Kerala — "God's Own Country" — is consistently voted one of the world's best travel destinations. And driving through its lush landscapes with a private car is the best way to see everything at your own pace.

The Classic Kerala Circuit (7-8 Days)

Day 1-2: Kochi (Cochin)

• Fort Kochi's colonial charm, Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church
• Kathakali dance performances
• Fresh seafood at Fort Kochi restaurants

Day 3-4: Munnar (130 km from Kochi, 4 hrs)

• Tea plantations as far as the eye can see
• Eravikulam National Park (Nilgiri tahr sighting)
• Top Station viewpoint
• The drive from Kochi to Munnar through the Western Ghats is spectacular

Day 5: Thekkady / Periyar (110 km from Munnar, 3.5 hrs)

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary — boat ride to spot elephants
• Spice garden tours — cardamom, pepper, cinnamon
• Bamboo rafting

Day 6-7: Alleppey / Kumarakom (140 km from Thekkady, 4 hrs)

• Houseboat overnight on the backwaters
• Village canoe rides
• Paddy field walks
• Your car waits at the jetty while you're on the houseboat

Day 8: Kovalam / Trivandrum (170 km from Alleppey, 4 hrs)

• Lighthouse Beach
• Ayurvedic spa
• Fly out from Trivandrum airport

Why Drive Kerala?

• Scenic roads: Kerala's roads wind through tea estates, rubber plantations, and coconut groves
• Short distances: Nothing is more than 4-5 hours apart
• No direct trains: Many Kerala destinations are only accessible by road
• Hill driving: The Munnar and Thekkady stretches need experienced drivers

Best Time

• September–March: Post-monsoon, lush green, comfortable weather
• Avoid April–May: Extremely hot and humid

Vehicle Recommendation

An Innova works best for Kerala's mix of highways and hill roads. Sedans are fine for flat stretches but struggle on Munnar's steep climbs.

Book Your Kerala Trip

Royal Fleet arranges Kerala circuit tours with experienced drivers who know every route and pit stop. Multi-day retention plans available.