Backwaters of Kerala

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Arrival in Cochin & Sightseeing⌄

   Upon arrival in Cochin, after completing customs formalities, meet our MTA representative at the airport exit. Begin your exploration of Cochin, South India’s most cosmopolitan city, starting with a visit to the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets.

   Next, visit Mattancherry Palace, known for its beautiful Kerala murals and exhibits showcasing the portraits and history of the Rajas of Kochi.

   Visit St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi, originally built in 1503. It is one of the oldest European churches in India and holds great historical importance, standing as a silent witness to the colonial history of the subcontinent.

   Visit the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, located in Kochi, Kerala. The Jewish presence in Kerala dates back centuries, with the first synagogue in India built in the 4th century at Kodungallur, reflecting their important role in trade and culture.

   In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance. This classical art form of Kerala combines dance, drama, and music, with roots tracing back to ancient temple rituals and folk traditions that evolved between the 2nd and 16th centuries. Overnight stay in Cochin.

   Overnight: 3* - Hotel Abad / Similar 4* - Casino Hotel / Similar 5* - Trident / Similar

2. 2Cochin - Munnar ( 145 KM – 4 Hrs Approx)⌄

   Drive to Munnar, located at an altitude of 6,000 ft in the Idukki district. Once the summer retreat of the British during colonial times, Munnar is renowned for its endless tea plantations, serene valleys, rolling hills, and rich wildlife in its forests and sanctuaries. On arrival, check in to the hotel. Overnight stay in Munnar.

   Overnight: 3* - Abad Copper Castle / Similar 4* - Silver Tips / Similar 5* - Panoramic Gateway / Similar

3. 3Munnar - Periyar ( 100 KM – 2 Hrs Approx)⌄

   Drive towards Periyar, set at 900 meters in the Western Ghats, surrounded by beautiful tea and spice plantations. Periyar National Park is one of the oldest and most important wildlife reserves in India, created to protect the Indian tiger. En route, enjoy a short tour of a spice plantation and drive through scenic gardens of tea, coffee, and cocoa. On arrival, check in at the hotel in Thekkady.

   In the afternoon, enjoy a Jeep Safari in the mountains. This adventure takes you off the beaten path, offering chances to spot wildlife and explore some of the most scenic and well-known attractions in and around Thekkady.

   Overnight: 3* - Elephant Route/Similar 4* - Elephant Court / Similar 5* - Spice Village/Similar

4. 4Periyar - Alleppey ( 120 KM – 3 Hrs Approx)⌄

   Drive to Alleppey, enjoying the scenic views of the Nilgiri Mountains en route and a visit to the Sacred Heart Church set amidst tea gardens. On arrival, board your private houseboat. Cruise through the serene backwaters of Vembanad Lake and witness the charm of village life along the banks. All meals—lunch, dinner, and next day’s breakfast—will be served on board. Overnight stay in the houseboat.

   Overnight: 3* - Deluxe Houseboat 4* - Premium Houseboat 5* - Luxury Houseboat

5. 5Alleppey - Kumarakom (45 KM – 1.5 Hrs Approx)⌄

   Disembark from the houseboat and drive to Kumarakom. On arrival, check in to your resort and spend the day at leisure, relaxing amidst the serene surroundings. Optional excursions and activities are available. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.

   Overnight: 3* - Deshadan / Similar 4* - Abad Whispering / Similar 5* - Coconut Lagoon / Similar

6. 6Kumarakom⌄

   Enjoy a full day at leisure in Kumarakom, with options for Ayurvedic treatments, relaxation, and other resort activities. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.

   Overnight: 3* - Deshadan / Similar 4* - Abad Whispering / Similar 5* - Coconut Lagoon / Similar

7. 7Kumarakom - Cochin ( 260 KM – 5 Hrs Approx)⌄

   Morning at leisure. Later, transfer to Cochin and onward to the International Airport. Please Note: You will be dropped at the airport or any other preferred location in Cochin. Kindly plan your onward journey accordingly.