Overview

Experience the ultimate Kerala journey with this comprehensive package that takes you through the state’s most iconic destinations. From the thundering Athirapally Falls to the misty hills of Munnar, the wildlife sanctuaries of Thekkady, the famous backwaters of Alleppey, the historic port town of Kollam, and finally to the pristine beaches of Kovalam. This package is designed for those who want to immerse themselves completely in Kerala’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and natural beauty.

Day 1: Athirapally Falls & Munnar

Your journey begins as our representative greets you at Cochin Airport or Railway Station. We’ll head straight to Athirapally Falls, Kerala’s most magnificent waterfall. As you approach, you’ll hear the thundering cascade before you see it – an 80-foot wall of water crashing down amidst verdant forests. Spend time exploring the viewing platforms and forest paths surrounding this natural wonder.

By midday, we’ll begin our ascent to Munnar, winding through hills dotted with cardamom plantations and tea estates. The drive offers spectacular views as we climb higher into the Western Ghats. Upon reaching Munnar, check into your hillside retreat and spend the evening getting acquainted with this colonial-era hill station. Perhaps enjoy a steaming cup of freshly brewed tea as you watch the sun set behind the mountains.

Day 2: Munnar Exploration

The morning light reveals Munnar’s stunning beauty – endless slopes carpeted with tea bushes stretching as far as the eye can see. After breakfast, we’ll visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. These mountain goats are remarkably tame and often approach visitors along the walking paths.

Our afternoon takes us to Mattupetty Dam, a serene lake nestled among the hills. You can opt for a boat ride or simply admire the reflections of clouds in its still waters. We’ll continue to Echo Point, where your voice returns to you across the valley, and Photo Point, which offers postcard-perfect vistas.

Later, visit the Tea Museum to understand how these hills transformed into the tea capital of South India. As daylight fades, we’ll wander through working tea estates and browse local markets where you can purchase aromatic spices directly from local farmers.

Day 3: Munnar to Thekkady

After breakfast, we journey from Munnar’s tea country to Thekkady’s spice-scented wilderness. The landscape transforms dramatically – from manicured tea gardens to dense forests interspersed with spice plantations. The aromatic scents of cardamom, cinnamon, and black pepper fill the air as we enter Thekkady.

Upon arrival, settle into your jungle resort with a welcome drink made from local spices. The afternoon is devoted to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, centered around a vast artificial lake. Board a boat to cruise this tranquil reservoir, where wild elephants often come to drink and bathe. Keep your camera ready – you might spot sambar deer, wild boar, and numerous bird species along the shores.

After our lake excursion, we’ll tour a working spice plantation. Your guide will reveal the secrets of growing these precious crops and explain their culinary and medicinal properties. Rub a cinnamon leaf between your fingers, taste fresh peppercorns, and smell the intoxicating aroma of cardamom pods. The evening is yours to relax or perhaps attend a Kathakali or Kalaripayattu performance showcasing Kerala’s traditional arts.

Day 4: Thekkady to Alleppey

Bid farewell to the mountains as we descend to Kerala’s famed backwaters. The journey takes us through changing landscapes – from hills to plains, through small towns and villages where life moves at a gentler pace. By early afternoon, we reach Alleppey, the “Venice of the East.”

Here, your private houseboat awaits – a traditional kettuvallam rice barge converted into floating accommodation with all modern comforts. Once aboard, your crew welcomes you with fresh coconut water and tropical fruits. As we set sail, the waterways open up before you – a labyrinth of canals, lakes, and lagoons fringed with coconut palms.

Your afternoon unfolds at the unhurried pace of the backwaters. Watch fisherfolk casting their nets, farmers working below sea level in rice paddies, and village children waving enthusiastically as you glide by. Your chef prepares authentic Kerala cuisine featuring fresh seafood, tropical vegetables, and aromatic spices. As evening falls, the backwaters transform – golden light filters through palm fronds, birds return to roost, and stars begin to appear in the darkening sky. Fall asleep to the gentle sounds of water lapping against your boat.

Day 5: Alleppey – Kollam – Kovalam Beach

Wake up to your final morning on the peaceful backwaters. After a delicious breakfast onboard, we’ll say goodbye to our floating home and start our journey toward the famous beaches of Kerala. Today’s drive takes us through Kollam, where we’ll stop to experience the breathtaking Ashtamudi Lake – nicknamed the ‘gateway to the backwaters.’

Take some time to soak in the unique eight-armed lake with its coconut groves and village life along the shores. You might spot fishermen casting their nets or villagers harvesting coconuts the traditional way. After exploring Kollam, we’ll continue our scenic coastal drive to Kovalam.

As evening approaches, you’ll check into your beach resort in Kovalam. Feel the immediate shift in atmosphere as backwater serenity gives way to the rhythmic sounds of ocean waves. Your evening is free to take your first stroll along Kovalam’s famous beaches or simply relax at your resort after the day’s journey.

Day 6: Farewell to Kovalam Beach

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your resort with views of the Arabian Sea. The morning is yours to spend as you wish – maybe an early swim in the ocean, a walk along the lighthouse beach, or simply relaxing with a book under a palm tree.

If you’re interested and time permits, we can arrange a visit to the magnificent Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum – one of India’s richest and most architecturally impressive temples. (Note: the temple has a strict dress code and entry restrictions for non-Hindus).

As your Kerala adventure comes to an end, we’ll check out from the resort and transfer you to Trivandrum airport or railway station. As you depart, you’ll take with you memories of Kerala’s diverse landscapes – from thundering waterfalls and misty mountains to serene backwaters and golden beaches.

Package Inclusions:

• Accommodations throughout your journey:
  • 2 nights in a mountain resort in Munnar
  • 1 night in a forest retreat in Thekkady
  • 1 night aboard a traditional Kerala houseboat in Alleppey
  • 1 night in a beach resort in Kovalam
• Complimentary breakfast daily at hotels in Munnar, Thekkady and Kovalam
• Full-board service on houseboat (breakfast, lunch, dinner and evening snacks)
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing
• Services of an experienced, knowledgeable driver throughout your journey
• 24/7 on-call assistance during your trip

Package Exclusions:

• Flights and train tickets
• Meals not mentioned (lunch and dinner in Munnar, Thekkady & Kovalam)
• Optional activities like boating at Mattupetty Dam
• Transportation inside wildlife sanctuaries and forest areas
• Monument and attraction entrance fees
• Photography and videography permits
• Gratuities for drivers and guides
• Personal expenses and shopping
• Any services not explicitly listed in inclusions

What You Should Pack:

• Light jackets or sweaters for Munnar’s cool evenings
• Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes for trails and sightseeing
• Umbrella or raincoat (essential during monsoon season)
• Sun hat, quality sunglasses, and SPF 30+ sunscreen
• Mosquito/insect repellent for backwater and forest areas
• Breathable cotton clothing for Kerala’s humidity
• Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
• Modest attire for temple visits
• Swimming gear for beaches and hotel pools
• Basic medications and first-aid supplies