Kerala with Munnar

Upon your arrival in Kochi (historically known as Cochin), you will be welcomed to this vibrant port city located on the southwest coast of the Indian Peninsula. Often hailed as the “Gateway to Kerala,” Kochi serves as the perfect introduction to the scenic beauty of “God’s Own Country.” From here, you will begin your drive toward Munnar, the premier hill station of Kerala and once the preferred summer retreat of the British. As you ascend, enjoy the breathtaking views of the rugged Cardamom Hills and the endless, rolling greenery of the tea plantations. Upon reaching Munnar, you will check into your hotel, where you can spend the rest of the day relaxing and soaking in the tranquil resort atmosphere. The evening concludes with a warm dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at your hotel.

Meal Plan: Dinner

After a fresh breakfast, you will head out for a comprehensive full-day sightseeing tour of Munnar’s natural wonders. The morning begins with a visit to the Madupatty Dam, where you have the option to enjoy a serene boat ride against the backdrop of the hills. Continue to the Eravikulam National Park (entry fees applicable), home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and lush biodiversity. You will also visit the famous Echo Point and the picturesque Kundala Lake. For those seeking the most breathtaking views, an optional trip to Top Station can be arranged at an additional cost to witness the panoramic beauty of the Western Ghats.

In the afternoon, head back toward Munnar city for lunch (on your own). Afterward, you can choose to visit the Tea Museum and Tea Gardens (entry at additional cost) to learn about the history of tea production in the region while strolling through the manicured estates. As the day winds down, return to your resort to relax. The evening concludes with a delicious dinner and an overnight stay in Munnar.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, you will bid farewell to the tea estates of Munnar and depart for Thekkady. The drive is a sensory delight; as you wind your way along the mountain roads, the dense wooded terrain opens up to reveal breathtaking plantation vistas. Take a moment to fill your lungs with the crisp mountain air, rich with the natural fragrance of cinnamon and cloves. Situated at an elevation of 2,800 feet above sea level, Thekkady enjoys a pleasantly cool and refreshing climate throughout the year.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel or choose to visit a spice plantation to see firsthand how cardamom, nutmeg, and pepper are cultivated. In the evening, you have the option to witness the power and grace of Kerala’s traditional heritage with a Kalaripayattu (Martial Arts) or Kathakali dance performance at the Mudra Center (available at an additional cost). The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel in Thekkady.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading out for an exhilarating experience at Periyar, South India’s most renowned wildlife sanctuary. This destination offers a rare and unique opportunity in India: viewing majestic wildlife in their natural habitat from the safety of a boat on the lake. As you cruise across Lake Periyar, keep your eyes peeled; if you are lucky, you may witness families of young elephants gathering at the water’s edge for a drink. Please note that boat tickets must be purchased directly via the queue and are at an additional cost.

Later in the day, you can head to Elephant Junction for an optional elephant ride (available at an additional cost) to get even closer to these gentle giants. After a day filled with adventure and nature, return to your hotel for dinner and a restful overnight stay in Thekkady.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, you will descend from the hills toward the coast to reach Alleppey, a destination that holds a legendary place on the tourist map of Kerala. Upon arrival, you will check into a traditional houseboat, known locally as a “Kettuvallam.” These unique vessels are a marvel of heritage, crafted as wooden country boats tied together with coir ropes and finished with a thatched roof.

As you glide through the serene backwaters, you will experience the heart of rural Kerala, an area intricately interlocked with winding lakes and canals. You will pass the vast, emerald paddy fields of Kuttanad, famously known as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala.” Relax on deck as you soak in the unparalleled beauty of the lush green landscapes and the rhythmic pace of backwater life. Your afternoon and evening are fully catered on board with a traditional Lunch and Dinner served as you drift along. You will spend a peaceful overnight stay on the houseboat, docked amidst the tranquil waters of Alleppey.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast on your houseboat, you will depart for Kumarakom, an exotic backwater destination often referred to as the “Venice of the East.” This charming location is a cluster of little island villages nestled around the vast Vembanad Lake. Your exploration begins with a visit to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a 15-acre haven managed by the Government of Kerala. It is a paradise for birdwatchers, where you can spot a variety of species including egrets, herons, waterfowls, kingfishers, and even the migratory Siberian crane.

Upon arrival in Kumarakom, check into your hotel and enjoy the afternoon at your leisure. This is the perfect time to experience why Kerala is world-renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments; you can opt for a rejuvenating massage at the resort (at an additional cost) to relax your mind, body, and soul. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a scenic sunset cruise on Vembanad Lake, taking in the golden hues across the water. The day concludes with a peaceful dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

After a final breakfast overlooking the tranquil waters of Kumarakom, it will be time to begin your journey home. You will check out from your hotel and be transferred to Cochin International Airport in time for your onward flight. As you drive toward the airport, take one last look at the swaying palms and vibrant landscapes that define this region. You depart with a heart full of peace and a camera full of wonderful memories from your time in God’s Own Country.

Meal Plan: Breakfast