Kerala Hill Station And Backwater Private Tour
This immersive Kerala journey begins in Kochi and unfolds through some of the state’s most scenic and culturally rich destinations. Travelers first experience the beauty of Athirapally Falls before moving into the misty hill station of Munnar, known for its tea plantations, viewpoints, and pleasant climate. The itinerary then continues to Thekkady for wildlife, spice plantations, and traditional cultural performances, followed by a relaxed stay in the serene backwater region of Kumarakom or Alleppey. A memorable houseboat cruise adds a quintessential Kerala experience, while Kochi brings in the heritage charm of Fort Kochi, colonial architecture, and colorful spice markets. This tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of nature, culture, leisure, and local experiences.
Day 1: Arrival in Kochi – Drive to Athirapally (Approx. 40 km / 1.5 hours)
Upon arrival at Kochi International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and begin your drive to Athirapally, one of Kerala’s most scenic waterfall destinations. The journey covers approximately 40 km and takes around 1.5 hours, passing through lush greenery and peaceful countryside. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax after your journey. Later in the afternoon, visit the magnificent Athirapally Falls, where the cascading water creates a stunning natural spectacle. Enjoy the refreshing atmosphere, take in the forest surroundings, and capture memorable photographs before returning to your hotel. Overnight at hotel in Athirapally.
Day 2: Athirapally – Drive to Munnar via Cheeyappara Falls (Approx. 140 km / 4–5 hours)
After breakfast at the hotel, check out and drive to Munnar, one of Kerala’s most famous hill stations, covering approximately 140 km in 4 to 5 hours. En route, stop at the picturesque Cheeyappara Falls, where you can enjoy the scenic views and cool mountain air. The route to Munnar is filled with winding roads, tea estates, and rolling hills, making the journey itself a memorable part of the experience. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax amidst the serene hill station atmosphere. Later, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea cultivation and enjoy a tea-tasting session. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.
Day 3: Munnar Sightseeing
After breakfast at the hotel, begin the city tour of Munnar, exploring its natural beauty and peaceful charm. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and enjoy the refreshing hill landscape during your guided visit. Continue to Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point, both known for their scenic surroundings and excellent photo opportunities. Spend time strolling through the tea gardens and enjoying the crisp mountain air that defines Munnar’s unique character. The day offers a perfect combination of nature, light adventure, and relaxation. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.
Day 4: Munnar – Drive to Thekkady (Approx. 100 km / 3–4 hours)
After breakfast, check out and drive to Thekkady, covering approximately 100 km in 3 to 4 hours. The route offers scenic views of the Western Ghats and pleasant countryside landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax before beginning your evening activities. Later, enjoy a traditional cultural experience with a Kalaripayattu martial arts show followed by a Kathakali dance performance. These performances give you a deeper insight into Kerala’s artistic and cultural traditions. Return to the hotel after the evening program. Overnight at hotel in Thekkady.
Day 5: Thekkady Sightseeing
After breakfast at the hotel, begin your exploration of Thekkady, a destination famous for wildlife and spice plantations. Start with a boat ride on Periyar Lake inside the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you may spot elephants, deer, birds, and other wildlife along the shoreline. The peaceful boat ride offers a refreshing way to experience the region’s biodiversity and natural beauty. Later, visit a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation and processing of cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and vanilla. You will also get a chance to understand Thekkady’s spice heritage and local trade culture. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight at hotel in Thekkady.
Day 6: Thekkady – Drive to Kumarakom / Alleppey (Approx. 160 km / 4–5 hours)
After breakfast, check out and drive to Kumarakom or Alleppey, depending on your selected backwater destination, covering approximately 160 km in 4 to 5 hours. The journey takes you from the highlands into Kerala’s famous backwater belt, where palm-lined canals and lush paddy fields create a peaceful setting. Upon arrival, check in at your backwater resort and relax in the serene surroundings. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, taking a walk along the canals or simply enjoying the view from your resort. The slower pace of life here offers a refreshing change after the hill station journey. Overnight at hotel in Kumarakom / Alleppey.
Day 7: Houseboat Cruise in Backwaters
After breakfast, embark on a traditional houseboat cruise through the calm backwaters of Kerala. Glide along narrow canals, past coconut groves, village homes, and lush green landscapes that define the charm of this region. Enjoy a delicious Kerala-style lunch served onboard while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the waterways. The cruise offers a unique opportunity to observe local life, fishing activities, and the natural beauty of the backwaters. After the cruise, return to your resort and enjoy some leisure time. Overnight at hotel in Kumarakom / Alleppey.
Day 8: Kumarakom / Alleppey – Drive to Kochi (Approx. 60 km / 1.5–2 hours)
After breakfast, check out and drive to Kochi, covering approximately 60 km in 1.5 to 2 hours. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and begin your sightseeing of Fort Kochi, one of the city’s most heritage-rich areas. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace, and the Jewish Synagogue, each reflecting Kochi’s colonial and multicultural past. Continue exploring the spice markets and local streets to experience the city’s vibrant character. In the evening, you may also enjoy a Kathakali performance if time permits. Overnight at hotel in Kochi.
Day 9: Kochi Sightseeing – Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping or a short walk through the historic lanes of Fort Kochi. You may choose to explore the local markets, pick up souvenirs, or simply relax before departure. Later, you will be transferred to Kochi International Airport for your onward journey. The transfer covers approximately 30 to 40 km depending on your hotel location and traffic conditions. As your tour concludes, carry with you lasting memories of Kerala’s hills, wildlife, backwaters, and heritage. Tour concludes.
- Assistance on arrival at airport
- 8 nights’ accommodation in selected category hotels
- Daily breakfast at all hotels
- Day cruise in Alleppey with lunch onboard
- Private air-conditioned car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program
- English-speaking tour guide for 1 day city tour of Munnar, 1 day city tour of Thekkady, and 1 day sightseeing in Kochi
- Tea estate visit and tea tasting tour in Munnar
- Spice plantation tour in Thekkady
- Monument entrance fees as mentioned in the itinerary
- Activities charges as mentioned in the itinerary, including martial arts self-defense show, Kathakali dance show, and 1-hour canoe ride in narrow canals in Alleppey
- Bottled drinking water in the car
- Government taxes
- Any flight fare
- Camera charges at monuments, parks, or attractions if any
- Meals other than those mentioned in the inclusions
- Expenses of personal nature such as liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, etc.
- Gratuities and optional activities
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions