Kerala
Backwaters Destination
4.9 (1540 reviews)

Kerala, Kerala

God's Own Country: Tranquil backwaters, tea misted hills & Ayurvedic wellness

Best SeasonSep to Mar
Ideal Duration5 - 7 Days
Avg Daily Cost₹3,100 / traveler
Typical Weather26°C Tropical Breeze

About Kerala

A lush tropical paradise along India's southwestern Malabar coast, Kerala is revered for serene palm-fringed backwater lagoons in Alleppey, endless emerald tea estates blanketed in morning mist in Munnar, rich spice hills in Thekkady, and ancient Kathakali martial dance heritage in Fort Kochi.

Verified Landmarks

Top Places to Visit in Kerala

01

Alleppey Backwaters & Kettuvallam Houseboat

Day cruise from ₹6,500; Overnight ₹9,500 - ₹22,000

Glide through tranquil canals and paddy fields on a traditional thatched houseboat with authentic onboard meals.

Hours: Day cruises 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Overnight check-in 12:00 PM
Tip: Opt for an eco-friendly Shikara boat ride for narrower, quieter inner village canals.
02

Munnar Tea Estates & Eravikulam National Park

₹200 (Indians) / ₹500 (Foreigners)

Rolling green plantations at 1,600m altitude and home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr mountain goat.

Hours: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Tip: Book park safari permits online in advance; visit Kolukkumalai for the world's highest organic tea garden sunrise.
03

Fort Kochi & Chinese Fishing Nets

Free / Small fee for Synagogue

Historic port displaying cantilevered Chinese nets, Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, and spice spice warehouses.

Hours: Sunrise to Sunset for fishing nets
Tip: Watch fishermen operate the counterbalanced nets around sunset; dine at seaside cafes nearby.
Curated Blueprint

Recommended 5 - 7 Days Itinerary

Day 1

Fort Kochi Colonial Heritage & Kathakali

  • Arrive at Cochin International Airport (COK)
  • Explore Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church, and Chinese Fishing Nets
  • Evening classical Kathakali and Kalaripayattu martial arts show
Day 2

Scenic Ascent to Munnar Tea Country

  • Drive through Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls
  • Check in at plantation retreat amidst mist-clad valleys
  • Visit the Tata Tea Museum and learn CTC tea processing
Day 3

Eravikulam Mountain Safari & Mattupetty

  • Morning wildlife safari in Eravikulam National Park
  • Boating at Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point
  • Sunset stroll through lush cardamom and tea bushes
Day 4

Alleppey Backwater Cruise & Village Life

  • Descend from the hills to Alleppey backwater jetties
  • Board a private traditional Kettuvallam houseboat
  • Savor freshly prepared Kerala meals while cruising past coconut lagoons
  • Overnight tranquility anchored along scenic riverbanks
Day 5

Marari Beach & Ayurvedic Rejuvenation

  • Morning breakfast on the houseboat deck
  • Visit Marari quiet fishing beach
  • Enjoy a certified Ayurvedic herbal oil massage before departure
Flavors of the Region

What to Eat in Kerala

Traditional Kerala Sadhya on Banana Leaf

Sumptuous vegetarian feast with over 24 dishes including Sambar, Avial, Thoran, Parippu, and Payasam.

Best at: Mothers Veg Plaza (Trivandrum) or BTH (Kochi)

Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot Fish)

Marinated river fish coated in shallots and spicy tomato paste, slow-roasted inside wrapped banana leaves.

Best at: Grand Hotel Restaurant (MG Road, Kochi)

Appam with Vegetable / Mutton Stew

Crispy-edged fermented rice pancake with soft fluffy center, paired with velvety spiced coconut milk stew.

Best at: Dhe Puttu or Kashi Art Cafe (Fort Kochi)
Where to Stay

Accommodation Styles in Kerala

Traditional Heritage Backwater Resorts

₹4,500 – ₹12,000 / night
Top Stays:
• Coconut Lagoon CGH Earth
• Kumarakom Lake Resort
• Purity at Lake Vembanad

Munnar Cloud Tea Plantation Bungalows

₹3,500 – ₹8,000 / night
Top Stays:
• Windermere Estate
• Tall Trees Resort Munnar
• Tea Harvester

Budget & Eco Homestays

₹1,200 – ₹2,500 / night
Top Stays:
• Marari Beach Homestay
• Kochi Heritage Home
• Alleppey Palm Stay