How to Spend One Week in Kerala

Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a lush slice of southern India, packed with tropical landscapes, serene backwaters, misty hill stations, and rich traditions. With so much variety in such a narrow strip of land, it’s important to plan your time well. Follow this well-rounded itinerary to experience the very best of Kerala in just one week.

Where is Kerala?

Kerala is a coastal state in the southern part of India, flanked by the Arabian Sea to the west and the Western Ghats to the east. It shares borders with Tamil Nadu and Karnataka and is known for its palm-lined beaches, verdant hills, and tranquil backwaters of Kerala.

Is Kerala Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. If you’re after variety in a single trip—tea plantations, tropical forests, traditional healing therapies, and flavorful cuisine—Kerala is one of India’s most rewarding destinations. It’s also considered one of the safest and most tourist-friendly states in the country.

A Short History of Kerala

Kerala has a rich and diverse history shaped by centuries of trade and migration. Arab, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and British traders left their marks here. It was also a major center for the spice trade. The state was officially formed in 1956, but its culture and language (Malayalam) have much deeper roots.

How to Get to Kerala

By Air:
Cochin International Airport (COK) is the major international gateway, with flights from the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and major Indian cities. Trivandrum (TRV) and Calicut (CCJ) also have airports.

By Train:
Kerala is well connected by the Indian Railways network. Major stations include Kochi (Ernakulam), Trivandrum, and Kozhikode.

Travel By Road:
Buses and cars from Tamil Nadu and Karnataka can easily get you into Kerala. National highways cut through the state, offering scenic drives.

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How Long Do You Need to Travel Kerala?

For a quick taste, 5 days is doable. One week is ideal to experience both hills and backwaters. If you have 2 weeks, you can explore North, Central, and South Kerala at a slower pace and dive deeper into its cultural and natural gems.

How to Get Around Kerala

Take Uber and taxis in cities like Kochi and Trivandrum for short, convenient trips.
Book private transfers to reach remote areas like Munnar and Thekkady.
Brave local buses and trains if you’re adventurous—cheap and immersive.
Join a multi-day tour if you prefer stress-free, pre-planned travel.

One-Week Kerala Itinerary (7 Days)

Here’s a tried-and-tested itinerary that combines the highlights of Central Kerala—ideal for first-time visitors.

Day 1: Kochi

Most international travelers arrive at Cochin International Airport. From there, it’s a 45-minute drive into Fort Kochi, the historic heart of the city.

Check in to a heritage homestay or a boutique hotel, then hit the cobbled streets. Start with a walk past the iconic Chinese fishing nets at the waterfront. Watch fishermen heave in their nets, just as they have for centuries.

Stroll to nearby landmarks like St. Francis Church and the Dutch Palace. For lunch, head to a local café and try Kerala-style fish curry with appam (rice pancake).

In the evening, catch a traditional Kathakali performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre. This classical dance-drama is famous for its elaborate makeup and expressive storytelling.

Day 2: Munnar

Rise early and drive four to five hours into the Western Ghats to reach Munnar, Kerala’s tea country. The winding road climbs through spice plantations and misty hills.

Once you arrive, check into a hillside resort with sweeping valley views. Spend the afternoon visiting the Tea Museum to learn how your morning cup comes to life.

Take a slow walk through the emerald tea estates or book a short jeep safari through Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. As the sun sets, sip a hot chai and enjoy the cool mountain air.

Day 3: Munnar

Start your day with a sunrise hike to Top Station or Meesapulimala if you’re up for something more adventurous. These vantage points offer panoramic views of the Western Ghats stretching into Tamil Nadu.

Head back for a late breakfast, then spend the day visiting nearby waterfalls like Attukad and Lakkam. Don’t forget to stop at a spice garden to smell, touch, and taste the roots of Indian cuisine.

In the evening, cozy up with a book or enjoy a traditional Keralan thali for dinner at your hotel.

Day 4: Thekkady

Drive about four hours to Thekkady, home of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. This area feels like the green lungs of Kerala – dense, earthy, and teeming with wildlife.

Check in to an eco-lodge or jungle resort, then head out for a boat ride on Periyar Lake. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, sambar deer, and possibly even a tiger.

In the afternoon, sign up for a guided nature walk or bamboo rafting experience through the forest. Cap off your day with a hands-on spice plantation tour.

For dinner, try the local specialty – pepper chicken – cooked with freshly ground spices from the region.

Day 5: Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Leave the hills behind and descend toward the backwaters of Alleppey, about four hours by road. This is one of the most peaceful and iconic parts of Kerala.

Board a traditional kettuvallam (houseboat) and spend the afternoon gliding through palm-lined canals. Watch everyday life unfold on the riverbanks – women washing clothes, children playing, and fishermen casting nets.

Enjoy freshly cooked meals onboard featuring Kerala-style prawns, vegetables, and coconut-rich gravies. As the boat anchors for the night, listen to the hum of nature and sleep on the water under the stars.

Day 6: Kumarakom

After breakfast, disembark and make your way to nearby Kumarakom, another beautiful part of the backwaters, with fewer crowds and more birdlife.

Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary if you’re an early riser – it’s particularly active in the morning. Spend your day kayaking through narrow canals or simply lounging by the water at a lakeside resort.

Treat yourself to a traditional Ayurvedic massage at one of the wellness centers in the area. In the evening, try Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf) at a local lakeside restaurant.

Day 7: Marari Beach

To end your trip on a relaxing note, drive 45 minutes to Marari Beach, one of Kerala’s best-kept secrets. This quiet stretch of golden sand is perfect for unwinding.

Check into a beach resort and spend the day at your own pace – sunbathe, read, or take a yoga session. You can also rent a bike and explore the nearby fishing villages.

Watch the sun dip into the Arabian Sea before enjoying your final dinner of Kerala-style crab roast, paired with a chilled beer or fresh lime soda.

Places to Visit in Kerala

Central Kerala

Kochi – Colonial charm, history, and art cafés
Alleppey – Backwaters and houseboats
Kumarakom – Birdwatching and tranquil lakes
Munnar – Tea plantations and mountain views
Thekkady – Wildlife and spice plantations

North Kerala (for longer trips)

Kannur – Quiet beaches and Theyyam rituals
Wayanad – Forests, waterfalls, and tribal culture
Kozhikode – Street food capital of Kerala

South Kerala

Trivandrum – Temples and museums
Kovalam – Surfing and beachside resorts
Kollam – Quieter backwater cruises

5 Must-Do Things in Kerala

Cruise the Backwaters on a houseboat or canoe
Visit a Tea Plantation in Munnar
Experience an Ayurvedic Treatment
Eat a Traditional Sadya (vegetarian feast on a banana leaf)
Watch a Kathakali or Kalaripayattu Performance

Kerala Itinerary Options

5-Day Itinerary
Kochi → Munnar → Alleppey → Kochi

7-Day Itinerary
Kochi → Munnar → Thekkady → Alleppey → Kumarakom → Marari Beach

2-Week Itinerary
Add Wayanad, Trivandrum, Kovalam, and Kannur to your trip for a more in-depth experience.

Extra Tips for Visiting Kerala

Download apps like Google Maps, Ola, and Rome2Rio for navigation and transport.
Buy a local SIM card (Jio or Airtel) at the airport for cheap internet and calls.
Carry a reusable water bottle—filtered water is often provided at hotels.
Best time to visit: October to March, when the weather is cool and dry.

Conclusion:

Kerala is a place where life slows down, the food comforts your soul, and every corner feels like a story waiting to unfold. One week may not feel like enough—but it’s the perfect start. So pack your bags, charge your camera, and let Kerala welcome you with open arms.

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