Kerala, is a land of lush greenery, serene backwaters, tea plantations (some of the most beautiful we have ever seen), and holistic healing through Ayurveda. Throughout the years, we have met so many people from this state who were incredibly kind and warm – offering us a Kerala travel itinerary that was their version of the best!
So, we have blended the ultimate 5 Day Kerala travel itinerary with the most beautiful places in Kerala for you to visit. During our time here we even visited a few additional places that were highly recommended by Google searches – but not our friends. Thousands of great ratings, yet, just like our friends said – these places were not worth our time! So we also list places we recommend NOT to visit.
This 5-day Kerala travel itinerary takes you through the most beautiful places in Kerala—from rejuvenating Ayurvedic retreats to a stay in the extra verdant rolling tea plantations of Munnar, a serene stay in nature, a private backwater houseboat experience and the charming colonial town of Kochi with it’s little shops and cafes offering unique handicrafts, clothing and jewelry.
Kerala India Map – Most Beautiful Places in Kerala
Here is our Kerala India Map which includes our recommendations for visiting the most beautiful places in Kerala:
Best Season to Visit Kerala
Kerala has 3 distinct seasons – Summer, Monsoon and Winter. The best season to visit Kerala overall is the winter season. If you’re looking for dry, sunny weather, November through February is the perfect time to visit. You’ll barely see any rain, just a couple of days a month.
The days are lovely and warm, even though it’s technically winter. Sure, it might get a little cool in the hill stations, but if you’re used to proper cold weather, you probably won’t even notice. Kerala overall gets tons of sunshine in the winter, especially in February.
However if you plan to mostly stay in higher altitudes – places like Munnar (our favorite), Thekkady, Vagamon, and Ponmudi, then they are absolutely gorgeous in March. Think clear blue skies, lush green scenery, and the intoxicating smell of spices.
Since waterways dry up during March and April, you have a much higher chance of seeing elephants and other wild animals at watering holes in sanctuaries and parks during these months, making them the best season to visit Kerala for wildlife watching.
It’s technically the off-season for the state overall, since lower elevations like Kochi and the beaches will be very hot and humid at this time. However, if you’re planning to spend your time in the high altitudes, then this is the peak time and the best season to visit Kerala for the higher altitudes.
Kerala Travel Itinerary
Our itinerary starts in stunning Munnar Kerala India where we recommend you spend at least 2 nights, leading us to a night in Periyar National Park or to the Idukki Wilderness Sanctuary. Next up we visit the Backwaters of Alleppey for a night on a houseboat. The adventure ends in charming Fort Kochi.
Day 1-2: From Kochi Airport to Munnar’s Tea Gardens
Our journey to see the most beautiful places in Kerala started at the Cochin International Airport (COK).
From the airport, we took a 3.5 hour scenic drive to Munnar, Kerala’s most famous hill station with stunning views of the most verdant rolling tea plantations we have ever seen!
Along the way you can stop at one of the many spice gardens/plantations so that you can learn about all the spices that you will be eating while in Kerala. Our favorite of these spice gardens is called: Cinnamon Gardens Spices Plantation.
PRO TIP: If you arrive in the Kochi Airport (COK) in the middle of the night, like we did, then consider staying at the 0484 AeroLounge.
This is a new modern in airport hotel that charges by the hour. We arrived at 2:00 am and stayed for 7 hours for $38 USD. Well worth it!
Where to Stay in Munnar
Munnar has an insane amount of options for accommodations. Here are our favorite ones:
Blanket Hotel & Spa: This resort is surrounded by tea plantations and has amazing views. The spa is known for its traditional Ayurvedic treatments, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable. They also have delicious food, with both local and international options.
The Valle Munnar: This resort is another great choice, with modern amenities and beautiful scenery. You’ll have panoramic views of the hills, and the rooms are perfect for relaxing. The restaurant has tasty regional dishes, and the staff is super friendly.
The Planet Munnar: Although this is a much less expensive option, Planet Munnar is exceptional. It is perched on a cliff and is surrounded by verdant tea plantations, providing great views. The rooms are modern and there is a tasty restaurant onsite. In addition, there are some fantastic hiking trails straight from the property.
What to do in Munnar Kerala India
Spend two nights in Munnar and explore the famous tea plantations. The drive through the hills, especially on the toll road, is breathtaking. You’ll see rolling hills covered in tea shrubs – it’s truly a sight to see.
We have been fortunate to see tea plantations in Rwanda, Burundi, Sri Lanka, etc., and although they were beautiful, they weren’t as stunning as the ones in Munnar. You see, the ones in Munnar are planted in these clumps creating geographic green patterns that are just stunning. Make sure to stop along the way to take photos and even walk through the plantations.
In addition, we highly recommend that you visit the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, one of the highest tea plantations in the world located at 2,133 meters or 7,000 ft.. You can even spend the day there on a Jeep safari or do some trekking. To boot, this tea estate has accommodations (a hut) in the middle of the tea gardens. An unforgettable experience. You will be served all meals with the best tea from this plantation.
Another recommended activity is to visit one of the many extraordinary Ayurvedic Spas. If you are staying at the Blanket Hotel & Spa – it is a good option for massages and facials. However the best Ayurvedic spa in Munnar is:
Ayanam Ayurveda: This ayurvedic spa provides authentic traditional Ayurvedic panchakarma treatments under the guidance of qualified and experienced ayurveda doctors and therapists. Quite a different experience, but is effective at making the body and mind feel better. This place also offers weekly spa packages to rejuvenate.
Now keep in mind that the traditional ayurveda massage bed is quite different from what we are used to. It is made out of wood. Some places do offer the softer beds – but those are rare.
Day 3: Munnar to Periyar National Park (Thekkady)
Periyar National Park is a great add to your Kerala travel itinerary, especially if you enjoy nature and the possibility of seeing elephants and wildlife. It is truly one of the most beautiful places in Kerala. The drive from Munnar is gorgeous and will take approximately 3 hours.
Besides elephants, Periyar has a diverse range of wildlife. You might encounter:
Tigers: Though elusive, Periyar has a healthy tiger population, and sightings are possible, especially during early morning or late evening safaris.
Deer: Sambar deer, barking deer, and mouse deer are commonly seen.
Birds: Periyar has over 260 species, including the Malabar grey hornbill and various migratory birds.
Other Animals: You might also spot Nilgiri Tahr, gaur (Indian bison), wild boar, and various primates.
Where to Stay in and near Periyar National Park
Spice Village, a CGH Earth Hotel: offers luxurious eco-friendly cottages that have verandas and overlook fruit trees. The restaurant offers traditional Kerala dishes and excellent service. There is also a well rated spa here.
The Mountain Courtyard Thekkady is set on serene green grounds with a nice swimming pool in the garden and modern rooms that are clean. There is also a good restaurant on the premises. This is a budget/moderately priced accommodation depending on the season.
In addition, you can stay inside the park. There are a few options for accommodations inside the park including cottages, tented camping and the like. To book accommodations with or without guided trekking inside the park visit https://www.periyartigerreserve.org/
What to do in Periyar National Park
Given our disappointing experience and the reviews on Google, we cannot in good conscience recommend the Boat Safaris at Periyar. The boats are large government-operated ones and are quite noisy and smelly. What animal would stick around when they hear that behemoth coming?!
However the guided treks are great to explore the park’s diverse terrain and potentially encounter wildlife. In addition, the park offers trekking and bamboo rafting combinations.
And it is quite a thrill to navigate the Periyar River on a bamboo raft! Which is quiet and may allow you to see some more animals than the stinky large boat!
There are different types of treks ranging from short nature walks to more challenging multi-day treks. Some popular choices include:
Nature Walk: A 2.5-hour guided walk through different trails.
Periyar Tiger Trail: A more intense trek with overnight camping.
Border Hiking: Full-day treks along the park’s border.
For a full list of activities inside the park, you can visit: https://www.periyartigerreserve.org/ProgramView
Day 3 (OPTION): Munnar to Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
After experiencing the beauty of Munnar’s tea plantations, consider venturing off the beaten path to Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary – this is an option to the more commercial Periyar National Park. This sanctuary, located around the Idukki Dam, offers a peaceful escape into nature.
Reaching Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary from Munnar is an easy and scenic drive, taking about 2-3 hours.
Here are some of the wildlife and birds that you may encounter in the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary:
Wildlife:
Elephants: These majestic creatures are a highlight of the sanctuary, often seen near the Idukki reservoir.
Bison (Gaur): These large bovines are relatively common and can be spotted grazing in the grasslands.
Sambar Deer: The most common deer species in the sanctuary.
Barking Deer and Mouse Deer: Smaller and more elusive deer species.
Wild Dogs (Dholes): These endangered canids are sometimes seen in packs.
Jungle Cats: These small felines are more difficult to spot.
Tigers: While tigers are present in the sanctuary, sightings are extremely rare.
Other Mammals: You might also encounter wild boar, Nilgiri langur, bonnet macaque, Malabar giant squirrel, and various smaller mammals.
Birds:
Malabar Grey Hornbill: This large and striking bird is a common sight in the sanctuary.
Woodpeckers: Several woodpecker species can be found, including the heart-spotted woodpecker.
Black Bulbul: A common bird with a distinctive black plumage.
Junglefowl: The wild ancestor of domestic chickens.
Laughingthrushes: These noisy birds are often heard before they are seen.
Kingfishers: Several kingfisher species can be spotted near water bodies.
Peacock: These colorful birds are occasionally seen in the sanctuary and all over Kerala – keep an eye out while you walk and drive around.
PRO TIP: Get your driver/guide to register your tickets for Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary in Munnar (as the lines can be quite long). Take a boat around the reservoir or book a trekking experience.
Bring a boxed lunch from your accommodation in Munnar and enjoy it prior to starting the boat ride or trek. Keep in mind, you will not be able to bring food inside with you.
Where to Stay in and near Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
The only accommodations that are inside the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary are the Government Guesthouse Idukki. All others are either an hour or so before the main gate of the Sanctuary or after.
Monticle Glamps: These upscale self contained eco-glamping bubbles that overlook the never-ending lush green hills and beautiful ravines of the area are super zen. There is a good restaurant on site and a pool for relaxation.
This will be an additional 50 minute drive after the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary. Therefore you would go to the Sanctuary first and then travel on to this luxury resort.
Government Guesthouse Idukki: These accommodations overlook the Idukki Dam and the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary boating ramp. They are quite spartan but do come with meals.
You can book the Govenment Guesthouse through this site: http://stateprotocol.kerala.gov.in/public_login (it is not linked as you will need to play with your VPN). Prices are very reasonable and give you an opportunity to really be one with nature.
10 Degrees North By Avni Holidays: The balconies from this modern and clean property have gorgeous views of Idukki Dam. There is a decent restaurant on site and the views of the rolling verdant hills is amazing. Prices are on the budget side.
What to do in Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is super verdant and the views here are fantastic. The rolling hills, the views of the damn are very pretty. It is a scenic place to relax. Some of the best things to do here is to go for a boat ride inside the reservoir or a guided trek where the guide can point out birds and other animals.
Although there are elephants and tigers in the sanctuary, you will most likely not see them. From the boat you will most likely see bison, deer and wild dogs. So make sure to temper your expectations.
If you are considering adding Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary to your Kerala travel itinerary and have additional questions, here are a few emails that you can contact: [email protected], [email protected]
Day 4: Houseboat on the Backwaters of Alleppey
The drive from either Periyar National Park or Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary to the Backwaters of Alleppey is approximately 4 hours and it has nice views.
And no Kerala travel itinerary is complete without a backwater houseboat experience. One of the best is Oscar Cruise located on the Backwaters of Alleppey. They offer luxurious houseboats with comfortable accommodations per group.
What I mean is that each group, family or couple get a houseboat to themselves along with a private chef and boat captain. We were blown away that the whole houseboat was for us! This company has 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom boats for overnight stays and even does day trips.
The food is home cooked right on the boat and is delicious Kerala cuisine. While the service is super attentive, cruising through the backwaters of Alleppey is a fun experience. We took a smaller boat (although you can also take a kayak) through the small waterways of the backwaters, seeing folks go about their everyday life.
What was really spectacular, was going down these small canals and seeing rice paddies on each side of the thin canals with small huts dotted along the water. Locals harvesting their crops, doing their chores, bathing or washing clothes. Just the typical life of locals unfolding in front of us. It was really special.
At night we docked in a village and went for a walk interacting with the locals and their cows. Dinner was exceptional and we fell asleep, lulled by the backwaters. I get pretty queasy on most waterways, but the backwaters were super stable, so I did not get any sea sickness whatsoever.
In the morning after a great breakfast we departed the boat. So, we highly recommend a 1 night experience on one of these houseboats for your Kerala travel itinerary.
Day 5: Backwater of Alleppey to Kochi
The drive from Alleppey to Kochi is not that interesting taking about 2 hours. We passed 2 of the best rated beaches in Kerala. However, we would not recommend visiting them. The sand was so littered that we think it was one of the dirtiest beaches we have ever seen – except for maybe the ones in Haiti.
Very quickly we arrived in the old part of Kochi – Fort Kochi. Although this place has a very dark colonial past, the small charming streets here are filled with life. Small cafes, restaurants and handicraft shops offer up their handmade goods from beautiful art, unique clothes and jewelry.
These are not the “same same” mass manufactured tourist goods that you usually see in shops. These are beautiful and unique. As we do not have a home and just roll with our backpacks (which get heavier with each item that we purchase) we promised each other just to look. Although, I had to buy a pair of earrings, rationalizing that earrings weigh very little…
Where to Stay in Kochi
Fort Kochi and Kochi proper has a lot of accommodation options. Here are a few of our favorite options:
Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Cochin is a 5 star resort located across the waterway from Fort Kochi proper. This is a luxury property offering a great restaurant and spa facilities. In addition they have a lovely sunset cruise which runs each evening.
The Fort Bungalow is a moderately priced hotel right in the heart of Fort Kochi very close to all the attractions, cafes and handicraft stores.
Prakriti Homestay: for a budget option, this homestay located in the middle of Fort Kochi has spartan, air conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, a shared lounge and terrace. It’s a good option if you are on a budget.
Where to Eat in Fort Kochi
There are so many cute cafes and delicious eateries in Fort Kochi it is difficult to pick just a few. Here are our favorites:
Kochi Kapital Kafe: A cozy cafe with a relaxed atmosphere, serving up delicious coffee and healthy dishes, including vegan options. The freshly pressed juices are divine. And the prices are quite reasonable here.
Kashi Art Cafe: A popular hangout for artists and creatives, known for its eclectic decor and art, as this cafe is set in a garden. This place is not only a cafe but doubles as an art gallery.
The food is mostly health conscious and has vegan options. The coffee, sandwiches, soups and other light fare is quite good.
Canvas Restaurant & Pizzeria: A solid Italian Restaurant in the middle of town. Good pizzas, pastas and calamari in a nice setting. A bit on the pricey side.
What to do in Fort Kochi
While Fort Kochi may not have a long list of must-see tourist spots, its charming streets and quaint shops are a delight to explore. You’ll also find some beautiful street art decorating the walls as you wander around.
So, while planning your Kerala travel itinerary, be sure to include some leisurely strolls through Fort Kochi to soak up the atmosphere. Here are a few specific attractions you might enjoy:
St. Francis Church: This historic church (originally built in the 1500s) is one of the oldest European churches in India and was once the burial place of Vasco da Gama.
Santa Cruz Basilica: This Catholic Cathedral was originally built in the 1500s. It is known for its Gothic architecture and intricate artwork.
Chinese Fishing Nets: Stroll the waterfront with it’s open air market and famous Chinese fishing nets. You can watch the fishermen in action, and even try your hand at operating them for a small fee.
Kerala Folklore Museum: This small museum is packed with religious artifacts from all over the world. You’ll find everything from ancient manuscripts and statues to calligraphy and relics, representing Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and more. It’s a bit like taking a whirlwind tour of different religions.
Paradesi Synagogue & The Jewish Quarter: The synagogue is located in the heart of what was once the Jewish neighborhood, now transformed into a busy center filled with shops and stalls. It’s a delightful area to explore, making the visit to the synagogue even more worthwhile.
There is only one Jewish resident living in the area, adding to the significance of this Synagogue. Keep in mind that the temple closes at 14:00 (2 pm) on Fridays and is closed on Saturdays.
Kathakali Dance Performance: Enjoy a Kathakali dance performance. Kathakali is a traditional Keralan dance form known for its elaborate costumes, expressive makeup, and captivating storytelling. The best place to see it is at the Great K V Kathakali Centre.
Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace): This palace was built by the Portuguese in 1555 and it was later renovated by the Dutch – hence it’s name – the Dutch Palace. It has murals depicting scenes from Hindu legends. If you are running short on time, then this place can be skipped.
Driver and Guides for Kerala Travel Itinerary
There are many agencies that can provide you a car with a driver. Some of the best are:
Our driver’s name for our Kerala travel itinerary was Lal: +91 82812 81881 (What’s App). He has a decent car and speaks moderate English. Lal made good recommendations for most things and was always lovely and timely.
Wrap Up: Kerala Travel Itinerary
Our Kerala travel itinerary blends all the information that we received from Kerala expats who are friends along with scouring additional recommendations. We came to the conclusion that our friends’ recommendations were spot on and unfortunately most of the highly rated Google reviews were not.
Some of the most beautiful places in Kerala are found at elevation in hill stations like Munnar. If you enjoy nature, then spending a night at either Periyar National Park or the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary and enjoying a night and/or early morning treck will be rewarding – as long as your expectations to see large wildlife are tempered.
The houseboat on the Backwaters of Alleppey is a must to experience everyday life in this serene area and is one of the most beautiful places in Kerala. And rounding it all off with the charming town of Fort Kochi with it’s quaint narrow streets, handicrafts and lovely cafes.
For us, this Kerala travel itinerary was magical. Have you been to the region? What did you enjoy most? We would love to hear from you in the comments.
