HOW TO BEST PLAN THE PERFECT 10 DAY KERALA ITINERARY

A green and luscious state, located along India’s Malabar Coast, known for its palm lined beaches, network of canals, known as the backwaters of india. A little more inland, sit the Western Ghats, whose slopes are the backbone of tea, coffee and spice plantations but also abundant with wildlife. This is a an area that has so much variety to offer to travellers and can be explored with a perfect 10 day Kerala itinerary. Read on to explore the best places to visit, where to stay, activities to partake in as well as food recommendations for a perfect 10 day Kerala itinerary .

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Often referred to as ‘God’s own country,’ Kerala posses outstanding beauty and is much like a tropical paradise encompassing, rolling hills and mountains, glistening waterfalls, luscious tea plantations, endless beaches, plentiful wildlife, complete with a slow and laid back way of life compared to the western world.

A ten day Kerala itinerary is the perfect length of time for a first time visit to the state, with some must sees including Kochi which has some fantastic foodie spots as well as cultural and heritage activities, romantic Munnar, an expansive  hill station abundant with tea plantations as well as Alleppy with its artery of back water canals and house boat stays.

This article aims to arm visitors to the state with the knowledge to plan and execute (with a local tour agency or possibly independently) a ten day Kerala itinerary with background knowledge, highlights, where to stay and dine as well as the best activities to get a  flavour of the locale. Sustainable and responsible travel considerations are at the forefront of the itineraries in terms of stay options and experiences.

Where Is Kerala Located?

Kerala is located along the South West coast of India sandwiched between Karnataka to the North and North East and Tamil Nadu to the East and South. The Lakshadweep sea lies to the West.

How to use the map: Click on image to head to interactive Google Map.

How To Get To Kerala – 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

The majority of  travellers to Kerala arrive by international flight. The major hub in Kerala for most arrivals is Cochin International Airport. Internal flights as well as more budget airlines within India and the continent of Asia can also be taken to Trivandrum International Airport (the capital city of Kerala) or Kozhikode International Airport.

There are no direct flights from the UK to any of the airports in Kerala and will require a layover, depending on airlines as below.

Airlines Flying To Kerala

Qatar Airways 

London Heathrow – Doha – Cochin

Air India

London Gatwick –  Delhi/Amritsar – Cochin

British Airways (partner with Qatar, therefore same connection)

London Heathrow – Doha – Cochin

Emirates

London Heathrow – Dubai – Cochin

Consider Hiring A Driver For a 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

Hiring a driver in Kerala is quite affordable and if you have chosen to book a ten day Kerala itinerary with an agent, a driver will almost always be included in your transportation needs. 

Once arriving at Kochi airport, you’ll be picked up and taken to your chosen destinations. These approximate drive times will help you get a feel for the distance between places that you will have on your itinerary 

• Kochin – Munnar – four hours
• Munnar to Periyar (Thekkady) – four hours
• Thekkady – Alleppey – three to four hours
• Alleppy – Kochi – two hours

It is also possible to get to Kerala, if you are already in India by other routes such as bus or train but both of these options will take far longer than having your own driver. Buses can often be over crowded, slow and unreliable. 

Trains are a little more accessible but with the lowlands, it’s not as easy to have the infrastructure that roads do so for a vacation of a short fixed time driving is the better option.

The Best Time To Visit Kerala – 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

In a nutshell, the best time to visit Kerala is between September and March, which is classed as the winter months. Humidity is relatively low and daily temperatures are comfortable. 

If you are heading to Kerala for the festivals, such as Onam in September, snake boar races as well as experience the backwaters and beaches then the winter season is absolutely perfect for this.

Summer in Kerala spans from February to May and the Monsoon arrives twice a year from June to September and then again in October to November, 

Whichever time one decides to visit Kerala, there are pros and cons and we would generally recommend shoulder season for a slightly less crowded experience with accommodation prices a little lower too. Late November to February are classed as peak season and the most popular to visit with Christmas attracting not just Indian nationals but also international travellers.

Temperatures In Kerala By Seasonal Travel 

• Temperatures to expect in Kerala in winter – November: March 18°C – 18°C – 28°C (cool however will feel warm to Western travellers).
• Temperatures to expect in Kerala in summer – April – May 29°C – 36°C (expect hot days, warm nights and high humidity).
• Temperatures to expect in Kerala during the Monsoon – June-September: 20°C – 30°C (expect heavy to moderate rainfall).

Be-lavie Tip: Temperatures can differ dramatically with altitude and it can be much cooler in the hill station of Munnar, it’s best to be prepared with extra layers.  

The Best Times to Visit Popular Destinations in Kerala

Winter Months

Weather in the winter is ideal to visit any part of Kerala

• Munnar – enough lush green landscapes.
• Thekkady – wildlife spotting is more common.
• Allerppy – Sailing on a house boats is idea and comfortable.
• Kochi – Fishing villages are at their best and most vibrant. 

Summer Months

Summer, although hot and humid, also has a few great locations to visit which will be a little cooler, think hill stations at higher altitude!

• Munnar – the green misty hills will feel cooler.
• Ponmudi – referred to as the ‘Ooty of kerala’.
• Wayanard – Great for adventure lovers.
• Lakkidi – remote hills perfect for hiking.

Monsoon Months

Prices for accommodation and activities are at their lowest and waterfall lovers will love the fact that the rainfall allows fast  flowing waterfalls, heavy river flow as well as the greenest the state will be.

• Munnar – tea fields appear dewy and very green.
• Thekkady – experience misty house boat rides.
• Kochi – greater access to reasonably priced Ayurvedic treatments.
• Marari Beach – deserted long stretches of sand, tourist free.

How Long To Spend In Kerala?

If traveling through India, Kerala can be visited as part of an organised package  tour for the minimum of four to five day itineraries. These would incorporate the most touristic and staple destinations. However, we would recommend an itinerary for Kerala to stretch 10-14 nights. This allows one to get a real taste for the state and will essentially allow time to discover more destinations and, or spend more time in your chosen areas according to your interests such as tea, wildlife, beach time or city exploration.

What Are The Highlights of Kerala?

• Kerala is ideal for those looking to explore a more laid back area of India and love slow travel.
• The state of Kerala has a wide range of experiences to be enjoyed including visiting tea plantations, glide along the backwater canal system and see the fishing villages, have Ayurvedic treatments, practice Yoga and enjoy the special food of the region.
• If you love colonial accommodation, Kerala has some grand hotels which have been restored as well as resorts that offer incredible Ayurvedic spa treatments.
• There are several times of the year when visiting is good. December to February is the best to experience the state at its most vibrant but March to May is great if you don’t mind the weather being a little warmer and humid.
• There are many places to visit that are off the beaten track but some of the most popular are Kochi, Munnar Alleppey, Thekkady and Wayanard. 

Related Article: What Makes Kerala One of India’s Most Eco-Friendly States

Reasons Why You Should Visit Kerala

Novel Culture and Food Scene To The Rest of India

Visiting Kerala is a very different experience to the rest of the country. For one, it is very laid back and assumes a slower pace of life. Kerala is a unique blend of different influences including Portuguese, Arabian, Chinese as well as a host of religions including Christians, Hindus, Muslims, Jewish and many more. The majority of cultural influences are apparent in Kochi and are very unique to the state.

Kerala food is also very specific and in a class of it’s own. There is the use of coconut in specific curries as well as a slight sweeter taste to the overall dishes. Prepare for an abundance of seafood, not so much meat, especially chicken and a fantastic variety of vegetarian dishes.

A traditional Keralan breakfast includes, Idli Sambhar Masala Dosas and so many more delicious delicate flavoursome dishes. The focus is on aromatic spices rather than heat levels.

Experience Wellness of The Mind & Body with Ayurveda & Yoga 

Ayurvedic medicine is one of the world’s most ancient and oldest forms of traditional medicine, with a focus on plants. Kerala is known for its variety of retreats that work through treatment plans that are individually designed for patients with a course of natural massage as well as oral or topical products.

Yoga retreats are plentiful in Kerala from beginners right up to experts can join classes and take courses here. Meditation as well as spiritual awakening courses are also available for differing lengths of time.

Responsible Wildlife Encounters

The jungles and forests of Kerala are home to wildlife such as elephants, Bengal tigers and monkeys. Periyar national park is Kerala’s largest wildlife reserve covering 100 square kilometres of jungle landscape. Sightings are not guaranteed but it is a good place to spot a Bengal tiger in their  true habitat as well as flying squirrels and macaques.

Be-lavie Top Tip: At the time of this article January 2024, elephants riding was still being offered to visitors. Elephants are not made to be ridden. The less demand there is for this activity, the less likely it will happen. Please research and choose wildlife experiences responsibly.

Kerala Encompasses a Host of Terrains

The landscape of Kerala is absolutely beautiful. Think white sandy beaches, lined with the tallest palm trees, villages along the backwaters of Kerala surrounded by farms growing crops such as rice intertwined with canal networks adorned with lotus flowers. Then there are the misty lush green hill stations close to the Western Ghats full of mountain forests, tea plantations and spice farms. Finally don’t miss the national parks, waterfalls and jungles of God’s own Country.

Work With a Local Travel Agent – 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

Tens days is a good amount of time to get to know places in Kerala but depending on how ambitious you are, it can still seem like you’re running out of time. 

Using local experts such as travel agents who you can work with you to pin down and customise your ideal itinerary in Kerala not just saves time but also allows you to use their local knowledge and contacts in the hospitality industry. They have the best top tips and often the know how to reveal all the hidden gems and provide you with one off, less touristy experiences.

Iris holidays based in Cochin are one such company who we personally recommend for customisation of itinerary as well as taking in the needs of the customer and taking on board their requests. They are highly related on many platforms with their staff as well as drivers and guides being from the state itself.

Once they can ascertain what type of trip you would like, they can work in producing itineraries for you, which can be customised until you are happy.

Advantages of Using a Tour Agent

• They can offer a wealth of advice on how to build an itinerary that will work logistically.
• Their drivers and guides come highly recommended and have the safety and comfort of visitors at the forefront.
• Staff are English speaking so communication is seamless.
• Booking and communication is simple during the booking process. You can call using WhatsApp or email.
• Making payments are safe and secure with receipts and proof provided at all times.
• You can adjust your itinerary up to a designated time before your visit.
• A driver will be allocated to you throughout your trip in Kerala, who will also pick and drop you off at the airport. The service is punctual and friendly with plenty of recommendations along the way.
• At certain destinations such as Fort Kochi, you will have a local guide to help you explore the heritage and culture.
• All the logistical hassle has been dealt with by the agent so you can get on with enjoying your time at destination.
• Agents can answer VISA related questions as well as offer some help with what you need at immigration.
• Many agents specialise in working with locally owned businesses such as hotels and guides so you will be supporting smaller workings rather than huge chains and corporations.
• Itineraries are offered at entry level and then built up to more luxurious hotels, excursions and tailor made dependent upon preferences budget. For example state that you’d like a four or five star experience if you plan to go more fancy and have the budget.
• A deposit will be taken at the time of booking to seal the itinerary and holding of properties. Full balance is payable a couple of weeks prior to travel.

Be-lavie tip: Sustainability is a big part of life and tourism in Kerala and this is reflected in the booking process

How To Plan The Perfect 10 Day Kerala Itinerary 

Day 1-2: Cochin – Fort Kochi

Distance:  45 kM + Drive Time:  1 hour 45 minutes (regular traffic).

• Arrive at Cochin Airport after international flight.
• Immigration can take a while as electronic VISA applicants are seen individually by officials and fingerprints are taken. Ensure the address and telephone number of the first property of stay is at hand.
• You driver will be waiting for you with a board with your name in the Arrivals hall post luggage collection.
• Transfer to Fort Kochi and check-into hotel. 
• Spend the rest of the day at leisure or get your bearings and explore the surroundings.

Related Article: How to spend 48 Hours in Fort Kochi

Hotel Recommendations

• Dutch Bungalow (four Star colonial heritage – style hotel).

• Sheeba’s Homestay in a tucked away street in the centre of Fort Kochi is a sustainable friendly property with four rooms. All meals are provided.

Dining Recommendations

• Dinner: Coriander – excellent vegetarian dishes.
• Cafe: Tea Pot is a lovely cafe serving hot drinks, sandwiches, cakes and lite bites
• Fort Kochi’s Princess Street, which has a number of restaurants in the area.

Things To Do & See In Fort Kochi

• Fort Kochi Beach
• Fishing Nets
• Spice Market
• Santa Cruz Basilica
• St. Francis Church
• Mattancherry
• Jew Street
• A Keralan cooking class at a Homestay
• Traditional Keralan saree wearing demo at The Spice Market
• Kolam making demonstration at the Brahmin Hindu Agraharam, the Hindu Quarter

Fort Kochi Tour Recommendations

Be-lavie Tip: Sheeba runs the best cooking classes. Her food is delicious, authentic and she does lots of vegetarian options. Book in advance for cookery classes if you’re not already staying there.

Day 3: Fort Kochi – Munnar

Distance: 130km + Drive Time; 4 hours (regular traffic)

• Post breakfast at around 09:00 leave for Munnar. 
• En route drive over the Neriamangalam bridge which sits over the Periyar River.
• Stop at the Valara Waterfalls followed by the more impressive Cheeyappara Falls.
• Call into one of the many Ayurvedic gardens near the falls and learn about the plants and their uses in this ancient Indian medicine.
• Arrive at destination Hotel in the early afternoon.

Related Article: A 3 Day Guide to Things To Do In Munnar

Hotel Recommendation

Green leaf Resort. Cottage style accommodation surrounded by picturesque views of the rolling hills and lush greenery. The remote location is accessible by a narrow dirt road.

Things To Do At Green Leaf

• The hotel is about taking in the location and panorama of the lush placement of Green leaf.
• Join one of the organised hikes to the neighbouring tea plantations for a photo opportunity, learn about the spices such as black pepper that grow on the resorts expansive grounds as well as walk through lush vegetation to admire the pineapples, cashews and flowers that grow here. Spot some of the birdlife in the area.
• Partake in artery on the lawn or cooking demonstrations in the afternoon.
• Don’t miss the Thattukada (tea stall and snacks) at 16:00. 
• Spend the evening around the camp fire to mingle with guests.

Munnar Tour Recommendations – 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

Dining Recommendations

Green leaf resort (four star property) is located remotely so dining options are recommended at the hotel. They have a la carte cuisine served on the first floor of their restaurant or a set buffet menu served on the ground floor. Food includes traditional Keralan as well as North Indian dishes with plenty of vegetarian options.

Day 4 Munnar – Munnar (Travelling Slightly North)

Distance: 100km + Drive Time: 30 minutes (regular traffic)

Be-lavie Tip: Ask the staff about sunrise times the night before. The best place to see a stunning sunrise on the property is to climb the stairs outside the restaurant and take a seat on the terrace.

Things To Do En-Route To Next Destination In Munnar

• Stop on the way to photograph some of the most beautiful tea gardens in Munnar.
• Eravikulam National Park via private Jeep Tour (3 hour tour includes, tea and spice plantations, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Top Station views of Tamil Nadu, spot the Nilgiri Thar deer.
• Spot Munnar Tea Museum.
• Stroll around the Rose Garden.
• Arrive at hotel pick up point early afternoon.

Hotel Recommendation

Nature Zone Jungle Resort Tree Houses a three star fully sustainable resort in a secret location accessed by jeep via a private road.

The driver or transportation should drop you off on a designated spot at Pulippara in Munnar, where a jeep will pick you up and take you to the Nature Zone Resort which is a 30 minute journey. Stay over night in a tree house or luxury tent. 

Things To Do At Nature Zone

Many of the activities focus around hiking the surrounding areas, activities include:

• Jungle Trekking
• Tea Plantation Walk
• Pulippara View point
• City night lights View point
• Bird watching
• Off road jeep ride
• Sunrise view point
• Sunset View Point
• Tea Plantation view point

Dining Recommendations

Due to the remote location of the property, all food is served in the restaurant. Every night there is a great buffet with plenty of traditional Keralan vegetarian food as well as meat and fish. They also make dishes from North India. Breakfast and snacks are also served in the restaurant.

Be-lavie Tip: No food can be consumed outside of the restaurant due to the presence of wild animals in the trees such as squirrels, monkeys as well as the odd elephant sightings around the jungle area of the resort.

Day 5 : Munnar-Thekkady – Halfway of 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

Distance: 120 km + Drive Time: 3.5 hours (regular traffic)

• Following an early start post breakfast, the jeep will take you back down to Munnar to meet your driver and onward transportation.
• Embark on the long drive to Thekkady.
• Check in at the hotel early afternoon for lunch.

Related Article: The Best Things to do in Thekkady: A Travel Guide

Hotel Recommendation

Greenwoods Resort Thekkady a four star sustainable property set in tranquil ground in the heart of Thekkady.

Things To Do In Thekkady

• Full day trip to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a National Park spreads across 777 square km, known for its beauty and wildlife such as elephants, monkeys, spotted deer and a variety of birds. Take a boat trip and cruise along Periyar Lake, go trekking or rafting in the park. Tickets must be purchased in advance.  
• Kathakali (Keralan dance) and Kalaripayattu Keralan traditional martial arts show are a must. These are between 17:00-19:00 daily.

Thekkady Tour Recommendation

Dining Recommendations

Greenwoods has a wonderful restaurant with a big lunch, snacks and dinner menu, a mix of Keralan, a few Western as well as North Indian varieties.

Day 6: Thekkady

• A day to relax at the resort or opt to go to Periyar National Park.
• Discover the resort and it’s sustainability efforts as well as the on site farm.
• Head out of the resorts and discover the spice markets, stalls and local scenes in Thekkady.

Be-lavie Tip: Many Tourists are misled into visiting Elephant Junction. This is not a responsible wildlife encounter. There are three female elephants here, held in captivity and visitors can feed, bath and ride them. They do have chains on their feet. The elephants are bathed in a small pool not a river or lake. Elephants backs are not made for riding. The less demands there is for activities like this, the less they are likely to be an attraction.

Day 7: Thekkady – Alleppey – 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

Distance: 100 km + Drive Time: 3.5 hours (regular traffic)

• Leave hotel post breakfast at 08:00 to head to Alleppey.
• Check into the Houseboat office, who will escort you to a houseboat.
• Houseboat check in time is usually 12:00 noon and sailings stop at night and resume at 07:00 then disembarkation the next day at 09:00 back in Alleppey at the same point.

Houseboat Recommendation

A one bedroom premium luxury houseboat from Pickadly Houseboats comes complete with captain, skipper and cook, all English speaking. Air-conditioning is provided throughout. The open air dining deck at the top is useful and on the lower deck there is a lounge with TV as well as a bedroom and bathroom with shower and jacuzzi.

Dining Recommendation – 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

All food including lunch on arrival, dinner, breakfast as well as snacks are included in the price of the sailing.

Things To Do Upon Alleppey Houseboat

• Leaving Alleppey sail past paddy fields, backwater canals, local homes, coconut palms and fishing village life.
• Many houseboats offer a stop for an Ayurvedic massage at a local centre (extra cost).
• Take a small fishing boat to glide through the narrower canal network that feels very authentic, it is possible to get out and walk through the paddy fields (extra cost and lasts about 90 minutes).
• Don’t forget to catch the sunset on the canals, absolutely stunning.

Related Article: Cruising the Kerala backwaters on a houseboat + sustainability

Alleppey Tour Recommendations

Day 8 – Alleppey – Marari Beach (Mararikulam)

Distance: 15 km + Driving distance: 30 mins (regular traffic)

• At the end of the cruise around 09:00, head back to the house boat office for transportation.
• Take a half day tour of Alleppey.
• Visit saree weavers workshops.
• Head to Alleppey lighthouse, which can be climbed for beach views.
• Walk along Marari Beach.
• Visit The International Coir Museum 
• Head to Marari Beach and resort accommodation.

Related Article: A guide to the best things to do on beautiful Marari Beach

Hotel Recommendation

Abad Turtle Beach four star cottage style accommodation with a private beach with an emphasis on sustainability. Marari Beach is a beautiful beach resort for those wanting to relax and recharge for a few days.

Dining Recommendation

The resort has some great dining options at their restaurant with daily specials, a Thattukada at 17:00 daily. Food is available all day including breakfast lunch and dinner.

Things To Do at Abad Turtle Beach

• Spend time at the beach.
• Partake in fishing and water sports.
• Head to the resorts Ayurvedic spa.
• Visit local villages to see their way of life, Back 2 Village in Vaikom is a great authentic example.
• Head to the small farm, vegetable garden on site to learn about sustainability.
• Spend time in the beautiful butterfly garden.

Day 9: Marari Beach 

• Rest & relax and take in the sea air.

Day 10: Marari Beach – Last day of 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

• Take a solo trip or go and visit a local village.
• Walk along the coast to discover more of the local coastline.

Day 11: Marari Beach – Kochi Airport

Distance: 60km + Drive Time: 2 hours (regular traffic).

• To comply with your international flight schedule head back to Kochi Airport. 
• This concludes your ten day Kerala itinerary,

The Best 7 Day Organised Kerala Itineraries to Consider

These seven day Kerala itineraries are put together for solo travellers, couples or families and include the best of the best. They involve travelling in small groups and give you a flavour of the state with its most popular destinations. Activities, transport and some food options are included in the pricing.

7 day itineraries are great to acclimatise to the area with. The whole trip to Kerala can be 10 days duration, with a day to relax or get your bearings, before and after the official itinerary starts or ends.

Related Article: 10 of the best authentic tours and activities in Kerala

Top Tips For a 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

eVISA

Most international visitors including UK citizens will need a 30 day visitor electronic VISA to enter India. It can be completed online a couple of weeks before travel and must be confirmed as accepted before you can board a flight to India. UK airports will check for confirmation evidence at Check in. Electronic VISAS should be acquired from the official Indian government website They cost $25 (£20.58) plus 2.5% transaction fee. Keep a hold of the confirmation email as this will be required for proof when travelling.

Vaccinations – 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

Malaria tablets are not required for Kerala but it is advisable to be up to date with Tetanus, Typhoid and Hep A shots. 

Water

Only filtered water can be consumed by residents as well as visitors. Many hotels will provide filtered water for their guests in bottles in hotel rooms to brush teeth and consume. These can be replenished daily and also requested as needed,

Currency

India’s currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). At the time of this article, January 2024, the Rupee is a closed currency. This means technically you cannot take it into the country from the UK. All money exchange agents will tell you this as they have to legally but you can take a small amount. We took the equivalent of £50 in and then took £50 notes. These are accepted and give a better rate when exchanging in India at banks or in your hotels.

State Bank of India (SBI) do not charge for withdrawals and take foreign cards. Only change currency at reputable places and check rates yourself to ensure you’re getting a good deal.

Cost of Basic Food In Kerala

• A cup of coffee – 6 INR = £0.05
• Appam pancake – 3 INR = £0.02
• 3 course meal for 2 – 1000INR = £10

Gratuities Culture

Here are some pointers on the tipping culture in India, which applies to Kerala:

• Many hotels and restaurants in India do have a service charge added but as a rule of thumb, you would pay 10% of the total amount of the bill.
• Payment must be in Indian rupees and not in your own local currency.
• Do not compare the amount you tip in your own country to the amount you would tip in India.
• Hotel and homestay bell boys who carry your bags can be tipped 20 INR on the day of arrival and more later if you find they are helpful during your stay.
• Luxury five star hotels, with three or more people staying in a room or apartment, you should try and tip more.
• Drivers, who may stay with you for the duration of your trip at each destination (in private quarters) and go above and beyond showing you extra things of your request or giving you recommendations, can be tipped up to 300 INR per day. So for a 10 night stay, you can tip around 3,000 INR.
• Tour guides going out of their way, shoudl also be tipped in the same region as drivers as they will usually tailor a tour to your preferences as well as take photographs for you and ensure your safety throughout the tour.
• You can tip anyone who you wish has done a service for you, without asking for anything in return. For example, talking to locals that are off the beaten path and show you their daily life or if you feel a particular resonance with someone who had been overly kind to you.
• If you wish, you can also tip, tuk tuk drivers, show cleaners, masseurs, show organsiers at temples and mosques, street food vendors, to mention a few.
• There is no need to tip if a service charge has been included in your final bill.

Language

Kerala is the only state in Indian with 100% literacy. It is a necessity by law that all children go to school. The locals speak Malayalam with TV and movies also been made in the language. English and Hindi are widely spoken in Kerala too.

Begging

Begging has been banned in Kerala and therefore you will not see the roadside beggars that you do in other parts of India. This can be quite the shock if you’ve arrived from another part of the country.

Entering Temples

Only men can enter temples with a bare torso, the traditional Mundo, which is a long piece of cotton fabric worn a little like a dhotti is worn on the bottom. In Kerala, the tradition of men removing their shirts before entering certain temple premises is rooted in cultural and religious practices. This practice is often associated with the idea of showing respect and humility before the deity. This however can often be different from temple to temple too.

Clothing

Kerala is a little more conservative than other parts of India such a the big cities of the North or Goa. Dressing a little more conservatively is advisable. No short or over tight dresses or spaghetti strapped tops and skinny shorts should not be worn as a mark of respect. Dresses under the knee are absolutely fine as are showing your arms.

Related Article: A Guide on What to pack for Kerala

Hotels – Ten Day Kerala Itinerary

Note that most of the hotel rates as well as Homestay rates do include breakfast. A traditional Keralan breakfast of dosa, sambar and idli as well as fruit, omelets, juices, tea and coffee will almost always be available.

Related Article: Eco-friendly Hotels in Kerala & Their Sustainability Practices

Women Are Held In Great Esteem

Keralan culture is very much a matriarchal one, where women are treated like goddesses with a powerful role in the family and extended family unit.

The Caste System Exists

Although many people choose not to follow the dated caste system in Kerala, it does exist in some places with The Nairs being the highest caste and were placed below the kings and the Brahmins in Caste hierarchy. The Ambalavasis were kept between the Brahmins and the Nairs. The lower castes were known as tintal jati, which translates to castes which pollutes at a distance.

10 Day Kerala Itinerary FAQS

Round-Up: The Perfect 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

This article covers most bases when in the early stages of planning a trip to Kerala. Hopefully it can help with crafting the perfect ten day Kerala itinerary which can be adapted to your preferences and interests. The most difficult part is narrowing down the areas and locations that take priority to visit and then secondly the kind of hotels you like. The great thing about Kerala is that it is very affordable without compromising on quality. Homestays are ideal if you are on a budget or would prefer to spend more on experiences or a  beach resort villa. It’s almost impossible to see all of the state in one visit and this guide is aimed at first time visitors who have never experienced travel in India with an aim to help navigate the culture of the land.

Related Articles

• Beautiful Eco-friendly Hotels in Kerala & Their Sustainability Practices
• What Makes Kerala One of India’s Most Eco-Friendly States
• How to spend 48 Hours in Fort Kochi
• A 3 Day Guide to Things To Do In Munnar
• The Best Things to do in Thekkady: A Travel Guide
• A guide to the best things to do on beautiful Marari Beach
• Cruising the Kerala backwaters on a houseboat + sustainability 
• A guide to the best things to do on beautiful Marari Beach 
• A Guide on What to pack for Kerala
• 10 of the best authentic tours and activities in Kerala

Resources To Help Plan Your 10 Day Kerala Itinerary

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