Head to the southwest tip of India to experience Kerala, known for its lush greenery, golden beaches, tropical palms, and tranquil lagoons, aptly called God’s Own Country. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 10-day trip to Kerala, with additional tips for those wanting to extend their stay.

Begin your journey in the historic trading port of Old Kochi. From there, travel to the cooler tea plantations of Munnar, explore the backwaters near Alappuzha, and end with a relaxing beach stay at Varkala. Kerala’s slower pace and natural beauty offer a refreshing contrast to the more intense experiences in other parts of India. Known for its prosperity, Kerala has historically thrived from trade and continues to benefit from a well-educated population working overseas, especially in the Gulf States.

For independent travelers, this guide will assist in planning your trip. Those on organized tours will get a sense of what to expect.

Here’s a quick overview of the 10-day itinerary with mid-range accommodation suggestions:

– **Day 1:** Arrive in Kochi by train or plane. Relax or explore the city. Stay for 2 nights at a boutique waterfront hotel.
– **Day 2:** Explore Kochi.
– **Day 3:** Drive to Munnar. Stay for 2 nights in a heritage tea planter’s bungalow.
– **Day 4:** Explore Munnar.
– **Day 5:** Drive to Alappuzha and join a houseboat. Stay for 1 night in a luxury eco-houseboat.
– **Day 6:** Check out of the houseboat and into a lakeside hotel. Stay for 1 night at a luxury lakeside eco-resort.
– **Day 7:** Drive to Varkala. Stay for 3 nights at a stylish guest house.
– **Day 8:** Explore and relax in Varkala.
– **Day 9:** Continue to enjoy Varkala.
– **Day 10:** Drive to Thiruvananthapuram airport for your flight home or to another part of India.

For those with more time, consider a 14-day itinerary by adding days at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary near Thekkady, the Parambikulam Reserve near Palakkad, or extra days at any of the listed locations.

### Highlights of the Trip:

**Kochi**: A blend of cultures with influences from the Dutch, Portuguese, British, and Jewish communities. Major attractions include the Chinese fishing nets, Santa Cruz Basilica, St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace, and the vibrant Jew Town.

**Munnar**: Known for its tea plantations, scenic viewpoints, and cool climate. Activities include visiting tea estates, hiking, and exploring the Eravikulam National Park.

**Alappuzha (Alleppey)**: Famous for its backwaters. Experience a stay on a traditional houseboat and explore smaller channels for bird watching and local life.

**Varkala**: A scenic beach destination with cliffs and vibrant nightlife. Ideal for relaxation, yoga, and surfing.

### Travel Tips:

– **Transportation**: Use a combination of trains, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. Private taxis are recommended for long distances.
– **Accommodation**: Stay in heritage hotels, boutique guest houses, and eco-friendly resorts.
– **Best Time to Visit**: December to February for pleasant weather. Avoid the monsoon season from June to September.

This itinerary ensures a balanced mix of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and relaxation, making your trip to Kerala a memorable experience.