Kerala in 8 Days: A Journey Through Paradise

Arrival at Cochin Railway Station or Bus Station, where you will be received by our representative and proceed to Munnar, one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala. Located at an altitude of around 1,600 meters above sea level, Munnar was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. The town is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams – Mudrapuzha River, Nallathanni River, and Kundala River.

On arrival, check in to the hotel and freshen up. Later, proceed for local sightseeing of Munnar covering attractions such as Tea Gardens of Munnar, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of lush green tea plantations; Mattupetty Dam, a picturesque reservoir surrounded by hills; Echo Point, famous for its natural echo phenomenon; and Kundala Lake, known for its serene atmosphere and pedal boating. Overnight stay at the hotel in Munnar.

After breakfast, proceed for a full-day sightseeing tour of Munnar. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the hills and spot this rare mountain goat species. Later continue to Mattupetty Dam, a scenic reservoir surrounded by lush hills, and visit Devikulam, known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. You will also see the famous Tea Gardens of Munnar, offering breathtaking views of endless tea plantations. After sightseeing, return to the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel in Munnar.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Munnar and proceed to Thekkady. The drive is scenic, with wooded hills gradually giving way to expansive tea and cardamom plantations that stretch across the rolling hills, filling the air with the refreshing aroma of spices such as cinnamon and cloves. Thekkady, situated at an altitude of around 2,800 feet above sea level, enjoys a pleasantly cool climate throughout the year, making it a perfect hill retreat. On arrival, check in to the hotel and freshen up before beginning your sightseeing. In the afternoon, you can take an optional guided spice plantation tour (at extra cost) to explore the cultivation of Kerala’s famous spices, including cardamom, pepper, vanilla, and cinnamon. Later, enjoy a serene boat ride on Periyar Lake in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, South India’s most popular wildlife sanctuary. The lake provides a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, and with some luck, you may spot elephants, deer, and other animals drinking at the water’s edge. After an eventful day, return to the hotel for dinner and an Overnight Stay at Thekkady.

After breakfast, embark on an optional boat cruise on Periyar Lake within Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of South India’s most popular wildlife sanctuaries. The boat ride offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife such as elephants, deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat while enjoying the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of Kerala’s famous spices, including cardamom, pepper, vanilla, and cinnamon. After sightseeing, return to the hotel to relax and unwind. Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Kovalam. Enjoy the scenic drive of approximately 180 km, which takes around 4 hours. On arrival, check in to the hotel and freshen up. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing by the beach or exploring the local area. Overnight stay is arranged at the hotel in Kovalam.

After breakfast, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), the ancient capital city of Kerala, with a history dating back to 1000 BC. This beautiful seaside metropolis, built on seven hills, spreads over an area of 2,192 sq. km and combines cultural heritage with scenic charm.

During the tour, visit the famous Padmanabhaswami Temple, a renowned landmark of Dravidian architecture and spiritual significance. Explore the Sree Chitra Art Gallery, which houses a rich collection of traditional and modern Indian art, followed by a visit to the Napier Museum and Trivandrum Zoo, one of the oldest zoological gardens in India. After completing the sightseeing tour, return to Kovalam. Overnight stay is arranged at the hotel in Kovalam.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Kumarakom, a serene destination famous for its backwaters and canals. Kumarakom is also known as one of the world’s leading suppliers of coir. On arrival, check in at the backwater resort and relax for the day.

The resort offers a range of activities including pedal boating and fishing, allowing guests to enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The heritage-style cottages are well-facilitated and air-conditioned, providing independent accommodations with hot and cold water, telephone, personalized room service, and a family restaurant serving homely Indian food and traditional Kerala dishes. Spend the evening unwinding by the backwaters and soaking in the peaceful ambiance. Overnight stay is arranged at the resort in Kumarakom.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Cochin (Kochi) for your onward journey. En route or if time permits, enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city, visiting its historic and cultural landmarks. Explore the Jewish Synagogue, Jain Temple, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, and the Dutch Palace. Witness the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, visit the Dutch Cemetery, Hill Palace, and stroll along Fort Kochi Beach if time allows.

You can also indulge in shopping for traditional silks and handicrafts before proceeding to Cochin Airport for your onward journey. Leave with cherished memories of a wonderful holiday spent in “God’s Own Country,” Kerala.