
Kerala Backwaters & Hills
New
Begin in Kochi and end in Kochi on a journey of nine days – a relaxed circuit through Kerala’s highlights. In Kochi you’ll explore the Jewish Quarter, spice bazaars and the Dutch Palace, watch the Chinese Fishing Nets and enjoy a vivid Kathakali performance. Head into the cool hills to Munnar for tea estates and market browsing, with stops at pineapple and rubber plantations en route. Cruise Lake Periyar in Thekkady searching for wildlife. Drift through Kumarakom’s backwaters by shikara, meet local craftspeople and settle into an overnight houseboat – sunset included. Round things off at an Arabian Sea beach resort before your flight home.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
9 daysHotel Rating
Starts
KochiEnds
KochiMinimum Age
18 years oldMaximum 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
IndiaMeals Included
Breakfast: 8, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1Passengers
$3,720.00
$1,860.00
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 12
Trip Type
Group Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
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 2 / Max 12Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
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
Group ToursTour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Kochi
Arrive at Kochi Airport, where we’ll be waiting to greet you. Welcome to Kerala – a land of lush landscapes and warm hospitality. We arrange your transfer to the hotel and share a short tour overview with useful tips on the local area. The rest of the day is yours – you can relax or wander the historic port city at your own pace, a gentle start before the journey begins.
Day 2 - Kochi
We visit the historic Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi’s Jewish Quarter, admiring its ornate interior and learning about the community’s long heritage. We wander through the aromatic spice market – a vibrant showcase of fresh spices and local produce – before continuing to the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch, to view murals and artefacts of Kerala’s royal past. Along the waterfront we see the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and hear how they became a symbol of the city. In the evening we enjoy a Kathakali dance performance – expressive gestures, vivid costumes and music bringing classic stories to life.
Day 3 - Kochi - Munnar
We depart Kochi for the cool hill country of Munnar, following winding roads past rubber plantations, pineapple farms and seasonal waterfalls. En route we visit a pineapple plantation to see how the fruit is cultivated and learn about everyday agricultural life. We also explore a rubber plantation, watching latex tapped from the trees and gaining insight into its role in Kerala’s economy. When water levels permit, we pause at a scenic waterfall – a refreshing stop amid lush, forested slopes.
Day 4 - Munnar
We explore Munnar’s lively market, rich with the aromas of spices, fresh produce and handicrafts. You have free time to browse the colourful stalls and shop at your own pace. We then visit a tea plantation – neat green terraces cloak the hills – and watch tea pickers at work in this classic landscape.
Day 5 - Munnar - Thekkady
We drive from the cool tea hills of Munnar to Thekkady, passing small towns and scenic farmland. On arrival we take a boat ride on Lake Periyar, encircled by jungle–clad hills – keep an eye out for elephants, deer and water birds along the shoreline. Afterwards, you have free time to explore Thekkady and its spice shops, enjoying the relaxed pace of this gateway to Periyar National Park.
Day 6 - Thekkady - Kumarakom
We travel from Thekkady to the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, arriving amid palm–fringed waterways and tranquil lakeside scenery. We glide along narrow canals aboard a traditional shikara, taking in close–up views of village life, coconut groves and calm backwater scenes. We visit small workshops to see coir making, mat weaving and toddy tapping – crafts that support local livelihoods. You can unwind in the peaceful surroundings, perhaps opt for an Ayurvedic treatment, and settle into the soothing rhythms of nature.
Day 7 - Kerala Backwaters
We check in to a traditional Kettuvallam houseboat for an overnight journey through the backwaters. We settle into a slow–paced cruise along serene lagoons, canals and rivers, drifting as birdlife flits overhead and village life unfolds on the banks. We savour the stillness and sweeping views – and round off the day with a glowing backwater sunset from the deck.
Day 8 - Kochi
We disembark the houseboat and travel back towards Kochi. This evening we check in to a beach resort on the Arabian Sea – a relaxing base for the night. You have the remainder of the day at leisure – unwind on the beach or explore the local area – before your final day.
Day 9 - Kochi
We collect you from your hotel in Kochi and transfer you to the airport for departure. After your Kerala adventure, we see you off for your onward journey, and the tour concludes in Kochi following the airport transfer. If you’d like to extend your stay, you can add extra nights – just let us know and we’ll arrange them.
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
"Double/Twin" prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. "Shared" prices are for those solo travellers happy to share a room with another solo traveller of the same sex. Please note that for anyone wanting the privacy of their own room, a single supplement will apply. Please contact us for more information or a quote.
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