8 Days 7 Nights Kerala Tour Itinerary from Kochi to Kochi Covering Trivendrum, Kanyakumari, Varkala, Alleppey & Munnar

Arrival in Trivandrum marks the beginning of a memorable journey as you proceed to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India. En route, enjoy scenic coastal views and local landscapes. Upon arrival, explore key attractions including the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari Temple, Gandhi Memorial, and witness the breathtaking sunset over the confluence of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean. Night stay at Kanyakumari.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Kanyakumari. Complete any remaining sightseeing in Kanyakumari before departure. The distance between Kanyakumari and Varkala is approximately 120 km, taking around 3–4 hours by road, including a stop at Poovar.

Enjoy a beautiful coastal drive as you move from Tamil Nadu into Kerala, with changing landscapes, backwaters, and serene beaches along the way.

En Route Sightseeing – Poovar:

• Poovar Backwaters: Famous for its golden sand beach, estuary, mangroves, and floating cottages.
• Poovar Boat Ride: A scenic backwater cruise through mangrove forests and estuary channels where the river meets the sea (optional; charges apply).

After your Poovar stop, continue toward Varkala, known for its stunning cliffside beaches and relaxed ambience. On arrival, check in to your hotel and later explore the nearby attractions.

Varkala Sightseeings (if time permits):

• Varkala Cliff: The iconic red laterite cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, lined with cafés and shops.
• Varkala Beach (Papanasam Beach): Sacred beach known for its natural spring and cleansing dip.
• Black Beach: Quiet black-sand beach located north of the cliff, ideal for peaceful walks.
• Edava Beach: Serene stretch meeting backwaters on one side and the sea on the other.
• Kappil Beach & Backwaters: Stunning viewpoint where the backwaters meet the sea; offers boating options.
• Anjengo (Anchuthengu) Fort: Historical fort built by the British, offering panoramic sea and backwater views.
• Varkala Tunnel: Historical 921 ft long tunnel built in the 19th century for canal navigation.
• Janardanaswamy Temple: 2,000-year-old Vishnu temple located near the cliff, a major pilgrimage site.
• Sivagiri Mutt: Spiritual center and samadhi of social reformer Sri Narayana Guru.
• Local Cliff Markets: Shops selling handicrafts, beachwear, bags, Ayurvedic oils, and souvenirs.

Note: Sightseeing in Varkala will be covered based on available time across your stay. Boat ride timings at Poovar are subject to weather and local conditions. Sights mentioned in the itinerary would be covered only once during your stay at Varkala, even though those are referred or mentioned multiple times.

Start your Varkala sightseeing with an early walk along Varkala Cliff and breakfast by the sea. Visit Papanasam Beach for a holy dip, then relax at Varkala Beach and quieter Odayam Beach. Continue to Azhimala Shiva Temple, admiring the grand Gangadhara statue facing the ocean. After lunch, explore Edava Beach and Kappil Beach, where backwaters meet the sea. Return to the cliff for shopping and cafés, and end the day watching a beautiful sunset over the Arabian Sea, followed by dinner and an overnight stay in Varkala.

Begin your day by checking out from your hotel in Varkala. Ensure all remaining sights in Varkala are visited before departure.

The distance between Varkala and Alleppey is approximately 100 km, and the drive takes around 3 hours.

En route sightseeing spots:

• Kollam Beach – A serene coastline with tranquil views and fishing activities.
• Ashtamudi Lake – Known for its scenic backwaters and houseboat cruises.
• Punnamada Lake – Famous for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race and picturesque water views.

Afternoon: Arrival and Houseboat Experience in Alleppey

On arrival in Alleppey, get ready to board a traditional Kerala houseboat. This floating abode offers a unique way to explore the famous backwaters.

Sightseeing spots in Alleppey:

• Alleppey Backwaters – Navigate through a labyrinth of lagoons, rivers, and lakes surrounded by lush greenery.
• Alleppey Beach – A charming beach with golden sands and a historic pier.
• Krishna Temple – An ancient temple renowned for its architecture and cultural significance.

Evening: Leisure and Return Note

Enjoy a leisurely evening aboard the houseboat with traditional Kerala cuisine served on board. Relax as you glide through the calm waters, witnessing the sunset over the backwaters.

Upon arrival in Alleppey, check in to your private houseboat by 2:00 PM and begin your tranquil cruise through the enchanting backwaters. Glide through narrow canals, lakes, and tiny hamlets while witnessing the calm village life of Kerala.

Your houseboat experience includes:

• Cruise through Vembanad Lake and scenic backwater canals
• Traditional Kerala meals freshly prepared on board (lunch, tea/snacks, and dinner)
• Sunset view from the open deck
• Comfortable stay with a private bedroom and attached washroom

Important Points to Remember:

• The boat remains anchored from 5:30 PM to 8:00 AM as per government rules.
• Deluxe Houseboat: AC runs 9:00 PM – 6:00 AM in the bedroom only.
• Premium/Luxury Houseboat: AC runs 24×7 (only one unit active at a time).
• The crew includes a chef, oarsman, and cabin assistant to make your stay comfortable.

Relax in the serenity of the backwaters and enjoy a peaceful overnight stay in the houseboat.

After breakfast at Munnar hotel, we would start the sights of Munnar.

Munnar Sightseeing (You can spread these sights over your stay depending available time. No sights will be visited twice):

• Tea Plantations – Explore the sprawling tea estates and learn about tea processing.
• Mattupetty Dam – Popular for boating and panoramic views of the hills.
• Echo Point – Famous for natural echo phenomenon and picturesque surroundings.
• Attukal Waterfalls – Serene waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
• Kundala Lake & Dam – Pedal boating and tranquil scenery.
• Pothamedu Viewpoint – Scenic viewpoints ideal for photography and short walks.
• Tea Museum – Learn about tea processing (optional).
• Kathakali / Punarjani Traditional Village – Cultural performance showcasing Kerala traditions (optional).
• Rose Garden – Stroll among vibrant flowers and take photos.
• Spice Garden – Explore Kerala’s aromatic spices and plantations.

Optional: Local markets in Munnar town for spices, tea, and handicrafts.

Check out from your hotel in Munnar. Complete any remaining sightseeing before departure. Munnar is approximately 130 km away from Kochi Airport, and it would take around 4 hours by road.

En route, optional sightseeing stops:

• Cheeyappara Waterfalls – Multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
• Valara Waterfalls – Scenic waterfall ideal for photography and short walks.

After visiting the above sights, continue your drive to Kochi Airport. Arrive at the airport in time for your flight.

Note: Ensure you leave Munnar with sufficient time for airport check-in, considering traffic conditions on the way to Kochi.