Kerala 5 Day Itinerary: Backwaters, Hills & Alleppey Houseboat

Five days is enough to experience Kerala's two signature landscapes — the hills and the backwaters. Here's a classic 5 day itinerary built around an Alleppey houseboat.

Day 1 — Arrive in Kochi

Land in Kochi, explore Fort Kochi — the Chinese fishing nets, colonial streets and cafés. Overnight in Kochi. (See Kochi to Alleppey guide.)

Day 2 — Kochi to Munnar

Drive up to Munnar (about 4 hours) through tea country. Afternoon at leisure among the hills and tea estates. Overnight in Munnar.

Day 3 — Munnar Sightseeing

Tea plantations, viewpoints and cool mountain air. Overnight in Munnar.

Day 4 — Munnar to Alleppey Houseboat

Drive down to Alleppey (about 4-5 hours) and board your private houseboat by noon. Cruise the backwaters, enjoy sunset and dinner on the water, and stay overnight. This is the trip's highlight.

Day 5 — Houseboat Check-out & Departure

Sunrise over the backwaters, breakfast onboard, and check out at 9 AM. Transfer back to Kochi (about 1.5 hours) for your departure.

Tips

• Book the houseboat for the Day 4 night well in advance — see the prices page.
• Reverse the order (Alleppey first) if it suits your flights.
• Travelling as a couple? See our Kerala honeymoon itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 5 days enough for Kerala?

Yes — five days comfortably covers Kochi, Munnar and an Alleppey houseboat, Kerala's essential highlights.

Should the houseboat be at the start or end?

Either works. Many travellers place it near the end as a relaxing finale before flying out of Kochi.

Plan the trip with our Kerala Houseboat Guide.

Ready to book your houseboat night?

Check availability and book your Alleppey houseboat.