A 7-Day Kerala Itinerary: Hills, Backwaters, and Beaches
One route that covers Munnar's tea gardens, Thekkady's wildlife, an Alleppey houseboat night, and a Kovalam beach finish.
Why this route works
A week is enough time to see Kerala's three signature landscapes — hills, backwaters, and coast — without spending most of it in the car. Starting from Kochi, this route climbs into the Western Ghats first, drops into wildlife and spice country, then winds down on water and sand.
Days 1-2: Munnar
Drive up from Kochi via the Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls, then spend a full day around the tea gardens — the Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Top Station for the views into Tamil Nadu.
Day 3: Thekkady
A scenic drive through spice plantation country leads to Thekkady, where a Periyar Lake boat ride is the usual highlight for spotting wildlife along the shoreline.
Days 4-5: Alleppey
Board a houseboat for an overnight backwater cruise through Vembanad Lake's canals — this is the slowest, most relaxed leg of the trip, with meals cooked onboard.
Days 6-7: Kovalam
Disembark and head south to Kovalam for beach time, an Ayurvedic spa session, and a relaxed final day before the drive back to Kochi.