Kerala Backwaters, Hills & Beaches Tour
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Duration 10 nights / 11 days
About This Tour
Discover the enchanting beauty of Kerala – God's Own Country on this unforgettable 11-day journey covering historic cities, misty hills, wildlife sanctuaries, serene backwaters, luxury houseboats, and golden beaches. Begin in Kochi, exploring its colonial heritage, spice markets, Chinese Fishing Nets, and vibrant Kathakali performances. Travel to Munnar, where lush tea plantations, scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and Eravikulam National Park showcase the charm of the Western Ghats. Continue to Thekkady, home to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, spice plantations, and rich biodiversity. Relax in Kumarakom, surrounded by peaceful backwaters, birdlife, and Ayurvedic wellness experiences. Enjoy a memorable overnight cruise on a traditional Kerala Houseboat, gliding through palm-fringed canals and villages. End your holiday in Kovalam, where beautiful beaches, sunsets, and coastal relaxation create the perfect finale to your Kerala adventure. This tour offers an ideal blend of culture, nature, wildlife, and relaxation.
Tour Plan
Upon arrival at Kochi International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea," Kochi is a fascinating blend of colonial heritage, vibrant culture, and modern urban life. Once a flourishing spice trading port, the city has welcomed traders from Europe, Arabia, China, and beyond for centuries, creating a unique cultural mosaic. After check-in, spend the remainder of the day at leisure. You may choose to stroll along the charming streets of Fort Kochi, browse local boutiques and cafés, or simply relax after your journey. Overnight stay in Kochi.
After breakfast, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Kochi's historic landmarks. Visit the magnificent Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), renowned for its exquisite murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Continue to the historic Jewish Synagogue in Jew Town, one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth, before exploring the bustling spice markets nearby. Visit St. Francis Church, India's oldest European church, and admire the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets that have become the symbol of Kochi's waterfront. Enjoy a leisurely walk along Fort Kochi Beach before concluding the day with an enchanting Kathakali dance performance, showcasing Kerala's vibrant classical dance tradition through elaborate costumes, expressive storytelling, and captivating music. Overnight stay in Kochi.
Following breakfast, drive through the scenic Western Ghats to the picturesque hill station of Munnar, famous for its rolling tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, waterfalls, and cool climate. En route, admire beautiful valleys, spice gardens, and cascading streams that make the journey itself unforgettable. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the evening relaxing amidst breathtaking natural surroundings. Overnight stay in Munnar.
Today is dedicated to discovering the natural beauty of Munnar. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, followed by panoramic viewpoints overlooking Anamudi Peak, the highest mountain in South India. Continue to Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Kundala Lake, and Photo Point, surrounded by endless tea gardens. Visit a working Tea Factory and Museum to learn about Kerala's famous tea production. Adventurous travellers may also choose an optional excursion to Kolukkumalai, the world's highest tea plantation, accessible by thrilling 4WD jeep ride and short trek. Overnight stay in Munnar.
After breakfast, drive to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady. En route, visit a fragrant spice plantation where you'll discover Kerala's world-famous cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, vanilla, and cloves. Upon arrival, check into your hotel before enjoying the tranquil surroundings of Periyar. In the evening, you may opt for a scenic boat safari on Periyar Lake, offering opportunities to spot elephants, deer, wild boar, birds, and other wildlife along the forested shoreline. Overnight stay in Periyar.
Begin the day with an optional early morning boat safari on Periyar Lake when wildlife activity is at its peak. After breakfast, drive to the peaceful backwater village of Kumarakom, beautifully situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Upon arrival, check into your lakeside resort and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Spend the afternoon relaxing beside the backwaters or exploring the nearby villages and waterways at your own pace. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.
Today is free to experience the charm of Kerala's backwaters at your own pace. Relax at your luxury resort, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatment, explore the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, or enjoy a leisurely village walk through coconut groves and paddy fields. The peaceful atmosphere makes Kumarakom one of Kerala's finest wellness and nature retreats. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.
After breakfast, board your traditional private Kerala houseboat (Kettuvallam) for one of the highlights of your journey. Cruise through Kerala's enchanting backwaters, passing picturesque villages, emerald paddy fields, coconut-lined canals, and local fishermen going about their daily lives. Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala cuisine served onboard while soaking in the serene landscapes. Witness a magical sunset before spending the night aboard your floating home. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
After breakfast, disembark your houseboat at Alleppey and continue by road to Kovalam, Kerala's most famous beach destination. Upon arrival, check into your beachfront resort. Spend the remainder of the day unwinding on the golden sands of Lighthouse Beach, enjoying the warm waters of the Arabian Sea, or simply relaxing by the pool. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
Enjoy a leisurely day in Kovalam. Relax on the beach, swim in the gentle waters, indulge in an authentic Ayurvedic massage, or enjoy optional water sports. You may also explore nearby cafés, browse local handicraft shops, or simply watch the spectacular sunset over the Arabian Sea. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning before checking out of your hotel. You will be transferred to Trivandrum International Airport for your onward flight, taking home unforgettable memories of Kerala's colonial heritage, misty mountains, wildlife, tranquil backwaters, luxury houseboats, and beautiful beaches.
