Kerala Backwaters
& Beaches Tour
Cochin, Munnar, Periyar & Kovalam: 09 Nights | 10 Days
Cochin, Munnar, Periyar
& Kovalam
& Kovalam
09 Nights | 10 Days
Cochin – Munnar – Periyar – Alleppey – Kumarakom – Kovalam – Trivandrum
TOUR
STORY
Experience the magical beauty of Kerala on this unforgettable journey through misty hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, tropical backwaters, serene beaches, and cultural cities. Discover tea plantations, spice gardens, houseboat cruises, Ayurvedic retreats, and breathtaking coastal landscapes while exploring Cochin, Munnar, Periyar, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kovalam, and Trivandrum.
Arrival in Cochin
Welcome to Kerala, famously known as “God’s Own Country.” Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Later proceed for a sightseeing tour of historic Kochi, one of India’s oldest port cities and a major spice trading center.
Visit the magnificent Mattancherry Dutch Palace, famous for its Kerala murals and royal collections. Explore the historic Jewish Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth, decorated with Belgian chandeliers and Chinese tiles. Continue to St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India associated with Vasco da Gama. Later visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, one of Kochi’s most photographed landmarks along the Arabian Sea coast. In the evening enjoy a spectacular Kathakali Dance Performance, showcasing Kerala’s classical storytelling traditions. Overnight stay at Cochin.
Cochin to Munnar
After breakfast drive to the beautiful hill station of Munnar, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. The scenic journey covers approximately 130 kilometers and takes around 4 to 5 hours through winding mountain roads, waterfalls, spice plantations, and lush green valleys. Munnar was once the summer retreat of the British during colonial times and is now one of South India’s most famous hill destinations.
Surrounded by rolling hills covered with endless tea plantations, the town offers breathtaking landscapes and cool mountain weather throughout the year. En route enjoy views of waterfalls, cardamom plantations, and picturesque countryside scenery. Upon arrival check-in at your hotel and relax amidst peaceful natural surroundings. The remainder of the day is free for leisure and enjoying the refreshing mountain atmosphere. Overnight stay at Munnar.
Distance: 130 km | Travel Time: 4-5 hrs
Munnar Sightseeing
After breakfast enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour of scenic Munnar, famous for its tea gardens, mist-covered hills, and cool climate. Begin your exploration with the beautiful Tea Plantations of Munnar, where endless green tea estates spread across rolling hills creating breathtaking landscapes. Continue to Mattupetty Dam, surrounded by forests and mountains, known for boating and panoramic views. Later visit Echo Point, a popular attraction where your voice beautifully echoes through the hills and valleys.
Continue towards the picturesque Atukkad Waterfalls, nestled amidst lush forests and scenic hills, offering perfect opportunities for photography and relaxation. In the evening visit the famous Pothamedu View Point, offering spectacular panoramic views of tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations along with magical sunset scenery over the Western Ghats. Return to the hotel after sightseeing. Overnight stay at Munnar.
Munnar to Periyar
After breakfast drive to Periyar, one of India’s most famous wildlife destinations located in Thekkady. The scenic drive covers approximately 95 kilometers and takes around 3 to 4 hours through spice plantations, mountain roads, and tropical forests. Upon arrival check-in at your hotel and relax before exploring the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its elephants, rich biodiversity, and scenic lake. Later enjoy a memorable Boat Safari on Periyar Lake, one of Kerala’s most unique wildlife experiences.
Unlike jeep safaris in other national parks, Periyar offers wildlife viewing from a peaceful boat cruise through dense forests and tranquil waters. During the cruise you may spot wild elephants, sambhar deer, wild boars, bison, and numerous bird species near the lake banks. The lush green landscapes and calm surroundings create an unforgettable jungle experience. Overnight stay at Periyar.
Distance: 95 km | Travel Time: 3-4 hrs
Periyar to Alleppey
After breakfast drive to Alleppey, famously known as the “Venice of the East” and one of Kerala’s most beautiful backwater destinations. The journey covers approximately 140 kilometers and takes around 4 to 5 hours through picturesque villages, coconut groves, and paddy fields. Upon arrival board your traditional Kerala Houseboat, one of the most unique experiences in South India.
Cruise through Kerala’s enchanting backwaters surrounded by swaying coconut palms, narrow canals, lush rice fields, fishing villages, and peaceful lagoons. Witness everyday village life as local people travel by small boats and children wave from canal banks. The relaxing backwater cruise offers complete tranquility and spectacular natural beauty. Delicious Kerala meals will be served onboard including local specialties and fresh ingredients. Enjoy the magical sunset over the backwaters while relaxing on the deck. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
Distance: 140 km | Travel Time: 4-5 hrs
Alleppey to Kumarakom
After breakfast disembark from the houseboat and drive to Kumarakom, a serene backwater village located along the banks of Vembanad Lake. The short journey covers approximately 35 kilometers and takes around one hour through scenic countryside and tropical landscapes. Kumarakom is famous for its peaceful lakeside resorts, interconnected canals, and rich birdlife. Upon arrival check-in at your resort and relax amidst tranquil surroundings.
The destination offers breathtaking views where freshwater lakes meet the Arabian Sea ecosystem creating rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. In the afternoon you may relax by the lake, enjoy Ayurvedic therapies, or visit the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to migratory birds, kingfishers, herons, and egrets. You may also explore nearby villages to experience Kerala’s traditional rural lifestyle and backwater culture. Overnight stay at Kumarakom.
Distance: 35 km | Travel Time: 1 hr
Kumarakom to Kovalam
After breakfast drive to the famous beach destination of Kovalam, located along Kerala’s stunning Arabian Sea coastline. The scenic journey covers approximately 180 kilometers and takes around 5 to 6 hours through coastal towns, lush greenery, and village landscapes. Kovalam was once a quiet fishing village and is now one of India’s most popular beach destinations known for its palm-fringed beaches, shallow waters, and relaxing atmosphere.
Upon arrival check-in at your beach resort and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Relax on the golden sandy beaches, enjoy spectacular sunset views, or experience rejuvenating Ayurvedic therapies and yoga sessions for which Kovalam is internationally famous. The calm sea breeze, tropical setting, and relaxing atmosphere make Kovalam an ideal beach holiday destination. Overnight stay at Kovalam.
Distance: 180 km | Travel Time: 5-6 hrs
Kovalam – Trivandrum – Kovalam
After breakfast proceed for a sightseeing tour of Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala known for its cultural heritage and historic landmarks. Begin with the magnificent Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest and most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Continue to the elegant Puthenmalika Palace, famous for traditional Kerala architecture, wooden carvings, sloping roofs, and royal heritage. Later visit the impressive Napier Museum, an Indo-Saracenic architectural masterpiece housing historical artifacts and cultural collections. Continue to the renowned Sri Chitra Art Gallery, featuring valuable collections of Mughal, Rajput, Tanjore, and contemporary Indian paintings. After sightseeing return to Kovalam and relax at the beach or your resort. The remainder of the day is free for leisure and enjoying Kerala’s tropical coastal atmosphere. Overnight stay at Kovalam.
Distance: 20 km | Travel Time: 45 min
Kovalam Leisure Day
Today is completely free for relaxation and personal activities in Kovalam. Spend the day enjoying the beautiful beaches, relaxing by the Arabian Sea, or simply unwinding at your beach resort surrounded by tropical landscapes. Kovalam is internationally renowned for its Ayurvedic Wellness Treatments, yoga retreats, and rejuvenation therapies that attract visitors from around the world.
You may choose to indulge in a traditional Ayurvedic massage, wellness session, or meditation program. Alternatively enjoy beach walks, swimming, local seafood restaurants, shopping for handicrafts, or relaxing under coconut palms while watching the waves of the Arabian Sea. The peaceful environment and tropical coastal beauty offer the perfect ending to your Kerala holiday. Overnight stay at Kovalam.
Departure
After breakfast check out from your hotel and transfer to Trivandrum International Airport for your onward flight. As your unforgettable Kerala journey concludes, take with you wonderful memories of misty tea plantations, wildlife adventures, tranquil backwaters, traditional houseboats, tropical beaches, Ayurvedic wellness, and Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
From the scenic hills of Munnar to the serene backwaters of Alleppey and the relaxing beaches of Kovalam, this tour perfectly combines nature, relaxation, wildlife, and culture. Depart with unforgettable experiences and the desire to return again to the enchanting landscapes of Kerala, truly known as “God’s Own Country.”
