For travellers who want Kerala’s main landscapes in one trip, this eight-day route is unusually complete. It begins with Kochi’s heritage, climbs to Munnar, crosses the forests and spice country around Thekkady, includes a private Alleppey houseboat experience, then follows the coast through Varkala and Kovalam before ending in Trivandrum.
Route at a glance
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Route: Kochi – Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Varkala – Kovalam – Trivandrum
Style: Private, fully guided, low-intensity journey.
Day-wise itinerary
Day 1: Kochi
Arrive at Kochi International Airport, transfer to Fort Kochi and tour the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, Mattancherry Palace, Jewish Synagogue and Spice Market. Finish with Marine Drive.
Day 2: Kochi to Munnar
Drive through the Western Ghats with stops at Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls. Visit the local market and attend a traditional Kathakali performance in the evening.
Day 3: Munnar
Visit the Tea Museum, tea plantations and spice gardens, then continue to Photo Point, Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point.
Day 4: Munnar to Thekkady
Travel through forest and spice-farm scenery. Take a nature walk through evergreen surroundings and spend a relaxed evening at the resort.
Day 5: Thekkady to Alleppey
Begin with a Periyar Lake boat safari, then board a private houseboat in Alleppey. The cruise includes a welcome drink, traditional Kerala lunch, tea and snacks, and dinner.
Day 6: Alleppey to Varkala
Have breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and travel to Varkala. Enjoy the cliff-side beach, Arabian Sea views and sunset.
Day 7: Varkala to Kovalam
Continue down the coast to Lighthouse Beach and Hawa Beach, with time on the beachfront promenade.
Day 8: Kovalam to Trivandrum
Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, Sri Chitra Art Gallery and the Zoological Park before transfer to Trivandrum Airport or railway station.
Confirmed inclusions
- Accommodation in the booked category, including the listed private houseboat experience
- Meals stated day by day, including houseboat lunch and dinner on Day 5 and breakfast on subsequent listed days
- Transport across the route
- Listed sightseeing and included activities, including Kathakali, Periyar boat safari and the houseboat cruise
Not included: Flights and insurance. Ask for exact hotel and houseboat names, entrance-fee treatment and the full written inclusion sheet before payment.
Planning tips
- This route starts in Kochi and ends in Trivandrum; book flights accordingly.
- Temple entry follows dress and access rules that can change; confirm before the visit.
- Bring a light layer for Munnar and sun protection for Varkala and Kovalam.
- Pack a small overnight bag for the houseboat rather than opening large luggage onboard.
- Periyar wildlife sightings depend on nature and cannot be guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
Is the houseboat private?
The itinerary describes a premium private houseboat cruise. Confirm the final boat category and cabin arrangement in writing.
Which meals are included on the houseboat?
Traditional Kerala lunch and dinner are listed on Day 5, followed by breakfast on Day 6.
Does the tour return to Kochi?
No. It ends in Trivandrum, making an open-jaw flight plan the most convenient.
Are Varkala and Kovalam both included?
Yes. Day 6 reaches Varkala and Day 7 continues to Kovalam.
Plan the details
Browse our Kerala tour packages, use the houseboat packing guide, and compare backwater experiences.
Enquire with Varanasi Excursion
Request a current proposal tailored to your dates and room preferences. WhatsApp +91-9005104999 or email info@varanasiexcursion.com.