05 Days South India

Overview

Overview of Kerala: Munnar & Thekkady (Periyar)
Kerala, often called "God’s Own Country," is a paradise of lush greenery, serene backwaters, and diverse wildlife. Munnar and Thekkady are two of its most sought-after destinations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences.

Munnar is a picturesque hill station in Western Ghats, famous for its sprawling tea plantations, misty hills, and pleasant climate. It is home to Eravikulam National Park, where the endangered Nilgiri Tahr roams freely. The region also boasts scenic attractions such as Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and honeymooners.

Thekkady (Periyar) is renowned for its rich biodiversity and the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. This protected reserve is home to elephants, tigers, deer, and various bird species. The serene Periyar Lake offers an opportunity for boat safaris, allowing visitors to witness wildlife in their natural habitat. Thekkady is also known for its spice plantations, where visitors can explore the fragrant world of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.

Together, Munnar and Thekkady offer a refreshing escape into nature, blending lush landscapes, wildlife adventures, and cultural richness, making them must-visit destinations in South India.

Itinerary Expand All

Day 1
Day 01: Arrival in Cochin – Transfer to Munnar (158 km / 4 hrs)
Welcome to Cochin, India! Upon arrival at the airport, you will be greeted by our dedicated airport facilitation staff, who will be holding a placard with your name in the visitor’s arrival hall for a smooth and hassle-free meet-and-greet experience.

After a warm welcome, begin your scenic drive to Munnar, a breathtaking hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. Along the way, take in the beauty of Cheeyappara Waterfalls, cascading down rocky slopes, and enjoy the vibrant colors of Blossom Garden, a paradise of exotic flowers and lush greenery.

Upon reaching Munnar, check-in at your hotel (Check-in time: 14:00 hrs) and take some time to relax in the comfort of your room. The rest of the day is at leisure, allowing you to explore the serene landscapes, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and soak in the tranquillity of nature.

Overnight stay at your hotel in Munnar.
Day 2
Day 02: Explore Munnar – The Jewel of the Western Ghats
After a delightful breakfast, embark on a scenic city tour of Munnar, a breathtaking hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. Known as the "Nature Lover’s Paradise," Munnar is famous for its picturesque landscapes, sprawling tea gardens, pristine lakes, and dense forests.

Munnar is uniquely located at the confluence of three rivers – Muthirappuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala – making it one of Kerala’s most mesmerizing destinations. With over 30 tea estates, the region is a major hub for Kerala’s renowned tea industry, filling the air with the refreshing aroma of tea and cardamom plantations.

During the tour, visit some of the highest tea plantations in the world, situated at elevations ranging from 1,220 meters to over 2,135 meters. Witness the age-old tradition of tea plucking, as local women expertly gather fresh tea leaves into conical bamboo baskets strapped to their foreheads.

Take in the serene beauty of the rolling hills and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this charming hill station.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3
Day 03: Munnar to Thekkady (Periyar) – Wildlife & Scenic Beauty
After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Thekkady, home to the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The journey takes you through the misty Cardamom Hills, a breathtaking landscape of rolling forests, deep valleys, and roaring streams at an altitude of over 4,000 feet.

Upon arrival in Periyar, check in to your hotel and unwind before the afternoon adventure.

Afternoon Wildlife Safari by Boat on Periyar Lake

Experience an unforgettable boat safari on Lake Periyar, where wildlife thrives along the water’s edge. Watch herds of elephants bathing and playing near the shore, spot the majestic sambar deer grazing, and admire the gaur (Indian bison) in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for wild boars, monkeys, and vibrant bird species that inhabit the dense forests. If luck is on your side, you may even catch a rare glimpse of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of one of India's first Project Tiger Reserves, offering a unique blend of adventure and breathtaking scenery.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4
Day 04 – Thekkady (Periyar) to Alleppey (155 km / approx. 4 hrs)
After a refreshing breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Alleppey, often referred to as the "Venice of the East." Upon arrival, board a traditional Kerala houseboat—known as a Kettuvallam—for an enchanting cruise through the serene backwaters. This unique experience allows you to soak in the tranquil beauty of Kerala, where palm-fringed canals, lush green paddy fields, and quaint village life create an unforgettable setting.

As the houseboat gently glides along, relax on the sundeck, sip on fresh tender coconut water, and witness the daily life of the locals—fishermen casting their nets, children waving from the shores, and villagers going about their routines.

Recommended Experiences Onboard:

✔ Traditional Kerala Cuisine – Enjoy freshly prepared local delicacies such as Karimeen (pearl spot fish), Kerala-style chicken curry, and a variety of vegetarian dishes cooked with coconut flavours.

✔ Sunset Views – As the sun dips below the horizon, the backwaters are bathed in golden hues, creating a magical atmosphere.

✔ Canoe Ride (Optional) – For a closer look at village life, opt for a guided canoe ride through the smaller canals.

✔ Cultural Interaction – Meet local artisans, toddy tappers, and coir-makers who create beautiful handmade products.

As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful overnight stay on the houseboat, lulled by the gentle ripples of the water.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Day 05 – Alleppey to Cochin & Departure (83 km / approx. 2.5 hrs)
After a delightful breakfast on the houseboat, embark on a scenic drive to Cochin (Kochi)—a captivating port city that beautifully blends history, culture, and coastal charm.

Cochin City Tour Highlights:

Fort Kochi & Its Colonial Heritage – Step back in time as you explore the historic streets of Fort Kochi, where remnants of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences still linger. Admire the iconic Chinese fishing nets, a legacy of 14th-century trade with China.

Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) – Built in the 16th century by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch, this palace is a treasure trove of murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits of Cochin rulers, and royal artefacts.

Jewish Synagogue & Jew Town – Discover the fascinating history of Cochin’s Jewish community, whose roots trace back to AD 52. The beautifully preserved Paradesi Synagogue, with its hand-painted blue-and-white Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers, is a must-visit. Stroll through Jew Town, a vibrant hub of antique shops, spice markets, and heritage cafés.

St. Francis Church – Visit India’s oldest European church, originally built in 1503, where Vasco da Gama, the famed Portuguese explorer, was once buried.

Optional Experiences:

✔ Kathakali Dance Performance – Witness the mesmerizing classical dance-drama of Kerala.✔ Sunset Cruise in Kochi Harbor – A relaxing way to end the trip, soaking in views of the sea, colonial-era buildings, and passing ships.

Later in the evening, transfer to Cochin International Airport in time for your onward journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch.

Tour Ends – Depart with unforgettable memories of Kerala!