Kerala Highlands & Backwater Symphony

4 Nights 5 Days
  

Cochin - Munnar - Thekkady - Kumarakom

Tour Itinerary

 

Day 1

Cochin
  • Arrival in Cochin – The Gateway to the Hills
  • Your journey begins at the historic port city of Cochin (Kochi).
  • Upon your arrival at the Cochin International Airport or Railway Station, our professional representative will greet you and assist with your luggage.
  • From here, we embark on a scenic drive toward Munnar, the undisputed queen of hill stations in South India.
  • The drive itself is an experience, as the urban landscape gives way to winding roads lined with rubber plantations and cascading waterfalls like Valara and Cheeyappara.
  • As you ascend to an altitude of 1,600 meters, the air becomes crisp and infused with the scent of fresh tea leaves. Upon reaching Munnar, check into your chosen resort.
  • The evening is yours to spend at leisure—perhaps a stroll through the local market or simply relaxing on your balcony overlooking the rolling green hills.
  • Overnight stay in Munnar.

Day 2

Munnar
  • Munnar – A Tapestry of Green
  • After a hearty breakfast, we dive into a full day of exploration in the Munnar valley.
  • We begin at Mattupetty Dam, where the still waters reflect the surrounding tea gardens.
  • Nearby, Echo Point offers a fun natural phenomenon and panoramic views.
  • For the adventurous, we visit Top Station, the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road, offering a bird's-eye view of the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu.
  • In the afternoon, we visit the Eravikulam (Rajamalai) National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
  • Witness the majestic creatures grazing on the hillside against a backdrop of Anamudi, the highest peak in South India.
  • We conclude the day’s sightseeing with a visit to the Tea Museum, where you can learn about the evolution of tea processing in the region, followed by a stop at the silver-streaked Attukal Waterfalls.
  • Overnight stay in Munnar.

Day 3

Thekkady
  • Munnar to Thekkady – Into the Wild
  • Leaving the tea gardens behind, we head toward Thekkady, the spice capital of Kerala.
  • This journey takes you through the heart of the Western Ghats, passing through spice plantations of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.
  • After checking in, the afternoon is dedicated to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • You will enjoy a serene boat cruise on Periyar Lake, a unique way to spot wild elephants, gaurs, and exotic birds along the water’s edge.
  • Later, take a guided tour through a spice plantation to understand how these aromatic plants are grown and harvested.
  • The evening offers a chance to explore the local spice market, where you can buy high-quality, farm-fresh Kerala spices.
  • Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Day 4

Kumarakom
  • Thekkady to Kumarakom – The Backwater Dream
  • Following breakfast, we descend from the hills toward the emerald backwaters of Kumarakom.
  • This destination is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake.
  • Upon arrival, you will board a traditional Kerala Houseboat (Kettuvallam).
  • This is the highlight of the trip. As the houseboat glides through the intricate network of canals and lagoons, you will witness the rustic life of Kerala’s villagers.
  • Enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine prepared on board by your private chef.
  • As the sun sets over the palm-fringed horizon, the boat will anchor in the middle of the backwaters, allowing you to sleep under the stars in a floating luxury suite.
  • Overnight stay on the Houseboat.

Day 5

Cochin Departure
  • Kumarakom to Cochin – A Fond Farewell
  • Wake up to the gentle lapping of water against the hull.
  • After a delicious breakfast on the deck, it is time to disembark from your floating home.
  • Our driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Cochin.
  • If time permits, you can indulge in some last-minute shopping for Kerala sarees or handicrafts before being dropped off at the Airport or Railway Station for your journey home, carrying memories of a lifetime.

Package Specifications

Category  &  Details

  • Duration :  4 Nights / 5 Days
  • Accommodation :  Deluxe Room (CPAI)
  • Transport : Private A/c Sedan for the entire trip
  • Destinations :  Munnar (2N), Thekkady (1N), Kumarakom Houseboat (1N)

The Package Includes:

  • Stay for a Couple: Luxury accommodation in specified rooms with daily breakfast (CP Plan).
  • Houseboat Experience: Full stay in a private houseboat inclusive of all traditional Kerala meals (Lunch, Dinner, and Breakfast).
  • Private Transport: Pick-up, drop-off, and all sightseeing in a dedicated A/c Sedan.
  • Travel Comforts: All road taxes, parking fees, and driver allowances (batha) are covered.
  • Family Friendly: Complimentary stay for children below 5 years of age.

 Package Excludes:

  • Personal Expenses: Extra person charges or additional meals not mentioned.
  • Activities: Entry tickets to parks, museums, and boat cruise fees.
  • Extras: Any services not listed in the "Includes" section.

Important Terms & Conditions

  • Peak Season Policy: Please note that peak season hikes apply from October 1st onwards. Additional supplementary charges will be applicable for stays during Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
  • Itinerary Flexibility: While we strive to follow the schedule perfectly, slight alterations in the itinerary may be unavoidable during peak seasons or due to weather conditions. However, we guarantee that any alternative accommodation provided will be of the same premium class and standard.
  • Availability: All room bookings are subject to availability at the time of confirmation.

More Tour Packages

Frequently Asked QuestionsKerala Highlands & Backwater Symphony

What are the top attractions included in this 5-day Munnar and Thekkady tour?

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This package highlights the best of the Western Ghats and the backwaters. Key attractions include the Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point in Munnar, the Eravikulam National Park (home to the Nilgiri Tahr), and a serene wildlife boat cruise on Periyar Lake in Thekkady.

Does the "Kerala Highlands & Backwater Symphony" package include a houseboat stay?

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Yes! A major highlight of this trip is an overnight stay on a traditional Kerala Houseboat (Kettuvallam) in Kumarakom. You will cruise through the Vembanad Lake and enjoy authentic Kerala meals prepared by a private chef on board.

Is this Kerala nature tour suitable for families with small children?

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Absolutely. This is a very family-friendly itinerary that includes a complimentary stay for children under 5 years (sharing a bed with parents). The travel pace is designed to be comfortable, featuring scenic stops at waterfalls like Valara and Cheeyappara during the drive.

What kind of transportation is provided for the entire 5-day trip?

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For maximum comfort and privacy, the package includes a private A/c Sedan for all transfers and sightseeing. This includes your pick-up from Cochin International Airport, travel between hill stations, and your final drop-off at the station or airport.

Are meals included in the package price?

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The package follows a CPAI plan, meaning daily breakfast is included at your resorts in Munnar and Thekkady. However, during your stay on the houseboat in Kumarakom, you will be provided with full board meals, including traditional Kerala lunch, dinner, and breakfast.

Can I visit a tea plantation and learn about tea processing on this tour?

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Yes, the itinerary includes a visit to the Tea Museum in Munnar. Here, you can learn about the history and evolution of tea processing in the region. You will also have ample opportunities to photograph the rolling tea gardens throughout the valley.