Package Best For
The Kerala Backwaters & Spice Hills Tour offers a perfect escape into the lush, exotic, and serene heartland of Kerala. Journey through misty hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, and tranquil backwaters aboard a private houseboat. This 8-day itinerary lets you experience the best of Kerala—from the colonial charm of Cochin to the rolling tea gardens of Munnar, the wild wonders of Thekkady, the peaceful Alleppey backwaters, and the birdlife-rich lagoons of Kumarakom. Whether you’re a couple looking for romance, a solo traveler seeking tranquility, or a family on vacation, this tour is ideal for all.
Tour Highlights
- Cochin – Colonial-era architecture, art cafes, spice markets, and Kathakali performance
- Munnar – Lush tea gardens, Eravikulam National Park, waterfalls, and panoramic views
- Thekkady – Wildlife boating in Periyar Lake, spice plantation walks, elephant experiences
- Alleppey – Overnight cruise on traditional houseboat with full-board meals
- Kumarakom – Bird sanctuary, village life, backwater canoeing & Ayurvedic relaxation
Tour Itinerary
Day-1: Arrival at Cochin
Upon your arrival at Cochin International Airport, you will be welcomed by our tour representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and some rest, begin a half-day city tour of Cochin (also known as Kochi), known for its rich cultural and historical legacy. Explore Fort Kochi’s quaint colonial streets, visit the St. Francis Church (India’s oldest European church), and admire the Chinese Fishing Nets at sunset. Then head to the Dutch Palace and the Jewish Synagogue in the nearby Mattancherry area. In the evening, enjoy a vibrant Kathakali dance performance, a classical dance form of Kerala with elaborate costumes and expressive storytelling. Overnight stay in Cochin.
Day-2: Cochin – Munnar (130 km / 4 hrs)
After a hearty breakfast, check out from the hotel and begin your scenic drive to Munnar, a serene hill station in the Western Ghats known for its tea plantations and cool climate. On the way, stop at Valara and Cheeyappara Waterfalls and spice plantations for short walks and photography. Upon reaching Munnar, check-in at the hotel and unwind. The evening is free to take a gentle stroll through the nearby tea estates or local markets. Munnar’s fresh air and lush greenery will immediately transport you into a peaceful world. Overnight stay in Munnar.
Day-3: Munnar Sightseeing
After breakfast, get ready for a full-day sightseeing tour of Munnar. Visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, where you can enjoy panoramic views of mist-covered hills and grasslands. Continue to the Tea Museum, which offers insights into tea processing and plantation history. Later, stop by Mattupetty Dam for a boat ride, and then head to Echo Point, known for its natural echo phenomenon. Visit Kundala Lake, surrounded by forested hills and great for paddle boating. Optional activities include a tea-plucking experience or a soft trek in the hills. Return to your hotel and relax. Overnight stay in Munnar.
Day-4: Munnar – Thekkady (95 km / 3 hrs)
Today after breakfast, check out and drive to Thekkady, the gateway to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. On arrival, check in at your jungle resort or hotel. In the afternoon, go on a boat safari on Periyar Lake, offering the chance to spot wild elephants, bison, deer, and a variety of birds along the forested lake banks. Later, visit a spice plantation, where you’ll walk through aromatic fields of cardamom, pepper, vanilla, and cinnamon, guided by a local expert. Optional activities include an elephant ride or traditional martial arts show (Kalaripayattu). Evening free for shopping spices or relaxing at your resort. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
Day-5: Thekkady – Alleppey (140 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast, check out and proceed to Alleppey – the land of houseboats and water canals. Upon arrival, check-in to a traditional Kerala-style houseboat. This private cruise will take you through a maze of backwater channels lined with palm trees, paddy fields, and local villages. Enjoy a delicious freshly prepared lunch on board with Kerala-style dishes. The houseboat stops occasionally for village visits, photo opportunities, and to experience life along the water. Witness a stunning sunset over the lake as the boat anchors for the night. Dinner and overnight stay on the houseboat.
Day-6: Alleppey – Kumarakom (33 km / 1 hr)
After breakfast onboard and drive to Kumarakom, a serene backwater village known for its slow pace and birdlife. Check in at your resort nestled on the Vembanad Lake. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure. Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is home to migratory birds such as Siberian storks and egrets. Take a village walk, opt for a canoe ride through narrow canals, or enjoy a relaxing Ayurvedic massage. The atmosphere here is calm and ideal for rejuvenation. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.
Day-7: Kumarakom – Cochin (50 km / 1.5 hrs)
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning at your resort before driving back to Cochin. On arrival, you can either check in at your hotel or enjoy last-minute shopping at MG Road, Lulu Mall, or stroll around Marine Drive. Optionally, you can explore the art cafés, antique shops, and craft stores in Jew Town for souvenirs. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Cochin.
Day-8: Departure from Cochin
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and our representative will transfer you to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey. You leave Kerala with unforgettable memories of scenic beauty, houseboat serenity, fragrant spices, and warm hospitality.
Note: This is a suggested itinerary and can be customized based on your preferences. Add-on options like yoga retreats, extra nights on the houseboat, village stays, or trekking experiences in Munnar can be included on request.