• 05 NIGHTS/06 DAYS
  • MUNNAR, THEKKADY, ALLEPPEY, KOCHI

Munnar: Munnar, situated in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, is an esteemed hill station celebrated for its lush tea plantations, ethereal hills, and varied biodiversity. Ascending to an altitude of approximately 1,600 meters above sea level, it provides a tranquil sanctuary from the torrid heat of lower altitudes. Munnar's sublime panorama is traversed by the Madupetti, Nallathanni, and Periavaru rivers, thus augmenting its scenic allure. The locale is distinguished by the Neelakurinji blossoms, which bloom quadrennially, imbuing the hills with a cerulean hue. The Eravikulam National Park serves as a habitat for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, in addition to myriad other species. Munnar's economy is largely sustained by tea cultivation, and the Tea Museum elucidates the methodologies of tea production. For those inclined to adventure, Munnar offers exceptional trekking opportunities, notably to Anamudi, the apex of South India. 

Thekkady: Thekkady, situated in Kerala, India, is distinguished by its dense expanse of evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist deciduous forests, and savanna grasslands. It serves as the locale for Periyar National Park, a significant sanctuary for elephants and tigers. Its rich biodiversity, picturesque scenery, and temperate climate establish Thekkady as a frequented tourist destination. Among its various appeals, the artificial lake, a result of the Mullaperiyar Dam's construction across the Periyar River, enhances the park's aesthetic value. Patrons may partake in boat excursions on the lake to observe the indigenous wildlife from a secure vantage. 

Kumarakom: Kumarakom, situated along the Vembanad Lake in Kerala, is a tranquil and scenic village, renowned for its verdant backwaters. This serene locale comprises a collection of small islands, each presenting an idyllic setting with abundant flora and varied fauna. The area is distinguished by its bird sanctuary, encompassing 14 acres, which provides refuge for numerous migratory avian species, including Siberian storks, egrets, darters, herons, and teals. 

Alleppey: Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a city in Kerala, India, distinguished by its intricate network of canals, lagoons, beaches, and backwaters. Frequently lauded as the 'Venice of the East,' it functions as a pivotal hub for Kerala's backwater tourism. This picturesque city, situated amidst verdant environs, encompassing paddy fields and coconut groves, augments its inherent allure. Alleppey is renowned for its houseboat excursions, conceived to facilitate intimate immersion within the tranquil backwaters. The city is the venue for the prestigious Nehru Trophy Boat Race on Punnamada Lake, which attracts a multitude of tourists each August. Significant landmarks include Alappuzha Beach and the venerable, 150-year-old Alappuzha Lighthouse. Its Kuttanad gastronomy and annual temple celebrations exemplify the region's opulent heritage. As a district of considerable natural splendor and cultural significance, Alleppey occupies an eminent status within Kerala's tourism industry. 

Kochi (Cochin): Kochi, alternatively known as Cochin, is an enchanting urban center situated on the south-western coast of India, within the state of Kerala. Revered as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea,' its historical importance stems from its prominence in trade, notably during the 14th century when it flourished as a nexus for spice commerce with Arab merchants. Kochi encompasses a composite of islands and mainland, characterized by scenic lagoons, backwaters, and canals. The city's cultural identity represents an amalgamation of traditional Kerala heritage and its colonial antecedents. Notable landmarks include the Fort Kochi area, renowned for Chinese fishing nets, the Santa Cruz Basilica, St. Francis Church, and the Jewish Synagogue in Mattancherry. Kochi additionally features colonial architecture, dynamic commercial districts, and a flourishing artistic environment, exemplified by the biennial Kochi-Muziris Biennale. 

Best Time to visit: 
Munnar: The optimal period for visiting Munnar is between September and March, characterized by agreeable weather and temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C. The cessation of the monsoon season by early September enhances the landscape's aesthetic appeal, featuring abundant rivers and verdant hillsides. For individuals seeking to circumvent peak tourist periods and desiring a more tranquil sojourn, the months of April and May, corresponding to the summer season in Munnar, may also prove suitable. 

Thekkady: The optimal period for visiting Thekkady, distinguished by its verdant environment and varied fauna, is during the cooler months, specifically October through February. The months of December and January may experience elevated visitor volume due to seasonal festivities and year-end holidays. 

Kumarakom: The optimal period to visit Kumarakom, Kerala, India, is during the winter months, specifically from November to February. This season aligns with local festivals such as Onam and Vishu, offering a distinctive opportunity to experience Kerala's rich cultural heritage. Conversely, the monsoon season, occurring from June to September, brings substantial rainfall to Kumarakom, enhancing the region's verdant landscape and scenic beauty. 

Alleppey: The optimal period for visiting Alleppey is during the winter months, specifically from November to February. This season aligns with numerous cultural festivals and events, affording tourists the chance to immerse themselves in local traditions and celebrations. Alternatively, the monsoon season, spanning from June to September, is also a propitious time to visit, owing to the renowned snake boat races, notably the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, an annual event held on the second Saturday of August. 

Kochi (Cochin): The optimal visiting period is the winter season, extending from October to February, characterized by delightfully cool, comfortable weather. Alternatively, the monsoon season, between June and September, attracts tourists seeking to witness the revitalized, verdant landscapes resulting from the rains. 

How to Reach: 
Munnar: The closest railhead to Munnar is situated in Aluva, at a distance of approximately 110 kilometers. The nearest air terminal is Cochin International Airport (COK), located about 125 kilometers from Munnar. Munnar enjoys robust road connectivity with diverse urban centers within Kerala and adjacent states. 

Alleppey: The nearest air transportation hub to Alleppey is Cochin International Airport (COK), located approximately 83 kilometers distant. Alleppey is additionally serviced by Alappuzha Railway Station, facilitating convenient rail access to principal urban centers. Moreover, Alleppey benefits from comprehensive road infrastructure, providing accessibility to numerous cities and towns within Kerala. 

Kochi (Cochin): Kochi boasts excellent rail connectivity to diverse parts of India, primarily served by Ernakulam Junction (South) and Ernakulam Town (North) railway stations. Cochin International Airport (CIAL), situated approximately 28 kilometers north of the city, handles both domestic and international air traffic. Furthermore, Kochi benefits from a well-developed network of highways and roads, including National Highway 66 (NH 66), facilitating connections to other major urban centers.

Tour Plan

Day 01- Arrive Cochin / Munnar (145 kms- 4.5 hrs)

Arrive Cochin Airport / Railway Station and drive to Munnar, On the way, you will visit the Cheeyappara Waterfalls, Valara Waterfalls, Karadi Para Viewpoint and other interesting spots. Later check-in to the hotel. Take some rest and in the afternoon, you will go for a walk in Munnar Blossom Park and Pothenmedu Viewpoint, and in the evening, take a stroll around in the old town. During your sojourn in Munnar, ensure to purchase the world-class tea and tea dust sourced directly from the local plantations. Return back to hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 02- Munnar

After breakfast, you will visit Mattupetti Dam, Kundala Lake, Echo Point and Top Station. Additionally, one may embark on a speedboat excursion (on direct payment) at the dam prior to proceeding to Eravikulam National Park in Rajamala, where the observation of the Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus Hylocrius) is encouraged. In the evening, a brief visit to the Munnar Tea Plantation is recommended before returning to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 03- Munnar/ Thekkady (90 kms- 03 hrs)

After breakfast, check out and proceed to Thekkady (Periyar). This journey of 110 kilometers will take approximately 3 hours, offering views of Cardamom plantations en route. Upon arrival at the hotel, proceed with check-in formalities, and subsequently, dedicate the afternoon to the exploration of Thekkady's notable landmarks.

 

Later visit the Spice Plantations, take an Elephant Safari, have an Ayurvedic Body Massage, go for boating in the Periyar Lake or view a Kathakali performance for a quintessential Kerala experience. All are extras, with payments done directly. This location offers opportunities to observe Elephants, Tigers, Deer, Monkeys, Wild Buffaloes, and diverse avian species. Prior to returning to the hotel for overnight accommodations, patrons may wish to explore local markets renowned for globally superior spices. Return back to the hotel and Overnight stay.

Day 04- Thekkady/Kumarakom (140 kms- 04 hrs)

After breakfast, guest will check out from the hotel and drive to Kumarakom. Kumarakom, celebrated for its enchanting backwaters, is a preferred destination for both residents and tourists alike. Upon hotel check-in, excursions to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and the backwaters will ensue. Leisure may be spent at the Backwater Resort; alternatively, boating on Vembanadu Lake, Kerala's largest freshwater expanse, is available. The day concludes amidst coconut groves and lagoons, with an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 05- Kumarakom/ Alleppey (32 kms- 45 mins.)

After breakfast, execute check-out procedures and proceed westward in the direction of Alleppey, otherwise known as the Venice of the East. Check-in to the Houseboat will be facilitated by midday. Furthermore, the following attractions are accessible:

 

Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, renowned for its Pal Payasam; Champakulam Church; Krishnapuram Palace; Pathiramanal, a small island situated in Alleppey.

 

Indulge in a serene experience capturing the scenic freshwater lagoons of Kerala, as you navigate through its intricate canals, rivers, and backwaters. Aboard, savor the exquisite flavors of Kerala's local freshwater cuisine for lunch. Alleppey is a prominent destination for those with an interest in coir. Global travelers frequent this town seeking coir products. Partake in a romantic, candlelit dinner on a houseboat and avail yourself of overnight stay.

Day 06- Alleppey/ Cochin Departure (53 kms- 02 hrs.)

After breakfast, check out and proceed to Cochin. Upon arrival take a short city tour: Cochin, recognized as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea,' presents the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets whilst affording exploration of the port city's districts, encompassing the Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, Vasco da Gama Church, Jew Town, and Marine Drive, the city's scenic esplanade. Opportunities for expeditious shopping exist, with markets abundant in premium Kerala Textiles, Spices, and Handicrafts. Later drive to Cochin Airport / Railway Station to depart the journey.

 

Tour Ends (All distances and durations are approximate).

  • Package Inclusions
    • Accommodation is offered on a dual occupancy basis.

    • Daily breakfast & Dinner in Munnar/ Thekkady/Kumarakom & Cochin, where in Alleppey Houseboat all meals included (breakfast + lunch+ dinner)

    • Check-in: 14:00 hours. Check-out: 12:00 hours.(Houseboat Check-out time is 09:00 am)

    • Private transfers during the tour by air-conditioned vehicle (The air conditioning system shall be inoperative when the vehicle is parked).

    • state taxation, toll fees, parking charges, driver's remuneration.

    • Note: Accommodations are contingent upon availability, and rates may vary during festive periods or peak seasons (such as New Year's, Holi, Diwali, Christmas, and extended weekends, among others).

  • Package Exclusions
    • Early check-in and late checkout are contingent upon availability

    • Travel Insurance

    • Expenses Incurred by Any Individual

    • Any items not explicitly included in the inclusions are chargeable.

    • Jungle Safari

    • GST

    • Additional meals, personal expenses, and any locations not specified in the itinerary will incur extra costs.

Kerala Hills & Backwater Tour Client Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Munnar is celebrated for its verdant hills, tea estates, unique biodiversity, picturesque scenery, and temperate climate, establishing itself as a distinguished hill station in Kerala, frequently lauded as the 'Kashmir of South India'.

The premier attractions in Munnar consist of Eravikulam National Park, the Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak, Top Station, and Attukal Waterfalls. Trekking, camping, and wildlife safaris are available for adventure seekers.

Visitors are encouraged to partake in authentic Kerala cuisine, which includes dishes such as Appam with stew, Kerala Sadya (a vegetarian repast), fish curry, and preparations featuring beef. Tea sourced from local plantations is also highly recommended.

In addition to sightseeing, tourists may partake in recreational pursuits such as lacustrine boating, proboscidean safaris, mountain cycling, paragliding, and attendance at a traditional Kathakali performance.

Please ensure attire is suitable for cooler temperatures; layering is advised for visits between September and March. Comfortable outdoor footwear is recommended for hiking, along with rain protection for the monsoon season, and sunblock. Kindly remember a camera to document the region's picturesque landscapes.

Thekkady, situated in Kerala, India, is celebrated for its wildlife sanctuary, verdant forests, and spice cultivation. It is particularly esteemed for Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, a habitat for elephants, tigers, and diverse species of fauna and avifauna. The region's picturesque landscapes and temperate climate further contribute to its renown as a prominent tourist locale.

While on-site reservations are permitted, advance booking of safaris is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons, in order to circumvent potential disappointment. Online booking platforms are also available, allowing tourists to secure reservations beforehand.

Affirmative. Tourists are permitted to engage with elephants at designated camps and sanctuaries through participation in activities, including assisted bathing, riding, and feeding, all under the supervision of trained personnel.

Visitors to Thekkady are encouraged to partake in local Kerala cuisine, including appam with stew, Kerala parotta with beef curry, fish curry, puttu with kadala curry, and sadya, a traditional vegetarian banquet presented on a banana leaf. Thekkady also provides fresh spices that enhance the palatability of regional dishes.

Visitors are encouraged to procure indigenous spices such as cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg, for which Thekkady is renowned. Handicrafts, tea, coffee, and artisanal chocolates are also favored keepsakes available for acquisition.

Indeed, visitors to Kumarakom are afforded opportunities to immerse themselves in Kerala's vibrant cultural heritage through observation of traditional dance performances such as Kathakali, savoring of indigenous culinary offerings, participation in temple festivities, and witnessing the craftsmanship of boat construction and coir production.

Indeed, houseboat accommodations are a prevalent option in Alleppey. Reservations can be secured via local tour operators, travel agencies, or online platforms. Advance booking is recommended, particularly during peak tourist periods.

Alleppey boasts several cultural landmarks, notably the Krishnapuram Palace, containing a museum of antique sculptures and paintings, and the Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, esteemed for its architecture and the Palpayasam, a sweet milk porridge presented as an offering.

Indeed, Alleppey, characterized by its placid backwaters, houseboat accommodations, and tranquil environment, constitutes an ideal destination for honeymooners seeking a romantic and serene sojourn.

Alleppey presents a diverse culinary landscape, with particular acclaim for traditional Kerala fare. Seafood constitutes a dietary mainstay, featuring preparations incorporating indigenous spices and coconut milk, served alongside rice. Alleppey is additionally renowned for its toddy shops, where one may sample local palm wine paired with piquant seafood selections.

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Alleppey's most renowned festival, is conducted annually in August on Punnamada Lake. Additional observances include the Mullakkal Chirap (temple festival) and the Alappuzha Beach Festival. During Onam, the traditional Kerala festival, visitors may partake in snake boat races, cultural exhibitions, and traditional banquets.

Kochi's premier attractions encompass Fort Kochi, the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace (also known as the Dutch Palace), the Jewish Synagogue in Jew Town, and the historically rich locale surrounding Princess Street. Furthermore, the adjacent Cherai and Fort Kochi beaches are highly frequented destinations.

Indeed, Kochi offers exceptional shopping, particularly for authentic Kerala products such as spices, banana chips, Kasavu sarees (traditional handwoven sarees adorned with gold borders), and handcrafted items made from coir, wood, and shell.

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