7-Day Southern India Tour Packages

Insider tips: Recommended 7-day Southern India itineraries

Compiled by

MelissaSouthern India travel expert at TourRadar

• Trip to God's Own Country

  Colonial heritage meets natural wonders in this 7-day tour visiting Kochi's historic sites, Munnar's 1800m-high tea estates, Periyar's vast wildlife sanctuary, and Kerala's famous backwaters via traditional houseboats.

  

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  • Kochi (Cochin) India

    54 mi

  • Munnar India

    43 mi

  • Periyar National Park India

    48 mi

  • Kumarakom India

    11 mi

  • Alleppey India

    30 mi

  • Kochi (Cochin) India

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• 7 Days in Kerala, incl. Kochi and Varkala

  The rich tapestry of Southern India unfolds over 7 days through Kochi's historic Jewish Quarter, Alleppey's tranquil backwaters, Kollam's fishing harbor, and Varkala's beaches. Watch traditional Kathakali performances and rest in local homestays while touring Kerala's diverse landscapes.

  

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  • Day 1

    Kochi

    Start your Kerala adventure in the historic port city of Kochi. Get out early to explore Fort Kochi's seaside promenade before it gets too hot. "The walk through the bustling streets with Chinese fishing nets against the sunset was incredible," one visitor told us. Book your hotel in Fort Kochi instead of central Ernakulam. It's easier to walk around and has much more character.

    
  • Day 2

    Kochi to Alleppey (1.5 hours)

    Walk through Fort Kochi's heritage zone in the morning. Visit the 400-year-old synagogue (closed Fridays/Saturdays) and St. Francis Church. Take the short drive to Alleppey and stay at a local homestay in the backwaters. Pack a small bag since many homestays have narrow staircases. In the afternoon, walk through the village to see daily life up close.

    
  • Day 3

    Alleppey to Kollam

    Take the public ferry through the backwaters early in the morning. It's cheaper than tourist boats and gives you a more local experience. The bus ride to Kollam takes about 2 hours along the coast. Make sure to visit Thangassery Lighthouse before 5:30 PM for great views. Pick a hotel near Kollam Beach to be close to the fishing harbor.

    
  • Days 4-5

    Kollam to Varkala (5-6 hours)

    Get a private transfer to Varkala along the beautiful coastal road. Stay somewhere near Varkala Cliff between Black Beach and Papanasam Beach. You'll find the best restaurants and ocean views here. One traveler recommended: "The walk through the rice fields near Varkala was amazing. Go early morning before the heat sets in." Use day 5 to explore Varkala's beaches and cliffs. Visit Janardhana Swamy Temple in the morning when it's peaceful. Be careful on the cliff path during monsoon season (June-August). Want an Ayurvedic treatment? Book at least a day ahead. Good practitioners get busy.

    
  • Day 6

    Varkala to Kochi (3.5-4 hours by train)

    Take the morning train back to Kochi. Book an AC chair car for comfort. Your evening is perfect for watching a Kathakali dance show. Ask your hotel to book it since the theater locations change. End your day at one of Fort Kochi's excellent seafood restaurants.

    
  • Day 7

    Kochi Departure

    Going to Kochi International Airport? Add an extra 30 minutes to the usual 1-hour drive from Fort Kochi because of morning traffic. If you have a later flight, visit Mattancherry for last-minute shopping. You'll find great spices and textiles.

    

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• Romantic Kerala Tour

  Kerala's diverse landscapes unfold across 455 km in this 7-day adventure. The route includes Kochi's Dutch Palace, Munnar's tea estates at 1600m elevation, Periyar Wildlife Reserve, and cruising on Vembanad Lake.

  

  View itinerary Compare 7 days itineraries

  • Kochi (Cochin) India

    54 mi

  • Munnar India

    43 mi

  • Periyar National Park India

    48 mi

  • Kumarakom India

    11 mi

  • Alleppey India

    30 mi

  • Kochi (Cochin) India

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  • 
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  View itinerary