Kerala, the ever-so-beautiful Indian state, is blessed with abundant natural beauty and scenic charms. No matter which season you pick to explore this dreamy season, we’re sure that you will be left spellbound at every turn! These days, tourists are increasingly opting for a Kerala road trip to travel at their own pace and experience the state’s diverse landscapes. While some prefer rigid itineraries due to time limitations, some prefer relaxed and extended escapes.
The road journey within Kerala is magical in itself, with its misty landscapes and vast tea gardens, providing you with relaxed moments in the lap of nature. Unlike other places, where tourist crowds can interfere with your overall experience, the road journey allows you to stop whenever you want, soak in the surroundings at your own pace, and discover hidden gems tucked away from the usual tourist trail.
So, without keeping you waiting any further, here’s a detailed blog on the ultimate Kerala road trip itinerary that will guarantee fun, exploration, soul-stirring views, and unforgettable memories at every turn. Let’s get started!
The Best Kerala Road Trip Itinerary: Fun and Adventure at Every Turn!
Kerala road trip promises freedom and flexibility! Not to mention, this will be a journey through the absolutely stunning landscapes of the state, where every road will offer an enchanting discovery.
There are various road trip routes in Kerala, but the one listed below is the most popular among travelers.
Start at Kochi (Cochin) for your Kerala Road Trip
Your first stop will be at Kochi, a gorgeous beach city where history and modern life coexist. The experience will be more about exploring historical sites, such as Fort Kochi, where colonial-era architecture can be seen, along with sweet cafes and narrow streets. Do not forget to visit the Chinese fishing nets, which offer a short yet striking glimpse into the state’s maritime history.
Another popular attraction to explore is the Mattancherry Palace (also known as the Dutch Palace), where you can admire Kerala’s royal heritage. Other hotspots include Jew Town, known for its eclectic streets and artistic shops, as well as witnessing a professional Kathakali performance in the evening. Give this day a perfect end while enjoying a calm stroll along the waterfront.
You can complete this experience in 1-2 days at your preferred pace, as you see fit.
Drive from Kochi to Munnar
After exploring Kochi, you will head to Munnar, approximately 130 km away, to explore its dramatic scenery. This is absolutely one of the best road trips in Kerala, as it offers a diverse range of experiences in one package. The drive will be scenic, featuring winding roads, beautiful countryside, and serene villages along the way.
After a 4-hour drive, you can check into your hotel or homestay in Munnar and unwind while soaking in the cool hill-station air and taking in the incredible views of the tea plantations. After a refreshing break, you can begin your exploration by visiting the Mattupetty Dam to enjoy a peaceful boat ride or Echo Point to experience the natural echo phenomenon.
Following this, you can visit a local tea factory to learn about the tea processing process and sample freshly brewed varieties. For a relaxed evening, you can sprawl in tea gardens or sit at a café overlooking the hills.
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Munnar – Thekkady
The Munnar to Thekkady route, during the Kerala self-drive travel, will take approximately 3-4 hours. After exploring the scenic wonders of Munnar, you will head to Thekkady, which is home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The drive will be picturesque, lined with cardamom and pepper plantations all around.
After arriving at Thekkady, settle into your resort or lodge and prepare for an adventure in nature. Start with visiting the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, exploring the Periyar lake, and the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity. After this, you can take Spice plantation tours, which is a must-do activity, letting you enjoy Kerala’s aromatic treasures, from cardamom and cinnamon to pepper.
To give your day a perfect end, consider attending a cultural performance, such as Kalaripayattu or traditional Kerala folk dances, which reflect the state’s rich cultural heritage.
You can allocate 1-2 days for this exploration, so you don’t burn out due to extensive travel hours and can ensure proper rest.
Thekkady – Alleppey or Kumarakom
After exploring the captivating scenery in Thekkady, you will head to the backwater destinations of Alleppey or Kumarakom. The drive will take approximately 4-5 hours, taking you through the scenic Western Ghats, peppered with coconut palms, rice paddies, and winding canals.
After arriving, you may check in to your houseboat, change, freshen up, and relax. This experience will include Kerala’s backwater charm. You will cruise along the network of canals, rivers, and lagoons, while also witnessing small villages on your way.
The best part about the houseboat experience is that you will get a chance to witness the traditional fishing methods, small floating markets, and farmers tending paddy fields. Enjoy sunsets and savor hearty local meals prepared by the chefs onboard.
Please note: It's best to allocate 2 days for this experience and take an overnight stay at your houseboat.
End at Varkala / Kovalam Beach or Thiruvananthapuram
Conclude your Kerala road trip with a relaxing coastal escape at the Kovalam or Varkala Beach, or by exploring the city of Thiruvananthapuram. You can choose the endpoint according to your preference.
The drive from Alleppey or Kumarakom typically takes 4 to 5 hours, offering scenic glimpses of Kerala’s countryside, coconut groves, and small rivers along the way.
The Varkala Beach is renowned for its amazing cliffside views overlooking the Arabian Sea, along with a peaceful beach ambiance. Visitors can enjoy a plethora of beach activities here.
The Kovalam Beach, on the other hand, is more lively, featuring a lighthouse, water sports, and Ayurvedic centers. Both are great to unwind after days of sightseeing.
If you choose to end your journey in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, be prepared for a rich cultural and historical experience. Be sure to visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, and local markets for an immersive experience.
A Pro Tip: If you’re unsure which one to choose as your end destination and have a buffer time, you can divide these experiences into three days, starting from Varkala, then Kovalam, and finally Thiruvananthapuram (Varkala • Kovalam • Thiruvananthapuram). This will provide a peaceful conclusion to your Kerala road trip, without leaving with any guilt of missing any of the top destinations.
Ending your journey at Varkala, Kovalam, or Thiruvananthapuram provides a perfect blend of relaxation, cultural exploration, and coastal charm, making this route one of the best road trips in Kerala and leaving you with a bag full of memories of the state’s spellbinding landscapes and experiences.
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6 Best Things To Do During Your Kerala Road Trip
When you have already planned to experience Kerala at your own pace, then why not go an extra mile to create unforgettable memories? Now, here’s how to make your Kerala road trip even more immersive.
1. Take a wildlife safari at the Periyar National Park and go boat riding on the Periyar Lake for some thrilling visual experiences. You may have the chance to spot elephants, playful otters, and glimpses of rare birds and tigers against a backdrop of dense greenery. Boat riding experience will offer you unmatched peace, far away from the noisy city life.
2. Do try the local delicacies along the way. Top suggestions include Meen Curry (spiced fish curry), Avial (vegetables in a coconut curry), Meen Pollichathu (fish wrapped in banana leaf), dosas (savory crépes), and Ulli Theeyal (shallot curry). These dishes will allow you to experience the authentic flavors of Kerala’s coastal cuisine.
3. Try Canoeing in the peaceful and scenic Vembanad Lake. This will surely be a surreal experience, witnessing swaying palms and the gentle rhythms of the water.
4. While en route, do stop and explore the cascading waterfalls either at Chelarkovil or Athirappilly. You can just sit, relax, and unwind in this peaceful setting. You may even take photographs of the surroundings and capture beautiful moments.
5. Do try sampling Toddy. It is a brewed palm wine that offers a refreshing taste of Kerala’s rustic life. This drink is wholeheartedly enjoyed at the traditional toddy shops, reflecting age-old tapping traditions and local camaraderie.
6. Visit the tea gardens, coffee farms, and buy some locally sourced and fragrant spices during your road trip.
Whether you’re passing through the coconut-lined roads or exploring the vast terrace gardens, this Kerala road trip itinerary will allow you to experience the best of the state. So, without any further delay, plan your adventure with JustWravel to receive comprehensive travel assistance services.
Frequently Asked Questions
A minimum of 7-10 days is required for a perfect Kerala road trip, where you can see and explore all the major stops, tourist points, and visual attractions. Also, this time duration allows for a relaxed and comfortable journey.
Kerala self-drive travel is not difficult. However, for first-time riders, the journey requires caution due to the steep turns and narrow hills. With a bit of thoughtful planning and GPS guidance, this road journey will be an enjoyable experience.
The best road trip routes in Kerala are:
Kochi–Munnar–Thekkady–Alleppey
Calicut–Wayanad–Bekal
Trivandrum–Varkala–Kollam
The best time to visit Kerala is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. The monsoon months (June–September) are also an ideal time for those who prefer Ayurvedic treatments and dense green landscapes.
The Munnar to Marayoor route is regarded as one of the most beautiful roads in Kerala, offering visitors the ultimate joy of experiencing dramatic landscapes, including rolling tea gardens, sandalwood forests, and mist-covered hills.
