The Kerala Backwaters & Ayurveda Retreat is a 12-day journey that combines the highlights of Kerala’s cultural and natural beauty with the serenity of Ayurveda and wellness. Starting in Kochi, the itinerary takes you through the tea gardens of Munnar, the spice-rich hills of Thekkady, and the tranquil houseboat cruises in Alleppey. The final days are spent in Kovalam, where Ayurvedic treatments, yoga, and beach leisure provide the perfect conclusion.
This tour blends exploration with relaxation — grand palaces and temples, tea plantations, spice gardens, wildlife safaris, and cultural dance performances, all balanced with backwater cruises, wellness therapies, and serene coastal stays. It is an immersive way to discover Kerala’s soul.
Arrive at Kochi International Airport, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, the evening is free to relax or take a gentle walk by the waterfront near Marine Drive. Overnight stay in Kochi.
Explore the city’s cultural landmarks today. Visit the Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, and the Mattancherry Palace with its beautiful murals. Walk through Jew Town to see the historic Synagogue and antique shops. In the evening, attend a Kathakali dance performance, where elaborate costumes and expressions bring ancient stories to life. Overnight stay in Kochi.
After breakfast, drive to Munnar (approx. 4–5 hrs), a hill station surrounded by rolling tea plantations and misty valleys. On the way, stop at waterfalls and spice plantations. On arrival, check into your resort amidst the hills. Evening free to relax with views of the green slopes. Overnight stay in Munnar.
Spend the day exploring Munnar. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered NilgiriTahr and sweeping mountain views. Continue to the Tea Museum to learn about Kerala’s tea heritage. Explore Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point for scenic views, and walk through tea gardens to breathe in the fresh aroma of the plantations. Overnight stay in Munnar.
Drive to Thekkady (approx. 4 hrs). On arrival, check into your resort near Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. In the evening, attend a Kalaripayattu martial arts show or take part in a cooking demonstration of traditional Kerala cuisine. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
Early morning, enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, where elephants, wild boars, and bird species can often be seen along the shores. Later, take a guided spice plantation tour to see cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and vanilla in their natural setting. Afternoon free for an optional bamboo rafting or an Ayurvedic massage session. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
After breakfast, drive to Alleppey and board your private Kerala houseboat. Cruise through the calm backwaters lined with coconut palms and paddy fields. Watch local village life unfold along the canals while enjoying freshly cooked meals onboard. As the sun sets, the houseboat anchors on a quiet stretch of water. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
Disembark from the houseboat and drive to Kovalam (approx. 4–5 hrs), Kerala’s famous beach destination. On arrival, check into your Ayurvedic beach resort. Evening free to walk along the golden sands of Lighthouse Beach. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
This day is dedicated to wellness and relaxation. Begin with a yoga session followed by personalized Ayurvedic therapies recommended by the in-house doctor. Treatments may include Abhyanga (oil massage), Shirodhara, or herbal steam baths. Spend the rest of the day by the pool or on the beach. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
Enjoy a leisurely day at Kovalam. Take part in optional excursions like visiting nearby Trivandrum city for the Padmanabhaswamy Temple and Napier Museum, or simply relax at the beach resort. Sunset from Lighthouse Beach is a highlight. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
Another day to deepen your wellness journey. Participate in guided yoga sessions, meditation, and Ayurveda treatments designed for rejuvenation. Relax with herbal teas and healthy meals prepared according to Ayurvedic principles. Evening free at leisure. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
After breakfast, check out and transfer to Trivandrum Airport for your onward flight. Your Kerala Backwaters & Ayurveda Retreat ends with memories of tea gardens, backwaters, cultural evenings, and rejuvenating therapies.
DAY 1
Arrival in Kochi
DAY 2
Kochi Sightseeing & Cultural Evening
DAY 3
Kochi to Munnar: Scenic Drive to Tea Country
DAY 4
Munnar Exploration
DAY 5
Munnar to Thekkady (Periyar)
DAY 6
Thekkady Wildlife & Spice Plantation
DAY 7
Thekkady to Alleppey (Houseboat Stay)
DAY 8
Alleppey to Kovalam
DAY 9
Kovalam Ayurveda & Wellness
DAY 10
Kovalam Beach Leisure
DAY 11
Kovalam Ayurveda & Yoga Retreat
DAY 12
Departure from Trivandrum
Inclusions
Exclusions