Kerala God’s Own Country

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Duration

7 days

Tour Type

Explore Tours

Kerala, located on the southwestern Malabar Coast of India, is adored for its palm-lined beaches, serene backwaters, verdant hills, and rich cultural heritage. Often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” this state offers travelers a diverse array of experiences.

Geography and Climate: Kerala’s coast runs alongside the Arabian Sea, and the Western Ghats mountain range borders it to the east, contributing to its diverse ecosystem. The climate is tropical, with significant rainfall during the monsoon season, lush landscapes, and abundant wildlife.

Backwaters and Beaches: One of Kerala’s signature attractions is its backwaters, a network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes, and inlets. A houseboat cruise in places such as Alleppey (Alappuzha) provides a unique opportunity to experience local life. Its calm beaches, like Kovalam and Varkala, offer seaside relaxation with options for ayurvedic treatments.

Hill Stations and Tea Estates: Munnar and Wayanad are famous hill stations, known for their tea estates, misty rolling hills, and cooler climate. The Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom every 12 years in Munnar, are a spectacular sight.

Wildlife and Ecotourism: Sanctuaries like Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Silent Valley National Park are ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, offering elephant sightings, bird watching, and treks. The biodiversity is stunning, with numerous endemic plant and animal species.

Culture and Festivals: Kerala’s culture includes the traditional Kathakali dance, known for its intricate costumes and expressive performances, and Mohiniyattam, another classical dance form. The state celebrates various festivals with great vigor, such as Onam, featuring boat races, traditional feasts (sadya), and floral decorations (pookalam).

Cuisine: Kerala’s cuisine is renowned for its clever use of spices and coconuts, seen in dishes such as the sadya feast served on banana leaves, seafood specialties, and snacks like banana chips. Cuisine here is also influenced by the Syrian Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities, each adding a unique flavor.

Architecture and Historical Sites: A mix of colonial and indigenous architecture is evident throughout the state. Notable sites include the Jewish Synagogue in Kochi, the ancient Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, and the historical remains at Bekal Fort in Kasaragod.

Health and Wellness: Known as the land of Ayurveda, Kerala offers numerous therapies and treatments for rejuvenation and healing, drawing both domestic and international tourists.

With its tranquil backwaters, rich traditions, diverse flora and fauna, and welcoming people, Kerala remains a bucket-list destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure wrapped in a rich cultural tapestry.

Day 1: Arrival in Kochi (Cochin)

  • Arrive at Kochi International Airport.
  • Check into your hotel.
  • Explore Fort Kochi, visiting the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and Santa Cruz Basilica.
  • Wander through the streets of Mattancherry, visit the Dutch Palace, and explore the Jewish Synagogue.
  • Enjoy a Kathakali dance performance in the evening.

Day 2: Munnar

  • Travel to Munnar, which takes about 4-5 hours from Kochi.
  • Visit Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls en route.
  • Check into your hotel.
  • Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps visiting a local tea shop or just relaxing with the view.

Day 3: Munnar Sightseeing

  • Visit the Tea Museum and learn about tea processing.
  • Explore Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
  • Visit Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and the picturesque Top Station.
  • End the day with a stroll through the tea gardens.

Day 4: Thekkady (Periyar)

  • Make your way to Thekkady, about a 3-4 hour drive, which is famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife.
  • In the evening, opt for a martial arts Kalaripayattu performance or a traditional cooking class.

Day 5: Alleppey (Alappuzha) – Backwaters

  • Travel to Alleppey, known for its backwaters.
  • Board a houseboat for an overnight backwater cruise.
  • Relax as you glide through the palm-fringed waters, observe local life, and savor delicious Kerala cuisine on the boat.

Day 6: Kovalam or Varkala

  • Disembark from the houseboat and head to your chosen beach destination, either Kovalam or Varkala.
  • Enjoy the rest of the day at the beach sunbathing, swimming, or engaging in watersports.
  • Visit nearby attractions like the Kovalam Lighthouse or the Varkala Cliff.

Day 7: Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) & Departure

  • Visit the capital city, Thiruvananthapuram.
  • Tour the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, and Kuthiramalika (Puthenmalika) Palace Museum.
  • If time permits, explore the city or return to the beach for some last-minute relaxation.
  • Depart from Trivandrum International Airport.

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Max Guests

8

Min Age

18

Tour Location

Languages Support