Backwaters & Hills Classic
Kerala's essential route: houseboat, tea gardens, and wildlife
Overview
Our most-booked itinerary: a private houseboat night on the backwaters, two days walking Munnar's tea estates, and a Periyar wildlife safari, bookended by Kochi's old town.
Day by day
Day 1
Arrive Kochi
Private airport pickup and transfer to your heritage hotel in Fort Kochi. Afternoon at leisure, evening walking tour of Mattancherry and the Chinese fishing nets, followed by a Kathakali performance.
Day 2
Kochi to Munnar
Morning drive into the Western Ghats (roughly 4 hours), stopping at Cheeyappara waterfalls en route. Check into a plantation-view stay in Munnar, evening free to settle in.
Day 3
Munnar tea estates
Full day exploring Munnar: a guided walk through a working tea estate with a planter, a visit to the Tea Museum, and an afternoon at Mattupetty or Top Station for panoramic Western Ghats views.
Day 4
Munnar to Thekkady (Periyar)
Drive to Thekkady via spice plantations, with a guided walking tour of cardamom, pepper, and clove estates. Check into your Thekkady stay.
Day 5
Periyar wildlife safari
Early-morning boat safari on Periyar Lake, followed by an optional guided nature walk or bamboo rafting. Afternoon drive to Alleppey to board your private houseboat.
Day 6
Backwater houseboat cruise
A full day and overnight aboard your private kettuvallam, cruising the canals and Vembanad Lake with all meals cooked on board. Disembark after breakfast the next morning.
Day 7
Alleppey to Kochi, departure
Morning transfer back to Kochi, with time for last-minute shopping in Jew Town before your onward flight.
What's included
- 6 nights' accommodation as per itinerary
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver throughout
- One night private houseboat charter, all meals included
- Daily breakfast at land hotels
- All sightseeing, entrance fees, and listed guided walks
- English-speaking local guides at each destination
Not included
- International or domestic flights
- Lunches and dinners at land hotels (except houseboat)
- Personal expenses and tips
- Travel insurance
Starting from
₹52,000 per person
Final price depends on hotel category, season, and group size.
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