The ULTIMATE 1-Week Kerala Itinerary For First Timers

About This 1-Week Kerala Itinerary (With My Experience)

Before we dive into the day-by-day breakdown, I want to give you some quick context and share why this itinerary is one I personally stand by.

I travelled solo through Kerala as part of a 6-week-long backpacking trip across India, and it quickly became one of my favourite regions.

The slower pace, the beaches and the gorgeous scenery were very hard not to fall in love with. From tailor-made clothing in Varkala to sunrise kayaking in the Alleppey backwaters, I genuinely loved every stop on this route.

This 1-week Kerala itinerary is based entirely on my personal experience. I’ve stayed at the hotels I recommend, eaten at the restaurants I list, and personally tried every activity I mention.

My goal? To help first-timers experience the best of Kerala without rushing. I’ve built in room for relaxation (you’ll need it), factored in travel time between locations, and included options for all budgets from affordable boutique guesthouses to bucket-list experiences like houseboats and surf schools.

Here’s what your week will look like:

• Days 1–3: Varkala
• Days 4–5: Alleppey
• Days 6–7: Fort Kochi

Getting to Kerala (Start Point: Varkala)

Your Kerala journey begins in Varkala, located in southern Kerala. Depending on where you’re flying in from, there are two main arrival options:

Option 1: Fly into Cochin International Airport (COK)

• Take a taxi or Uber (around 30 mins, $15–$20) from the airport to Ernakulam Junction Railway Station
• Catch a train from Ernakulam to Varkala (approximately 5 hours)
• Book your train via IRCTC or 12go Asia

Option 2: Fly into Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV)

• This airport is much closer to Varkala (45-minute taxi ride, approximately $30)
• Or take a 10-minute taxi or public bus to Thiruvananthapuram Central Station
• The train to Varkala takes just over an hour
• Book via IRCTC or 12go Asia

Don’t Want to Fly?

You can also arrive in Kerala by train or bus from other cities in India. Check schedules via:

• IRCTC
• 12go Asia
• RedBus

✈️ I always book my flights through Skyscanner — it helps compare prices quickly and easily.

Days 1-3 – Varkala Cliff 

Varkala is one of Kerala’s most popular coastal towns, perched on dramatic red cliffs that overlook the Arabian Sea.

The town is split into two main areas:

• North Varkala is the more touristy hub with beach cafés, boutiques, and surf schools
• South Varkala offers a quieter, village-style vibe with more local experiences

Whether you’re craving yoga at sunrise, surfing lessons, or just relaxing on the beach, Varkala is the perfect place to start your Kerala journey.

Where to stay in Varkala 

There are so many great places to stay in Varkala, with options for every budget. I stayed in North Varkala to be close to the cafés and the beach, and I personally scoped out a few standout spots worth recommending.

Here are my top picks:

• 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. 

👉 Book your stay here

Things to do in Varkala 

Varkala is all about relaxation and enjoying the beach. Here’s how I spent my time (and what I’d recommend for you too):

Enjoy The Beaches

The beaches in Varkala are some of the most scenic in Kerala. This stretch of coast is ideal for long walks and watching the sunset.

Here are a few beaches worth checking out:

• Kappil Beach – Known for its unique setting where the sea meets the backwaters. It’s a scenic spot for early mornings or cycling trips.
• Varkala Beach (North & South Cliff) – The main stretch with easy access, cafés, and plenty of sunbeds. Expect crowds but great energy.
• Odayam Beach – My personal favourite. It’s quieter, more peaceful, and feels more local. Perfect for reading or sunset yoga.
• Edava Beach – A more secluded beach, great for photography and peaceful walks. You’ll likely have it all to yourself.

Heads up: There’s quite a bit of litter on some beaches, which can somewhat take away from the beauty.

Try out surfing 

Varkala is one of India’s most popular surf spots and is ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers. I didn’t surf on this trip, but I heard amazing things from fellow travellers.

• Soul and Surf
• Moana Surf School 
• Ruasta Surf School 

Do some yoga 

Yoga is everywhere in Varkala. You’ll see hand-painted signs for drop-in classes all over town, plus structured courses if you’re looking for something more immersive.

Popular schools include: 

• Soul and Surf 
• Nidra Yoga School 
• Chandra School of Yoga 

💡 Top Tip: Walk around town and check out the local signs and boards… that’s how I discovered some of the best hidden yoga classes and drop-in sessions.

Enjoy a cooking class 

One of the highlights of my trip was taking a South Indian cooking class at Aryavilla Heritage Hotel. We made four delicious dishes, learned about local spices, and had a great laugh with the chef.

Book The Class

South Indian Cooking Class

Price: $30
Rating: 5/5
Duration: 2 hours
Includes: Lunch, all cooking equipment and aprons, bottled water

Check out the Class

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. Not only was it incredible value, but I genuinely love and still wear every single item.

Where to eat in Varkala

The food scene in Varkala was a huge highlight of my trip. From laid-back cafés to traditional Kerala dishes, there’s something for every taste and budget.

Here are some of my favourite places to eat:

• Cafe Sarwaa 
• Cafe Trip is Life
• True Thomas
• God’s Own Country Kitchen
• Lumuma 
• Bindu’s Cafe 
• Sun Francisco

💡 Top Tip: My personal favourites were Lumuma and Cafe Sarwaa. I ended up eating at both multiple times!

Days 4-5 – Alleppey 

Known for its dreamy backwaters, tranquil canals, and iconic houseboats, Alleppey (also called Alappuzha) is where you’ll get a real taste of Kerala’s magical charm.

It was my favourite stop on this 1-week Kerala itinerary; the peaceful landscapes and the warmth of the people completely won me over.

How to get from Varkala to Alleppey 

The journey is super straightforward. Take a direct train from Varkala Station to Alappuzha Station, which takes about 2 hours.

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

Where to stay in Alleppey 

Alleppey is full of homestays and boutique guesthouses that give you a more local, intimate experience. I stayed at one of these and would absolutely recommend doing the same.

My top picks 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!

🛶 Houseboat stays in Alleppey are iconic but can be pricey, and large boats can’t access the narrower, quieter canals (which are the best part of the Alleppey backwaters). Personally, I found the smaller daytime cruises gave me the same magic without the high cost of staying on a houseboat, especially as a solo traveller in India.

👉 Book your stay here

Things to do in Alleppey 

Alleppey is all about slow travel and soaking up life along the canals. Here’s how to make the most of your time there.

Backwaters Cruise 

This is the one unmissable thing to do in Alleppey, and honestly, it was one of the most magical travel experiences I’ve ever had.

I booked mine through Mom&Pop Thyparambil Heritage, but nearly every hotel or homestay can help you arrange one. You can choose from:

• Houseboats – Overnight or half-day stays, though more touristy and expensive
• Kayaks – For a more intimate and active experience
• Small traditional boats – Ideal for getting into the quieter canals

💡 Top Tip: There are a few tours that you can pre-book online, but from what I’ve seen its much better to book in person once you are there.

During a backwater cruise, you’ll glide past lush green plantations, palm trees, and quiet canals with lily pads dotted all over the place.

You’ll see local villagers washing clothes, and cute little kids will be waving at you from the shore. It’s honestly so wonderful to get a look into a life so completely different from your own.

Plus, if you are a keen photographer, this place will be a DREAM for you to photograph.

Make sure to try a homemade coconut toddy (a local fermented drink) if your guide offers it; it’s a unique experience you won’t get anywhere else.

Visit Local Beaches and the Lighthouse

If you’ve got extra time in Alleppey, be sure to check out:

• Alappuzha Beach – A long sandy stretch, great for evening walks
• Marari Beach – A bit farther but more serene
• Alappuzha Lighthouse – Climb for panoramic views of the coast and town

To be honest, the main highlight in Alleppey is the backwaters cruise, so I wouldn’t make too much of a concerted effort to try and do lots more whilst you are there.

Where to eat in Alleppey 

I’ll be honest, the food scene in Alleppey wasn’t as exciting as Varkala or Fort Kochi, and I actually found it quite hard to get proper southern indian food.

That said, I did find a few decent spots that are worth checking out:

• Bayroute Bistro
• Halais Restaurant 
• Rice Boat 

Days 6-7 Fort Kochi 

Fort Kochi is a small but vibrant town known for its colonial heritage and colourful street art. After the backwaters, this is a perfect place to explore, wander, and soak up Kerala’s culture.

How to get from Alleppey to Fort Kochi 

You’ve got a few easy options:

• Public bus – Budget-friendly, about 2 hours
• Train – Slightly faster at around 1 hour
• Taxi/Uber – The most comfortable choice (50 mins, around $15

I took an Uber for just $13 and asked my driver to take the scenic route. We passed through sleepy villages and even stopped at Arthunkkal Beach, a completely empty palm-lined beach. If you’re going by car, definitely ask your driver to do the same!

👉 Book transport through the IRCTC website, 12go Asia and/or the RedBus website.

Where to stay in Fort Kochi 

There’s no shortage of stylish, character-filled stays in Fort Kochi, from colonial-era guesthouses to artsy hostels.

Here are a few I recommend:

• 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. 

Things to do in Fort Kochi 

Fort Kochi may be small, but it’s packed with character and artistic flair. It’s the kind of place where you can spend a whole day just wandering the streets.

Here’s what I loved and recommend you don’t miss:

Watch A Cultural Show 

Head to the Kerala Kathakali Centre to witness this iconic traditional performance. The evening starts with the actors preparing, applying elaborate makeup and getting into costume, followed by a mesmerising, music-filled show.

Make sure to arrive early so you can watch the full transformation process.

Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets

These giant cantilevered fishing nets are an iconic sight in Fort Kochi, especially at sunset. They were first introduced by Chinese traders and have been in use for centuries.

You can watch local fishermen operate them and even try your hand if you’re curious.

Visiting Santa Cruz Basilica

Built in 1505 by the Portuguese, this historic Gothic-style cathedral is one of the most impressive in India. The stained-glass windows and high vaulted ceilings make it well worth a stop (even if, like me, you’re not typically into architecture).

Explore the Paradesi Synagogue

Located in the old Jewish Quarter, the Paradesi Synagogue dates back to 1568 and is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth. The name “Paradesi” means “foreigner” in Malayalam, and the site has a rich, multicultural history tied to Jewish settlers from Europe and the Middle East.

Kochi Tour

A Heritage walking tour in Fort Kochi

Price: $15
Rating: 4.9
Duration: 3 hours
Includes: Local Guide, bottled water

Check out the tour

Where to eat in Fort Kochi 

If you love arty cafés, good coffee, and fresh fusion food, Fort Kochi will be your dream. I absolutely loved hopping between cafés here:

• Mocha Art Café
• Kashi Art Café
• Lila Art Cafe
• Loafer’s Corner Cafe
• Loving Earth Yoga Cafe 
• Teapot Cafe