5 days in Kerala Itinerary

A flourishing port city and magnet for the spice trade since the 15th century, Kochi (Cochin) proudly bears its distinct international influence and local Keralan culture.

We've included these beaches for you: Marari Beach and Cherai Beach. Explore Kochi (Cochin)'s surroundings by going to Mararikulam Beach (in Mararikulam) and Alappuzha Beach (in Alappuzha). There's lots more to do: don't miss a visit to Chinese Fishing Nets, wander the streets of Jew Town, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Paradesi Synagogue, and browse the different shops at LuLu Mall.

For maps, reviews, more things to do, and tourist information, go to the Kochi (Cochin) trip itinerary planning website .

Bengaluru to Kochi (Cochin) is an approximately 4-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of flight and bus. Plan for a bit warmer temperatures traveling from Bengaluru in December, with highs in Kochi (Cochin) at 37°C and lows at 28°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 23rd (Mon) so you can travel to Kovalam.

Famous for the groves of coconut trees from which it takes its name, Kovalam offers a long, white sandy beach on the Arabian Sea.

Kick off your visit on the 24th (Tue): stroll through Hawa Beach, enjoy the sand and surf at Kovalam Beach, then stroll through Lighthouse Beach, then tour the pleasant surroundings at Samudra Beach, and finally admire the landmark architecture of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple.

For photos, maps, reviews, and other tourist information, use the Kovalam tour planner .

Traveling by flight from Kochi (Cochin) to Kovalam takes 3 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a bus. In December, daily temperatures in Kovalam can reach 36°C, while at night they dip to 28°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 24th (Tue) to allow time to travel to Thekkady.

Centered on an artificial lake, Thekkady provides a sanctuary to a diverse set of animals and plant species.

On the 25th (Wed), identify plant and animal life at Elephant Junction, explore the activities along Periyar Lake, then look for all kinds of wild species at Periyar Tiger Reserve, and finally look for all kinds of wild species at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

For other places to visit, ratings, and tourist information, you can read our Thekkady travel route planner.

Getting from Kovalam to Thekkady by combination of flight and taxi takes about 3.5 hours. Other options: drive; or take a bus. Finish your sightseeing early on the 25th (Wed) to allow enough time to travel back home.