Unforgettable Kerala Backwater Tours – Scenic Lakes, Beaches & Tea Gardens 7 Nights 8 Days
Table of Contents
- Tour Overview
- Tour Highlights
- Day Wise Itinerary
- Package Inclusions
- Package Exclusions
- FAQs
- Best Time to Visit Kerala
- Related Tours
Tour Overview
Escape into the tropical paradise of South India with our Kerala Backwater Tours, an unforgettable 7 Nights / 8 Days journey that showcases Kerala’s misty hill stations, fragrant spice plantations, tranquil backwaters, golden beaches, lush tea gardens, vibrant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Known as God’s Own Country, Kerala offers an enchanting blend of breathtaking natural beauty and warm hospitality, making it one of India’s most sought-after travel destinations.
Your journey begins in the historic port city of Kochi before travelling through the emerald-green tea plantations of Munnar and the wildlife-rich forests of Thekkady. Experience the timeless charm of Kerala’s famous backwaters aboard a luxury houseboat in Alleppey, unwind amidst the peaceful lagoons of Kumarakom, and conclude your holiday on the sun-kissed beaches of Kovalam and the cultural landmarks of Thiruvananthapuram.
Whether you are planning a family vacation, honeymoon, romantic getaway, or luxury holiday, these Kerala Backwater Tours combine scenic landscapes, authentic local experiences, comfortable accommodation, and unforgettable moments into one perfectly balanced itinerary.
Tour Summary
Explore Kerala’s tea plantations, spice gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, luxury houseboats, tranquil backwaters, golden beaches, historic cities, and tropical landscapes on one unforgettable holiday through God’s Own Country.
Why Choose These Kerala Backwater Tours?
These Kerala Backwater Tours have been carefully designed to showcase the best of Kerala without rushing between destinations. Every day introduces a new experience—from wandering through rolling tea estates and spotting wildlife in lush forests to cruising peacefully through palm-lined canals and relaxing on pristine Arabian Sea beaches.
With comfortable travel distances, premium accommodations, authentic Kerala cuisine, and immersive sightseeing, this itinerary offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, nature, and culture. It is ideal for international travellers, honeymooners, families, photographers, and anyone seeking an unforgettable tropical escape.
Tour Highlights
Kochi Highlights
- Historic Fort Kochi
- Chinese Fishing Nets
- Dutch and Portuguese colonial heritage
- St. Francis Church
- Marine Drive
- Local spice markets
Munnar Highlights
- Rolling tea plantations
- Eravikulam National Park
- Mattupetty Dam
- Echo Point
- Tea Museum
- Scenic mountain landscapes
Thekkady Highlights
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Spice plantation tours
- Bamboo rafting (optional)
- Kathakali cultural performance
- Kalaripayattu martial arts show
Alleppey Highlights
- Luxury houseboat cruise
- Coconut-lined canals
- Traditional Kerala villages
- Authentic Kerala cuisine
- Sunset over Vembanad Lake
Kumarakom Highlights
- Peaceful backwaters
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Vembanad Lake
- Luxury lakeside resorts
- Birdwatching
Kovalam Highlights
- Lighthouse Beach
- Arabian Sea coastline
- Beautiful sunset views
- Beach cafés
- Water sports (seasonal)
Thiruvananthapuram Highlights
- Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- Napier Museum
- Sri Chitra Art Gallery
- Local markets
- Kerala cultural heritage
Detailed Day Wise Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Kochi – Discover Kerala’s Historic Gateway
Upon arrival at Kochi International Airport, receive a warm traditional Kerala welcome before transferring to your hotel. After a short break, begin exploring the fascinating heritage of Kochi, one of India’s oldest trading ports where Portuguese, Dutch, British, Arab, and Jewish cultures have blended for centuries.
Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, one of Kochi’s most recognisable landmarks, before strolling through the charming colonial streets of Fort Kochi. Continue to St. Francis Church, India’s oldest European church, and admire the beautiful architecture of Santa Cruz Basilica. Explore the bustling spice markets filled with the aroma of cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and pepper that once attracted traders from around the world.
In the evening, relax along Marine Drive or enjoy an optional Kathakali dance performance, where elaborate costumes, expressive storytelling, and traditional music showcase Kerala’s rich performing arts heritage.
Highlights
- Chinese Fishing Nets
- Fort Kochi
- St. Francis Church
- Santa Cruz Basilica
- Marine Drive
- Kathakali Show (optional)
Overnight Stay: Kochi
Day 2 – Kochi to Munnar (Approx. 130 km | 4–5 Hours)
After breakfast, leave Kochi behind and drive towards the breathtaking hill station of Munnar. As the road climbs into the Western Ghats, the scenery transforms dramatically into lush forests, cascading waterfalls, spice plantations, and endless emerald-green tea gardens stretching across rolling hills.
En route, stop at the beautiful Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls, where crystal-clear water tumbles through dense tropical forests. Continue through fragrant cardamom and pepper plantations before reaching Munnar.
After hotel check-in, spend the evening walking through nearby tea estates while enjoying the cool mountain breeze and panoramic valley views. As mist slowly settles across the hills, Munnar reveals why it remains one of India’s most picturesque hill stations.
Highlights
- Scenic Western Ghats drive
- Cheeyappara Waterfalls
- Valara Waterfalls
- Tea plantations
- Mountain viewpoints
Overnight Stay: Munnar
Day 3 – Munnar Sightseeing
Wake up to refreshing mountain air before beginning a full day of sightseeing in Munnar. Start with a visit to Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and spectacular mountain scenery. The rolling grasslands and panoramic viewpoints make this one of Kerala’s finest natural attractions.
Continue to Mattupetty Dam, where calm waters reflect the surrounding hills, followed by Echo Point, famous for its natural echo phenomenon. Later, visit the peaceful Kundala Lake and the informative Tea Museum, where you’ll learn about Kerala’s world-famous tea industry from cultivation to processing.
Spend the evening exploring Munnar Market, where fresh tea, aromatic spices, homemade chocolates, essential oils, and local handicrafts make excellent souvenirs.
Highlights
- Eravikulam National Park
- Mattupetty Dam
- Echo Point
- Kundala Lake
- Tea Museum
- Local shopping
Overnight Stay: Munnar
Day 4 – Munnar to Thekkady (Approx. 95 km | 3–4 Hours)
After breakfast, continue your journey towards Thekkady, one of Kerala’s premier wildlife destinations. The scenic mountain drive passes lush forests, spice plantations, picturesque valleys, and charming villages nestled within the Western Ghats.
Upon arrival, visit an authentic spice plantation, where you’ll discover how cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, pepper, vanilla, and nutmeg are cultivated and processed. The fragrant plantations provide fascinating insights into Kerala’s globally renowned spice trade.
Later, enjoy an optional boat cruise across Periyar Lake, where elephants, deer, bison, wild boar, otters, and numerous bird species are often spotted along the forested shoreline. In the evening, experience Kerala’s cultural richness by attending a traditional Kathakali dance performance or witnessing the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu, one of the oldest fighting systems in the world.
Highlights
- Scenic mountain drive
- Spice Plantation Tour
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Periyar Lake Boat Cruise (optional)
- Kathakali Dance Show
- Kalaripayattu Performance
Overnight Stay: Thekkady
Day 5 – Thekkady to Alleppey – Luxury Houseboat Backwater Cruise (Approx. 140 km | 4–5 Hours)
After breakfast, bid farewell to the lush forests of Thekkady and descend towards the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey (Alappuzha), often called the “Venice of the East.” The journey takes you through picturesque villages, endless coconut groves, emerald-green paddy fields, and scenic canals, offering a fascinating glimpse into Kerala’s peaceful countryside.
Upon arrival, board your beautifully crafted traditional Kerala houseboat, equipped with modern comforts while retaining its authentic charm. As your houseboat gently cruises through the tranquil backwaters, admire swaying coconut palms, colourful fishing boats, narrow canals, charming villages, and local life unfolding along the waterways.
Enjoy a freshly prepared traditional Kerala lunch onboard featuring local delicacies and seasonal produce. Relax on the open deck as the gentle breeze and serene surroundings create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation. Watch fishermen casting their nets, children travelling to school by boat, and villagers going about their daily lives along the peaceful canals.
As evening approaches, witness a spectacular sunset over Vembanad Lake, where golden reflections shimmer across the calm waters. Enjoy a delicious dinner onboard before spending a memorable night surrounded by the tranquility of Kerala’s famous backwaters.
Highlights
- Luxury Houseboat Cruise
- Traditional Kerala Backwaters
- Village Life Experience
- Vembanad Lake
- Authentic Kerala Cuisine
- Sunset Cruise
Overnight Stay: Deluxe Houseboat, Alleppey
Day 6 – Alleppey to Kumarakom & Kovalam (Approx. 180 km | 5–6 Hours)
Wake up to the soothing sounds of birds and gently flowing water as your houseboat continues its peaceful morning cruise through the backwaters. Enjoy a freshly prepared Kerala breakfast while watching picturesque villages, lush paddy fields, and fishermen begin their day along the canals.
After disembarking, continue towards the beautiful village of Kumarakom, situated on the banks of the vast Vembanad Lake. Visit the renowned Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to numerous resident and migratory birds including kingfishers, herons, egrets, cormorants, and Siberian visitors during winter.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the sanctuary’s peaceful nature trails before continuing your scenic drive towards Kovalam, Kerala’s most famous beach destination. Upon arrival, check into your beach resort and spend the evening relaxing along Lighthouse Beach, where golden sands, swaying palm trees, and the sparkling Arabian Sea create an unforgettable tropical setting.
Watch the sun slowly disappear beyond the horizon while enjoying fresh seafood, local cafés, and the soothing sound of ocean waves.
Highlights
- Morning Houseboat Cruise
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Vembanad Lake
- Scenic coastal drive
- Lighthouse Beach
- Arabian Sea Sunset
Overnight Stay: Kovalam
Day 7 – Kovalam & Thiruvananthapuram Sightseeing (Approx. 35 km | Full Day)
After breakfast, begin exploring Kerala’s vibrant capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, where history, spirituality, art, and culture blend harmoniously. Visit the world-famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, renowned for its magnificent Dravidian architecture and immense historical significance. (Please note that a strict dress code applies for temple entry.)
Continue to the beautiful Napier Museum, showcasing Kerala’s royal heritage, bronze sculptures, ancient artifacts, and traditional architecture. Nearby, explore the fascinating Sri Chitra Art Gallery, home to masterpieces by the legendary Indian artist Raja Ravi Varma along with remarkable collections of Tibetan, Mughal, and traditional Kerala artwork.
Return to Kovalam in the afternoon to enjoy leisure time at its beautiful beaches. Relax under swaying coconut palms, take a refreshing swim, enjoy optional water sports (seasonal), or indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage or spa treatment.
Conclude your holiday with a peaceful evening walk along the shoreline while admiring another spectacular Arabian Sea sunset.
Highlights
- Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- Napier Museum
- Sri Chitra Art Gallery
- Lighthouse Beach
- Ayurvedic Spa (optional)
- Arabian Sea coastline
Overnight Stay: Kovalam
Day 8 – Departure from Thiruvananthapuram
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning soaking in the final moments of Kerala’s tropical beauty before checking out from your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may spend some free time at the beach or shop for authentic Kerala spices, tea, handicrafts, coir products, Ayurvedic products, and traditional souvenirs.
Later, transfer to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport for your onward journey.
Your unforgettable Kerala Backwater Tours conclude with wonderful memories of misty tea plantations, fragrant spice gardens, luxury houseboats, tranquil backwaters, wildlife encounters, golden beaches, and Kerala’s legendary hospitality.
Package Inclusions
- 7 Nights accommodation in premium hotels, resorts, and one luxury houseboat
- Daily breakfast at all hotels
- Lunch, evening tea/snacks, dinner, and breakfast during the houseboat stay
- Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour
- Experienced English-speaking chauffeur
- Fuel charges, toll taxes, parking fees, and driver allowance
- All sightseeing as per the itinerary
- Houseboat cruise through the Alleppey Backwaters
- Travel assistance throughout the journey
- All applicable hotel taxes
Package Exclusions
- Airfare or train tickets
- Lunch and dinner (except meals provided during the houseboat stay)
- Monument entrance fees
- Boat safari charges at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Water sports charges
- Ayurvedic spa and wellness treatments
- Personal expenses such as shopping, laundry, tips, and beverages
- Camera and video fees
- Travel insurance
- Anything not specifically mentioned under “Package Inclusions”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time to enjoy Kerala Backwater Tours?
The ideal time to visit Kerala is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing, houseboat cruises, beach holidays, and hill station excursions.
2. Is the houseboat stay private?
Yes. Couples, families, and groups are provided with private deluxe houseboats featuring attached bathrooms, comfortable bedrooms, dining areas, and private viewing decks.
3. Is this tour suitable for honeymoon couples?
Absolutely. The combination of misty hill stations, luxury houseboat stays, tranquil backwaters, romantic beaches, and breathtaking sunsets makes this one of Kerala’s most popular honeymoon itineraries.
4. Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals are available throughout the tour. Special dietary requirements can usually be arranged upon prior request.
5. What should I pack for this Kerala holiday?
Carry lightweight cotton clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a light jacket for Munnar, beachwear, swimwear, and a camera to capture Kerala’s stunning landscapes.
6. Is this itinerary suitable for families and senior travellers?
Yes. The itinerary includes comfortable driving distances, relaxed sightseeing schedules, premium accommodations, and leisurely experiences suitable for families, honeymooners, and senior travellers.
7. Which destinations are covered in this package?
The itinerary includes Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kovalam, and Thiruvananthapuram, offering Kerala’s perfect combination of hill stations, wildlife, backwaters, beaches, and cultural heritage.
Best Time to Visit Kerala
The Kerala Backwater Tours can be enjoyed throughout the year. However, the most comfortable travel season is from October to March, when cool temperatures and pleasant weather create ideal conditions for sightseeing, wildlife excursions, houseboat cruises, and beach holidays. The June to September monsoon season transforms Kerala into a lush green paradise and is particularly popular for Ayurvedic wellness retreats, while April and May remain excellent months for exploring the cooler hill stations of Munnar.
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