7 Days Kerala, India Itinerary
This 7-day Kerala itinerary takes you through the best of the state, from the historic streets of Kochi to the tea plantations of Munnar, the backwaters of Alleppey, and the beaches of Kovalam. It's designed to provide a balance of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and relaxation within a moderate budget.
Duration
7 days
Budget
$700-1400
Best Time
The best time to visit Kerala is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, relatively dry, and less humid, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C
Activities
36
Daily Avg
$150/day
Cities
Kochi (1d), Journey to Munnar (1d), Munnar (1d), Alleppey (2d), Kovalam (2d)
Pace
Fast
Kerala, known as 'God's Own Country,' offers a diverse landscape of lush hills, serene backwaters, and spice plantations. It's a culturally rich destination with delicious cuisine and unique experiences like houseboat stays and Ayurvedic treatments, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Your itinerary covers 9 of 12 must-have experiences
Backwater Houseboat Stay
Day 4: Backwater Cruise
Traditional Art Performance
Day 1: Kathakali Performance
Ayurvedic Wellness Retreat
Day 6: Ayurvedic Massage
Spice Plantation Tour
Day 2: Tea Garden Visit
High-Altitude Tea Plantations
e.g., Kolukkumalai Tea Estate (Munnar), Tata Tea Museum (Munnar)
Coastal Seafood Dining
Day 1: Lunch at Fort House Restaurant
Colonial Heritage Walk
Day 1: Chinese Fishing Nets
Dravidian Temple Architecture
e.g., Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple (Thiruvananthapuram), Vadakkunnathan Temple (Thrissur)
Wildlife Reserve Safari
Day 3: Eravikulam National Park (Rajamalai)
Kerala Cooking Workshop
Day 1: Kathakali Performance
Cliffside Beach Relaxation
Day 5: Kovalam Beach
Majestic Waterfall Trek
e.g., Athirappilly Waterfalls, Vazhachal Waterfalls
Kerala's cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, influenced by its coastal location, spice trade history, and diverse cultural influences. Expect an abundance of seafood, coconut milk, and aromatic spices in your culinary journey. From savory to sweet, Kerala offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
Must-Try Dishes
A vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, consisting of rice, sambar, avial, thoran, olan, pachadi, payasam, and many other side dishes. It's a complete and fulfilling meal.
📍 Restaurants specializing in Kerala cuisine, especially during festivals like Onam.
Appam is a pancake made from fermented rice batter, crispy around the edges and soft in the center. Served with a vegetable or meat stew cooked in coconut milk and spices, it's a breakfast staple.
📍 Local eateries and breakfast stalls throughout Kerala.
Pearl spot fish marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves, then grilled or pan-fried. The banana leaf imparts a unique flavor to the fish.
📍 Backwater restaurants and seafood shacks, especially in Alleppey.
Puttu is a steamed rice cake cooked in a cylindrical mold with layers of grated coconut. Kadala Curry is a spicy black chickpea curry. A hearty and traditional breakfast.
📍 Roadside eateries and breakfast restaurants.
Food Neighborhoods
Known for seafood restaurants, cafes, and international cuisine.
Famous for backwater restaurants serving fresh Karimeen and other seafood.
Renowned for its unique Thalassery Biryani and other Malabar delicacies.
Offers tea-infused dishes and local spices.
Kerala offers ample vegetarian options, especially in Sadya and other vegetable-based dishes. Many restaurants can accommodate vegan requests. Halal food is widely available, particularly in Muslim-majority areas. Inform your server about any allergies beforehand. Gluten-free options might be limited; inquire specifically.
Eating with your right hand is common, especially in traditional settings. Using cutlery is also acceptable. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service (5-10%). It's polite to accept food offered to you, even if you're not hungry.
Diwali
DeepavaliFestival of Lights celebrating the victory of light over darkness with oil lamps, fireworks, and sweets.
Note: Book 1+ month ahead for popular cities
Holi
Festival of Colors celebrating spring with colored powder, water fights, and music.
Note: Book 3-4 weeks ahead
Ganesh Chaturthi
Festival honoring elephant-headed god Ganesha with grand processions.
Note: Book 1 month ahead for Mumbai
Pushkar Camel Fair
Pushkar MelaWorld's largest camel fair with trading, competitions, and cultural events.
Note: Book 2 months ahead
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶From hotel in Fort Kochi, walk or take a short auto-rickshaw ride to Fort Kochi Beach.FREE
9:00 AM - Chinese Fishing Nets
Start your day by witnessing the iconic Chinese fishing nets, a symbol of Kochi. Observe the fishermen at work and learn about their techniques. Arrive early to beat the crowds.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk along the beach to St. Francis Church.$1
10:30 AM - St. Francis Church
Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, where Vasco da Gama was originally buried. Explore its historical significance and admire the architecture.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk from St. Francis Church to Fort House Restaurant.$10
12:00 PM - Lunch at Fort House Restaurant
Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at Fort House Restaurant, known for its fresh catches and scenic views of the harbor.
🍽️Create Custom ItineraryAdd restaurants for Lunch
Get personalized restaurant recommendations
Create a free custom itinerary to add hotels and restaurants
- 🚶Take an auto-rickshaw from Fort House Restaurant to Mattancherry Palace.$1
2:00 PM - Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)
Explore Mattancherry Palace, showcasing Kerala murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits, and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi. Check opening times in advance.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk from Mattancherry Palace to the Jewish Synagogue.$2
4:00 PM - Jewish Synagogue (Paradesi Synagogue)
Visit the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth nations, known for its exquisite Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers. Note: Closed on Fridays and Saturdays.
Book on Klook - 🚶Take an auto-rickshaw from the Jewish Synagogue back to Fort Kochi for the Kathakali performance.$10
6:00 PM - Kathakali Performance
Experience a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a classical Indian dance form known for its elaborate makeup and costumes. Book tickets in advance.
Book on Klook
Fort Kochi
Historic area with colonial architecture, art galleries, and close proximity to major attractions.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kerala is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, relatively dry, and less humid, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C. This is peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. The monsoon season (June to September) offers lush green landscapes and is ideal for Ayurvedic treatments, but heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans. The summer (April to May) is hot and humid, considered the off-season with fewer tourists and lower prices.
During peak season, Kerala experiences sunny and pleasant weather with low humidity. Temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Rainfall is minimal.
Winter months (October to March) are the peak tourist season in Kerala due to pleasant weather.
Major Indian holidays like Diwali (October/November) and Christmas (December) can affect travel arrangements and prices.
Getting Around
Diverse options from auto-rickshaws to metro systems in major cities
Metro cards available per city
Use Uber/Ola for hassle-free rides. Book trains via IRCTC app well in advance.
Travel
$100-200 (Flights not included, covers intercity transport)Accommodation
$200-400Food
$150-250Activities
$250-550Opt for local buses and trains for inter-city travel; they are significantly cheaper than private taxis and offer a cultural experience.
Eat at local 'thattu kada' (street food stalls) or small, family-run restaurants for delicious and incredibly affordable authentic Keralan meals.
Bargain politely for goods in local markets, for auto-rickshaw rides (if not metered), and sometimes even for guesthouse rates.
Indulge in an overnight private houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom for an unforgettable, luxurious experience.
Invest in a high-quality Ayurvedic massage or a multi-day wellness package at a reputable resort for profound relaxation and rejuvenation.
When taking an auto-rickshaw, always confirm the fare or insist on the meter before starting the journey to avoid being overcharged.
- Ensure you have a valid Indian visa well in advance of your trip. E-visas are available for many nationalities.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples, mosques, or local villages. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Always remove shoes before entering religious sites and sometimes homes.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of bottled or filtered water. Avoid tap water unless specified as potable.
- Bargaining is common practice in local markets and for auto-rickshaw fares (if not metered). Negotiate politely and with a smile.
- Utilize digital payment apps like Google Pay or Paytm for convenience, as many small shops and vendors accept them. However, always carry some small denomination cash for places that don't.
- Use your right hand for eating, exchanging money, or greeting people, as the left hand is traditionally considered impure.
- Be mindful of local customs and traditions; a polite 'Namaste' (or 'Namaskaram' in Malayalam) is a respectful greeting.
- Confirm taxi or auto-rickshaw fares before starting your journey, or insist on using the meter where available.
- 1Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton, linen) for the warm and humid climate.
- 2A light raincoat or umbrella, especially if traveling during the monsoon season (June-September).
- 3Comfortable walking sandals or shoes that are easy to slip on and off for temple visits.
- 4Insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes, especially in backwater areas.
- 5Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses for sun protection.
- 6A modest swimsuit for beaches or hotel pools.
- 7A shawl or scarf for women to cover shoulders when visiting religious sites or for added modesty.
- 8Basic first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic, and stomach remedies.
- 9A reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste and stay hydrated.
- 10A portable power bank for charging electronic devices on the go.
Indian Visa
Apply online at least 1-2 months in advance. E-visas are generally processed within 72 hours but allow extra time.
International Flights
Book as far in advance as possible for the best rates, especially if traveling during peak season (Oct-March).
Accommodation (Hotels/Guesthouses)
Secure bookings several months ahead for peak season or popular festivals. For off-peak, a few weeks is usually sufficient.
Houseboat Cruise
Especially for overnight private houseboats, book at least 1-3 months in advance during peak season, as they are very popular and can sell out.
Ayurvedic Treatments / Wellness Retreats
If seeking specific treatments or stays at renowned centers, book weeks to months ahead, particularly for longer packages.
Train Tickets (Inter-city)
Indian railway tickets, especially for popular routes and classes, can sell out quickly. Book via IRCTC website/app 2-3 months in advance.
Kathakali Show Tickets
While often available on the day, booking a day or two in advance is recommended, especially for preferred seating or during high season.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airtel stores at airports, shopping malls, and city centers.
📍 Vi stores at airports, shopping malls, and city centers.
📍 Airalo app or website (download before you arrive).
📍 Online rental with delivery to your hotel or airport.
Free WiFi is available in many hotels, cafes, and restaurants, especially in tourist areas. Quality can vary. Some public areas might offer limited free WiFi.
Useful Apps
Purchase your SIM card at the airport upon arrival for convenience. Ensure your phone is unlocked before traveling. Check the coverage maps of different providers for the areas you plan to visit. Download offline maps on Google Maps for areas with potentially spotty connectivity. Consider a portable power bank as power outages can occasionally occur.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two round pins (Europlug)
Three large round pins in triangle
Three large round pins in triangle
230V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10% if no service charge; round up at casual spots
Round up to nearest ₹10–50
₹50–100 per bag for porters; ₹200–500/day for housekeeping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Small tips go a long way.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Kerala is generally a safe destination for tourists. Exercise normal precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
100
102 or 108
101
Available in major tourist cities
Call 112 for unified emergency services
Payments
Cash is widely used, especially for street vendors and auto-rickshaws
Accepted at malls, restaurants, and hotels in cities
UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm) is ubiquitous in urban India
UPI QR codes are everywhere. Carry small cash denominations for tips and small vendors.
Customize This Trip
Get this itinerary tailored to YOUR exact dates, preferences, and budget.
- Personalized for your dates
- Weather-aware recommendations
- Offline access
- Real-time pricing
- Budget tracking
No sign-up required
Quick Actions
Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit Kerala is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant and dry. This is the peak tourist season, but it offers the most comfortable conditions for exploring the state.
Related Itineraries
Customize This Trip
Get this itinerary tailored to YOUR exact dates, preferences, and budget.
- Personalized for your dates
- Weather-aware recommendations
- Offline access
- Real-time pricing
- Budget tracking
No sign-up required
Quick Actions
Trip Summary
Want a Personalized Version?
Get this itinerary customized for your exact travel dates, with weather-aware recommendations and real-time pricing.
Create My Custom Itinerary60sBrowse by travel style: