A 5-day Kerala itinerary by cab is the classic introduction to the state: colonial port city, tea-covered hills, spice-scented wildlife, and backwaters that move at the pace of a houseboat. Because distances are short but roads are winding, a fixed-price cab is the most relaxed way to connect every stop.
Day 1: Kochi to Munnar
Land at Kochi Airport or check out of your Fort Kochi hotel and take a cab straight to Munnar. The airport to Munnar transfer is 138 km and takes 3.5–4 hours via the Neriamangalam ghat. Stop at Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls before checking into your Munnar hotel.
Day 2: Munnar sightseeing
Start early at Eravikulam National Park to see the Nilgiri Tahr, then drive to Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point. After lunch, visit the Tea Museum and take an evening walk through the Suryanelli cardamom estates. Overnight in Munnar.
Day 3: Munnar to Thekkady
The Munnar to Thekkady cab route is only 90 km but packed with scenery: Marayur sandalwood forests, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, and the spice town of Kumily. Check in by early afternoon so you can book an evening Periyar Lake boat safari.
Day 4: Thekkady to Alleppey (houseboat)
Leave Thekkady after breakfast and drive 170 km to Alleppey, descending from the Ghats to sea level. Board your houseboat by noon for an overnight cruise through the Kuttanad backwaters. This is the highlight of most Kerala itineraries.
Day 5: Alleppey to Kochi
Houseboats check out at 9 am. Take a cab from Alleppey to Kochi (84 km, 1.5–2 hours), with time for a quick stop at Marari Beach or a Kochi spice shop before your evening flight.
Customising this itinerary
Want beaches? Add two nights in Kovalam or Varkala after Alleppey. Prefer a quieter backwater? Swap Alleppey for Kumarakom. With a private cab, every change is just a route adjustment.