Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," is a tropical paradise in southern India, famous for its serene backwaters, lush tea gardens, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage. From tranquil houseboat cruises to wildlife safaris, it offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation.
Trip Idea for Kerala:
Start your journey in Kochi, exploring its colonial history and vibrant markets. Head to Alleppey for an overnight stay on a traditional houseboat, cruising through picturesque backwaters. Next, visit Munnar, a hill station with sprawling tea plantations and scenic viewpoints. Spend two days exploring Munnar’s natural beauty, including Eravikulam National Park and Mattupetty Dam.
From Munnar, travel to Thekkady to experience the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can take a boat ride on the lake and spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Enjoy forest treks, spice plantations, and even an elephant ride. Wrap up your trip by either traveling to Madurai, a temple city, or heading to Kumarakom and then Trivandrum for beach relaxation in Kovalam, sightseeing in Poovar, and a day trip to Kanyakumari.
This Kerala trip offers a perfect mix of hill stations, wildlife, beaches, and cultural exploration.
Primary Itinerary (Munnar - Thekkady - Madurai)
Day 1: Arrival at Kochi (Ernakulam)
Arrive in Kochi.
Explore Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, and Jewish Synagogue in the evening.
Stay overnight in Kochi.
Day 2: Alleppey Houseboat Experience
Drive from Kochi to Alleppey (1.5 hrs).
Check-in to a traditional Kerala houseboat by noon.
Enjoy a day cruising through the serene backwaters, savor Kerala-style meals onboard, and witness the countryside.
Overnight stay on the houseboat.
Day 3: Travel to Munnar
Morning disembark from the houseboat.
Drive to Munnar (4 hrs).
Check in to the hotel, and relax in the cool climate.
Visit the Tea Museum, and explore Munnar town.
Overnight stay in Munnar.
Day 4: Munnar Sightseeing
After breakfast, enjoy full-day sightseeing:
Eravikulam National Park (home of the Nilgiri Tahr).
Mattupetty Dam.
Echo Point.
Kundala Lake and Top Station for panoramic views.
Stay overnight in Munnar.
Day 5: Travel to Thekkady
Drive from Munnar to Thekkady (3 hrs).
Check-in to your hotel and rest.
In the afternoon, visit the spice plantations and enjoy an elephant safari.
Stay overnight in Thekkady.
Day 6: Periyar Lake and Forest Life
Early morning boat ride on Periyar Lake, to spot wildlife in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Spend the day exploring Thekkady’s forest trails, or opt for bamboo rafting and nature walks.
Late afternoon, travel to Madurai (3.5 hrs).
Stay overnight in Madurai.
Day 7: Departure from Madurai
Explore Madurai, visit Meenakshi Temple, and explore local markets.
Catch your return train or flight.
Alternate Itinerary (Thekkady - Kumarakom - Trivandrum/Kovalam)
Day 1 - Day 5: Same as the primary itinerary (Kochi -> Alleppey -> Munnar -> Thekkady)
Day 6: Travel to Kumarakom
After morning activities in Thekkady, drive to Kumarakom (3.5 hrs).
Check-in to a lakeside resort and relax.
Enjoy a serene sunset cruise or explore the nearby Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
Overnight stay in Kumarakom.
Day 7: Travel to Trivandrum and Kovalam Beach
Morning drive from Kumarakom to Trivandrum (3.5 hrs).
Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple and other city attractions (Napier Museum, Zoo, and Palace).
Drive to Kovalam (30 min) and relax at the beach.
Overnight stay at a beach resort in Kovalam.
Day 8: Kovalam and Poovar Island
Morning visit to Poovar Island for a scenic backwater experience.
Spend the day relaxing on Kovalam Beach.
Overnight stay in Kovalam.
Day 9: Kanyakumari Day Trip
Full-day excursion to Kanyakumari (2 hrs drive one way).
Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Kanyakumari Temple, and enjoy the sunset at the southernmost tip of India.
Return to Kovalam for the night.
Day 10: Departure from Trivandrum
Enjoy a morning beach walk or relax at your resort.
Proceed to Trivandrum for your return flight or train.
