The Luxury Kerala Backwaters & Hill Retreat unfolds a serene and rejuvenating journey through India’s most beautiful southern landscapes. Designed for travelers who seek comfort, culture, and calm, this 11-day itinerary blends misty mountains, tranquil lakes, tropical forests, and golden beaches. Begin in Cochin, the historical port city with its colonial elegance, then move toward the tea gardens of Munnar, the spice-scented hills of Thekkady, and the gentle backwaters of Kumarakom and Alleppey, before unwinding on the sun-kissed shores of Kovalam.
Each destination offers a balance of discovery and relaxation — from heritage architecture and wildlife encounters to luxurious houseboat cruises and Ayurveda-inspired wellness therapies. With handpicked hotels, seamless transfers, and personalized experiences, this journey celebrates the tranquil rhythm and timeless charm of God’s Own Country.
Arrive at Cochin International Airport, where you’ll be welcomed by your representative and transferred to your luxury hotel. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure to relax after your journey or take an evening stroll along the charming Marine Drive promenade, lined with waterfront cafes and gentle sea breezes.
Cochin, known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, sets the tone for your Kerala experience with its blend of colonial history, spice trade heritage, and vibrant local life. Overnight stay in Cochin.
After breakfast, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Cochin’s cultural landmarks. Visit the Dutch Palace, the Jewish Synagogue in Mattancherry, and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets by the waterfront. Walk through the narrow lanes of Fort Kochi, filled with art galleries, antique stores, and charming cafes.
In the evening, witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance showcasing Kerala’s classical art form. The colorful costumes, expressive gestures, and live percussion create an unforgettable introduction to Kerala’s performing arts. Overnight stay in Cochin.
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Munnar (approx. 4–5 hours), as the winding roads ascend through lush valleys and tea plantations. Stop briefly at waterfalls or spice gardens along the way.
Arrive in Munnar and check into your hill resort surrounded by mist-covered mountains and verdant slopes. Spend the evening at leisure amid the cool mountain air. Overnight stay in Munnar.
After breakfast, begin your day exploring Munnar’s captivating landscapes. Visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, followed by the Tea Museum that showcases Kerala’s tea heritage.
Later, visit the Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point before returning to your resort for an afternoon of leisure. You may enjoy a tea tasting session or simply relax in the tranquil hill setting. Overnight stay in Munnar.
After breakfast, proceed to Thekkady (approx. 4 hours), a nature lover’s paradise located in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Check into your eco-luxury resort nestled amidst cardamom and pepper plantations.
In the evening, enjoy a guided boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you may spot elephants, deer, and vibrant birdlife along the forested shores. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
Wake up to the aroma of Kerala’s spices and explore Thekkady’s lush greenery with a plantation walk led by a local naturalist. Learn about the region’s famed cardamom, clove, and pepper cultivation.
Later, you may opt for an Ayurvedic massage or enjoy traditional martial arts (Kalaripayattu) demonstrations. The evening is perfect for relaxation or exploring Thekkady’s small but vibrant market. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
After breakfast, drive toward Kumarakom, a serene village on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Check into your lakeside resort, surrounded by swaying palms and calm waters.
Spend the afternoon at leisure, watching local fishermen paddle by or taking a sunset cruise through the backwaters. The evening can be spent enjoying fresh seafood at your resort’s waterfront restaurant. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.
After breakfast, board your private luxury houseboat for an unforgettable backwater experience. Glide through Alleppey’s tranquil canals, passing lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and small village homes.
Savor a freshly cooked Kerala meal onboard as your houseboat anchors near a quiet riverside hamlet. Watch the sun dip into the horizon while surrounded by the gentle rhythm of rippling waters. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
After breakfast onboard, disembark and drive to Kovalam (approx. 4–5 hours), Kerala’s coastal paradise known for its crescent beaches and Ayurveda retreats. Check into your seaside resort and spend the afternoon relaxing by the Arabian Sea.
The evening is free to enjoy the serene coastline, try local seafood delicacies, or explore the nearby lighthouse beach. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
Begin your day with yoga or meditation by the beach, followed by personalized Ayurvedic therapies at your resort’s wellness spa. Later, visit nearby Trivandrum to explore the Padmanabhaswamy Temple (from outside), Napier Museum, and local markets.
Return to Kovalam for a leisurely evening, perhaps indulging in an ocean-view dinner or simply walking along the moonlit shore. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
After breakfast, transfer to Trivandrum International Airport for your onward flight. Depending on your schedule, you may enjoy some last-minute shopping for spices or handicrafts.
Your Luxury Kerala Backwaters & Hill Retreat concludes with rejuvenated senses and lasting memories of Kerala’s hills, backwaters, beaches, and unmatched hospitality.
DAY 1
Arrival in Cochin
DAY 2
Cochin Heritage & Cultural Evening
DAY 3
Cochin to Munnar: Journey to the Tea Hills
DAY 4
Munnar Exploration
DAY 5
Munnar to Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife)
DAY 6
Thekkady Wildlife & Spice Experience
DAY 7
Thekkady to Kumarakom
DAY 8
Kumarakom to Alleppey (Luxury Houseboat)
DAY 9
Alleppey to Kovalam
DAY 10
Kovalam Sightseeing & Ayurveda Wellness
DAY 11
Departure from Trivandrum
Inclusions
Exclusions