9 Days Kerala Hills and Backwater Tour
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Private8 Nights / 9 Days6 Destinations

9 Days Kerala Hills and Backwater Tour

Embark on a memorable 9-day tour of Kerala, covering Cochin, Wayanad, Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, and Marari. Experience the vibrant culture, pristine backwaters, serene tea plantations, wildlife sanctuaries, and beau...

Duration

8 Nights / 9 Days

Style

Private

Countries

India

Themes

Culture • Beaches

Journey Story

A richer way to experience this itinerary

Discover the captivating beauty of Kerala in a 9-day journey that spans its most scenic and culturally rich destinations. Begin in Cochin (Kochi), a vibrant port city with colonial charm, offering attractions like Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, and Mattancherry Palace. Travel to Wayanad, a hidden gem surrounded by lush forests and wildlife sanctuaries, where you can explore Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, and Soochipara Waterfalls. Head to Munnar, a hill station known for its sprawling tea gardens, where you can enjoy views from Eravikulam National Park and visit Mattupetty Dam.

Next, travel to Thekkady, home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, you can enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, spot wildlife, and explore spice plantations. Continue to Alleppey for an unforgettable houseboat experience in the tranquil backwaters of Vembanadu Lake. Finally, unwind at Marari Beach, known for its pristine, less-crowded sandy shores, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and Ayurvedic treatments.

From the scenic landscapes of Wayanad and Munnar to the vibrant cultural experiences of Cochin, this journey offers a holistic Kerala experience, combining nature, wildlife, history, and leisure. Ideal for families, couples, and nature lovers, this trip will leave you with memories to cherish forever.

Destinations Covered

Cochin, Munnar, Kerala, Thekkedy, Alleppey, Marari

Best For

Culture, Beaches

Trip Rhythm

Comfortable paced itinerary

Why This Works

Highlights that define the trip

01

Cochin (Kochi): Chinese fishing nets, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, and Kathakali performances.

02

Wayanad: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Soochipara Waterfall

03

Munnar: Tea plantations, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Top Station views, and Kundala Lake.

04

Thekkady: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, boat ride on Periyar Lake, and spice plantation tour.

05

Alleppey: Houseboat cruise on Vembanadu Lake through Kerala’s backwaters.

06

Marari Beach: Tranquil beach experience with Ayurvedic treatments and sunset views.

Day By Day

The route unfolds like this

Morning: Arrive in Cochin (Kochi). If you arrive by flight, transfer to your pre booked hotel.
Afternoon: Start your exploration with a visit to the Fort Kochi area.
Chinese Fishing Nets: Iconic and photogenic fishing nets along the coast.
St. Francis Church: The oldest European church in India.
Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace): Beautiful murals and historical exhibits.
Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue: Explore the quaint streets of Jew Town and visit the synagogue.
Evening: Enjoy a Kathakali Dance Performance or Kochi Muziris Biennale if it's the right season.

Included

What’s part of the trip

  • Accommodation: Stay at comfortable hotels, resorts, or houseboats in all destinations (Cochin, Wayanad, Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Marari).
  • Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers between destinations and sightseeing.
  • Meals: Daily breakfast at all accommodations. Meals as specified in the itinerary (e.g., Kerala-style meals on the houseboat).
  • Houseboat Experience: A full-day houseboat cruise in Alleppey, including lunch, snacks, and tea/coffee.
  • Sightseeing: All entry fees for attractions like Eravikulam National Park, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves, and others mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Boat Ride: Periyar Lake boat ride in Thekkady for wildlife viewing.
  • Cultural Experiences: Kathakali or Kalaripayattu performances in Thekkady.
  • Spice Plantation Tour: Guided tour of a spice plantation in Thekkady.
  • Local Guide: English-speaking local guides at selected attractions.
  • Taxes: All applicable taxes, including service charges, state taxes, and government fees.

Excluded

Things to plan separately

  • Airfare: International or domestic flights to and from Cochin are not included.
  • Meals Not Specified: Lunch and dinner unless explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Personal Expenses: Items such as laundry, phone calls, beverages, tips, and souvenirs.
  • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance (recommended) is not included.
  • Optional Activities: Additional activities like shopping, Ayurvedic massages, or extra excursions.
  • Tips and Gratuities: Tips for drivers, guides, and hotel staff.
  • Visa Fees: For international travelers, visa fees (if applicable) are not included.
  • Camera/Video Fees: Any additional charges for using a camera or video camera at specific tourist attractions.