Kerala Travel Experience: A Dream Journey Through God’s Own Country

My soulful Kerala travel experience covering Munnar tea gardens, Thekkady wildlife, Alleppey backwaters, Kovalam beaches and Poovar Island. A complete travel blog with itinerary, tips and FAQs.

Some travel dreams form quietly. Mine began the day I saw pictures of Kerala’s backwaters, houseboats, endless tea gardens, and lush greenery. I did not know when or how, but somewhere along the way, visiting Kerala became a dream I wanted to fulfil at least once in my lifetime.

For the last two or three years, I tried planning this trip. A hectic work schedule always came in the way, making it difficult to take a full week off. Finally, things aligned. I had four official leaves and applied for three more. That was all I needed to turn this dream into reality.

February is considered the best time to visit Kerala, but I travelled from 25th March to 31st March 2024. For me, the season did not matter. Travel did. The weather was pleasant, neither too hot nor too cold, and perfect for exploring.

Kerala Travel Experience – 7 Days Itinerary 

Day 1: Delhi to Munnar, First Glimpse of God’s Own Country

Munnar is often described as breathtakingly beautiful, a peaceful haven in God’s Own Country. With endless tea plantations, rolling hills, valleys, and the aroma of spice-scented air, it truly feels like a place you would never want to leave.

On 25th March, we flew from Delhi to Kochi. From Kochi airport, we hired a prepaid taxi for ₹2800. Our flight was delayed, so we skipped Kochi sightseeing and headed straight to Munnar. After a long but scenic drive, we stopped for dinner on the way. The food was simple yet amazing.

We checked into Apple Resort late at night and rested.

The next morning, after breakfast, we checked out and shifted to another hotel closer to the city, Raahat Inn. After placing our luggage, we began a packed day of sightseeing.

Our first stop was the Tea Museum, where we learned about the journey of tea leaves from plucking to packaging. From there, we headed to Mattupetty Dam and Lake, vast and incredibly beautiful. Echo Point was nearby, with calm water and clear reflections, though sadly, the place could have been cleaner.

We also visited Top Station, the Honey Tree, Photo Point, and cardamom gardens. By evening, we returned to Munnar city, bought spices and chocolates, and enjoyed classic South Indian idli, sambar, and dosa at Saravana Bhavan. Tired but happy, we returned to our room to plan the next destination.

Day 2: Munnar to Thekkady, Spice Trails and Cultural Evenings

After breakfast, it was time to say goodbye to Munnar. We started our journey to Thekkady via Devikulam. The road was lined with endless tea gardens, and the scenery remained beautiful throughout the drive.

On the way, we visited a spice plantation and learned about various spices and herbs used in daily cooking and traditional medicine.

We stayed at a homestay called Kerala House, which was clean, spacious, budget friendly, and warm in every sense. The host family was extremely kind. The owner, Mr. Sibboo, helped us plan our time efficiently. He booked a Kathakali show and an Ayurvedic spa for the evening.

After tea and snacks, we went for an elephant ride and then rushed to attend the Kathakali performance, which began exactly at 7 PM. After the show, we spoke to the performers and learned about their elaborate makeup and art form. Later, we enjoyed a relaxing Ayurvedic spa session at Arya Spa, right across from our stay.

Day 3: Thekkady to Alleppey, Wildlife and Backwater Dreams

Periyal Lake Early Morning view

Our plan for 28th March was to visit the Periyar Wildlife Reserve. We were advised to reach early, so we left at around 5 AM. Even at that hour, there was already a long line of cars waiting.

After entering the gate and rushing to the boat jetty, we managed to get tickets. The experience felt like a race, but it was worth it. We took the first boat ride of the day. Although we did not spot tigers, we saw bisons, wild boars, and many birds.

By 9:30 AM, we returned, had breakfast, packed our bags, and left for Alleppey. We stayed at Mandala House Beach Resort, near Alleppey beach. After dropping our luggage, we went straight for the experience I had dreamed of the most, the backwaters.

Since we had limited time, we chose a two-hour Shikara ride instead of an overnight houseboat. Once inside the Shikara, the cool breeze, shaded canals, and calm water made the experience incredibly relaxing. We passed coconut trees, village homes, women washing clothes by the water, and fishermen using simple bamboo rods.

Our Shikara guide, Ajeet, was cheerful and informative. He shared details about houseboats, costs, and even took many of our photographs. The fatigue of the last two years seemed to disappear during those peaceful hours.

After the ride, we explored the local market and returned to the hotel. We were surprised to learn that we were the only Indians staying there. In the evening, we sat by the beach and later had dinner with three foreign couples. It was a simple, memorable night.

Day 4 and 5: Alleppey to Kovalam, Beaches and Slow Living

We left Alleppey for Kovalam, traveling first to Trivandrum by bus. The journey took around four to five hours. From Trivandrum city, Kovalam is about 15 kilometers away.

We stayed at Vedanta Wake Up Hotel, the best accommodation of our entire trip. After resting, a short spell of rain made the weather cool and pleasant.

Kovalam is a crescent-shaped beach divided into Lighthouse Beach, Eve’s Beach, and Samudra Beach. Mornings and evenings are lively, especially with foreign tourists, while sunsets attract locals. Walking along the shore, watching waves, and enjoying fresh seafood made time slow down beautifully.

Day 6: Poovar Island and Mangrove Adventures

After climbing the lighthouse in the morning for panoramic views, we decided to visit Poovar Island. It is about 17 kilometers from Kovalam. We hired an auto for ₹500 for a round trip.
From Poovar, we took a boat ride along the Neyyar River. This experience was completely different from Alleppey. We passed through dense mangrove forests, narrow canals, coconut groves, and heard birds singing all around.

We spotted kingfishers, white eagles, and other birds. Soon, we reached Poovar Island, where golden sand meets calm waters. Resorts with floating cottages lined one side, while untouched beach stretched on the other.

After returning, we visited a fish aquarium and ended the day with dinner at a sea-view restaurant.

Day 7 – Trivandrum Sightseeing and Spiritual Goodbye

Before heading back home, we visited the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum. Traditional attire and the serene atmosphere made the visit deeply spiritual and grounding.

Even weeks after returning, the memories remain vivid. Sometimes it still feels like standing on Kovalam beach, watching the sun slowly disappear into the sea.

This journey was more than just a trip. It reaffirmed my belief in travel as a form of healing. Kerala truly deserves to be called God’s Own Country.

Conclusion: Why This Kerala Trip Will Always Stay With Me

This journey through Kerala was not just about visiting new places, but about slowing down and reconnecting with nature, culture, and myself. From the misty tea gardens of Munnar to the spice-scented air of Thekkady, from the calm backwaters of Alleppey to the golden sunsets of Kovalam, every destination offered a different rhythm and a new perspective.

What made this trip special was the balance it brought. Quiet mornings in the hills, cultural evenings filled with art and tradition, peaceful hours on the water, and unhurried beach walks created memories that felt deeply personal. Kerala did not overwhelm. It healed, refreshed, and grounded.

Long after the journey ended, the feeling remained. The sound of waves, the sway of palm trees, and the stillness of backwaters continue to linger in memory. This trip proved that travel is not about perfect timing or ideal seasons. It is about listening to the moment when your heart says it is time to go.

Kerala truly lived up to its name as God’s Own Country, and this journey will always be one of the most meaningful travels of my life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Kerala Travel

Is Kerala suitable for a short trip?

Yes, Kerala can be explored even with limited time if you plan destinations wisely. Combining hill stations, backwaters, and beaches offers a balanced experience.

Is Kerala safe for travelers?

Kerala is considered one of the safest travel destinations in India, including for solo travelers and international tourists.

Related Read: 101 Reasons to Travel Solo Once in a Lifetime

Do I need to stay on a houseboat in Alleppey?

No, a Shikara ride or day cruise offers an equally beautiful backwater experience if you are short on time or budget.

What makes Kerala stand out among other Indian destinations?

Kerala’s uniqueness lies in its diversity. From misty hills and wildlife to backwaters, beaches, and rich culture, it offers a complete travel experience.

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