Kerala Coast and Western Ghats
India
This Kerala road trip links the Arabian Sea with the tea-covered Western Ghats, starting in Kochi and winding south through Alleppey, Varkala, and Kollam before climbing to Munnar and descending to Thekkady. Expect backwater views, spice-scented hills, and lush plantations.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Fort Kochi
Start among Chinese fishing nets, colonial lanes, and waterfront cafés. A great place to ease into Kerala's sea air.
- Alappuzha Beach
Walk the long shoreline and watch fishing boats pull in through the surf. The old pier and sea breeze set a relaxed coastal rhythm.
- Kumarakom Backwaters
Glide past palm-fringed canals, rice fields, and quiet village edges. Houseboats and canoes make this one of Kerala's classic water landscapes.
- Varkala Cliff
Cliffs rise above a wide beach with sunset views and a lively promenade. It's a scenic stop for cafes, shops, and sea views.
- Sasthamkotta Lake
A calm freshwater lake framed by hills and greenery. The quiet shoreline feels far from the busier beach towns.
- Munnar Tea Gardens
Tea-covered slopes roll across cool, misty hills. The green terraces make the mountain climb feel instantly rewarding.
- Mattupetty Dam
A scenic reservoir stop with still water and open hill views. Boating and photo stops are the main draw here.
- Eravikulam National Park
High-altitude grasslands and shola forests shelter rare wildlife and sweeping ridges. Visit for cool air and dramatic Western Ghats views.
- Thekkady
End in spice country near forested hills and plantation roads. It is a fitting finale after the coast-to-highland drive.
Where to Eat
- Kashi Art CafeCafe, continental, Kerala
A popular Fort Kochi stop for breakfast, coffee, and light plates. The leafy courtyard makes it an easy first meal on the route.
- Halais RestaurantKerala, seafood, Indian
A long-running Kochi favorite for Malabar-style dishes and seafood. Good for a hearty meal before heading south.
- Karimpumkala RestaurantKerala, seafood, South Indian
A well-known stop in Alleppey for local meals and fish dishes. It works well for a simple lunch between backwater stops.
- AryaasSouth Indian, vegetarian
A dependable vegetarian option in Varkala for dosa, idli, and filter coffee. It is handy between beach time and cliff walks.
- Saravana BhavanSouth Indian, vegetarian
A simple, popular chain-style stop for dosa and thali meals in the hill country. Useful when you want a quick and familiar lunch in Munnar.
Things to Do
- Kerala Backwaters Houseboat Cruiseboat tour
Cruise through canals, lagoons, and village waterways on a classic Kerala houseboat. Sunset on the water is one of the route's signature moments.
- Varkala Beachbeach
Spend time on the sand below the cliffs and watch the Arabian Sea at dusk. It is one of the best coastal viewpoints in Kerala.
- Spice Plantation Tourfarm tour
Walk through cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon plantations near Thekkady. The tours show how Kerala's spice trade still shapes the region.
- Echo Pointviewpoint
Stop for lake views and cool mountain air near Munnar. On clear days, the scenery stretches across forested ridges and water.
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuarywildlife
Take a boat safari or nature walk in a protected forest around Thekkady. Elephant and bird sightings are common highlights.
Travel advisory
Monsoon rains from June to September can trigger landslides, slippery ghats, and slower mountain driving. Allow extra time on hill sections and avoid night driving on narrow roads.