Kerala Hills & Backwaters

From Misty Mountains to Magical Backwaters

Explore the finest blend of Kerala’s charm in just five days! The Kerala Hills & Backwaters tour invites you to experience the best of the highlands and lowlands. Discover the scenic tea gardens and rolling hills of Munnar, the exotic wildlife and spice plantations of Thekkady, and the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom. Begin and end your journey in Cochin, a city rich in history and culture. This package is perfect for families, honeymooners, and nature lovers looking for a short yet fulfilling vacation in “God’s Own Country.”

Destinations:

Cochin – Munnar – Thekkady – Kumarakom – Cochin

Package code: CT5D-K-003

DAY 1

Arrival in Cochin – Drive to Munnar (135 km / 4 hrs)

  • Pickup from Cochin Airport/Railway Station
  • Drive to Munnar, a beautiful hill station filled with lush tea gardens and misty hills
  • En route, stop at Cheeyappara & Valara Waterfalls
  • Check-in to the hotel/resort and relax
  • Evening at leisure or enjoy a walk through Munnar town
  • Overnight stay in Munnar

Eravikulam National Park

Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr

Mattupetty Dam & Lake

A beautiful dam surrounded by tea gardens.

Kundala Lake

A scenic lake with pedal boating and shikara rides.

Echo Point

Famous for its natural echo phenomenon.

Tea Museum & Tea Gardens

Learn about Kerala’s tea-making heritage.

Pothamedu Viewpoint

A breathtaking sunset viewpoint.

DAY 2

Munnar Sightseeing – Tea Trails & Mountain Views

  • Visit Eravikulam National Park (home to Nilgiri Tahr – closed in Feb-Mar)
  • Explore Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Kundala Lake
  • Visit the Tea Museum and learn about Munnar’s tea legacy
  • Optional: Photo Point / Blossom Park / Spice Garden visit
  • Overnight stay in Munnar.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

A biodiverse reserve offering boat safaris.

Periyar Lake

Spot wildlife on a serene boat ride.

Spice Plantations

Walk through aromatic plantations of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.

Bamboo Rafting & Jungle Trekking

Thrilling activities inside the sanctuary.

Kalaripayattu Martial Arts Show

Witness Kerala’s ancient martial art form.

DAY 3

Munnar to Thekkady (90 km / 3 hrs) – Spice & Wildlife

  • After breakfast, drive to Thekkady, home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Check-in to your resort amidst nature
  • Visit a spice plantation for a guided tour
  • Enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife (subject to availability)
  • Optional: Kalaripayattu or Kathakali cultural show in the evening
  • Overnight stay in Thekkady

Vembanad Lake

The largest lake in Kerala, ideal for houseboat cruises.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Home to migratory birds like Siberian cranes.

Backwater Cruise

Explore the scenic waterways in a houseboat.

Fishing & Village Walks

Experience local life and fishing traditions.

Ayurvedic Spas & Wellness Retreats

Enjoy traditional Kerala therapies.

DAY 4

Thekkady to Kumarakom (125 km / 4 hrs) – Backwater Bliss

  • Depart after breakfast for Kumarakom, the serene backwater village on Vembanad Lake
  • Check into a backwater resort or traditional Kerala-style cottage
  • Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
  • Enjoy a sunset cruise on the backwaters (optional: shikara ride or country canoe)
  • Overnight stay in Kumarakom

Fort Kochi

A heritage area with colonial-era streets and buildings.

Chinese Fishing Nets

Iconic cantilevered fishing nets used for centuries.

Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)

A stunning palace showcasing Kerala murals.

Jewish Synagogue & Jew Town

A historic synagogue with antique collections.

Marine Drive

A picturesque waterfront perfect for an evening stroll.

Kathakali & Kalaripayattu Performances

Experience Kerala’s classical art forms.

DAY 5

Kumarakom to Cochin (85 km / 2.5 hrs) – Departure

  • After breakfast, check out and drive back to Cochin
  • If time permits, visit Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, or Jew Town
  • Drop at Cochin Airport/Railway Station for your onward journey

🌿 Come, fall in love with the hills and backwaters of Kerala – A land where every moment becomes a memory! 🌿

✔️ 4 Nights Stay at premium hotels/resorts
✔️ Daily Breakfast
✔️ Private AC vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing
✔️ Sightseeing as per itinerary
✔️ Houseboat cruise (optional upgrade at Kumarakom)
✔️ Spice plantation tour in Thekkady
✔️ All applicable taxes and driver allowances

❌ Airfare/Train fare
❌ Personal expenses (laundry, tips, beverages)
❌ Entry fees to monuments & attractions
❌ Optional activities like Ayurveda massage, elephant rides, or bamboo rafting

Munnar – Tea gardens, waterfalls & wildlife
Thekkady – Periyar boat safari & spice trails
Kumarakom – Backwater tranquility & bird watching
Cochin – Colonial charm & coastal vibes
✅ Ideal for short vacations, honeymoons, and family getaways