How to Plan a 7-Day Trip to Kerala

Day 1: Arrival in Cochin

• Morning: Arrive in Cochin (Kochi), a vibrant city with a rich history. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Explore the historic Fort Kochi area. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church (the oldest European church in India), and the Dutch Palace.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Kerala dinner at a local restaurant and take a leisurely stroll along Marine Drive.

Day 2: Munnar - Tea Gardens and Scenic Beauty

• Morning: Depart for Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations. The drive from Cochin to Munnar takes about 4-5 hours.
• Afternoon: Visit the Tea Museum and take a guided tour of the tea estates. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the rolling hills and lush greenery.
• Evening: Relax at your resort and enjoy the cool mountain air.

Day 3: Exploring Munnar

• Morning: Visit Eravikulam National Park to spot the Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat. Enjoy a trek through the park's beautiful landscapes.
• Afternoon: Head to Mattupetty Dam for a boat ride. Explore the nearby Echo Point and the picturesque Kundala Lake.
• Evening: Return to Munnar and enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at a local restaurant.

Day 4: Thekkady - Wildlife and Spice Plantations

• Morning: Depart for Thekkady, known for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The drive takes about 3 hours.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife such as elephants, deer, and various bird species. Visit a spice plantation to learn about the region's spice trade.
• Evening: Explore the local markets and enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

Day 5: Alleppey - Backwaters and Houseboats

• Morning: Travel to Alleppey (Alappuzha), the hub of Kerala's backwater tourism. The drive takes around 4 hours.
• Afternoon: Board a houseboat and embark on a serene cruise through the backwaters. Enjoy lunch onboard and take in the scenic views of coconut palms, paddy fields, and quaint villages.
• Evening: Spend the night on the houseboat, enjoying a freshly prepared dinner and the tranquil waters.

Day 6: Kovalam - Beach Relaxation

• Morning: Travel to Kovalam, a famous beach destination. The drive takes approximately 4 hours.
• Afternoon: Relax on the sandy beaches of Kovalam, such as Lighthouse Beach and Hawa Beach. Enjoy some water sports or simply bask in the sun.
• Evening: Dine at a beachside restaurant and experience the local cuisine.

Day 7: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kovalam.
• Afternoon: Depart for Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) Airport, which is about an hour away, for your onward journey.

Additional Tips:

• Travel: Opt for comfortable transport options, especially for long drives.
• Accommodation: Book accommodations in advance, especially in popular tourist spots.
• Cuisine: Don't miss out on trying local Kerala cuisine, including dishes like Kerala Sadya, fish curry, and appams.
• Weather: Kerala's weather is tropical, so pack light, breathable clothing and be prepared for occasional rain.

Summary: A 7-day trip to Kerala offers a balanced blend of historical exploration, natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and relaxation. From the cultural richness of Cochin to the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, each day presents a unique experience. Follow this guide to ensure a memorable and well-rounded visit to this enchanting state.