One Week in Kerala: A Soulful Escape from Coastal Kochi to Wild Thekkady
- Sumana Rao
- Jul 2
- 3 min read
Welcome to Kerala — God’s Own State, where every day unfolds like poetry: misty mornings in the hills, sunsets over ancient fishing nets, and the scent of cardamom in the breeze.
At Spectrum trips, we believe travel should be more than sightseeing — it should be an experience. So here’s our thoughtfully designed 7-day journey through Kochi and Thekkady, featuring both unmissable landmarks and hidden gems, perfect for first-time explorers and slow travelers alike.
Days 1-3 : Cultural Charm & Coastal Calm in Kochi
Mattancherry & the Dutch Palace
Start your Kerala journey in Mattancherry, where centuries of trade and multicultural influence come to life. The Dutch Palace, with its colonial architecture and intricate royal murals, offers a glimpse into Kerala’s regal past.
2. Paradesi Synagogue & Jew Town
Just around the corner, step into Jew Town — a vibrant street lined with spice markets, antique shops, and tiny cafés. The Paradesi Synagogue, built in 1568, is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth and glows with Belgian chandeliers and hand-painted Chinese tiles.
3. The Iconic Chinese Fishing Nets
In Fort Kochi, you’ll find one of Kerala’s most photographed sights — the Chinese Fishing Nets. These massive, manually operated nets line the shore and are a living testimony to the city's maritime legacy.
Perfect moment: Visit during sunset when the golden sky turns the nets into silhouettes — it's magical.
4. Cherai Beach – A Quiet Getaway
Take a day trip to Cherai Beach, just a short drive from Kochi. This clean, lesser-known beach offers shallow waters perfect for swimming, dolphin spotting, and peaceful walks.
Bonus: Nearby villages offer authentic backwater experiences — ask us about a canoe ride with a local guide.
5. Santa Cruz Basilica & Fort Kochi Streets
While you’re in Fort Kochi, stroll through colonial streets, admire street art, and visit the Santa Cruz Basilica — a stunning piece of Gothic architecture. Stop for coffee at a heritage café, visit art galleries, and slow down to soak in Kochi’s unique vibe.
Days 4–7: Into the Wild Heart of Thekkady
Leave the coastline behind and drive through the Western Ghats to reach Thekkady — a land of misty forests, spice plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries.
6. Kumily – Gateway to Thekkady
Check into a scenic resort or a spice plantation stay in Kumily, a quiet hill town surrounded by cardamom fields and forested hills. Take a guided walk through spice gardens to see where black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon are grown.
Guest favorite: Spice shopping! We’ll take you to trusted local shops where you can buy organic, farm-fresh spices to take home.
7. Periyar River & Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the highlights of the trip is a boat safari on the Periyar River, inside the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Glide through calm waters while spotting herds of elephants, wild boars, deer, and a variety of birds along the banks.
Alternative experiences:
Bamboo rafting
Guided jungle trek
Night forest walk for the more adventurous
8. Kadathanadan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali Centre
In the evening, dive into Kerala’s traditional performing arts.
Watch a Kalaripayattu demonstration — India’s oldest martial art, full of discipline and energy.
Witness a Kathakali performance, where facial expressions and hand gestures tell ancient epics without a single spoken word.
( One week Kerala itinerary, Best places to visit in Kerala, Kerala cultural tour, God's Own Country, Kerala holiday packages, Kerala nature and wildlife, Kochi city tour)
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