South India - Golden Kerala Getaway
FEATURES
HIGHLIGHTS
HOTELS
SIGHTSEEING
FLIGHT
MEALS
This itinerary offers a perfect blend of Kerala’s cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and tranquil backwater experiences. It provides a comprehensive view of the state, from Kochi's history to the hills of Munnar, the wildlife of Periyar, and the serene backwaters of Alleppey. Each destination has been chosen to provide a well-rounded and unforgettable experience of Kerala.
OVERVIEW
Unveil the charm of Kerala with this beautifully crafted itinerary. Begin your journey in Kochi, where colonial history, vibrant spice markets, and waterfront views set the stage for your adventure. Explore the heritage streets of Fort Kochi, marvel at the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, and immerse yourself in Kerala’s artistic traditions with optional Kathakali or Kalaripayattu performances. Journey into the misty hills of Munnar, home to sprawling tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking viewpoints like Top Station. Experience the region’s natural wonders, from Eravikulam National Park to serene boat rides at Mattupetty Dam. Continue to Periyar, where spice plantations and the wildlife-rich Periyar National Park offer a taste of Kerala’s ecological diversity. Cruise through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey aboard a traditional houseboat, watching village life unfold as you drift past lush paddy fields and coconut groves. Conclude your tour back in Kochi, blending cultural exploration, natural beauty, and moments of relaxation. With heritage walks, wildlife encounters, local cuisine, and optional cultural experiences, this itinerary offers a perfect balance of history, nature, and the laid-back charm Kerala is known for.
Itinerary
Pack your bags for a fun-filled family vacation as you arrive in Kochi, the gateway to Kerala. With its mix of tea plantations, wildlife safaris, backwater cruises, and cultural experiences, this itinerary promises something special for every member of the family.
Upon arrival in Kochi, you'll check in to your hotel and relax. Depending on your arrival time, you can enjoy the day at leisure, either by unwinding at the hotel or exploring the city on your own. You can stroll around Marine Drive or simply relax in the comfort of your accommodation.
Overnight in Kochi
After breakfast, set out for a day of historical exploration in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, where Kochi’s colonial past comes alive. Begin with a visit to the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace), known for its beautiful murals and royal artifacts. Walk over to the Jewish Synagogue, one of the oldest in the Commonwealth, located in the heart of Jew Town with its quaint antique shops and spice markets. Stroll along Jewish Street, a charming lane lined with heritage buildings and artisan stores.Next, visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and then head to the waterfront to see the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, a symbol of Kochi’s trading history with the East.
Overnight in Kochi
After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Kochi and begin your scenic journey through the Western Ghats, heading towards the picturesque former hill station of Munnar, renowned for its cool climate and sprawling tea plantations. En route, enjoy brief photo stops at the Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls, nestled amidst dense greenery. Upon arrival in Munnar, take a guided stroll through a local tea plantation, where you’ll learn about tea cultivation, plucking methods, and the legacy of tea in the region. The evening is free to explore stalls selling spices, handcrafted souvenirs, and locally made chocolates.
Overnight in Munnar
After breakfast, you’ll explore the natural beauty of Munnar. Begin with a visit to Eravikulam National Park, where you can see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Then, visit Mattupetty Dam and enjoy a boat ride, followed by a trip to Echo Point, famous for its acoustics. Don’t miss the stunning views from Top Station, which offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Later return to your hotel.
Overnight in Munnar
Following breakfast, you drive 4 hours to Periyar, pausing at Lockhart Gap Viewpoint for stunning plantation views. After checking into your hotel, you tour a spice plantation, learning about cardamom and pepper cultivation. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
In the evening, an (Optional) Kalaripayattu martial arts show or Kathakali performance showcases Kerala’s traditions before you settle in for the night.
Overnight in Periyar
In the morning after breakfast, you take a boat ride on Periyar Lake in Periyar National Park, spotting elephants, bison, and various bird species along the shore. The afternoon offers an (Optional) bamboo rafting session or guided nature walk through the park’s trails. You wrap up the day shopping for spices at Kumily market and return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Overnight in Periyar
Today, you drive to Alleppey after breakfast and board a traditional houseboat by noon for a cruise through the Kerala Backwaters. The houseboat crew will prepare freshly cooked local meals for you to enjoy on board. Gliding past paddy fields, coconut groves, and villages, you enjoy a Kerala lunch onboard. The afternoon is spent relaxing on the deck, watching local life unfold. Dinner under the stars concludes the day as the houseboat docks for the night with AC comfort.
Overnight in Alleppy
After breakfast, you disembark the houseboat and spend the day exploring Alleppey. Visit Alappuzha Beach, with its historic pier and scenic coastline. You can also visit local markets to buy Kerala spices and handicrafts. After checking into a hotel, an (Optional) shikara boat tour navigates narrower backwater canals. The evening is free for a seafood dinner before resting.
Overnight in Alleppy
After breakfast, drive back to Kochi for your final night in Kerala. You can spend the afternoon at leisure or opt for some last-minute sightseeing or shopping at Lulu Mall, or revisit Fort Kochi to enjoy sunset by the seaside.
Overnight in Kochi
After breakfast, check out and proceed to the Kochi Airport for your onward journey, carrying with you the warm memories of Kerala’s hills, wildlife, culture, and backwaters.
INCLUSIONS
- 09 nights’ accommodation on double/twin sharing at hotels as mentioned in the itinerary
- 09 breakfasts
- 01 Lunch and 01 Dinner at the House Boat
- Arrival and Departure Airport Transfers
- English-speaking guide for all sightseeing as per itinerary
- Transportation in Deluxe Tourist Vehicle
- All sightseeing with admissions
- Services of English-speaking driver & guide
- International return airfare ex-New York (Please check with us for pricing from other cities)
- All taxes and surcharges
- All local applicable taxes
EXCLUSIONS
- All other meals & other sightseeing or services
- Gratuities for meals, tourist guides, drivers
- Visa fee & Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses such as alcoholic and other beverages, telephone calls, and laundry
- Any other services or Items not mentioned above as included
Gallery
REVIEW
This Kerala trip was everything we hoped for and more. Kochi was the perfect start with its colonial charm and colorful markets. We loved the tea plantations in Munnar—the views were straight out of a postcard. The Periyar boat ride was unforgettable; we spotted elephants along the shore! And nothing beats relaxing on a houseboat in Alleppey, watching the sunset over the backwaters. The itinerary was seamless, the hotels were great, and the guides made the whole experience stress-free
We’ve traveled to many places, but Kerala felt so unique. The mix of culture, nature, and wildlife was just perfect. The spice plantation in Periyar was fascinating, and the backwater cruise in Alleppey was so peaceful—we didn’t want it to end. The optional Kathakali dance was a must-see; it added so much cultural flavor to the trip. Every stop felt well-planned, and the drives through the hills were scenic and beautiful.
As a solo traveler, this Kerala itinerary was exactly what I needed. Munnar’s hills were stunning, Periyar had so much wildlife to see, and the Alleppey houseboat experience was the highlight of my trip. The local food was amazing, and the guides were friendly and knowledgeable. It felt like the right mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Highly recommend this to anyone looking for a memorable trip to India!