7 Days Kerala Tour- Munnar, Periyar, Houseboat & Varkala Beach

Traveling through Kerala in just a week sounds ambitious, but with a well-organized tour like this one, it becomes a seamless journey packed with unforgettable sights and authentic experiences. Covering everything from lush hill stations to vibrant backwaters and serene beaches, this 7-day package offers a taste of Kerala’s diverse beauty—all with comfortable transfers and thoughtfully planned stops.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances structured sightseeing with some free time, allowing you to soak in the scenery and local culture without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of a houseboat stay and local performances adds a layer of authentic charm. On the flip side, be prepared for some long drives—though they are part of the adventure, and the scenic routes make the journey worthwhile.

Ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights of Kerala without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour suits those who enjoy comfort, good value, and a mix of nature, wildlife, and cultural experiences. If you’re looking for an immersive, yet manageable itinerary that offers a deep dive into Kerala’s soul, this could be just the trip for you.

Key Points

• Well-structured itinerary combines natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural highlights
• Comfortable transport with minimal hassle between destinations
• Authentic experiences like local performances and backwater houseboat stay
• Excellent value for what’s included, including entry fees and meals
• Knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers enhance the trip experience
• Long drives are part of the journey but offer scenic views and cultural insights

An In-Depth Look at the 7-Day Kerala Tour

Starting Point: Kochi Airport and Initial Drive to Munnar

The adventure begins at Kochi Airport, where a representative from SreesTours greets you and takes responsibility for your transfer. The first leg is a 3.5-hour drive covering about 148 km to Munnar, a picturesque hill station famous for tea plantations and misty mountains. The journey itself is a highlight, with a stop at Cheeyappara Waterfalls—an ideal spot for photos with cascading waters and lush greenery. Reviewers mention the waterfalls as a nice photo op, though bathing isn’t permitted due to slippery rocks.

A key point here is the convenience of the transfer; rather than a stressful solo drive, you’re whisked comfortably, allowing you to relax and take in the scenery. Travelers often appreciate the easy start, giving room for a leisurely lunch at Oonnukal, where vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available—plus clean restrooms for a quick refresh.

Day 1: Munnar and Cultural Intro

After settling into your hotel, the evening features cultural entertainment with a Kalaripayattu martial arts performance and traditional dance, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Kerala’s heritage. The Punarjani Traditional Village show, included in the tour, highlights locally performed art forms like Kathakali, a visual feast of vibrant costumes and storytelling. Reviewers love these performances, calling them a “great experience” and a great way to connect with local culture.

Day 2: Full Day of Munnar’s Scenic Highlights

This day is dedicated to exploring Munnar’s most iconic sights. The itinerary is cleverly reversed to catch Early Morning attractions like Top Station and Kundala Dam—both offering stunning views and photo opportunities. Top Station, once a railway hub, now provides panoramic vistas of mist-covered mountains and tea plantations. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to linger, especially with the cool weather and scenic backdrop.

Kundala Dam, known for its Asia’s first arch dam, is a favorite among reviewers for its picture-perfect setting and boating activities. You might enjoy pedal or speed boating here, with some reviews mentioning the availability of activities at extra charge, with options like shikara trips.

Next, a visit to Echo Point—a fun spot where your voice echoes back over the hills—adds a playful element. While not a must-see for everyone, it’s a good quick stop for photos and a lighthearted experience.

Later, you’ll visit the Mattupetty Dam, a spot praised for its beautiful confluence of water, mountains, and greenery. The presence of a tourist facilitation center with a snack bar and children’s play area makes it a comfortable stop. Reviewers note the boat rides here are a top highlight, offering moments of serenity amid nature.

The afternoon is reserved for the Rose Garden, a floral paradise filled with vibrant blooms. The garden’s entry fee is modest, and visitors mention its steps might pose a challenge for those with mobility issues, but it’s a beautiful spot for photos and plant shopping.

Finally, the day rounds off with a visit to Eravikulam National Park, home to the Nilgiri Tahr and Anamudi Peak. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a nature lover, this is a must; reviews confirm the park is well worth the entry fee, and the drive there allows for a scenic journey through tea plantations and lush hills.

Day 3: From Munnar to Thekkady

A 3.5-hour drive takes you to Thekkady, the heart of Kerala’s wildlife and spice plantations. The route offers stunning scenery, including viewpoints like Lockhart Gap and waterfalls—some of the favorite stops according to reviewers. Once in Thekkady, you’ll visit a Spice Plantation—a surprisingly rich experience that gets rave reviews for its personal guide explaining the medicinal and culinary uses of various plants.

The highlight here is the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where a boat safari on Periyar Lake offers a chance to spot elephants, wild boars, and maybe even tigers. Reviewers emphasize the value of the boat trip, describing it as a “fabulous” experience that feels natural and unintrusive. The boat safaris are well-organized, with online booking making it straightforward.

Day 4: Transition to the Backwaters and Varkala

The journey continues with a transfer to Kumarakom, where you check into a traditional houseboat. The overnight experience on the houseboat is an authentic way to see Kerala’s backwaters up close. Reviewers mention the boat trips through Punnamada Kayal and other canals as peaceful, scenic, and a highlight of their trip. The included lunch at Meenappalli Kayal adds local flavor, and the trip through villages offers a glimpse of rural life.

Waking up early on the houseboat for sunrise is a major plus, providing beautiful light and serene waters. The reviews reinforce that this part of the tour is a genuine highlight—an immersive experience of Kerala’s watery world.

Day 5: Vembanad Lake and Jatayu Center

After disembarking from the houseboat, the tour moves towards Kovalam, with a stop at Vembanad Lake for a quick morning cruise. This is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, and most travelers find the calm waters perfect for a scenic start to the day.

The next stop is Jatayu Adventure Center, a giant bird sculpture built into a hilltop—a favorite among reviewers for its dramatic presence and photo opportunities. The entry fee is reasonable, and the experience includes a museum that complements the sculpture. Some mention the walk uphill might be a challenge for those with mobility issues, but the views and the Guinness-record-holding sculpture make it worth the effort.

Day 6 & 7: Varkala Beach and Optional Extra

The final days focus on relaxation at Varkala Beach, a laid-back spot loved for its cliffs, cafes, and sea breeze. While the tour offers an optional visit to Munroe Island, many travelers simply enjoy unwinding here, soaking up the sun, and exploring local markets.

Overall Value & Experience

This tour, at around $943 for two people, offers remarkable value given all the inclusions—meals, entry fees, cultural shows, and comfortable transportation. Reviewers comment on how well-organized and flexible the entire process is, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers, especially noting the safety and local insights they gained.

While some long drives are inevitable, the scenic routes and expert commentary turn these into enjoyable parts of the trip. The accommodation standards, especially on the houseboat, are highly praised, with reviewers calling the experience “good value” and “comfortable.”

Final Thoughts

This Kerala tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive experience of the region’s natural beauty, wildlife, and culture without the stress of detailed planning. It’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers who appreciate good organization, friendly guides, and authentic local experiences.

The inclusion of cultural performances, scenic stops, and the houseboat stay makes it more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersion into Kerala’s soul. Expect some long drives, but with stunning views and interesting stops that make the journey part of the adventure.

If you’re after a well-balanced trip that combines comfort, value, and genuine experiences, this 7-day Kerala tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes. Reviewers have noted that vegetarian options are available and no difficulties were faced regarding food choices during the trip.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is designed for up to 2 travelers per booking, making it intimate and flexible.

Are all entry fees included?
Most major entry fees like Eravikulam National Park, spice plantation, and the cultural shows are included. However, activities like boating or optional sightseeing may incur additional charges.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, and reviewers mention the drivers are friendly and knowledgeable. Some have appreciated the safe, smooth drives.

Can I customize or extend the itinerary?
While the package is quite comprehensive, the tour company has shown flexibility in previous reviews, allowing some changes or additional activities on request.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
The reviews suggest the itinerary is suitable year-round, but mornings at places like Top Station and Kundala Dam are especially recommended for better views and cooler weather.

Embark on this Kerala adventure, and you’ll find yourself immersed in one of India’s most lush, culturally rich, and scenic regions—all without the stress of planning every detail yourself.