10 Breath-Taking Weekend Getaways From Kochi

Updated Date: 8 December 2025

Kochi is one of the best places in Kerala for short trips because it is well connected to many different types of destinations. From Kochi, you can reach beaches, backwaters, hill stations, wildlife spots, and cultural towns in just a few hours. This makes it perfect for anyone looking for weekend getaways from Kochi, Kochi weekend getaways, getaways from Kochi, or even a quick 1 day trip from Kochi to relax and take a break from a busy routine.

You do not have to travel far to enjoy a change of surroundings. If you love nature, there are calm beaches and green hills. If you enjoy food or culture, you can visit nearby towns full of history and local flavours. If you want fun and adventure, there are waterfalls, trekking routes, and viewpoint spots. Families can also find many easy and safe places for a short holiday within 3–5 hours.

This guide also covers the top one-day trip places in Kerala from Kochi so you can plan a short outing without staying overnight. It also includes peaceful weekend getaways near Kochi that you can visit at any time of the year, whether you want a simple break, a road trip, or a quick holiday with friends or family.

Table Of Content

Why Kochi Is Perfect for a Quick Getaway

Kochi is a perfect travel base because it sits at the center of Kerala. You can reach beaches, backwaters, waterfalls, forests, and hill stations in a short time. The roads are smooth, trains are frequent, and plenty of buses run at all hours. The airport is also well-connected, making weekend trips easier.

Families can plan short holidays without long travel time. Couples can enjoy calm beaches or hill views. Solo travellers get safe routes and easy transport. Seniors can choose flat and easy destinations. Backpackers and luxury travellers can both find perfect options. For budget trips, culture trails, monsoon spots, photography, local food tours, and adventure weekends, Kochi has something for everyone.

Below, you will find the Top 10 Weekend Getaways From Kochi, suitable for quick breaks.

Top 10 Weekend Getaways From Kochi

Below is a list of the best places for a 1 day trip from Kochi or a relaxing weekend holiday. Each place has a simple hook, travel suitability, a to-do list, and travel details.

Alappuzha – Home To Alluring Backwaters
Mararikulam – The Traditional Village Lifestyle
Malankara Dam – Perfect For Family Fun
Thrissur – One Of The Oldest
Munnar – Fifty Shades Of Green
Varkala – A Hidden Jewel
Thekkady – Home To The Wild
Vagamon – Myriad Of Natural Marvels
Kuttanad – Rice Bowl Of Kerala
Idukki – Spice Garden Of Kerala

1. Alappuzha – Home To Alluring Backwaters

Tagline: Calm backwaters, slow moments, and peaceful village life.

Why Visit Alappuzha?

Alappuzha is known for its backwaters, houseboats, beaches, and local villages. You can enjoy a houseboat cruise, stay in homestays, and explore quiet canals. The area is perfect for a slow and relaxing break from the city.

Best For

Families, couples, seniors, photographers, and wellness seekers. It fits all types of travellers who want a smooth and calm outing.

Top Things To Do

You can enjoy a houseboat stay on Vembanad Lake, take a canoe ride through narrow canals, visit quiet beaches, watch birds near paddy fields, and explore local markets.

Ideal Trip Type

Perfect for a 1 day trip from Kochi or a relaxed 2-day weekend holiday.

Distance & Travel Time

Around 53–60 km from Kochi. It takes 1.5–2 hours by road. The best route is Kochi → Aroor → Cherthala → Alappuzha.

Must Read: 10 Best Hotels In Kochi For A Perfect Holiday

2. Mararikulam – The Traditional Village Lifestyle

Tagline: Quiet beach with pure village charm.

Why Visit

Mararikulam gives you a peaceful beach, eco-stays, Ayurveda centres, and local village culture. It is one of the most calm weekend getaways near Kochi.

Best For

Couples, wellness lovers, and travellers who enjoy slow, quiet moments and rural experiences.

Things To Do

You can take long walks on the quiet shore, relax on hammocks, enjoy seafood, visit fishing villages, and spend time in Ayurvedic wellness centres.

Ideal Trip Type

Best for peaceful, slow weekends and short getaways from Kochi.

Travel Details

Approx. 40 km from Kochi, around 1–1.5 hours by road.

3. Malankara Dam – Perfect For Family Fun

Tagline: A simple picnic spot with fun outdoor activities.

Why Visit

Malankara Dam is great for boating, wide water views, open parks, and kids’ activities. It is a favourite place for families.

Best For

Families, school groups, and casual travellers who want an easy outing.

Things To Do

You can try kayaking, boating, visit the children’s park, enjoy picnic areas, and relax during sunset.

Travel Details

About 85 km from Kochi. Travel time is around 2.5 hours.

4. Thrissur – One Of The Oldest Cultural Hotspots

Tagline: History, temples, art, and old-world charm.

Why Visit

Thrissur is known for festivals, temples, heritage structures, and traditional Kerala culture. It is a great place to understand Kerala’s past.

Best For

Culture lovers, seniors, and families looking for heritage-based Kochi weekend getaways.

Things To Do

You can visit temples, enjoy cultural trails, explore museums, taste local food, and walk around heritage streets.

Travel Details

Around 85 km from Kochi. Travel time is 1.5–2 hours by road or train.

5. Munnar – Fifty Shades Of Green

Tagline: Cool weather, green hills, and tea gardens.

Why Visit

Munnar is one of the most famous hill stations near Kochi. It has tea estates, waterfalls, trekking paths, and amazing viewpoints. The weather stays cool throughout the year.

Best For

Couples, families, adventure lovers, and nature lovers.

Things To Do

You can visit Top Station, Eravikulam National Park, a tea factory, Mattupetty Dam, and waterfalls, and you can try camping or hiking.

Ideal Trip Type

Best for 2–3 day Kochi weekend getaways or long weekends.

6. Varkala – A Hidden Jewel

Tagline: Cliffs, beaches, and carefree vibes.

Why Visit

Varkala is famous for its cliff beach, beautiful cafes, water sports, yoga, and relaxed atmosphere. It is great for young travellers.

Best For

Couples, young travellers, and solo travellers who love beach vibes.

Things To Do

You can walk along the cliffs, try surfing, enjoy sunsets, explore cafes, and relax with spa or yoga sessions.

Travel Details

About 175 km from Kochi. Travel time is 4–4.5 hours.

7. Thekkady – Home To The Wild

Tagline: Forest stays and wildlife moments.

Why Visit

Thekkady is known for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, nature trails, boat safaris, and spice plantations. It is perfect for an adventure-filled trip.

Best For

Families, wildlife lovers, and photographers.

Things To Do

You can enjoy bamboo rafting, wildlife safaris, jungle walks, trekking, and spice shopping.

Travel Details

160 km from Kochi. Travel time is 4–4.5 hours.

8. Vagamon – Myriad Of Natural Marvels

Tagline: Meadows, pine forests, and adventure fun.

Why Visit

Vagamon has rolling meadows, pine forests, cool weather, and adventure sports like paragliding. It is a good choice for nature and thrill lovers.

Best For

Backpackers, couples, bikers, and paragliding lovers.

Things To Do

You can visit viewpoints, explore the pine forest, do off-road rides, visit lakes, and enjoy long drives.

Travel Details

Approx. 110 km from Kochi. Travel time is around 3 hours.

9. Kuttanad – Rice Bowl Of Kerala

Tagline: Calm paddy fields and village canals.

Why Visit

Kuttanad is famous for paddy fields, small canals, unique farming style, and local Kerala food. The slow village life is refreshing.

Best For

Families, nature lovers, and photographers.

Things To Do

You can explore farms, enjoy canoe rides, stay in village homestays, and try local food.

Ideal Trip

Very close to Kochi, so it is great for one day trip places in Kerala from Kochi.

10. Idukki – Spice Garden Of Kerala

Tagline: High hills, dams, and pure nature.

Why Visit

Idukki has large dams, beautiful viewpoints, spice gardens, and wildlife. It is a great outdoor destination.

Best For

Families, adventure lovers, and road-trip lovers.

Things To Do

You can visit Idukki Dam, take long drives to viewpoints, explore spice gardens, and try local food.

Travel Details

Around 125–140 km from Kochi. It takes around 3–3.5 hours.

How to Choose the Best Weekend Getaway From Kochi

Choosing the right weekend getaway depends on how far you want to travel, what kind of experience you want, and who you are travelling with. Kochi gives many choices, so it is easy to pick a place that matches your mood. Whether you want beaches, hills, culture, food, or a calm break, there is always a perfect spot for you. This guide will help you decide the best weekend trip based on your plan, time, and budget.

Distance and Travel Time:

If you want short travel, choose places within 1–2 hours like Alappuzha, Mararikulam, and Kuttanad. For a full weekend, choose destinations like Munnar, Vagamon, Thekkady, and Varkala, which take 3–5 hours from Kochi. These longer routes give you more things to see and do.

Best Getaways for Families:

Families often want simple travel, kids’ activities, and good food options. Alappuzha, Malankara Dam, Thrissur, and Munnar are great choices. These places have open spaces, parks, and many easy activities.

Best Getaways for Couples:

Couples usually want calm places, good views, and privacy. Mararikulam, Varkala, Vagamon, and Munnar are ideal for romantic weekends. These places offer peaceful stays, beaches, and hill views.

Best for Groups:

Groups often look for fun activities. Thekkady, Vagamon, and Munnar suit group travel because they offer trekking, boating, and adventure sports.

Budget vs Luxury:

If you want a low-budget trip, choose Alappuzha, Thrissur, Malankara Dam, or Kuttanad. These places offer budget hotels, homestays, and cheap food options. For luxury breaks, Munnar, Mararikulam, Varkala, and Thekkady have resorts, spas, and premium stays.

Weather Suitability:

Choose hill stations like Munnar, Vagamon, and Idukki in summer.
Choose Alappuzha, Mararikulam, and Varkala during winter.
Choose Athirappilly, Vagamon, Idukki, and waterfalls during monsoon.

Food & Cultural Experience:

If you want rich culture and local food, visit Thrissur or Kuttanad. If you want seafood, choose Alappuzha or Mararikulam. For café culture, choose Varkala.

Adventure Level:

For easy nature trips, pick Alappuzha or Mararikulam.
For heavy adventure, choose Thekkady, Vagamon, or Munnar.

Best 1 Day Trip From Kochi:

Alappuzha, Mararikulam, Thrissur, Malankara Dam, and Kuttanad are the best 1 day trip from Kochi options.

Best Weekend Getaways Near Kochi for Long Weekends:

Munnar, Thekkady, Vagamon, Varkala, and Idukki are ideal for 2–3 day plans.

Best Time for Weekend Getaways From Kochi

The weather around Kochi changes a lot during the year, so choosing the right time for your trip makes a big difference. Some months are good for beaches, some months are perfect for hills, and some months are ideal for waterfalls. The guide below will help you understand which season is best for which type of weekend getaway.

Month-Wise Travel Conditions:

January – March: These months have comfortable weather with clear skies. It is a great time for beach trips, backwater rides, and outdoor activities. You can enjoy places like Alappuzha, Cherai, Fort Kochi, and Mararikulam because the heat is low and the days are pleasant.
April – May: These months are the hottest in Kerala. So, coastal places may feel too warm during the day. But this season is perfect for hill stations. Munnar, Vagamon, Idukki, and Thekkady stay cool even in summer. The fresh air and green hills make these destinations the best choice for a refreshing break.
June – September: This is the monsoon season. There will be regular rain, but this is also the time when the surroundings look the most alive. Hills, forests, and fields turn very green. Waterfalls flow strongly, and the weather becomes cool. If you enjoy nature, calm surroundings, and scenic beauty, monsoon trips are ideal.
October – December: These months have the best overall weather. The climate stays pleasant, the sky is mostly clear, and humidity is low. This is the most flexible travel period; beaches, hills, backwaters, and wildlife trips are all enjoyable and comfortable during these months.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Weekend Escape

A weekend trip becomes relaxing only when you plan a few basic things in advance. These tips will help you avoid stress, save money, travel safely, and enjoy every moment of your short break.

Packing List

Carry only what you need so your bags stay light. Keep everyday clothes, a power bank, sunscreen, and a cap. If you are travelling during the monsoon, take a raincoat or umbrella. Always keep basic medicines like pain relief tablets and motion sickness tablets. If you are going to hill stations, pack warm clothes because the temperature drops in the evening.

Safety Tips

Follow marked paths, especially in forests, beaches, and hill areas. Do not take shortcuts. Follow local rules and signs. Avoid driving on unknown hill roads at night because the visibility is low and sharp curves can be risky. Keep emergency contacts saved on your phone. Always inform your family or a friend about where you are going and where you are staying.

Senior-Friendly Advice

If you are travelling with senior family members, choose places that are easy to walk around. Good options include Alappuzha, Mararikulam, and Thrissur since the terrain is mostly flat. Pick hotels with lifts, ramps, and comfortable access so movement becomes easy for them.

Kid-Friendly Advice

For children, select places that have open spaces, parks, beaches, or boating options. Kids need space to play and move around. Carry snacks, fruits, biscuits, extra clothes, and enough water so you don’t have to search for shops often. Keep a basic first-aid kit handy.

Weather Preparedness

Weather around Kerala can change quickly, especially in hilly areas and coastal regions. During monsoon, always carry an umbrella or raincoat. During summer, keep yourself hydrated by carrying enough water. If you are going to cold places, take a light jacket or sweater even if the day is warm.

Cost-Saving Hacks

You can save a good amount by planning early. Start your trip early in the morning to avoid peak-hour fares. Book your stay a few days in advance to get better prices. Homestays are usually cheaper and give good service. Eat at small local restaurants to save money and enjoy fresh food. Use public transport like buses if you want the most budget-friendly option.

Local Transport Tips

In and around Kochi, you can easily find local buses, autos, taxis, and rental bikes. Buses are the cheapest and run frequently. Autos are good for short distances. Rental bikes are useful for solo travellers and couples who want more freedom.

Festival & Crowd Insights

Many areas around Kochi become crowded during festivals like Onam, Christmas, New Year, and temple events. If you plan to travel during these times, book your hotel and transport early to avoid high prices and sold-out stays.

Best Time to Leave Kochi

Start early in the morning, around 6–7 AM. This helps you avoid traffic and gives you more time to enjoy the destination, especially if you are going only for one or two days.

Budget Breakdown for Weekend Trips From Kochi

A weekend trip does not have to be expensive. You can plan a budget or luxury trip based on your choice. Below is a simple cost guide.

Accommodation

Budget stays: ₹800–₹1,500
Mid-range stays: ₹2,000–₹4,000
Luxury stays: ₹5,000–₹10,000+

Food

If you eat at local restaurants, it may cost around ₹200–₹400 per meal.
Cafes and resorts may cost around ₹500–₹1,000 per meal.

Transport

Fuel (bike): ₹300–₹600
Fuel (car): ₹800–₹1,500
Bus: ₹50–₹300 depending on distance
Cab: ₹2,500–₹6,000 depending on place

Activities

Boating, parks, safaris, and entry tickets cost ₹50–₹500 depending on the activity.

Hidden Costs

Parking fees, tolls, special entry tickets, and snacks.

Tips for Budget Travellers

Travel by bus, eat local food, pick homestays, avoid peak seasons, and book early.

Sample Itineraries (1-Day & 2-Day Plans)

Below are simple, clear itineraries you can follow for 1 day trip from Kochi, 2-day weekends, romantic trips, family trips, adventure trips, and budget plans.

1-Day Trip From Kochi – Alappuzha Backwaters

Start early in the morning and reach by 8 AM.
Take a canoe ride through narrow canals.
Have lunch at a local restaurant.
Visit Alappuzha Beach for sunset.
Return to Kochi by night.

2-Day Kochi Weekend Getaway – Munnar

Day 1: Travel to Munnar, visit tea gardens, Mattupetty Dam, and viewpoints.
Day 2: Visit Eravikulam National Park, do light trekking, shop for tea, and return to Kochi.

Romantic Weekend – Mararikulam

Day 1: Relax on the beach, enjoy seafood, and visit a fishing village.
Day 2: Try an Ayurvedic spa, enjoy a slow morning, and return peacefully.

Family Trip – Thekkady

Day 1: Travel to Thekkady, take a boat safari, and visit the spice market.
Day 2: Try bamboo rafting or a simple nature walk, and return to Kochi.

Adventure Weekend – Vagamon

Day 1: Visit pines and meadows, and try off-road riding.
Day 2: Try paragliding, explore lakes and viewpoints, and return home.

Last-Minute Budget Trip – Thrissur

Day 1: Visit temples and cultural spots, and enjoy local food.
Day 2: Explore museums and heritage streets, return by evening.

Further Read: 32 Things To Do In Kochi On A Holiday In This Kerala

All the above mentioned weekend getaways from Kochi are quite similar yet different from one another, and that is what the beauty of this country is. Offering unmatchable experiences, these destinations have something for every kind of traveler, irrespective of their age groups. So, whenever you plan your next vacation to Kerala , keep these escapes in mind to enjoy an absolute experience!

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FAQs About Weekend Getaways From Kochi

What are the best weekend getaways from Kochi within 2–4 hours?

Alappuzha, Mararikulam, Thrissur, Malankara Dam, and Kuttanad.

Which destinations are ideal for a 1 day trip from Kochi?

Alappuzha, Mararikulam, Thrissur, and Kuttanad.

What are the best places for families near Kochi?

Alappuzha, Malankara Dam, Munnar, and Thrissur.

Which Kochi weekend getaways are best for couples?

Mararikulam, Varkala, Munnar, and Vagamon.

What are the most affordable getaways from Kochi?

Thrissur, Kuttanad, Alappuzha, and Malankara Dam.

Which places near Kochi are good for adventure lovers?

Vagamon, Thekkady, and Munnar.

What are the safest destinations for solo female travellers?

Varkala, Munnar, Alappuzha, and Mararikulam.

How to travel from Kochi to these destinations—bus or car?

Both options are available. Buses are cheaper. Cars offer comfort.

Which weekend getaways near Kochi are good in monsoon?

Vagamon, Idukki, Kuttanad, and waterfalls.

What are the best cultural and heritage destinations near Kochi?

Thrissur and Kuttanad.

Can I cover Munnar or Idukki on a 1 day trip from Kochi?

It is possible but very tiring. A 2-day trip is better.

Which places near Kochi offer Ayurveda and wellness?

Mararikulam and Varkala.

Are these destinations kid-friendly?

Yes. Most places have open spaces, parks, and safe surroundings.

What is the best time to plan weekend getaways from Kochi?

October to March is the best. But every month has its own charm.

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Ritika Agarwal

Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.