KERALA - LAND OF BACKWATERS

Day By Day Itinerary

DAY 01: ARRIVAL AT COCHIN 

Arrival assistance and transfer from Cochin airport or railway station. Begin Cochin sightseeing tour, including visits to the Chinese Fishing nets, Fort Cochin, Mattancherry, St. Francis Church, Dutch Cemetery, Jewish Synagogue, and Dutch Palace. Enjoy a boat ride at Marine Drive, explore Bolghatty Palace, and indulge in shopping. Overnight stay at a hotel in Cochin.

DAY 02 : COCHIN TO ATHIRAPALLY  

Upon arrival in Cochin, proceed to Athirappilly, a destination adorned with stunning waterfalls and lush forests. Known as a paradise in Kerala, Athirappilly captivates with its scenic beauty, especially during the monsoon. The cool mist from the waterfalls, the rushing rivers, and tranquil streams create a picturesque environment. Nestled in Thrissur district, Athirappilly boasts abundant natural wonders, including rivers, lush greenery, and diverse flora and fauna, offering tourists a serene atmosphere to unwind and appreciate the region's rich biodiversity.

DAY 03 : ATHIRAPALLY TO MUNNAR 

After breakfast, proceed to Munnar, renowned as one of India's most beloved hill stations, nestled at the convergence of three mountain streams: Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala. Situated at an altitude of 1600 meters above sea level, Munnar enchants with its expansive tea plantations, charming towns, winding paths, trekking opportunities, and excellent holiday amenities. En route, visit Cheeyappara waterfalls, a Spice Garden, and enjoy an Elephant ride. Later, check-in at your Hotel/Resort and relax. (*Optional) In the evening, consider attending cultural shows like Kathakali (Classical Drama Dance) and Martial Arts (Kalaripayattu) from 5 PM to 7 PM. Overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 04 :MUNNAR SIGHTSEEING 

After breakfast, embark on another round of sightseeing: Mattupetty: Situated at an altitude of 1700 meters, Mattupetty is renowned for its specialized dairy farm, the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project. It houses over 100 varieties of high-yielding cattle, with visitors allowed into three of the eleven cattle sheds. Echo Point: A favored adventure tourism spot, Echo Point offers opportunities for trekking and nature walks amidst scenic hills. The area boasts fresh mountain air, mist-covered hills, and panoramic vistas that make it a must-visit. It lies along the route to Top Station from Munnar. Tea Museum: Munnar is famed for its tea plantations, and the Tea Museum, established by Tata Tea, showcases the growth and evolution of these plantations. It houses ancient photographs, machinery, curios, and artifacts, paying tribute to those who pioneered the tea industry in Munnar. Pothamedu: Offering spectacular views of Munnar's tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations, Pothamedu is ideal for trekking and leisurely mountain walks. The rolling hills and lush greenery create breathtaking scenery. Eravikulam National Park: Munnar's most sought-after destination, Eravikulam National Park is Kerala's first national park. It shelters the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and features diverse wildlife, birds, and butterflies across its 97 sq. km. area. The park provides stunning views of tea plantations and mist-covered hills, especially during the flowering of Neelakurinji, a plant that blooms once every twelve years. Enjoy a night stay at Hotel.

DAY 05 : MUNNAR TO THEKKADY 

After breakfast, proceed to Thekkady, where you have the (option to embark on a boat ride) on Periyar Lake. Enjoy the scenic journey through the hill station en route. Thekkady is famous for its impressive wildlife sanctuary, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Upon reaching, check-in at the hotel and relax. Explore spice plantations, take an elephant ride, and attend a Kathakali show. You can also opt for another boat ride on Periyar Lake. Return to the hotel after the boat cruise for an overnight stay.

DAY 06: THEKKAY TO ALLEPPEY 

After breakfast, proceed to Alappuzha, often referred to as the Venice of the East, boasts Kerala's unique backwaters, a network of lakes, canals, estuaries, and deltas formed by forty-four rivers flowing into the Arabian Sea. These backwaters form a self-sustaining ecosystem brimming with diverse life. The canals serve as vital routes connecting villages and are still utilized for local transportation. Kumarakom and Alleppey (Alappuzha) stand out as prominent backwater tourist destinations in Kerala.Kuttanad is a rare place globally where farming is practiced below sea level (1.5 - 2 meters). The inland waterways flowing above land level are a remarkable feature of this region, situated at the heart of Kerala's backwaters. One of the most captivating attractions of Kuttanad is the Kettuvallam, or traditional houseboat, which has become an iconic symbol of Kerala tourism. In a state so intertwined with water, the sight of a houseboat gracefully gliding across the expansive green backwaters is an unforgettable experience for visitors. Detailed Itinerary: 12:00 hrs: Check-in at the Houseboat. Enjoy a welcome drink of fresh tender coconut water. Begin cruising through the canals, rivers, and backwaters. 13:00 hrs: Stop for lunch onboard, featuring traditional Kerala cuisine. Special meal requests such as North Indian dishes should be communicated in advance. 15:00 hrs: Resume the cruise through picturesque rivers and canals adorned with palm trees, small houses, villages, paddy fields, and churches. 17:00 hrs: Evening coffee or tea served with traditional Kerala snacks. 18:00 hrs: The boat anchors near the shore due to government regulations, staying anchored until 07:30 hrs the following morning. 06:30 hrs: Wake up to bed tea or coffee. 08:00 hrs: Breakfast served, including bread, butter, jam, and South Indian dishes like Idly or Dosa. 09:30 hrs: Check-out from the houseboat. Note: The television onboard does not have cable connection and is equipped with a CD player. TV reception may not be available during the cruise. Any additional items not included in the menu will be charged separately in cash.

DAY 07: ALLEPPEY TO KOVALAM 

After breakfast, disembark from the boat and proceed to Kovalam: Kovalam is renowned as Kerala's international beach destination, often referred to as the Paradise of the South. It attracts many Western tourists due to its shallow waters and gentle waves. This area has been a prominent tourist enclave since the 1930s, making it one of India's oldest tourist destinations. The largest and most popular beach here is Lighthouse Beach. Upon arrival, check into the resort and unwind by spending time on the beach. Overnight stay at the resort.

DAY 08 :TRIVANBDRUM SIGHTSEEING 

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Explore the Zoo, Napier Museum, and Sree Chitra Art Gallery, as well as the Chacha Nehru Children’s Museum. Return to Kovalam for an overnight stay.

DAY 09: DEPART TO TRIVANDRUM

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Trivandrum Airport/Railway Station, where necessary assistance will be provided. Depart for your hometown with fond memories of your Kerala trip.

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