Cochin to Thekkady & Alleppey

Day 1: Cochin – Thekkady (170 km / 4–5 hrs drive)

Upon arrival at Cochin Airport or your hotel, you will be greeted and begin your drive to Thekkady, covering approximately 170 kilometers in around 4 to 5 hours. The journey takes you through scenic landscapes of rubber plantations, spice gardens, and rolling hills of Kerala. Upon arrival in Thekkady, check into your hotel and relax amidst the tranquil surroundings. In the evening, proceed to witness a traditional Kalaripayattu performance, one of the oldest martial arts in the world, showcasing agility, discipline, and ancient techniques. This cultural experience offers a glimpse into Kerala’s rich heritage. Return to the hotel after the performance. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Thekkady Exploration

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your day with a visit to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake, where you may spot elephants, bison, deer, and a variety of bird species along the forested banks. Later, proceed for a guided walk through a spice plantation to explore the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and other aromatic spices. Learn about their uses and processing methods. In the afternoon, you may visit a local honey farm to understand traditional honey collection techniques. Spend the evening exploring the local market, where you can shop for spices and handicrafts. Return to the hotel for relaxation. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Thekkady – Alleppey (135 km / 4 hrs drive)

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and drive to Alleppey, covering approximately 135 kilometers in around 4 hours. Upon arrival, board your traditional houseboat and begin a relaxing cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey. Glide through narrow canals lined with coconut palms, paddy fields, and charming village homes. Witness the unique lifestyle of locals living along the waterways. Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala cuisine on board for lunch and dinner. Relax on the deck and admire the stunning sunset over the backwaters. Overnight stay on houseboat.

Day 4: Alleppey – Cochin (60 km / 1.5 hrs drive)

After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and begin your drive back to Kochi, covering approximately 60 kilometers in around 1.5 hours. En route, enjoy views of Kerala’s scenic countryside. Upon arrival in Cochin, you will be transferred to your hotel or airport for your onward journey. The tour concludes with memorable experiences of Kerala’s nature, culture, and backwaters.

• Assistance on arrival and departure
• 3 nights accommodation in selected category hotels & houseboat
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• All meals on houseboat (lunch, dinner, breakfast)
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for transfers and sightseeing
• English-speaking local guide as per itinerary
• Boat safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Spice plantation visit
• Bottled drinking water during travel
• All applicable government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 3 nights accommodation

Thekkady 2 nights
3* - Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
4* - The Elephant Court/ Cardamom County
5* - Spice village/ Cardamom County

Alleppey 1 night
3* - Deluxe Houseboat (ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats)
4* - Premium Houseboat (Abad Premium Houseboats/ Rainbow Premium Houseboats)
5* - Luxury Houseboat (Xandari Riverscapes/ Lakes & Lagoons)

• Any domestic or international flight tickets
• Camera fees at monuments
• Meals not mentioned in inclusions
• Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, beverages
• Optional activities and cultural shows
• Anything not mentioned under inclusions