SOUTH INDIA BACKWATER TOUR

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This 7-day South India Backwater Tour takes you through Kerala’s most iconic destinations, blending nature, culture, and wellness. Begin in Cochin, exploring colonial landmarks and spice markets. Move on to Munnar, where rolling tea plantations and misty hills create postcard-perfect views. At Thekkady, experience a blend of wildlife adventure and spice plantations before heading to Alleppey for a dreamy backwater cruise in a traditional houseboat. The tour concludes in Kovalam, where golden beaches and Ayurvedic therapies help you unwind, with a short excursion to Trivandrum for temples and cultural landmarks. Perfect for couples, families, and nature lovers, this journey offers a unique combination of Kerala’s natural beauty, heritage, and healing traditions.

From Tea Plantations to Backwaters – A Complete Kerala Experience

Explore Cochin’s heritage spots – Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing Nets
Scenic drive through tea gardens & waterfalls of Munnar
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary & spice plantations in Thekkady
Houseboat cruise on Alleppey’s backwaters with onboard meals
Relaxation & Ayurvedic therapies in Kovalam
Excursion to Trivandrum’s Padmanabhaswamy Temple & Napier Museum

Day 1: Arrival in Cochin

Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Cochin International Airport. Our representative will meet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After some time to relax, step out in the evening to explore Fort Kochi, a vibrant blend of history and culture. Visit the famous Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and Mattancherry Palace, followed by a stroll through bustling spice markets. These sights give you a first glimpse of Kerala’s rich heritage.

Overnight stay in Cochin.

Day 2: Cochin – Munnar

After breakfast, begin a scenic drive to Munnar, the land of misty hills and sprawling tea plantations. On the way, admire the beauty of Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls, cascading amidst lush greenery. The winding roads, cool mountain air, and endless stretches of tea gardens make this journey unforgettable. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy leisure time soaking in Munnar’s charm.

Overnight stay in Munnar.

Day 3: Munnar Sightseeing

Spend the day exploring the highlights of Munnar. Visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, where rolling grasslands and panoramic views await. Continue to the Tea Museum, which showcases the region’s tea-making traditions. Later, stop at Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point, both offering scenic spots for photography and relaxation. In the evening, return to your hotel and unwind amidst the cool mountain breeze.

Overnight stay in Munnar.

Day 4: Munnar – Thekkady

After breakfast, drive to Thekkady, a destination famous for its spice plantations and wildlife sanctuary. Visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can take an optional boat ride on Periyar Lake and spot elephants, bison, and exotic birds. Later, tour the aromatic spice plantations and learn about Kerala’s treasured spices like cardamom and pepper. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance of Kathakali dance or Kalaripayattu martial arts, showcasing Kerala’s traditions.

Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Day 5: Thekkady – Alleppey (Houseboat Stay)

This morning, head towards Alleppey, often called the “Venice of the East.” Step aboard a traditional houseboat for a serene cruise along Kerala’s backwaters. As you drift through palm-fringed canals and tranquil villages, enjoy freshly prepared Kerala cuisine served on board. Watch the sun set over the waters, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your evening.

Overnight stay on a houseboat.

Day 6: Alleppey – Kovalam

After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Kovalam, one of Kerala’s most popular beach destinations. Upon arrival, check into your beachside resort. Spend the evening relaxing by the Arabian Sea, strolling along golden sands, or choosing an optional Ayurveda session to refresh your body and mind.

Overnight stay in Kovalam.

Day 7: Kovalam – Trivandrum Departure

Begin your day with a refreshing yoga or Ayurveda therapy session at your resort. Later, take a guided excursion to Trivandrum, where you will visit the sacred Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the Napier Museum, and lively local markets. After sightseeing, you will be transferred to Trivandrum Airport for your onward journey, carrying home memories of Kerala’s hills, backwaters, wildlife, and beaches.

1. Is the houseboat in Alleppey private?

Yes, guests are provided with a private deluxe or premium houseboat for an exclusive experience. Each boat comes with well-appointed bedrooms, a dining area, and an open deck to soak in the views. Freshly prepared Kerala meals are served on board, allowing you to enjoy the backwaters in complete comfort and privacy without sharing space with other travelers.

2. What’s the best season for this tour?

The ideal time to enjoy the South India Backwater Tour is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. This season is perfect for outdoor sightseeing in Cochin, Munnar, and Thekkady, as well as for houseboat cruises in Alleppey and beach relaxation in Kovalam. Summers can get hot and humid, while monsoons, though lush and green, may limit outdoor activities.

3. Can Ayurveda sessions be customized in Kovalam?

Yes, Ayurveda therapies in Kovalam are designed to meet individual needs. Before starting treatments, an Ayurveda doctor consults with guests to recommend the right therapies—whether for stress relief, rejuvenation, or wellness balance. Sessions may include massages with herbal oils, steam baths, or yoga-based healing practices. These are optional add-ons but highly recommended for a complete South India experience.

4. Are wildlife safaris in Thekkady guaranteed for animal sightings?

While wildlife sightings in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary depend on nature and cannot be guaranteed, the sanctuary offers much more than just spotting animals. The scenic boat rides on Periyar Lake, lush forests, and guided spice plantation walks make the visit enriching. Even if tigers or elephants remain elusive, the experience of exploring Kerala’s biodiversity and cultural performances in the evening ensures a memorable stay.

5. Is this tour suitable for families and elderly travelers?

Absolutely! This itinerary is thoughtfully designed to balance leisure and exploration. Families with children will enjoy the houseboat cruise and cultural shows, while elderly travelers can relax at beaches and enjoy light sightseeing. Comfortable transfers, handpicked hotels, and wellness opportunities like Ayurveda make it suitable for all age groups. With flexibility built into the schedule, guests can move at their own pace without feeling rushed.

Tour Inclusions