06N / 07D
Duration: Cochin - Munnar - Periyar - Kumarakom - Alleppey - Cochin
Kerala is shaped by water, mountains and monsoon forests. This journey through “God’s Own Country” connects high-altitude tea gardens, protected wildlife reserves and tranquil backwater lagoons into one seamless circuit. The itinerary moves gradually from the coastal heritage of Cochin to the elevated slopes of Munnar, then into the forest ecosystem of Periyar before descending into Kumarakom’s serene backwaters.
Unlike monument-focused tours, this program is landscape-driven. Each destination highlights Kerala’s ecological diversity — from mist-covered Western Ghats to bird sanctuaries and inland waterways. The experience concludes with a traditional houseboat cruise, offering a close view of village life along Kerala’s canal networks.
Designed for travelers who prefer nature, calm surroundings and cultural authenticity, this tour balances scenic drives, wildlife observation and backwater relaxation.
After breakfast, meet your guide and begin Cochin city sightseeing. Visit St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European churches in India, reflecting Portuguese colonial presence. Continue to the Chinese Fishing Nets along the waterfront, a centuries-old fishing method still in use today.
Proceed to the Jewish Synagogue in Jew Town, known for its Belgian chandeliers and hand-painted tiles. The nearby Dutch Palace showcases traditional Kerala murals depicting mythological scenes. The spice markets surrounding this historic quarter still carry the aroma of cardamom, pepper and cloves.
After sightseeing, drive to Munnar (approx. 4–5 hours). Located at 1,800 meters above sea level, Munnar is surrounded by rolling tea estates and is home to Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India (2,695 meters). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and visit nearby tea plantations before overnight stay.
After breakfast, proceed for a full-day exploration of Munnar. Visit Eravikulam National Park, one of the best places to observe the endangered NilgiriTahr in its natural mountain habitat. The park offers sweeping views of grasslands and misty valleys within the Western Ghats.
Continue to Mattupetty Dam and its scenic reservoir, surrounded by hills and forested slopes. The calm waters reflect the surrounding landscape, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Optional boating is available here.
The remainder of the day allows you to enjoy Munnar’s cool climate and plantation scenery. Return to your hotel for overnight stay.
After breakfast, transfer to Periyar (approx. 120 km / 4 hours). The route winds through the Cardamom Hills region of the Western Ghats, known for spice cultivation and dense forests.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and proceed for sightseeing in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of India’s prominent wildlife reserves covering 777 sq. km. The sanctuary’s forest ecosystem supports elephants, deer, wild boar and diverse birdlife.
The region’s lush terrain and tranquil atmosphere create an immersive jungle setting. Overnight stay at the hotel in Periyar.
Early morning boat ride inside Periyar Sanctuary offers the best opportunity for wildlife viewing. The boat navigates Periyar Lake while forested hills surround the water. Wildlife sightings may include elephants, gaur, wild dogs, otters and freshwater turtles. Bird species such as kingfishers and hornbills are frequently seen.
In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper and cinnamon. Kerala’s global spice trade legacy remains a defining cultural feature of the region.
Return to the hotel for overnight stay in Periyar.
After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom (approx. 121 km / 4.5 hours). Located near Kottayam, Kumarakom is renowned for its tranquil backwaters and bird sanctuary.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. The sanctuary hosts species such as snake birds, cormorants, herons and woodpeckers. Between November and March, migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia can also be observed.
The calm waters and palm-lined banks define Kumarakom’s peaceful character. Overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast, board your deluxe houseboat from Kumarakom jetty. Traditional houseboats, locally known as “Kettuvallams,” were once used to transport rice and spices through Kerala’s waterways.
As the boat cruises through canals and lagoons, observe village life unfolding along the water — fishermen casting nets, children paddling canoes and farmers working in paddy fields. Coconut palms frame the waterways, creating reflective landscapes.
Lunch, evening tea snacks, dinner and next day breakfast are served onboard. Air-conditioning in cabins operates between 20:30 hrs and 06:00 hrs. The boat anchors overnight in a quiet stretch of backwater.
After breakfast onboard, disembark at Alleppey. Known as the “Venice of the East,” Alleppey is famous for its narrow canals and interconnected backwaters.
Transfer by road to Cochin (approx. 70 km / 2 hours). You will be dropped at Cochin International Airport for your onward journey.
Tour concludes.
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