Kerala
Backwaters, tea slopes and monsoon calm
What a trip to Kerala actually looks like.
A houseboat drifting through Alleppey's canals, Munnar's tea hills, and Ayurveda that slows the whole trip down. Most trips move at a slower pace here than the rest of South India — fewer stops, more time to sit still in each one.
Four places worth building the trip around.
The highlights our planners come back to most when they build a Kerala itinerary.
Alleppey Backwaters
A houseboat drifting through palm-lined canals and paddy fields — the trip most people come to Kerala for.
Munnar Tea Hills
Rolling tea plantations, cool hill-station air, and short hikes with views over the whole valley.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Boat safaris across the lake and spice-plantation walks through cardamom and pepper vines.
Ayurveda & Wellness
Traditional therapies at coastal retreats — usually built in as the last two or three days of the trip.
A six-day route through Kerala.
Arrive in Kochi
Settle in and spend the afternoon in Fort Kochi — colonial lanes, Chinese fishing nets, and a slow first dinner.
Drive to Munnar
A scenic drive up into the hills. Check into a tea-estate stay and spend the evening at leisure.
Munnar
Morning walk through the tea gardens, then Eravikulam National Park and a few of Munnar's best viewpoints.
Drive to Thekkady
A Periyar Lake boat safari followed by a guided walk through a working spice plantation.
Drive to Alleppey
Board a private houseboat by early afternoon for an overnight cruise through the backwaters.
Alleppey to Kochi
Disembark after breakfast on the water, then transfer back to Kochi in time for your onward flight.
Ready to plan your Kerala trip?
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