10 days · Relaxed pace
Kerala in 10 days: hills, backwaters and coast
Fort Kochi, the cardamom hills, a night on the backwaters and time by the sea — the gentlest introduction to India there is.
Route: Kochi → Munnar → Thekkady → Alleppey → Marari
Day by day
Days 1–2
Fort Kochi
Chinese fishing nets, Jew Town, a Kathakali performance and a spice-market walk.
Days 3–4
Munnar
Tea estates, a working factory visit, Eravikulam National Park at opening time.
Day 5
Thekkady
Cardamom and pepper plantations, an early boat on Periyar lake.
Days 6–7
Backwaters
Overnight houseboat from Alleppey, then a village canoe through the narrow canals.
Days 8–9
Marari beach
Two slow days by the Arabian Sea, with an ayurveda session if you want one.
Day 10
Depart Kochi
Ninety-minute transfer to the airport.
Regions on this route
Questions about this route
Is one night on a houseboat enough?
Usually yes. The novelty peaks on the first evening; a second night suits people who want to read and do nothing, which is a fine reason.
Make it yours
Adjust the dates, pace and hotels
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