Kerala Tour

Trivandrum – Varkala – Alleppey – Kumarakom – Periyar – Munnar – Cochin

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Tour Highlights

  • Trivandrum cultural gateway – Explore the capital of Kerala with its blend of historic temples, colonial heritage, and vibrant local life, including the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
  • Varkala cliff & Arabian Sea views – Experience dramatic red cliffs overlooking the sea, relaxed beach cafés, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere ideal for sunsets and walks.
  • Alleppey backwaters & houseboat cruise – Glide through palm-lined canals, village landscapes, and serene waterways on a traditional Kerala houseboat.
  • Kumarakom village & lake life – Discover peaceful backwater villages on Vembanad Lake, with canoe rides and glimpses of traditional farming and coir-making life.
  • Periyar wildlife & spice plantations – Explore the Western Ghats with spice garden walks and the possibility of spotting wildlife in the Periyar Tiger Reserve surroundings.
  • Munnar tea hill experience – Journey into rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, waterfalls, and colonial-era tea estates in one of South India’s most scenic hill stations.
  • Cochin heritage & cultural fusion – End your journey in Kochi, where Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences blend with spice markets, Jewish heritage, and Kathakali performances.

Tour Overview

Discover the enchanting beauty of Kerala, often referred to as "God’s Own Country," on this carefully designed journey through its stunning coastline, tranquil backwaters, lush tea plantations, wildlife reserves, and vibrant cultural centers. Your adventure begins in Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), the capital of Kerala, where ancient temples, colonial architecture, and rich cultural traditions offer an excellent introduction to the region. Continue to the picturesque coastal town of Varkala, famous for its dramatic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, pristine beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. From the coast, travel into the heart of Kerala’s renowned backwaters. Experience the unique charm of Alleppey, where winding canals, coconut groves, and traditional village life create a serene and unforgettable setting. Continue to Kumarakom, a peaceful backwater destination nestled along the shores of Vembanad Lake, known for its birdlife, tranquil waterways, and beautiful lakeside scenery. The journey then takes you into the Western Ghats to Periyar, one of India’s finest wildlife sanctuaries. Here you can enjoy nature walks, boat cruises on Periyar Lake, and opportunities to spot elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species amidst dense tropical forests. Next, travel to the hill station of Munnar, renowned for its rolling tea gardens, mist-covered mountains, waterfalls, and cool climate. Explore tea plantations, scenic viewpoints, and the breathtaking landscapes that make Munnar one of South India's most beautiful destinations. Your tour concludes in the historic port city of Cochin (Kochi), a fascinating blend of cultures shaped by centuries of trade and colonial influence. Discover the charming streets of Fort Kochi, the iconic Chinese fishing nets, historic churches, spice markets, and vibrant local life. 

This journey offers a perfect combination of Kerala’s diverse attractions—golden beaches, peaceful backwaters, abundant wildlife, scenic hill stations, and rich cultural heritage—providing an authentic and memorable experience of one of India's most captivating regions.

Itinerary

On arrival at Trivandrim airport our representative having a placard displaying your name will meet you to pick you up and transfer to your hotel. Today only an airport transfer is included and no sightseeing or any other visit is planned or included. If you arrive in the early morning and wish to do sightseeing then kindly let us know and we shall do the needful and include a visit to few attractions. Overnight at hotel in Trivandrum.

60km

Breakfast at the hotel visit Trivandrum city. Visit Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple Covering an area of about 2,400 sq. metres, the temple of Sri Padmanabhaswamy is believed to be around 260 years old. The temple with its gopuram (tower) soaring majestically upwards is believed to be one of the 108 shrines sacred to the Vaishnavites in India. Also visit Napier Museum. Dating back to 1880, the Napier Museum building is a combination of the Kerala, Mughal, Chinese and Italian architectural styles. The building has a unique natural air-conditioning system. A visit to this museum gives you glimpses of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.

Later drive to Varkala. Arrive and check in to the hotel. Evening free at the beach.

Overnight at the hotel in Varkala.

Morning visit the Portugese church of Anjengo dated to the time of occupation, which maybe the Elanchoros of the geography of Ptomempee (2nd century A.D.). Also visit the English Fort constructed in 1695 A.D. by the English 'East India Company'. Rest of the day is free at leisure.

Backwaters cruise till Kumarakom – 120km / 3 hours

Drive towards Alleppey. On arrival check in to traditional Kerala house boat for a cruise, which is totally a delightful experience. Cruise through the palm fringed canals, watch the paddy fields and village folk, while relaxing on board hearing the lullaby of the wind & waves. This mysterious strip of emerald green land is stuffed with endless miles of placid backwaters that appends to its charm. Freshly cooked local food is served onboard. Dinner and overnight stay at the houseboat.

130km

Breakfast at houseboat and then check out from the houseboat. Your houseboat will drop you at Kumarakom. Directly drive to Periyar. The most renowned destination in Kerala, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary at Thekkady is one of India’s major sanctuary areas. Arrive and check in to the hotel. Rest of the day is free to explore the local spice market. Overnight at the hotel in Pariyar.

Early morning we take boat ride over the Lake Periyar to watch animals in their natural habitat on the water's edge. While cruising on Lake Periyar, you are likely to see animals like wild boars, sambars, wild dogs, Langur monkeys and wild elephants. Late afternoon again visit the park by boat. Overnight at the hotel in Pariyar.

After breakfast, we leave Periyar for a scenic drive to Munnar – Kerala’s tea garden hill station. Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Kerala's Western Ghats, Munnar is one of South India's most picturesque hill stations. Vast stretches of emerald-green tea plantations blanket the landscape, creating breathtaking views at every turn. The cool mountain air, mist-covered valleys, and cascading waterfalls make it a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Rich in biodiversity, Munnar is home to rare flora and fauna, including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Its serene beauty, pleasant climate, and tranquil surroundings offer visitors an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature. Reach Munnar in the afternoon and check in to the hotel. Later proceed to visit Tea Museum and Tea Garden. Evening free for shopping some Tea & Spices from the busy markets of Munnar Town.

140km

Morning free at the hotel or to explore the surroundings. Later in the afternoon drive to Cochin. Arrive in the evening and check in to the hotel in Fort Kochi area. Fort Kochi is a captivating blend of history, culture, and coastal charm, where every street tells a story from centuries past. This historic seaside quarter reflects the influence of Portuguese, Dutch, and British settlers who once shaped the region's rich heritage. Stroll through its narrow lanes lined with colonial-era buildings, vibrant art galleries, and charming cafés that exude old-world elegance. Along the waterfront, the iconic Chinese fishing nets create a mesmerizing silhouette against the setting sun. The aroma of fresh seafood and spices fills the air, reminding visitors of Kochi's long-standing maritime traditions. Historic landmarks such as St. Francis Church and the Dutch Palace offer fascinating glimpses into the city's colonial past. Colorful murals and contemporary art spaces add a creative spirit to the town's timeless character. The gentle sea breeze, swaying palms, and relaxed atmosphere make Fort Kochi a delightful place to explore at a leisurely pace. As day turns to evening, the promenade comes alive with locals and travelers gathering to watch the spectacular sunset over the Arabian Sea. Fort Kochi is not just a destination—it is a living museum where history, culture, and natural beauty come together in perfect harmony. Enjoy a cultural show of Kathakali dance of Kerala to give you the glimpse of tradition and culture of Kerala. Overnight at the hotel in Cochin.

After breakfast visit of Cochin including The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry, renowned for its wall murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Visit the Jewish Synagogue at the heart of what is locally called the Jew Town, and the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. In the late evening transfer to the airport to board the flight for your onward destination.

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  Our seven-day trip with India Personal Tours through northern India – with stops in Jaipur, Agra and Delhi – was a very special experience in every respect. From the warm welcome by our great guide Kunal Singh Shekhawat at the airport to the departure day we felt superbly looked after and accompanied by our guide as well as our friendly driver Vipin. From the very beginning, a very personal, warm atmosphere was created. It didn’t feel like a classic guided tour, but rather like traveling with a good friend. This openness, cordiality and attention has marked our journey from the beginning and has given it a special lightness. In addition to the many exciting insights into history, culture and architecture, it was above all the personal exchange that made this trip so enriching. The conversations, the small details and the fine sense of what interests us made every day special. We look back on this trip with great gratitude and can recommend India Personal Tours with complete conviction. It was an all-round successful experience and we very much hope that in the future there will be another opportunity to travel together.  ...Read More
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