Best of Kerala

Welcome to Kerala! Arrive at Kochi International Airport, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, embark on a half-day sightseeing tour of Kochi, the vibrant gateway to Kerala. Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets at Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church—the oldest European church in India, and the Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), famous for its Kerala murals. Explore Jew Town with its quaint shops and the historic Paradesi Synagogue. In the evening, witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance before returning to your hotel. Overnight stay in Kochi.

After breakfast, begin your scenic drive to Munnar, the picturesque hill station known for its sprawling tea gardens and misty mountains. The drive itself is a highlight, with winding roads and stunning views. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, soaking in the serene atmosphere of Munnar. If you’re up for it, take a leisurely walk through the nearby tea plantations. Overnight stay in Munnar.

Today, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Munnar. Start with a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park offers breathtaking views of the rolling hills and tea plantations. Next, visit the Tea Museum, where you can learn about the history of tea cultivation in the region. In the afternoon, head to Mattupetty Dam and enjoy a boat ride on the tranquil Mattupetty Lake. Continue to Echo Point, known for its natural echo phenomenon, and Kundala Lake, surrounded by lush greenery. Return to your hotel in the evening. Overnight stay in Munnar.

On your second day in Munnar, visit Top Station, the highest point in Munnar, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the Tamil Nadu plains. Afterward, explore the Blossom Park, a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll amidst the vibrant flowers. If you’re interested in wildlife, visit the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Alternatively, enjoy a peaceful walk through Attukal Waterfalls and take in the surrounding greenery. In the evening, unwind at your hotel. Overnight stay in Munnar.

After breakfast, depart Munnar and journey to the historic city of Madurai. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and refresh. In the evening, visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. Experience the vibrant atmosphere during the evening prayer ceremonies. If time permits, explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Enjoy a traditional South Indian dinner before retiring to your hotel. Overnight stay in Madurai.

After breakfast, leave Madurai and drive to Thekkady, a paradise for nature lovers. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax. Experience the famous Kerala Ayurvedic massages that uses herbal oils and ancient techniques to promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and healing, reflecting centuries-old wellness traditions.

In the evening, explore the local spice plantations and learn about the cultivation of various spices. Return to your hotel. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Start your day with a boat cruise on Periyar Lake, where you can observe wildlife as they come to the water’s edge. Afterward, take part in an exciting bamboo rafting experience, offering a unique perspective of the forest. For those seeking more adventure, consider a border hiking experience, which takes you deeper into the forest with experienced guides. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Keralan meal at a local restaurant. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, famous for its serene backwaters. Upon arrival, board your traditional houseboat for an unforgettable experience. Cruise through the tranquil backwaters, observing the daily life of the locals along the canals, lush paddy fields, and swaying palm trees. Enjoy freshly prepared meals on board, featuring local flavors. Overnight stay on the houseboat.

Spend the day exploring the backwaters at a leisurely pace. Your houseboat will glide through narrow canals, giving you a glimpse of the rural life of Kerala. Dock at various points to visit local villages, temples, and coir factories. You can also stop by Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary if you’re a bird enthusiast. In the evening, enjoy a serene sunset over the backwaters. Overnight stay on the houseboat.

After breakfast, leave the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey and head towards the coastal town of Varkala. Known for its stunning cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, Enroute you can visit Munroe island, yet another serenc backwater boat ride.  Upon arrival in Varkala, check in to your hotel and spend the afternoon at Varkala Beach. The beach is famous for its unique cliffs and natural springs. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the cliffside promenade, dotted with cafes, shops, and yoga centers. Visit the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and known as the “Dakshin Kashi.” In the evening, relax by the beach and watch the breathtaking sunset. Overnight stay in Varkala.

After breakfast, depart for Kovalam, Kerala’s most famous beach destination. Kovalam is renowned for its crescent-shaped beaches, lined with swaying palm trees and calm blue waters. Upon arrival, check in to your beach resort and spend the day at leisure. Explore the three main beaches—Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach. Lighthouse Beach, the most popular, is named after the towering lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the coastline. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic massage, for which Kovalam is famous. Overnight stay in Kovalam.

After breakfast, take a day trip to Kanyakumari (Cape Comorin), the southernmost tip of India, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean converge. En route, visit the Padmanabhapuram Palace, a stunning example of traditional Kerala architecture. Once in Kanyakumari, visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, where Swami Vivekananda meditated, and the Thiruvalluvar Statue, dedicated to the famous Tamil poet. Explore the Kumari Amman Temple and enjoy the views of the meeting of the three seas. Return to Kovalam in the evening and unwind at the beach. Overnight stay in Kovalam.

Spend your last full day in Kerala relaxing in Kovalam. Start your day with a yoga session by the beach, followed by a delicious breakfast at your resort. You can choose to relax on the beach, take a dip in the warm waters, or explore the local markets for souvenirs. If you’re interested in more Ayurveda treatments, today is a great day to indulge in a rejuvenating therapy session. In the evening, take a sunset cruise or enjoy a candlelit dinner by the sea. Overnight stay in Kovalam.

After breakfast, visit remaining places, or go shopping or just relax. Depart from Trivandrum International Airport with unforgettable memories of Kerala’s beauty and warmth.