Best of Kerala

Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, our representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to your hotel. After checking in and refreshing, embark on an exploration of this historic port city, often called the “Queen of the Arabian Sea.”
Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along the harbor—massive cantilevered structures introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan in the 14th century. Continue to Fort Cochin with its colonial-era buildings, followed by Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) with its remarkable Hindu murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Explore St. Francis Church, India’s oldest European church where Vasco da Gama was originally buried, and the atmospheric Dutch Cemetery.
Visit the 16th-century Jewish Synagogue with its hand-painted Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers in the heart of “Jew Town.” Continue to Hill Palace, formerly the royal residence of Kochi’s ruling family, and the picturesque Bolgatty Palace on Bolgatty Island. In the late afternoon, enjoy a boat ride along Marine Drive with views of Cochin’s modern skyline, followed by time to browse at Lulu Mall, one of India’s largest shopping centers.
In the evening, attend a captivating Kathakali performance, Kerala’s classical dance-drama known for its elaborate makeup, costumes, and expressive storytelling. Overnight in Cochin.

After breakfast, check out and begin your journey to Munnar, a hill station established during British colonial times at an elevation of approximately 5,200 feet. The scenic drive winds through changing landscapes, from coastal plains to the Western Ghats mountains. En route, stop at cascading waterfalls including Cheeyappara and Valara, perfect for photography and stretching your legs.
As you gain altitude, notice the transition to misty hillsides covered with geometric patterns of tea plantations. Upon arrival in Munnar, check into your hotel and take time to acclimatize to the cooler mountain air. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax at your hotel or take a gentle stroll through the nearby town or tea estates. Overnight in Munnar.

Following breakfast, embark on a full-day exploration of Munnar’s natural splendors. Begin at the Tea Museum, where you’ll learn about the history of this hill station and the process of tea production from leaf to cup. The museum houses photographs and machinery dating back to the early plantations established by Scottish planters.
Continue to the scenic Mattupetty Dam and its picturesque lake surrounded by rolling hills. Enjoy a tranquil boat ride with views of tea and coffee plantations cascading down the mountainsides. Visit Echo Point, named for the natural acoustic phenomenon where sound waves reflect between the mountains. Proceed to Kundala Lake, a picturesque reservoir often shrouded in mist.
In the afternoon, visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goat) and spectacular views from the Rajamalai hills. The park offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay in Munnar.

After an early breakfast, check out and drive through changing landscapes from tea plantations to cardamom hills and dense forests as you descend to Thekkady, gateway to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The winding road offers spectacular views and opportunities to spot spice plantations along the way.
Upon arrival, check into your jungle lodge or resort set amid natural surroundings. After lunch and some time to relax, embark on a boat safari on Periyar Lake within the wildlife sanctuary. This tranquil boat ride offers excellent opportunities to observe wildlife coming to the water’s edge, including wild elephants, sambar deer, wild boar, and numerous bird species. The lake setting, with its partially submerged trees and forested shores, creates a dramatic backdrop for wildlife viewing.
Return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight stay. The sounds of the forest at night create an immersive natural experience unlike anything in urban environments.

Following breakfast, journey toward Alleppey, known as the “Venice of the East” for its network of backwater canals. The drive offers continuous changes in scenery from mountains to midlands and finally the coastal plains. Upon arrival in Alleppey, transfer directly to your private houseboat (kettuvallam)—a traditional rice barge converted into comfortable floating accommodation.
Begin your cruise through the peaceful backwaters, a network of canals, rivers, and lakes that run parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. Observe rural Kerala life unfolding along the waterways—farmers tending vibrant green rice paddies, villagers washing clothes, children playing, and birds soaring overhead. Pass charming churches and temples that dot the shoreline, their architecture reflecting Kerala’s religious diversity.
Your onboard chef will prepare authentic Kerala cuisine using fresh local ingredients, serving meals on the deck overlooking the water. As evening falls, your boat will anchor in a tranquil spot. Enjoy stargazing from the deck, with minimal light pollution allowing for remarkable celestial views. Overnight on the houseboat.

Wake to the gentle sounds of the backwaters and enjoy breakfast on deck before disembarking. Begin your journey to Kovalam, a beach destination renowned for its crescent shores and laid-back atmosphere. The drive takes you through coconut groves and coastal villages before reaching this popular seaside retreat.
Upon arrival, check into your beach resort and take time to relax after the journey. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy Kovalam’s attractions. Stroll along the golden sands, swim in the warm waters of the Arabian Sea (where safe), or simply relax and watch the spectacular sunset over the ocean. Consider indulging in an Ayurvedic massage, a specialty of Kerala, or sample fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants. Overnight in Kovalam.

After breakfast, embark on a day trip to nearby Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), the capital city of Kerala. Visit the remarkable Padmanabhaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu reclining on the sacred serpent Anantha. While non-Hindus cannot enter the inner sanctum, the temple’s exterior architecture is impressive and worth viewing (please note appropriate dress is required in the temple vicinity).
Continue to the Napier Museum, housed in a striking building that blends Kerala, Chinese, and Italian architectural styles. The museum contains a rare collection of archaeological and historical artifacts, including bronze sculptures, ancient ornaments, and temple chariots. Adjacent to the museum, visit the Trivandrum Zoo, one of India’s oldest, home to various indigenous species in a garden setting.
In the afternoon, enjoy time for shopping in Trivandrum’s markets, where you can purchase traditional Kerala handicrafts, including items crafted from coconut shells, seashells, and wood. Return to Kovalam for an evening at leisure and overnight stay.

After a final breakfast featuring Kerala specialties, check out of your hotel. Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time for a last stroll on the beach or last-minute shopping. At the appropriate time, transfer to Trivandrum International Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey, taking with you memories of Kerala’s diverse landscapes and cultural experiences.