Discover Kerala: Beaches, Backwaters, and Beyond - 11 Nights
Discover Kerala: Beaches, Backwaters, and Beyond - 11 Nights
Kerala, often hailed as "God's Own Country," is a tropical haven along India's southwestern coast, renowned for its lush landscapes, tranquil backwaters, and pristine beaches. This enchanting region seamlessly blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage, offering visitors a chance to explore serene hill stations, vibrant festivals, and ancient Ayurvedic traditions. Kerala captivates the senses and rejuvenates the soul, whether you're cruising through its palm-fringed backwaters or savouring its exquisite local cuisine.
Embark on an 11-night journey that unveils the magic of Kerala’s most captivating destinations. Start in the vibrant city of Cochin, and then retreat to the tranquil riverside at Paniyeli Poru. Discover the emerald tea plantations of Munnar, experience the wildlife at Thekkady’s Periyar Sanctuary, and glide through Alleppey’s serene backwaters on a traditional houseboat. Conclude your adventure on the sun-kissed beaches of Kovalam. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, showcasing Kerala’s diverse and breathtaking beauty.
Day 1 : Arrival in Cochin
Upon your arrival at Cochin International Airport, you'll be greeted and escorted to your hotel which is an hour away.
Cochin, often referred to as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea,' is one of India's most fascinating cities, boasting one of the finest natural harbours in the world. The people of Kerala, deeply rooted in their heritage, have preserved their rich history not just in books, but through the timeless beauty of monuments and palaces.
Overnight in Cochin.
Hotel : Eighth Bastion, CGH Earth 
Meal : Dinner
Day 2 : Cochin Sightseeing
After breakfast, embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Cochin. Your journey will include visits to the Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets.
Cochin retains a distinct colonial charm, shaped by the lasting influences of the British, Dutch, and Portuguese.
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around Fort Cochin to experience the vibrant local life.
Overnight in Cochin
Hotel : Eighth Bastion, CGH Earth
Meal : Breakfast & Dinner
Day 3 : Cochin to Paniyeli Poru (Approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes )
Check out at 11:00 AM and proceed to Whispering Waters Resort, a serene riverside retreat nestled along the banks of the Periyar River. Surrounded by lush greenery, the resort offers breathtaking views of the river and the rolling hills beyond. Here, you'll find the perfect blend of modern comforts and natural beauty, making it an ideal haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Enjoy activities such as nature walks, bird watching, and riverside dining, ensuring an unforgettable stay.
Overnight in Paniyeli poru
Hotel : Whispering Waters Resort
Meal : Breakfast & Dinner
Day 4 : Paniyeli Poru to Munnar (Approx. 3 hours )
Start your day with an early breakfast before checking out from your hotel. Later, embark on a picturesque drive to Munnar, a charming hill station nestled in the Western Ghats.
Upon arrival, delve into Munnar's rich tea heritage with a visit to the Tea Factory and Tea Museum. Discover the fascinating history of tea cultivation in the region and witness the detailed process of tea production, from leaf plucking to final packaging. The museum features vintage photographs, machinery, and artifacts that narrate the story of Munnar's tea industry. Savor a cup of freshly brewed tea while enjoying the serene views of the tea gardens.
Afterward, continue to Ragamaya Nature Resort, a luxurious retreat perched in the hills of Munnar. Offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests, the resort provides an immersive nature experience. Guests can enjoy bird watching, nature walks, and the tranquil ambiance of the hills, making it an ideal escape for those seeking relaxation and a deeper connection with nature."
Overnight in Munnar.
Hotel : Ragamaya Resort & Spa Munnar
Meal : Breakfast & Dinner
Day 5 : Munnar
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the resort, followed by a guided bird-watching experience at Ragamaya Nature Resort. The resort’s serene environment is perfect for observing a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
After bird watching, set off on an aromatic spice trail, where a knowledgeable guide will lead you through the spice plantations surrounding the resort. Discover the cultivation and processing of spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and clove.
After lunch, gear up for a scenic trekking adventure in the hills around Ragamaya Nature Resort. This trek takes you through lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Along the way, you’ll encounter streams, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna, making this trek an unforgettable experience.
After a day of active exploration, return to the comfort of your cozy room at Ragamaya Nature Resort and unwind."
Overnight in Munnar
Hotel : Ragamaya Resort & Spa Munnar
Meal : Breakfast & Dinner
Day 6 : Munnar to Thekkady (Approx. 2 hours and 30 minutes )
Check out at 10:00 AM and head to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady, renowned for its stunning beauty and rich biodiversity. For a nature enthusiast, visiting Periyar National Park offers a chance to immerse yourself in Kerala’s vibrant wildlife and lush landscapes. You can explore the sanctuary by boat on Periyar Lake or on foot, where you might encounter elephants, wild boar, and deer as they roam through the tropical evergreen forest and marshy grasslands. Tigers may also be spotted. The park features a variety of wildlife, including sambar deer and elephants. In addition to wildlife sightings, visitors can enjoy trekking trails and boat safaris on the lake, enhancing the experience of observing animals in their natural habitat.
Overnight in Thekkady
Hotel : Coffee & Pepper - A Premium Homestay
Meal : Breakfast & Dinner
Day 7 : Thekaddy
After breakfast at the hotel, spend a blissful day exploring this natural wildlife paradise. Take a leisurely walk through the enchanting woods, where the Nature Walk provides excellent opportunities to spot birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. The trails weave through a blend of evergreen and deciduous forests, creating a captivating landscape.
In the afternoon, enjoy a serene boat cruise on the lake, offering prime opportunities to observe wildlife in the reserve. As you glide across the water, you might see herds of Gaur, Sambar, and wild boar in the grasslands along the shores. Look for darters, egrets, and kingfishers perched on dead tree trunks rising from the lake. The lake is home to over 30 species of fish, adding to the area's rich biodiversity.
Overnight in Thekkady
Hotel : Coffee & Pepper - A Premium Homestay
Meal : Breakfast & Dinner
Day 8 : Thekkady to Alleppey (Approx. 4 hours )
Following breakfast, complete your check-out from the hotel and embark on a journey to Alleppey for an unforgettable cruise through Kerala's iconic backwaters. Alleppey is widely acclaimed as the 'Venice of the East' and is the most sought-after destination for backwater excursions in Kerala. The state's well-earned moniker, 'God's Own Country,' is a testament to its captivating allure and beauty.
You'll embark on this journey aboard a comfortable and luxurious houseboat, gliding through picturesque landscapes adorned with paddy fields and coconut groves. Savor the flavours of traditional Kerala cuisine, prepared on board with a rich blend of aromatic spices and seasonings.
As you cruise along, marvel at the sight of Chinese fishing nets, ancient temples, quaint rural structures, lush paddy fields, and swaying coconut trees lining the coastline. An overnight stay in a houseboat ensures you've truly experienced a perfect vacation in the heart of Kerala
Overnight in Alleppey
Hotel : Traditional Houseboat
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9 : Alleppey to Kovalam (Approx. 4 hours )
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and head to a beach resort in Kovalam. Located near Trivandrum International Airport in South Kerala, Kovalam has evolved from a tranquil fishing village into a renowned resort destination. Known for its sun, sand, and surf, Kovalam offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. The area features three picturesque crescent-shaped beaches: Light House Beach, famous for its stunning views of the Vizhinjam lighthouse; Kovalam Beach; and Hawa Beach. Samudra Beach, with its serene ambiance, provides a peaceful retreat.
Overnight in Kovalam
Hotel : The Travancore Heritage Beach Resort
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10 : Kovalam
Today is yours to fully embrace the tranquility of the beachside setting. Whether you choose to sink into a lounge chair with the soothing rhythm of the waves as your backdrop, or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, the day invites you to unwind at your own pace.
Overnight in Kovalam
Hotel : The Travancore Heritage Beach Resort
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 11 : Kovalam
Today is yours to unwind on the soft, sandy beach or explore the nearby shops for any last-minute souvenirs. Take this opportunity to savor fresh seafood at one of the charming beachside restaurants before retreating to your beach resort for a restful overnight stay.
Overnight in Kovalam
Hotel : The Travancore Heritage Beach Resort
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 12 : Return Home
The adventure ends today. Begin your return journey home or, if you’d like a bit more time to explore Kovalam, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
