the Peerumedu hills, Sabarimala forests and the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
Address: H23P+53P, Manjumala, Kerala 685532
Kadathanadan Kalari And Navarasa Kathakali Center
Would your Kerala itinerary of 7 days be even complete if you didn’t catch a glimpse of its rich cultural heritage?
Kerala has a well-known history when it comes to the performing arts, such as Kathakali as well as the martial art form of Kalaripayattu.
The Kadathanadan Kalari And Navarasa Kathakali Centre is one such cultural center that is preserving these art forms, so make sure you visit it.
Address: Kumily Thekkady Rd, Thekkady, Kumily, Kerala – 685509
Show Timings: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Suruli Falls
The Suruli River births the Suruli Falls which is located less than an hour’s drive away from Thekkady.
It is a 2-stage cascading waterfall dropping from a height of 46 meters, flows for some distance and then plummets down to an additional 12 meters.
These falls are also close to a set of 5 ancient caves that represent 11th century Indian rock-cut architecture.
It is the perfect place to unwind with your family and friends as you make your way to the next destination – Alleppey.
Even though the place is not technically in Kerala, it can easily fit in your Kerala itinerary if you’re planning to visit Thekkady.
Address: M845+3JM, Near Cumbum, Suruli R.F., Tamil Nadu – 625516
Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Days 5 and 6: Immerse Yourself In Alleppey’s Charm
If you’ve watched the MV of the Hindi song Jiya Jale Jaan Jale, you should know that the song was shot in none other than Alleppey’s backwaters!
Well, you too can live your backwater dreams just like SRK and Preity Zinta did in the iconic song!
Prices for living in houseboats start from as low as INR 4000 per night, depending on your services and stay.
However, apart from its backwaters and houseboats, there are plenty of temples and beaches to explore.
Some Must Visit Places To Visit In Alleppey
Alleppey Lighthouse
This 19th-century lighthouse offers a glimpse into the colonial past of Alleppey and Kerala by large. You can climb up to the top of the lighthouse to take in the panoramic views of the sea and the town.
Right next to it is also the famous Alappuzha Beach if you want to enjoy a beautiful sunset.
There are several other beaches like Marari, Punnapra, and Thumpoly that you can beach-hop to or just spend the evening at Alappuzha Beach.
Entry: INR 20 (adults); INR 10 (children)
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
Address: CCSB Rd, Alappuzha, Kerala – 688012
Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple Alleppey
The Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple Alleppey is one of Kerala’s seven most prominent Vaishnava temples.
It was built between the 15th and 17th centuries by Chembakassery’s ruler and is an architectural marvel.
While you are here, you can have a great spiritual experience and even embark on a temple-hopping adventure.
Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:30 PM; 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Address: SH 12, Ambalapuzha, Kerala – 688561
If you’re planning to spend 2 days in Alleppey, you can also visit the Chettikulangara Devi Temple, St. George Forane Church, Krishnapuram Palace, and Alleppey’s vibrant markets.
That will leave you with one day in Varkala. However, you can also swap it over and spend one day in Alleppey and two days in Varkala instead.
After all, it can not be your best itinerary for Kerala if you don’t customize it your way!
Day 7: Beachside Retreat In Varkala
On your last day of Kerala Itinerary for 7 days, you could drive to Varkala – one of the most peaceful places to visit in the state.
The quaint town is home to plenty of serene beaches, temples, and yoga and meditation schools. In fact, you’d be surprised to see so many Indians as well as foreigners who are here for a silent retreat!
If spirituality isn’t your cup of tea, you can explore Varkala’s hippie-esque markets, try surfing and other water sports, and hop around in cafes.
Overall, Varkala is a truly mesmerizing destination to end your Kerala trip, it doesn’t matter if you are a spiritual traveler or an adventure junkie!
Some Must-Visit Places To Visit In Varkala
Janardhana Swamy Temple
This ancient temple dating back to 2,000 years is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is an important pilgrimage site in Kerala.
The temple also hosts its annual Arattu Festival which attracts thousands of devotees.
Address: PPJ5+QX6, Varkala, Kerala – 695141
Papanasam Beach
Papanasam literally translates to ‘something that cleanses off sins’. In fact, the beach is considered holy in Hinduism as religious beliefs say that Lord Vishnu bathed in the waters there to cleanse himself off.
Jatayu Earth’s Centre Nature Park
The nature park is well-known to house the world’s largest bird sculpture. Interestingly, the sculpture is based on Jatayu, an important character in the Ramayana.
The park offers plenty of activities to do, such as a cable car ride, a museum, and a 6D theater experience.
Entry: INR 400 onwards, and prices may vary depending on the package chosen.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (weekdays); 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (weekends)
Address: Jatayu Nature Park Rd, Jatayu Junction, Chadayamangalam, Kerala – 691534
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Summing Up
Kerala – ‘God’s Own Country’ is so much more than what meets the eye!
Yes you have plenty of serene beaches, majestic backwaters, and magnificent temples, but there are plenty of underrated gems that you can explore.
So, when are you visiting Kerala?
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. Which Month Is Best For A Kerala Trip?
September to March are the best months to visit Kerala, thanks to the pleasant weather during this period.
Q2. When To Not Visit Kerala?
The months between June and August are generally not recommended to visit Kerala. Torrential rains and flooding can cause severe inconvenience to travelers during this season.
Q3. Which Is The Capital Of God’s Own Country?
Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of Kerala – God’s own country.
