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Kerala Backwaters Retreat

Kerala Backwaters Retreat

1N Kochi • 2N Munnar • 1N Thekkady • 1N Kumarakom • 2N Kovalam

Kerala, India7N8DPrice on request
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Overview

Kerala, fondly called God’s Own Country, is a harmonious blend of misty hill stations, spice-scented forests, tranquil backwaters and palm-fringed beaches. This thoughtfully curated journey takes you from colonial Kochi to the tea gardens of Munnar, wildlife-rich Thekkady, iconic houseboat stays in Kumarakom and the serene shores of Kovalam — offering a perfect balance of nature, culture and relaxation.

Plan this journey

Trip highlights

  • Explore historic Kochi, the Gateway to Kerala
  • Tea plantations, waterfalls & viewpoints of Munnar
  • Wildlife experiences & spice aromas at Thekkady (Periyar)
  • Houseboat stay on the backwaters of Kumarakom
  • Scenic coastal drive via Varkala Beach
  • Beach Leisure & Padmanabhswamy temple
  • optional: Kanyakumari day trip at extra cost

Gallery

Textures of Kerala

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Itinerary

Day-by-day Flow

Day 1

Arrival in Kochi – Leisure Evening

Touch down in Kochi and enjoy a sunset heritage walk through Fort Kochi’s storied lanes. If time permits, enjoy light sightseeing, a Kathakali performance, shopping or an optional sunset cruise through Kochi’s scenic backwaters.

Day 2

Kochi to Munnar – Scenic Hill Drive

After breakfast, drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station nestled amid rolling tea gardens. En route, enjoy lush landscapes and cascading waterfalls, including a stop at Cheeyappara Waterfalls (time permitting). Post check-in, explore local attractions such as Echo Point, Kundala Lake, Mattupetty Dam and the Tea Museum (subject to time). Relax and enjoy the cool mountain air.

Day 3

Munnar Sightseeing

After breakfast, set out for a full day of sightseeing in Munnar. Visit Mattupetty Dam, known for its serene artificial lake, and Echo Point, famous for its natural acoustic phenomenon. Explore the Tea Museum (closed on Mondays) to understand the history and processing of tea in the region. Later, visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (subject to park timings and seasonal closure). Evening at leisure.

Day 4

Munnar to Thekkady – Wildlife & Spices

After breakfast, proceed to Thekkady, home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Surrounded by lush forests and spice plantations, Thekkady offers a refreshing change of scenery. Optional activities available on direct payment basis include a Periyar Lake boat safari, spice plantation visits, nature walks, bamboo rafting, Kathakali or Kalaripayattu cultural shows. Relax and soak in the spice-scented atmosphere.

Day 5

Thekkady to Kumarakom – Houseboat Experience

After an early breakfast, drive to Kumarakom, a tranquil backwater destination on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Check-in to your traditional Kerala houseboat and begin a memorable cruise through serene canals, paddy fields and village life. Enjoy freshly prepared meals onboard, including lunch, evening tea & snacks, dinner and breakfast the next morning. The houseboat anchors in calm waters for a peaceful overnight stay.

Day 6

Kumarakom to Kovalam via Varkala

After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and drive towards Kovalam, stopping en route at the scenic Varkala Beach. Known for its dramatic cliffs and spiritual significance, visit Janardanaswamy Temple and enjoy views of the Arabian Sea. Continue the coastal drive to Kovalam. Check-in at your hotel and relax by the beach.

Day 7

Kovalam & Trivandrum Sightseeing

After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing in Trivandrum, Kerala’s capital city. Visit the sacred Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, Srichitra Art Gallery, Horse Palace and the well-known Trivandrum Zoo. Later, return to Kovalam for beach leisure. Optional water and adventure activities available at Kovalam or Poovar on direct payment basis include parasailing, kayaking, scuba diving, speed boat safari and backwater cruising.

Day 8

Departure – Trivandrum

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Trivandrum International Airport for your onward journey with unforgettable memories of Kerala.

What's Included

  • Accommodation on double/twin sharing basis
  • Daily buffet breakfast & dinner at the hotel, all meals in houseboat
  • All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary on private basis
  • Driver allowance, toll taxes & parking charges
  • All current applicable hotel taxes

What's Excluded

  • 5% GST as per Indian Government regulations
  • Flight tickets
  • Entry fees to museums, monuments, and attractions
  • Lunch and any meals not specified above
  • Personal insurance, medical or evacuation expenses
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, calls, minibar, tips, or extra mileage
  • Additional costs due to delays, natural calamities, or unforeseen events

Experience Notes

How this trip unfolds

ACCOMMODATION

3 star category

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