5-Day Ultimate Kerala Tour: Backwaters, Hill Stations & Cultural Highlights

Day 1: Arrival and Explore Kochi

Kochi, India on June 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kashi Art Café

Enjoy a fresh, artisanal breakfast in this charming café located in Fort Kochi, known for its creative dishes and relaxing atmosphere.
INR400, 1h

9:30am

Fort Kochi Walking Tour

Explore the historic streets of Fort Kochi including the Chinese Fishing Nets, Dutch Palace, and St. Francis Church to soak in colonial heritage and culture. Open daily from 9am to 6pm.
INR0, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Dal Roti

Taste authentic North Indian cuisine in a cosy environment, a favourite among local and tourists alike for hearty meals.
INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Visit to Jew Town & Paradesi Synagogue

Discover the rich Jewish heritage in Kochi by visiting the vibrant Jew Town market and the historic Paradesi Synagogue, operating from 10am to 5pm.
INR50, 2h

5:00pm

Sunset at Marine Drive

Relax by the backwaters at Marine Drive promenade and enjoy a serene sunset view over the harbour.
INR0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Rice Boat

Dine on exquisite Kerala seafood dishes at this luxury floating restaurant within the Taj Malabar Resort, known for its ambience and fresh ingredients.
INR1500, 1.5h

Day 2: Munnar Hill Station

Munnar, India on June 22, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at your hotel before heading to Munnar, energising for the day ahead.
Included in hotel, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Munnar

Drive approx. 4 hours from Kochi to Munnar showcasing scenic landscapes en route.
INR3000 (for taxi), 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Rapsy Restaurant

Famous for tasty Indian and local Kerala dishes, Rapsy is a great spot to recharge after your journey.
INR400, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Tea Museum

Explore the Tata Tea Museum to learn about tea processing and the history of Munnar’s plantations; open from 9am to 5pm.
INR50, 1.5h

3:45pm

Eravikulam National Park

Visit the park famous for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, with beautiful walking trails and panoramic views; open 7am-4pm. Book tickets in advance to avoid queues.
INR200, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy vegetarian South Indian specialities at this well-known restaurant in Munnar town.
INR350, 1h

Day 3: Wildlife and Spice Plantations

Thekkady, India on June 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a hearty breakfast early to prepare for the morning activities in Thekkady.
Included in hotel, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Thekkady

A 3-hour scenic drive through hill roads and spice groves from Munnar to Thekkady.
INR2500 (taxi), 3h

11:30am

Check-in & Lunch at Pepper Vine Restaurant

Delight in Keralan cuisine amidst a peaceful setting within your hotel or a nearby highly rated local restaurant.
INR500, 1h

1:00pm

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Boat Ride

Enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake spotting elephants, deer, and birds in the protected sanctuary; the sanctuary is open 6am-6pm.
INR1500, 2h

3:30pm

Spice Plantation Tour

Visit local spice plantations to discover pepper, cardamom, and other spices with guided tours offered through the afternoon.
INR300, 1.5h

6:00pm

Kathakali Dance Performance

Watch a traditional Kathakali dance show at Kalari Kshetram, open from 6:30pm to 8pm, providing cultural insight through storytelling and elaborate costumes.
INR500, 1.5h

8:00pm

Dinner at Thekkady Cafe

Relax with a fusion of local and international dishes in this popular eatery.
INR600, 1h

Day 4: Houseboat on Backwaters

Alleppey, India on June 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Have an early breakfast before transferring to Alleppey for your backwater experience.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Alleppey

Drive roughly 3.5 hours from Thekkady to Alleppey, gateway to Kerala’s famous backwaters.
INR3000, 3.5h

12:00pm

Check-in Houseboat & Lunch

Board your traditional Kerala houseboat and enjoy freshly prepared lunch on board while cruising the tranquil waters.
INR6000 (per day hire, per couple approx.), 2h

2:00pm

Backwaters Cruise

Relax and enjoy the unique experience of cruising peaceful canals and lagoons, observing village life along the banks. Houseboats typically run until evening around 6pm.
Included in houseboat cost, 4h

7:30pm

Dinner on Houseboat

Savour delicious Kerala cuisine freshly cooked on board as you spend the night peacefully on the water.
Included, 1h

Day 5: Beach and Relaxation

Kovalam, India on June 25, 2025

7:30am

Houseboat Breakfast

Enjoy a traditional Kerala breakfast on board before check out.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Kovalam

Drive approximately 4 hours south to Kovalam, a famous beach destination near Thiruvananthapuram.
INR3500, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Curry Leaf

Dine on authentic Kerala and seafood dishes right by the beach, perfect for a relaxing midday meal.
INR700, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Kovalam Beach

Spend your afternoon unwinding on the golden sands, swimming or enjoying water sports (available 9am-5pm).
INR0 – 1000 (depending on activity), 3h

6:00pm

Visit Lighthouse Beach

Walk to the nearby Lighthouse Beach to watch the sunset and explore the lively promenade.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Hotel Sea View

Enjoy a sumptuous farewell dinner at your beachside hotel restaurant featuring fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
INR1200, 1.5h