
Kochi to Alleppey Backwaters
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Set off from Kochi on a four day escape to Kerala’s green heart – finishing back in Kochi. In Thekkady you’ll watch an electrifying Kalaripayattu performance, glide across Periyar Lake on a shared boat to spot elephants and birdlife, and wander aromatic spice plantations with time to browse lively markets. Then it’s on to Alleppey for the classic backwaters experience – boarding a traditional houseboat for a lazy cruise past village life, paddy fields and coconut groves, with flavoursome Kerala meals served on board and a dreamy night on the water. Expect soothing scenery, gentle travel days and a satisfying blend of nature, culture and cuisine.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
4 daysHotel Rating
3, 4 or 5 star hotelsStarts
KochiEnds
KochiMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in India that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
YesTour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing.Country
IndiaTour Style
Group Size
Min 1 / Max Private Tour
Trip Type
Private Tours
Range
On this tour, you won't be joined by other travellers, and will just be travelling with your booking party. Some transportation & sightseeing may be shared, check the Inclusions for more information.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing.Group Size
Min 1 / Max Private TourRange
On this tour, you won't be joined by other travellers, and will just be travelling with your booking party. Some transportation & sightseeing may be shared, check the Inclusions for more information.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Private ToursPlaces You'll See

Kochi

Cochin

Thekkady

Idukki

Ponda

Alappuzha

Alleppey

Kochi (Cochin)
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Kochi to Thekkady
We depart Kochi for Thekkady – a 170 km drive taking around 3 hours – passing lush countryside and village life along the way. On arrival, we check in and refresh before an evening visit to the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre to watch Kalaripayattu, Kerala’s ancient martial art renowned for agility and control. We end the day with an overnight stay in Thekkady.
Day 2 - Periyar National Park - Thekkady
After breakfast, we set out to explore Thekkady and the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. We take a shared boat ride on Periyar Lake, where the calm waters offer a good chance to spot elephants, bison and plentiful birdlife along the shore. We then visit a local spice plantation on a guided tour to learn how cardamom, cinnamon and pepper are grown and processed. Later, you can take a leisurely stroll through Thekkady’s market to browse spices, handicrafts and souvenirs. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3 - Thekkady to Alleppey & Houseboat Cruise
Thekkady to Alleppey (135 km – around 3 hours). After breakfast, we drive to Alleppey, known for its tranquil backwaters. On arrival, we board a traditional houseboat for a leisurely cruise through the waterways, with views of village life along the banks. A fresh Kerala lunch is served on board, followed later by dinner prepared by the crew. As the sun sets, we anchor at a peaceful spot and enjoy the calm of the evening. Settle into your cosy cabin and fall asleep to the gentle sway of the boat. Lunch, dinner and overnight on the houseboat.
Day 4 - Return to Kochi
Alleppey to Kochi (60 km – around 1 hour 20 minutes). Wake to the calm of the backwaters and enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast on board. We then disembark and drive back to Kochi, bidding farewell to the houseboat and Alleppey’s tranquil waterways. On arrival, we’ll drop you at your hotel or the airport.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.

Prices & Dates
The prices you see below are a guide, with final prices per person being determined by the number of travellers in your booking party, desired hotel standard and the rooming arrangements required. To see an accurate price, please click "Book Dates" and enter the details for your booking party.
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