Explore Kerala: A Tropical Paradise with Culture and Calm Tour

This tour is designed to provide a perfect mix of Kerala’s rich culture, natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and the tranquility of its backwaters and beaches, making it an unforgettable tropical experience.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cochin (Kochi) – The Gateway to Kerala

Arrive in Cochin: Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, meet our representative and transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Explore Fort Kochi: Visit the Fort Kochi area, known for its colonial architecture, narrow streets, and vibrant atmosphere.

Visit St. Francis Church & Santa Cruz Basilica: Explore St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and Santa Cruz Basilica, renowned for its beautiful murals and architecture.

Walk along Chinese Fishing Nets: Stroll along the Chinese Fishing Nets, a unique sight dating back to the 14th century.

Kathakali Dance or Kalaripayattu Show: In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance or a Kalaripayattu martial art show.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in Cochin.

Day 2: Cochin to Munnar – The Scenic Hill Station

Drive to Munnar: After breakfast, depart for Munnar (approximately 4-5 hours), a picturesque hill station famous for its tea gardens and cool climate. En route, stop at Valara Falls and Cheeyappara Waterfalls for photo opportunities.

Check-in to Hotel: Upon arrival in Munnar, check-in to your hotel.

Visit Tea Museum: Explore the Tea Museum to learn about the history and process of tea production in Munnar.

Mattupetty Dam: Take a scenic drive to Mattupetty Dam and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on its serene waters.

Evening Relaxation: Relax at your hotel, enjoying the cool, misty atmosphere of Munnar.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in Munnar.

Day 3: Munnar – Exploring the Natural Wonders

Visit Eravikulam National Park: In the morning, visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Enjoy panoramic views of the Western Ghats and visit Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India.

Explore Tea Gardens: Take a guided tour through Munnar’s lush tea plantations, seeing how tea is grown, harvested, and processed.

Visit Attukal Waterfalls: In the afternoon, visit Attukal Waterfalls, nestled amidst the hills, offering a tranquil atmosphere.

Evening Leisure: Enjoy free time to relax or take a leisurely stroll around the town, enjoying the views and cool weather.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in Munnar.

Day 4: Munnar to Thekkady – Wildlife and Spice Plantations

Drive to Thekkady: After breakfast, drive to Thekkady (approximately 3-4 hours), famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spice plantations.

Check-in to Hotel: Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel in Thekkady.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you can spot wildlife like elephants, bison, and a variety of birds.

Spice Plantation Tour: Take a guided tour of the Spice Plantations and learn about Kerala’s famous spices such as cardamom, pepper, and vanilla.

Evening Cultural Show: Enjoy an evening Kalaripayattu martial arts performance or a Traditional Kerala Cultural Show.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in Thekkady.

Day 5: Thekkady to Alleppey (Alappuzha) – Backwaters of Kerala

Drive to Alleppey: After breakfast, drive to Alleppey (Alappuzha) (approximately 4-5 hours), famous for its picturesque backwaters and houseboat cruises.

Check-in to Houseboat: Upon arrival, check-in to your houseboat.

Backwater Cruise: Board a traditional Kerala houseboat for a serene backwater cruise on Vembanad Lake, passing through tranquil villages, coconut palms, and lush greenery.

Kerala-style Lunch: Enjoy a freshly prepared Kerala-style lunch on the houseboat, featuring local specialties like Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish) and Sadya (traditional Kerala feast).

Evening Relaxation: Relax on the houseboat and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, with a tranquil sunset over the backwaters.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in the houseboat in Alleppey.

Day 6: Alleppey to Kovalam – Beach Paradise

Disembark from Houseboat: After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Kovalam (approximately 4-5 hours), a coastal town known for its palm-fringed beaches.

Check-in to Resort: Check-in to your beachfront resort or hotel in Kovalam.

Relax at Kovalam Beach: Spend the afternoon relaxing on Kovalam Beach. You can also participate in water sports like parasailing, swimming, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the beach.

Visit Vizhinjam Lighthouse: Explore the Vizhinjam Lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

Beachside Dinner: Enjoy a beachside dinner with freshly caught seafood while watching the sunset.

Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in Kovalam.

Day 7: Kovalam – Departure

Morning at Leisure: After a leisurely breakfast, spend the morning exploring the beach or relaxing at your resort.

Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple: If time permits, visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and known for its architectural grandeur.

Transfer to Airport: After lunch, you will be transferred to Trivandrum International Airport for your flight back home or onward journey.

Know Before You Go

• This tour offers a captivating blend of South India’s rich cultural heritage, historic temples, serene backwaters, and beautiful beaches.
• Travel times between cities such as Chennai, Bangalore, Cochin, and Trivandrum can vary, so be prepared for long journeys, especially when traveling by train or road during peak hours.
• Entry fees to popular attractions, such as the Meenakshi Temple, the Backwaters of Kerala, and the Brindavan Gardens, are generally not included in tour packages, so plan for additional costs.
• When visiting temples or other religious sites, be sure to dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect for local traditions and religious practices.
• If traveling during the monsoon season (June to September), be prepared for heavy rains, particularly in coastal areas like Kerala, and pack accordingly with waterproof gear.
• Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, especially in cities like Chennai and Hyderabad, where the heat can be intense during the day.
• South India is known for its spicy cuisine, including dosa, idli, seafood, and local curries. If you're not accustomed to spicy food, it's advisable to ask for milder versions and stick to bottled water.
• Be respectful of local customs, especially in temples and during festivals like Onam and Pongal. Participate thoughtfully if invited to do so and follow the instructions of local guides.
• Explore the vibrant markets in South India, offering a variety of spices, textiles, tea, and handicrafts. Remember to haggle politely to get the best deals and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
• The region is famous for its traditional dance and music forms like Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, and Carnatic music. If you have the chance, try to attend a live performance to experience the cultural richness.