8-Day Kerala Trip Itinerary
8-Day Kerala Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Mumbai to Cochin
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Morning:
- Take a flight from Mumbai to Cochin (approx. 1.5 - 2 hours).
- Arrive in Cochin and proceed to your hotel for check-in.
Afternoon:
- Relax and freshen up at the hotel.
- Enjoy a light lunch before heading out for sightseeing.
Evening:
- Explore Fort Kochi and its colonial-era landmarks including:
- St. Francis Church: The oldest European church in India.
- Chinese Fishing Nets: Iconic structures lining the coastline.
- Dutch Palace: A historical museum with Kerala murals.
- Jewish Synagogue: A 16th-century synagogue in the Jew Town area.
- Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at a local restaurant.
- Overnight stay in Cochin.
Day 2: Cochin to Vaikom
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Morning:
- Have breakfast at the hotel and check out.
- Drive to Vaikom (Approx. 1.5 - 2 hours, 40 km).
Afternoon:
- Check-in at your hotel in Vaikom and relax.
- Visit the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, one of Kerala's most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Evening:
- Take a boat ride at Vaikom Lake to enjoy the scenic surroundings.
- Return to the hotel for relaxation.
- Overnight stay in Vaikom.
Day 3: Vaikom Exploration
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Morning:
- Visit Kottayam, just 20 minutes from Vaikom.
- Explore St. Mary's Church, an important Christian pilgrimage site.
- Take a short trip to Vembanad Lake, the longest lake in India.
Afternoon:
- Head to Kumarakom and enjoy a houseboat ride on the tranquil backwaters of Vembanad Lake.
Evening:
- Return to Vaikom and spend the evening at leisure.
- Overnight stay in Vaikom.
Day 4: Vaikom to Alleppey
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Morning:
- After breakfast, drive to Alleppey (Approx. 1.5 hours, 40 km).
Afternoon:
- Board a private houseboat for a backwater cruise through the serene canals and villages.
- Enjoy a freshly prepared Kerala-style lunch onboard.
Evening:
- Disembark from the houseboat and visit Alleppey Beach to watch the sunset.
- Check in to a backwater resort or hotel for the night.
- Overnight stay in Alleppey.
Day 5: Alleppey to Munnar
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Morning:
- After breakfast, drive to Munnar (Approx. 4.5 hours, 130 km).
Afternoon:
- Check-in at your hotel and relax.
- Visit Mattupetty Dam for boating.
- Proceed to Echo Point to enjoy the breathtaking views.
Evening:
- Stroll through Munnar's tea plantations and unwind.
- Overnight stay in Munnar.
Day 6: Munnar Sightseeing
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Morning:
- Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the Nilgiri Tahr and rolling grasslands.
- Explore a tea garden and visit the Tea Museum to learn about tea processing.
Afternoon:
- Visit Kundala Lake for pedal boating.
- Head to Top Station for a panoramic view of the Western Ghats.
Evening:
- Spend the evening at leisure in Munnar.
- Overnight stay in Munnar.
Day 7: Munnar to Thiruvananthapuram
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Morning:
- Have an early breakfast and begin your journey to Thiruvananthapuram (approx. 6-7 hours, 230 km).
- Alternatively, take a short domestic flight from Cochin to Thiruvananthapuram.
Afternoon:
- Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the wealthiest and most revered Vishnu temples.
- Explore the temple complex and its architectural marvels.
Evening:
- If time permits, visit Kovalam Beach for a relaxing walk along the shore.
- Overnight stay in Thiruvananthapuram.
Day 8: Thiruvananthapuram to Guruvayur & Return to Cochin
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Morning:
- Start early and drive to Guruvayur (Approx. 6-7 hours, 295 km).
- Visit the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, a major pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Afternoon:
- After temple visit, drive to Cochin (Approx. 1.5 hours, 85 km).
Evening:
- Board your flight from Cochin to Mumbai (Approx. 1.5 - 2 hours).
Travel Tips:
- Choose hotels close to temples or major sightseeing spots for convenience.
- Dress appropriately for temples (no sleeveless tops or shorts for both men and women).
- For houseboat cruises, bring comfortable clothing and swimwear.
- Pack warm clothes for Munnar's cool evenings.
- Try local Kerala delicacies such as Sadya, Appam with Stew, and fresh seafood.
Enjoy your Kerala journey and make unforgettable memories!
