6 days active Kerala private tour by Green Earth Trails

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Arrive at Cochin Airport, drive to Munnar [4 hours]⌄

   Cheeyappara Waterfalls is a stunning cascade on route to Munnar. It's renowned for its seven-tiered drop, creating a mesmerising spectacle as the water plunges down the rocky slopes. it's a popular stopover for travelers heading to Munnar.

   The tea gardens of Munnar are a sight to behold, sprawling across the hills like a vibrant green carpet. These meticulously manicured plantations, established during the British era, are a testament to the region's rich tea-growing heritage.

   Overnight: Accommodation with breakfast at the Feel Munnar [Resort]

2. 2Local visits in and around Munnar⌄

   Rajamala National Park also known as the Eravikulam National Park is nestled in the scenic hills of Munnar. Is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The park houses Anamalai, the highest peak in South India. Renowned as the first national park in Kerala, it's primarily dedicated to the conservation of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a unique mountain goat species.

   The Lockhart Tea Factory, nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Munnar, stands as a testament to the region's rich tea heritage. Established in 1936, this historic factory offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the traditional orthodox tea-making process.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Accommodation with breakfast at the Feel Munnar [Resort]

3. 3Drive to the Cardamom hills of Thekkady [3 hours]⌄

   A boat ride on Periyar Lake in Periyar National Park is an unforgettable experience, offering a unique perspective of the park's diverse ecosystem. It would be a common boat that cruises through the reservoir, offering a chance to encounter a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.

   Witnessing a Kalaripayattu show in Thekkady is a thrilling experience that showcases the ancient martial art form of Kerala. Kalaripayattu is known for its graceful movements, acrobatic feats, and intricate weapon techniques, making it a captivating spectacle for audiences.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Accommodation with breakfast Coffee Route Resort

4. 4Greenwalk at Periyar National Park and drive to the backwaters of Alleppey [3.5 hours]⌄

   A spice garden tour in Thekkady is a sensory delight, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of spices that have made Kerala famous for centuries. The garden showcase a wide array of aromatic plants and spices, including cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and more.

   A Green Walk in Periyar National Park is a guided trekking program that offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the park's rich biodiversity up close. Led by trained local tribal guides, the walk takes you through scenic trails, deep into the heart of the forest, showcasing its diverse flora and fauna. The hike is for around 4 to 5 kilometres and would last to upto 2.5 hours.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Accommodation with breakfast at the Classic regency hotel

5. 5Sunrise Kayaking and later a houseboat cruise and overnight stay⌄

   Sunrise kayaking in Alleppey is a truly magical experience, allowing you to witness the backwaters awakening to a new day in the most serene and intimate way. As the first rays of light pierce the morning mist, you'll glide through the calm canals, surrounded by the gentle sounds of nature.

   Houseboat day cruise and overnight stay. As the boat sets sail, you'll be captivated by the stunning scenery that unfolds before your eyes. Lush green paddy fields, swaying coconut groves, and quaint villages line the waterways, creating a mesmerizing tapestry. You can relax on the deck, soak in the sun, and enjoy the gentle breeze as you pass by local life unfolding on the banks. The meals served on board would be prepared by local men who are part of the crew on board. The boat docks by evening 1730 hours as the fishermen would be casting the nets overnight. The cruise resumes next day 0800 for an hour before disembarking the boat.

   Meals: Lunch · Dinner · Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight stay on board the private houseboat with all meals served on board

6. 6Guided Sightseeing tour of Kochi followed by departure transfer to Cochin Airport [2.5 hours]⌄

   St. Francis Church, Fort Kochi is one of the oldest European churches in India, originally built in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars. With its simple, elegant architecture and serene ambience, it holds deep historical significance. This is the original burial site of Vasco da Gama, the famous Portuguese explorer, before his remains were moved to Lisbon. The church’s wooden ceilings, old fans, and centuries-old gravestones offer a glimpse into Kochi’s colonial past. A must-visit for history lovers exploring Fort Kochi’s heritage trail.

   Chinese Fishing Nets are iconic shore-operated lift nets found along the Fort Kochi waterfront. Believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century, these massive cantilevered nets are gently lowered into the water and raised using a counterweight system. Watching the fishermen operate them—especially during sunset—is a unique cultural experience and a photographer’s delight. These nets are a living testament to Kochi’s ancient trade connections and maritime heritage.

   Dutch Palace, also known as Mattancherry Palace, is a beautifully preserved 16th-century structure gifted by the Portuguese to the Kochi royal family and later renovated by the Dutch. The palace showcases Kerala’s traditional architecture with colonial influences. Inside, you'll find exquisite murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and other Puranic legends, along with royal regalia, palanquins, and ancient weapons. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s regal past and artistic heritage.

   Paradesi Synagogue, located in the heart of Jew Town in Mattancherry, is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth, built in 1568 by the Jewish community of Cochin. This historic place of worship is known for its hand-painted Chinese porcelain floor tiles, Belgian glass chandeliers, and the gold pulpit. The synagogue also houses rare antiques, scrolls of the Torah, and copper plates with royal grants. It stands as a testament to the peaceful coexistence of Kerala’s multicultural past.

   Meals: Breakfast