Southern India Tour – Beaches & Houseboat Experience

Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, you will be greeted by your representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, the afternoon introduces you to Cochin’s layered history shaped by Portuguese, Dutch and British influence. The city’s coastal geography once made it one of the most important spice trading ports in Asia.
Begin sightseeing with Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture and narrow streets lined with heritage buildings. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along the shoreline, which reflect centuries-old fishing techniques introduced by Chinese traders. Continue to St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European churches in India, and the Dutch Palace showcasing Kerala murals.
The day concludes with a cultural performance at an air-conditioned theatre where traditional Kathakali dance or classical art forms are presented. Return to your hotel for overnight stay in Cochin.

After breakfast, depart for Munnar, ascending gradually into the Western Ghats. The drive moves through winding mountain roads bordered by rubber plantations and dense forest. En route, halt at Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls where cascading streams cut through rocky terrain, offering refreshing natural views.
As elevation increases, the climate cools noticeably and tea plantations begin to dominate the landscape. Rolling green hills arranged in neat plantation patterns create a dramatic visual contrast against the mist. Upon arrival in Munnar, check into your resort and relax.
Later visit the Tea Museum where the evolution of tea cultivation in Kerala is documented. Historical machinery and photographs illustrate the British influence in shaping the region’s plantation economy. Evening at leisure with optional local shopping. Overnight stay in Munnar.

The morning begins at Eravikulam National Park, located approximately 15 km from town. This protected reserve is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and offers panoramic views of grasslands and rolling hills. The park’s ecosystem reflects the biodiversity of the Western Ghats, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage region.
Continue to Mattupetty Dam and reservoir, where calm waters reflect surrounding hills. Boating facilities are available here. Proceed to Echo Point, known for its natural echo phenomenon, and then to Kundala Dam, surrounded by scenic valleys and flowering plants.
The combination of cool climate, mountain air and plantation scenery defines Munnar’s atmosphere. Return to your hotel in the evening for overnight stay.

After breakfast, depart for Thekkady, descending from high ranges into forested landscapes. Thekkady is home to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of India’s notable tiger and elephant reserves.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and proceed toward Periyar Lake. A boat ride on the lake provides opportunities to observe wildlife along the forest edges — including elephants, deer and bird species — in their natural habitat. The sanctuary’s dense vegetation creates an immersive jungle experience.
Later visit a spice plantation where cardamom, pepper, cinnamon and cloves are cultivated. Learn about Kerala’s long-standing spice trade legacy. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Depart Thekkady after breakfast and travel toward Alleppey, the gateway to Kerala’s backwaters. Upon arrival, board your traditional houseboat, locally known as a “Kettuvallam,” originally used for transporting rice and spices.
As the houseboat begins its cruise through interconnected canals and lagoons, observe village life along the banks — fishermen casting nets, children commuting by canoe and women engaged in daily routines. Coconut palms, paddy fields and water birds create a serene rural landscape.
All meals are prepared onboard using traditional Kerala flavors. The boat anchors in a calm stretch of water by evening, offering a peaceful overnight stay surrounded by still backwaters.

After breakfast onboard, disembark from the houseboat and proceed toward Kovalam along Kerala’s coastal stretch. The drive gradually reveals glimpses of the Arabian Sea and coastal villages.
Upon arrival in Kovalam, check into your beachfront resort. Kovalam is known for its three crescent-shaped beaches: Samudra Beach, Hawah Beach and Lighthouse Beach. The iconic lighthouse stands overlooking the coastline.
The remainder of the day is free for relaxation — sunbathing, swimming or simply enjoying the sea breeze. Overnight stay in Kovalam.

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning by the beach. The rhythmic waves and palm-lined shores define Kovalam’s tranquil ambiance. Optional activities include Ayurvedic spa treatments or short excursions to nearby fishing villages.
Later proceed for local sightseeing which may include visits to nearby temples or short coastal walks. The coastal lifestyle of southern Kerala blends fishing traditions with tourism culture.
Return to your hotel for overnight stay in Kovalam.

After breakfast, drive to Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram). If time permits, short city orientation can include Padmanabhaswamy Temple (exterior visit) and colonial-era administrative buildings.
You will then be transferred to the airport for onward departure, concluding your Southern India Tour.