12-Day Itinerary
Cochin - Munnar - Madurai - Periyar - Varkala - Munroe Island - Alleppey - Cochin

Kerala, this small state bordered by the sea and subtropical mountains, is often a favorite destination for travelers. This is due to its stunning mountain landscapes, spice and tea plantations, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, beautiful tropical beaches, and peaceful canoe rides through the backwaters canals. The cities here are small and charming, the cuisine is fresh and flavorful, and the hospitality is warm and welcoming.

Day 1: COCHIN Airport - FORT COCHIN 40 km - 1h30

Your driver will meet you upon arrival at Cochin Airport and drive you to your hotel in the Fort Cochin area. Afterward, you can discuss the schedule that suits you.
Visit the old quarters, the Paradesi Synagogue, the Basilica of the Holy Cross, St. Francis Church, the Ernakulam Folklore Museum, and Mattancherry Palace.
In the late afternoon, visit the Chinese Fishing Nets before enjoying a seaside dinner.

Overnight in Fort Cochin.

Day 2: FORT COCHIN - MUNNAR 130 km - 4h30

After breakfast, embark on winding roads through the lush hills of Kerala, with rice, pineapple, and rubber plantations.
Munnar, a mountain station at 1,524m above sea level, is situated in the heart of South India’s most spectacular mountain landscape. It is the tranquil side of Kerala, a place for rejuvenation and hiking.
Visit a tea factory where you can follow the entire traditional process of making orthodox tea, and witness the different steps in producing black, green, and white teas.
In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali performance, which blends dance and theater, or opt for an Ayurvedic massage.

Overnight in Munnar.

Day 3: MUNNAR

We work with a renowned guide in Munnar, who will help you explore the region’s flora and fauna. A guide is mandatory for trekking through the tea plantations.
You can choose between:

• 12 km trek – Half-day, from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM

• 24 km trek – Full-day, from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Afterward, explore the beautiful surroundings of Munnar with breathtaking viewpoints, or head to Anakulam to observe wild elephants (1.5-hour drive). Elephants roam freely here and come to drink in the evening — a test of patience and luck.

Overnight in Munnar.

Day 4: MUNNAR - MADURAI 160 km - 4h

Transfer to Madurai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, and one of the oldest cities in South India.
Visit the Tirumalai Nayak Palace, the Gandhi Museum, and the magnificent Meenakshi Temple, one of the most beautiful temples in South India. The temple features four towering gopurams covered in hundreds of vibrant sculptures depicting the lives of the gods.
In the evening, you can witness a ceremony in which a figure of Shiva is carried in procession to the Meenakshi Sanctum.

Overnight in Madurai.

Day 5: MADURAI - PERIYAR 150 km - 3h30

Visit a spice plantation and learn about the aromatic herbs and spices of the region.
Then, choose from a variety of activities in Periyar National Park: Periyar Tiger Reserve.
In the late afternoon, enjoy a cooking class with a local family, followed by a tasting of the meal you've prepared.

Overnight in Thekkady.

Day 6: PERIYAR

Explore Periyar National Park: Periyar Tiger Reserve.
Among the many activities offered, you can choose:

• Nature Walk or Green Walk

• Bamboo Rafting (half-day is sufficient)

• Bird Song Trail

• Border Hiking (a more challenging trek)

• Boating Safari

In the evening, enjoy a Kalaripayattu performance, a traditional Kerala martial art.

Overnight in Thekkady.

Day 7 & 8: PERIYAR - VARKALA 160 km - 4h

Varkala is famous for its stunning beaches and its bohemian atmosphere.
The cliffs here are a postcard view of Varkala, and it’s common to spot dolphins while enjoying seafood dishes, with fresh fish and shellfish caught that day.
Stay in a guesthouse that promotes relaxation and well-being, offering Yoga and massages, just a short walk from the beach.

2 Nights in Varkala.

Day 9: VARKALA - MUNROE ISLAND 46 km - 1h30

Munroe Island is a hidden gem consisting of a group of 8 islands, each separated by small canals and lakes. The island offers a unique, peaceful environment, far from the chaos of modern life.
Enjoy activities like cycling and canoeing.

Overnight on Munroe Island.

Day 10: MUNROE ISLAND - ALLEPPEY 90 km - 2h30

To explore the intertwined canals between land and sea, we offer an unforgettable experience: an overnight stay on a luxury houseboat, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 AM the following morning.

Overnight on the houseboat.

Day 11: ALLEPPEY - FORT COCHIN 60 km - 1h30

End your houseboat cruise at 9:00 AM.
Then, visit the old quarters, the Paradesi Synagogue, the Basilica of the Holy Cross, St. Francis Church, the Ernakulam Folklore Museum, and Mattancherry Palace.
In the late afternoon, see the Chinese Fishing Nets before enjoying a seaside dinner.

Overnight in Fort Cochin.

Day 12: FORT COCHIN - COCHIN Airport 40 km - 1h30

Transfer to Cochin Airport for your return flight.

Travel Time: The average speed on Indian roads is around 45-50 km/h. Travel times are approximate and may vary depending on factors such as traffic, weather, type of vehicle, and roadworks.