Kerala: Highlights of Southern India 7-Day Trip

Embark on a scenic 7-day journey through the serene landscapes of Kerala, starting and ending in Kochi. This well-organized tour by Varanasi Excursion Pvt. Ltd. blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and peaceful backwaters for an unforgettable experience. From the misty tea plantations of Munnar to the wildlife-rich Periyar Sanctuary, each day offers new sights and moments to cherish. Cruise along the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat and watch the lush countryside drift by. With comfortable accommodations, guided sightseeing, and seamless travel arrangements, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching introduction to South India’s charm.

Places You’ll See

Cochin Tour

Old Streets & Markets

Munnar Walk

Tea Plantations & Wildlife

Periyar Safari

Boat & Wildlife Spotting

Kumarako

Cruise Experience

Alleppey Stay

Houseboat Night

Local Guide

English speaking

Private Car

AC Ride With Driver

Upon arrival at Cochin Airport or Railway Station, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. Later, begin your sightseeing tour of Cochin, visiting key attractions such as St. Francis Church, the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, the Jewish Synagogue, and the historic Dutch Palace.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Cochin

After breakfast, drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. Upon arrival, visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (Hemitragus hylocrius), a rare mountain goat found only in South India. Continue to visit the Mattupetty Dam, surrounded by lush tea gardens and rolling hills.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Munnar

After breakfast, drive to Periyar. Upon arrival, visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of India’s most renowned wildlife reserves, located in the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats and spanning over 777 sq. km. Enjoy the lush scenery and the chance to spot elephants, bison, and a variety of bird species.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Periyar

Relish breakfast at the hotel and spend the morning exploring Periyar. Visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and enjoy a scenic boat ride on the lake surrounded by forested hills. The sanctuary is home to elephants, wild dogs, otters, freshwater fish, and a variety of bird species including herons, kingfishers, hornbills, and cormorants. In the afternoon, visit the lush spice plantations to learn about the region’s famous spices.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Periyar

After breakfast, drive from Periyar to Kumarakom (approximately 121 km / 4.5 hours). Upon arrival, transfer to Kumarakom. Kumarakom is renowned for its serene backwaters and the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. This protected area is home to a wide variety of bird species including the darter (snake bird), little cormorant, night heron, woodpecker, crow pheasant, white-breasted waterhen, and tree pie. During the migratory season (November to March), the sanctuary also attracts many exotic species.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Kumarakom

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer from Periyar to Kumarakom and board your traditional houseboat (kettuvallam). Cruise gently through the scenic backwaters, passing lush paddy fields, coconut palms, fishing villages, and glimpses of local life along the banks. Enjoy freshly prepared lunch, evening tea, and dinner on board, while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. As the sun sets, the houseboat will anchor at a serene spot on the backwaters. Spend the night on board, lulled to sleep by the gentle sound of the water.

After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark at Alleppey — often referred to as the “Venice of the East” for its picturesque canals and inland waterways. Later, drive to Cochin (approximately 70 km / 2 hours) and transfer to Kochi Airport for your onward flight.

Assistance during arrival and departure

English-speaking tour guide

7 Nights in comfortable 3-star hotels with daily breakfast

Daily breakfast

One mineral water bottle per person per day

Government taxes and service charges

Lunches and dinners (except inclusions during festivals)

Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, etc.)

Any type of domestic or International flight

Travel insurance

1–2 travelers: AC medium car (like Swift or similar)

3–6 travelers: AC large car (like Toyota Innova or similar)

7–10 travelers: AC mini-van (like Tempo Traveler or similar)

Vegetarian food options are widely available

Flexible pickup/drop between 6:00 AM and 11:00 PM (IST) based on your schedule

4.8 / 5

Based on 26K+ reviews

Tuesday

15 Sep, 2024

Wednesday

24 Sep, 2024

Total price

$1,049

Monday

22 Sep, 2024

Wednesday

31 Sep, 2024

Total price

$1,049

From

$338

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