Kerala packs mountains, backwaters, waterfalls and wildlife into short distances, which makes Kochi one of India's best cities for weekend travel.
1. Munnar
Distance: about 130 km (about 4 hours) · Best for: couples, nature lovers
Rolling tea estates, the Tea Museum, Eravikulam National Park (home to the Nilgiri tahr, and famous for the rare Neelakurinji bloom), Mattupetty Dam and misty viewpoints.
2. Alappuzha (Alleppey)
Distance: about 55 km (about 1.5 hours) · Best for: houseboat stays, families
Kerala's backwater capital. Spend a night on a houseboat, take a shikara or canoe ride through narrow canals, and relax on Marari or Alleppey beach.
3. Athirappilly and Vazhachal
Distance: about 70 km (about 2 hours) · Best for: day trips, photographers
Kerala's largest waterfall, sometimes called the "Niagara of India", set in lush forest. It is most powerful during and after the monsoon.
4. Vagamon
Distance: about 100 km (about 3 hours) · Best for: offbeat travel, adventure
Rolling meadows, pine forests, tea gardens and paragliding in season. Quieter and cooler than many hill stations.
5. Thekkady
Distance: about 160 km (4 to 4.5 hours) · Best for: wildlife, spice trails
Home to Periyar Tiger Reserve, with boat safaris on Periyar Lake, guided nature walks, spice plantation tours and Kathakali and Kalaripayattu shows.
6. Kumarakom
Distance: about 55 km (about 1.5 hours) · Best for: couples, luxury breaks
Luxury backwater resorts on Vembanad Lake, a bird sanctuary and peaceful canoe rides. Ideal for a slow, relaxing weekend.
Quick comparison
| Getaway | Approx. distance | Ideal trip | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Munnar | 130 km | 2 days | Tea hills |
| Alleppey | 55 km | 1 to 2 days | Houseboats |
| Athirappilly | 70 km | 1 day | Waterfalls |
| Vagamon | 100 km | 2 days | Meadows and pines |
| Thekkady | 160 km | 2 days | Wildlife and spices |
| Kumarakom | 55 km | 2 days | Lakeside luxury |
Tips
- September to March is the best season; the monsoon is lush but can disrupt hill roads.
- Book houseboats from licensed operators and confirm what meals are included.
- Check Eravikulam park timings and closure periods, which vary with the calving season.
- Carry rain gear even outside the monsoon.
Weekend Getaways: the full series
- Part 1: From Chennai
- Part 2: From Bengaluru
- Part 3: From Hyderabad
- Part 4: From Mumbai and Pune
- Part 5: From Delhi
- Part 6: From Kolkata
- Part 7: From Kochi (you are here)
- Part 8: From Coimbatore and Madurai
- Part 9: From Ahmedabad
- Part 10: How to Plan a Budget Weekend Trip
Travel times, distances and prices are approximate and can change with season, traffic and local rules. Check weather, road conditions, entry permits and timings before you travel.
