A sandy beach with scattered people enjoying the water. Some are swimming while others are standing on the shore. The sky is hazy, and palm trees can be seen on the right side along a rocky embankment. Waves roll gently towards the shoreline.
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The ULTIMATE 1-Week Kerala Itinerary For First Timers

ByChristinaintheclouds Hours Updated on
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Looking for the ultimate 1-week Kerala itinerary? You’ve come to the right place.

The state of Kerala, often referred to as “God’s own country” is one of the most beautiful states in all of India. 

Kerala’s palm tree-lined coastlines, beautiful beaches, lush tea plantations, and tranquil backwaters are every nature lover’s dream.

In comparison to the rest of India, Kerala is a calm and tranquil oasis, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to recharge.

I fell in love with Kerala because it reminds me so much of my favourite place in the world, Sri Lanka, and I am keen to go back again one day and uncover more of what it has to offer! 

While you could easily spend weeks or even months uncovering Kerala’s hidden gems, 1-week is the perfect amount of time for a first-timer to experience the highlights.

During your seven-day stay, you can enjoy Kerala’s serene beauty, explore its rich culture, and unwind in nature.

So, what’s included in a 1-week Kerala Itinerary? 

Read on below to find out! 

A houseboat with a wooden exterior and shaded upper deck floats on calm water, adorned with potted plants on the roof and surrounded by greenery, perfect for a 1-week Kerala itinerary. Another similar boat is visible in the background against a hazy sky.

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Prepare for your trip to Kerala 

?️Accommodation: When you’re hunting for great deals, make sure to check out different sites like Booking.com and Hotels.com! If you’re on a budget then make sure to check out Hostelworld.

✈️Flights: Check out the best flight deals with Skyscanner and Trip.com. I never search anywhere else!

?Transport: Need to book a bus or train whilst travelling? Check out your options on 12goasia.com, Bookaway.com and thetrainline.com.

?Rental Cars: Looking to rent a car for your adventures? Check out prices on Rentalcars.com and Discovercars.com.

?Activities: Check out Get Your Guide and Viator for 100’s of activities whilst travelling.

?Insurance: Make sure you’re covered against any incidents during your trip. Get affordable and flexible insurance with SafetyWing.

?Download an eSIM: Avoid roaming fees, and have peace of mind that you have internet access when WiFi isn’t available. Download sims from either Airalo or Holafly for your time abroad.

About this 1-week Kerala Itinerary

This 1-week Kerala Itinerary will take you to some of the most beautiful and famous spots in Kerala to ensure that you uncover the best of what this state has to offer in this short amount of time. 

It will also ensure that you have enough time to relax as well as to account for travel time between each destination. 

Your Itinerary will look like this: 

  • Days 1-3 Varkala 
  • Days 4-5 Alleppey 
  • Days 6-7 Fort Kochi 
A sandy beach with colorful fishing boats lined up along the shore. A man walks towards the camera, surrounded by palm trees and rustic huts. The sky is overcast, adding a muted tone to this idyllic stop on your 1-week Kerala itinerary. Edava Beach Kerala

Arrival – How To Get To Kerala 

This itinerary starts in Varkala, which is found in southern Kerala,  so you have 2 options when deciding how to get there. 

Option 1 

You can fly to Cochin International Airport and then catch a train from central Kochi down to Varkala. 

The train departs from Ernakulam Junction Station and takes approximately 5 hours. 

To get to the station from the airport, you will need to catch a taxi/Uber. This journey is about 30 minutes and should cost you $15-$20.

You can check out the IRCTC website and 12go Asia to book your train from Ernakulam Junction to Varkala.

Option 2 

You can fly to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport which is much closer to Varkala. 

From the airport, you can order a taxi which will take 45 minutes and cost approximately $30. 

Alternatively, you can catch a train from Thiruvananthapuram Central Station. The journey from the airport to the station is approximately 10 minutes and you can either catch a public bus or a taxi. 

The train journey from Thiruvananthapuram Central to Varkala takes just over an hour. 

You can check out the IRCTC website and 12go Asia to book your train from Thiruvananthapuram Central Station to Varkala.

I always book my flights through Skyscanner which you can check out here.

Alternative Options 

If you would prefer not to fly make sure to check out the IRCTC website, 12go Asia and the RedBus website to find alternative bus and train routes. 

Days 1-3 – Varkala Cliff 

Varkala is Kerala’s most popular coastal town located on the shores of the Arabian Sea. 

Varkala is split into 2 sides, North Varkala and South Varkala. 

The North side tends to be more touristy, whilst the South side offers a more cultural “village” style experience. 

It’s the perfect place to enjoy yoga, surfing, delicious food and of course lots of relaxation. 

A serene beach scene at sunset with the sun setting near the horizon, casting a warm glow on the wave-filled ocean. Tall palm trees are silhouetted in the foreground, framing the colorful sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple.
A serene coastal scene with tall palm trees leaning towards the sea, a rocky shore, and gentle waves. The sky is slightly overcast, giving a calm and tranquil atmosphere to the setting.

Where to stay in Varkala 

There are lots of nice hotels in Varkala that are all very reasonably priced some of my favourite hotels in Varakala include: 

  • Indian ArtVilla – This is a cheap, cheerful and colourful hotel located close to all the bars and restaurants. The rooms here are huge so it’s excellent value for the money you pay. 
  • Boho’s Hotel – This is a beautifully decorated mid-range boutique hotel with a central location. I was desperate to stay here during my time in Varkala but it was always fully booked, so I think that says a lot. 
  • Point Break Varkala – This hotel is slightly more on the expensive side in comparison to what else you can get in Varkala, but in my opinion, it’s worth it. It’s a small boutique hotel with incredible ocean views, close to the beach and restaurants and breakfast included. 

Take a look at more accommodation Varkala

Check out more of the best accommodation in Varkala below.

Book Here
A serene beach scene with gentle waves lapping the shore. A person walks along the sandy beach near the water's edge. Lush green foliage frames the view, and the sky is hazy with soft light.

Things to do in Varkala 

Enjoy The Beach 

The best thing to do in Varkala is to soak up all the beach time you can because this part of your 1-week Kerala itinerary is all about chilling out. 

There are multiple beaches you can visit in Varkala, most of which are within easy walking distance from each other. 

Some of the best beaches in Varkala include:

  • Varkala Beach (North & South Cliff)
  • Odayam Beach 
  • Edava Beach 
  • Kappil Beach

My Personal favourite was Odayam Beach, it’s much quieter and far less touristy than some of the other spots in Varkala. 

The one downside to the beaches in Varkala is just how much litter there is everywhere, it somewhat takes away from just how beautiful this place is. 

A seaside scene shows people swimming and playing in the water along a rocky shoreline. In the background, waves crash against a rugged cliff topped with lush greenery and a few houses. The sky is overcast, giving a serene atmosphere to the coastal setting.
Try out surfing 

Varkala is a very popular surfing spot in India and it’s one of the top places in the country to learn.

There are lots of surf schools in Varkala and some of the best ones include: 

Do some yoga 

Another relaxing activity you can take part in whilst you’re in Varkala is Yoga 

There are a whole host of Yoga schools in Varkala and some of the top ones include: 

You’ll also notice that when you’re walking through town you’ll see many adverts for yoga classes, sound healing and meditation so I would also recommend dropping into these places and see if they take your fancy. 

People enjoy a beach scene during sunset, with some swimming in the ocean and others relaxing on the shore. The sky is filled with soft clouds, creating a tranquil atmosphere. A person stands in the foreground while others sit nearby. Greenery borders the bottom of the image.
Enjoy a cooking class 

If you’re looking for an alternative activity during your time in Varkala then this cooking class at the Aryavilla heritage hotel is a great option.

You’ll get the chance to cook 4 different South Indian dishes with a local chef who will teach you all about Indian spices and flavour profiles.

Book The Cooking Class

Why not out Varkalas top-rate cooking class using the link below.

Book Here
Three people cooking together in a kitchen. A man on the left is using a knife, while two women are preparing food, one in the center is smiling and another on the right is cutting a vegetable on a blue cutting board. The vibrant kitchen looks like a joyous stop on their 1-week Kerala itinerary.
Tailormade clothing 

One of the best things I did during my time in Varkala was to get tailor-made clothes. I think they make the perfect souvenir for your travels. 

I visited the ACTO Tex & Tailoring shop in North Cliff and got 5 pieces of tailor-made clothing for less than $130, which is such good value for money and I am in love with all my pieces. 

Also, I noticed that there were many tailors outside the beach/cliff area. You could probably get cheaper tailor-made clothing if you were happy to explore these options further out of town.  

A man with glasses and a mustache works at a sewing machine, stitching a piece of blue fabric. Behind him, colorful fabrics are neatly hung on a rack, creating a vibrant backdrop. The setting appears to be a textile or tailor shop in North Varkala Cliff

Where to eat in Varkala

I loved the foodie scene in Varkala, there are so many cafes and restaurants to choose from so you certainly won’t believe Varkala hungry. 

Lumuma and Cafe Sarwaa were my personal favourites! 

A wooden table with a pair of rings on it is positioned in front of a scenic ocean view. The sky is clear with a hint of blue, and greenery, including a flowering plant, surrounds the table, adding a touch of nature to the serene coastal backdrop - View from Cafe Sarwaa in North Cliff Kerala

Days 4-5 – Alleppey 

Alleppey, in Kerala (also referred to as Alappuzha), is known for its serene backwaters, houseboat cruises, and lush green landscapes. It’s such a peaceful destination that offers beautiful views, traditional villages, and a chance to immerse yourself in nature. 

Alleppey was my favourite place in Kerala so do not skip this off your 1-week Kerala itinerary.

How to get from Varkala to Alleppey 

The journey from Varkala to Alleppey is extremely straightforward. 

You can jump on a direct train from Varkala station to Alappuzha station. The journey is approximately 2 hours. 

You can check out the IRCTC website and 12go Asia to book your train.

Two traditional wooden boats with passengers travel down a narrow waterway lined with lush palm trees and dense greenery. The sky is overcast, and the scene evokes a serene and tropical atmosphere, perfect for any 1-week Kerala itinerary seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Where to stay in Alleppey 

Alleppey is full of small boutique guesthouses and homestays at great prices. 

Some of the best places to stay in Alleppey include: 

  • Mom&Pop Thyparambil Heritage – This is a super affordable hotel located in Central Alleppey. The family here are so lovely and the free breakfast is to die for. 
  • Malayalam Lake Resort – This hotel offers unparalleled backwater views at extremely affordable prices. You can sit on the terrace and watch the boats pass by all day.
  • The Mayflower Heritage Villa – This is another affordable homestay option with large rooms, super-friendly owners and great food!

One of the most popular things to do in Alleppey is to stay on a houseboat. Whilst this is an incredible experience, it can be extremely expensive, the houseboats are also unable to travel through the smaller (and more beautiful) waterways due to their size. 

Take a look at more accommodation Alleppey

Check out more of the best accommodation in Alleppey below.

Book Here
A small, rustic house with a palm tree in front, laundry hanging on a line, and a tranquil, narrow waterway reflecting the scene. A moored canoe is partially visible, and greenery surrounds the area, creating a serene rural setting.

Things to do in Alleppey 

Backwaters Cruise 

There really is only one thing you need to do in Alleppey on this 1-week itinerary and it’s a cruise of the Alleppey backwaters. 

This is one of the most magical experiences I have had in my whole life and a day that I will never forget. 

I booked my backwaters cruise through my accommodation Mom&Pop Thyparambil Heritage, but you’ll find that most hotels in Alleppey can book a tour for you. 

If you prefer to prepare to book ahead you can book one of these top-rated tours below. 

Top Rated Backwaters Tours In Alleppey

A person and a dog paddle in a red kayak on a calm lake, surrounded by lush green trees and palm trees, reminiscent of scenes from a 1-week Kerala itinerary. A small yellow house with a green roof is visible in the background under a clear blue sky.

Backwaters Guided Kayak Tour

Book HEre
Two people wearing life jackets are seated in a kayak on a tropical body of water during sunset, perhaps as part of a 1-week Kerala itinerary. The sky is a mix of orange and gray hues, and palm trees are silhouetted in the background. Green plants float on the water's surface, adding to the serene atmosphere.

Sunrise Backwaters Tour

Book HERE
A traditional houseboat with a thatched roof is moored along the lush, green banks of a waterway. The boat, adorned with yellow and red decorations, is set against a backdrop of trees and structures, with aquatic plants floating on the water's surface—a must-see for any 1-week Kerala itinerary.

Small Boat Backwaters Cruise

Book HERE

Other things to do in Alleppey

If you have some spare time whilst in Alleppey then make sure to take a visit to Alappuzha Light House and Alappuzha and Marari beaches. 

Where to eat in Alleppey 

To be completely honest I found the food scene in Alleppey a little lacklustre in comparison to everywhere else I’d been in India but there are a few nice spots which include: 

Men stand on a wooden boat loaded with sacks on a calm body of water, with lush green palm trees and a small wooden bridge in the background against a cloudy sky.

Days 6-7 Fort Kochi 

Fort Kochi is a historic town in Kerala it is best known for its Dutch and Portuguese colonial architecture and a vibrant art scene. 

How to get from Alleppey to Fort Kochi 

The journey from Alleppey to Fort Kochi is really simple, you can either catch a public bus (2 hours), a train (1 hour) or book a taxi/Uber (50 minutes). 

You can book your transport through the IRCTC website, 12go Asia and/or the RedBus website.

I personally chose to catch an Uber from Alleppey to Fort Kochi and it was the best decision. Not only was my journey just $15 but my Uber driver took me through the scenic route.

We passed through some quiet villages and even stopped at Arthunkkal Beach, a stunning empty palm tree-studded beach. If you choose this mode of transport ask your driver to do the same. 

Where to stay in Fort Kochi 

There are lots of beautiful hotels and cheap hostels in Fort Kochi. My favourite hotels in Fort Kochi include:

  • Bunk House – This is a great cheap and cheerful option in the heart of Fort Kochi. Perfect if you’re a solo traveller in India. 
  • The Fort Bungalow – This is a beautiful property if you’re looking to stay somewhere with a traditional colonial style. 
  • Fort Bridge View – If you’re looking for luxurious and decadent rooms at an affordable price then this is a great option to choose. 

Take a look at more accommodation in Fort Kochi

Check out more of the best accommodation in Fort Kochi below.

Book Here
A narrow, sunlit street is lined with colorful, weathered buildings and outdoor plants. Power lines crisscross above, and a few parked motorcycles are visible. The scene feels peaceful and slightly rustic, with a blend of residential charm and urban decay.

Things to do in Fort Kochi 

Watch A Cultural Show 

One of the best things you can do in Fort Kochi is head down to the Kathakali Centre and watch a traditional Kathakali performance. 

Before the main show starts you can observe the actors prepare as they get into character, applying their make-up and traditional dress. 

This will then be followed by a voiceless but very musical performance that is both intriguing and comedic all at the same time. 

A person with a bare chest and a partly painted yellow face applies red lipstick using a handheld mirror. The background features a wooden pillar, a wall with framed artwork, and a microphone stand. The setting suggests preparations for a traditional performance.
Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets

Chinese fishing nets (first introduced by Chinese traders) are large, fixed fishing nets used in Fort Kochi. 

They have become somewhat of an iconic attraction to visit whilst in Fort Kochi 

Visitng Santa Cruz Basilica

Santa Cruz Basilica is one of India’s oldest and most beautiful churches that was built in 1505 by the Portuguese.

It’s one of the most beautiful spots in the Fort, with stunning Gothic architecture and stained glass windows. 

Even if, like me, you’re not a huge fan of architecture I believe it’s still worth the visit as it’s quite an interesting building. 

A woman wearing sunglasses, a beige tank top, and white shorts stands smiling in front of an old building. The building has a partly ivy-covered wall and a yellow wall with wooden windows. The tiled roof is visible above. She is on a cobblestone pathway.
Explore the Paradesi Synagogue

The Paradesi Synagogue built in 1568 is said to be the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth.

It’s called “Paradesi,” meaning “foreigners” in Malayalam (the local Keralan language) as it was used by Jews from Europe and the Middle East.

Keen to learn more about Fort Kochi?

Check out this guided tour of Fort Kochi below.

Book Here
Fishermen operate large Chinese fishing nets along a riverbank, a highlight of any 1-week Kerala itinerary. The nets are perched on wooden frames with multiple ropes and pulleys. Trees frame the scene as villagers work on equipment under a clear sky with few clouds, while water shimmers in the background.

Where to eat in Fort Kochi 

A hand holds a smartphone, capturing a photo of a dessert topped with powdered sugar, chocolate drizzle, and a single strawberry. The dessert is served on a round plate, and a small cup with sauce is visible in the background.

Other Places To Visit In Kerala 

If you have more time or are happy to speed up this itinerary a little then I would also recommend visiting the area of Munnar. 

Munnar is a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, misty mountains, and serene landscapes. Here you’ll get the chance to see hidden waterfalls and wild elephants. 

There are also some INCREDIBLE hotels in Munnar so it’s well worth the trip if you can fit it in. 

You can easily get to Munnar by bus or taxi from Alleppey or Fort Kochi the journey to Munnar is approximately 4-5 hours from either of these places. 

You can book your buses here. 

Alternative Route Options 

You can also do this itinerary back to front if you so wish. 

You can start in Fort Kochi and end in Varakala and catch a bus or fly out of Thiruvananthapuram Airport. 

Make sure you adjust this itinerary accordingly to suit the rest of your India travel plans.

View of a serene water body framed by an open window, showcasing a traditional houseboat with a thatched roof and large windows, surrounded by tall palm trees and greenery. The scene reflects a calm, tropical atmosphere. Alleppey Backwaters Kerala.

Kerala FAQ’s

Is 1 week enough for Kerala?

Yes, as I have demonstrated in this blog post, 1 week is enough to explore Kerala’s key attractions like Varkala, Alleppey, and Kochi

How much does a 1-week trip to Kerala cost?

You can expect to spend between $250-$600 during a week in Kerala depending on how budget or luxury you are planning to go for your trip. 

In which month Kerala is best to visit?

The best months to visit Kerala are from October to March when the weather is pleasant. 

After March it gets incredibly humid, followed by a monsoon season. 

What language do they speak in Kerala?

Unlike the majority of India, which speaks Hindi, the official language in Kerala is Malayalam.

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Happy Exploring

I hope this itinerary has helped you plan the perfect 7 days in Kerela.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out!

Christina Patel is the writer behind Christina In The Clouds. Although she has only been blogging for a couple of years, she has been travelling consistently for the last 10, visiting over 60 countries. Christina is passionate about encouraging women to go out and explore the world (especially solo). Whether you want to solo backpack, travel between a 9-5 or live a digital nomad lifestyle, Christina is passionate about providing you with all the tools and information you need to make your travel planning nice and easy!

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