Wonders of Kerala: From Tea Gardens to Tranquil Backwaters

7N/8D

1N Kochi • 2N Munnar • 1N Thekkady • 1N Alleppey • 2N Kovalam

Wonders of Kerala: From Tea Gardens to Tranquil Backwaters

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Overview

Experience the diverse charm of Kerala over 8 unforgettable days. In Kochi, explore landmarks like the Mattancherry Palace, Fort Cochin, and the famous Chinese fishing nets.

Head to Munnar for lush tea gardens, the cascading Cheeyappara Waterfalls, and panoramic views from Top Station.

In Thekkady, cruise through Periyar National Park and take an adventurous jeep safari.

Enjoy a serene houseboat cruise in Alleppey, passing through the scenic Kuttanadan region.

Unwind at Kovalam Beach, visit the iconic lighthouse, and explore the unique Jatayu Earth Center.

End your journey in Trivandrum, discovering its zoo, art gallery, and museum.

Highlights

Explore Jatayu Earth Center
Aazhimala Shiva Temple Darshan
Excursion to Periyar National Park
Visit St. Francis Church

Know your trip plan

Begin your Kochi adventure upon arrival at Cochin Airport or Railway Station, followed by hotel check-in and an immersive sightseeing tour.

Explore the architectural brilliance of Mattancherry Palace and delve into the rich heritage of the Jewish Synagogue and Jew Town, discovering unique antiques and cultural artifacts.

Visit St. Francis Church, the original burial site of Vasco da Gama, and marvel at the historic Santa Cruz Basilica.

Experience Kochi's coastal charm with the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets.

Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll along Marine Drive and indulge in retail therapy at Lulu Mall.

Begin your day with a picturesque drive to Munnar, a breathtaking hill station renowned for its scenic beauty.

Travel along the Kochi-Madurai Highway with stops at Cheeyappara Waterfalls and Valara Waterfalls, stunning cascades ideal for memorable photos.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind.

In the evening, visit Wonder Valley Adventure Park for thrilling activities or relax amidst the lush green tea plantations.

Explore Munnar's scenic beauty and cultural heritage with a captivating day tour.

Start at the Tea Museum to learn about tea cultivation history.

Visit the Floriculture Centre, home to over 100 flower and herbal plant varieties.

Continue to the picturesque Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Dam, perfect for photography and serene moments.

Ascend to Top Station for panoramic views of the Western Ghats.

Optionally, experience Kerala's rich artistic traditions with a Kathakali or Kalari performance.

Enjoy a scenic drive to Thekkady, known as a renowned spice hub.

Visit a Spice Garden for a guided tour through fragrant plantations, learning about various spices.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and immerse yourself in nature.

Consider a boat ride at Periyar National Park for a serene wildlife experience.

For adventure seekers, an optional Jeep Safari explores rugged mountain trails.

Experience the serene backwaters of Alleppey (Alappuzha) with a memorable houseboat journey.

Explore Alleppey's unique network of lakes, lagoons, and canals.

Visit iconic landmarks such as the Snake Boat and the Kuttanadan Region, known as the "Rice Bowl of Kerala."

Witness a breathtaking sunset while cruising through lush paddy fields.

Choose between an overnight stay on the houseboat or accommodation at a local hotel.

Depart from your houseboat and head to the tranquil beaches of Kovalam.

Visit Jatayu Earth Center, home to the world's largest bird sculpture and a stunning nature park blending art and nature.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind.

Spend the evening enjoying the beauty of Kovalam Beach or exploring the iconic Lighthouse.

Explore Kovalam's captivating surroundings.

Visit the serene Aazhimala Shiva Temple near Vizhijam.

Enjoy a boat ride through the enchanting Poovar Backwaters and lush mangrove forests.

Dine at a unique floating restaurant before returning to your hotel for relaxation.

Check out from your hotel and explore Trivandrum, Kerala's capital city.

Visit prominent attractions such as the Trivandrum Zoo, the Art Gallery, and the Museum displaying historical artifacts.

After the tour, transfer to Trivandrum Railway Station or Airport for your onward journey.

What's included

Accommodation:

Twin-sharing basis in hotels at Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, and Kovalam.
Overnight stay in a traditional Kerala houseboat (if included in the itinerary).

Meals:

Daily breakfast and dinner.
Meals on the houseboat (if included).

Transportation:

Air-conditioned vehicles as per the itinerary (8:00 AM to 7:00 PM).
Toll, parking, fuel, and driver allowances.

Sightseeing:

All local sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary, including visits to Mattancherry Palace, Tea Museum, Spice Garden, and Jatayu Earth Center.

Houseboat Stay (if included):

Cruise time: 6 hours.
Air conditioning operational from 9 PM to 6 AM.

What's excluded

Entry Fees:

Entrance fees to monuments, parks, and sightseeing spots.

Special Experiences:

Activities like Kathakali & Kalari shows, jeep safaris, and Poovar backwater boating (optional).

Personal Expenses:

Tips, porter charges, personal shopping, beverages, and other personal expenses.

Additional Meals:

Lunches not specified in the itinerary.

Gala Dinners:

Festive gala dinners during Christmas and New Year (if applicable).

Early Check-In/Late Check-Out:

Charges for early check-in or late check-out (if applicable).

Unforeseen Costs:

Costs arising from weather conditions, roadblocks, or delays.

Miscellaneous:

Room heater charges and any services not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions.

This list ensures clarity on what’s covered and what guests need to plan for during the trip.

Good to know

What should I carry for this trip?

Comfortable walking shoes for hill stations and beaches.
Light, breathable clothing for warm days and light jackets for cooler evenings.
Umbrellas or raincoats during the monsoon season.
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats for outdoor activities.

Are there any restrictions or customs to follow?

Visitors should dress modestly when visiting religious sites such as the Aazhimala Shiva Temple or St. Francis Church. Certain areas may restrict photography, so it is best to confirm with your guide.

Will there be any long journeys?

Yes, there are a few scenic drives:

Cochin to Munnar: Approx. 130 km (4 hours).
Munnar to Thekkady: Approx. 100 km (3 hours).
Thekkady to Alleppey: Approx. 140 km (4 hours).
Alleppey to Kovalam: Approx. 170 km (4 hours).

Regular stops are planned for refreshments and sightseeing along the way.

What type of accommodation can I expect during the trip?

Stay in well-located hotels and resorts offering comfortable amenities.

For the Alleppey segment, you can choose between:

Traditional Kerala Houseboats with a unique backwater experience.
Hotel accommodations for those preferring land-based stays.

What type of travel services are provided during the trip?

Private air-conditioned vehicles for transfers and sightseeing.
Professional drivers and English-speaking guides.
Bottled water provided during travel.

Are guided tours included?

Yes, guided tours are included for major attractions. Optional activities like the Kathakali dance show and Poovar backwater boating can be added upon request.

Is there an opportunity for shopping?

Yes, explore: