11 Days Kerala Tour with Varkala Kovalam

Day 1 :- Arrival Cochin + visit

Upon arrival at Cochin Airport or Ernakulam Railway Station, you'll be greeted and driven to your hotel. After checking-in, embark on a sightseeing adventure with an English-speaking guide.

Explore Cochin's iconic attractions, starting with a visit to the Cochin Harbour. Marvel at the ancient Chinese fishing nets, a testament to the city's rich trading history. Next, visit the Dutch Palace, a 16th-century architectural marvel that showcases Kerala's rich cultural heritage.

Also, visit St. Francis Church, India's oldest European church, which dates back to 1503. After a fascinating day of sightseeing, return to your hotel for a delicious dinner and a relaxing overnight stay.

Day 2 :- Cochin - Munnar

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Munnar (approximately 4 hours). Along the way, enjoy the breath-taking waterfalls and scenic spots that make this journey truly memorable. Munnar, situated 1,600 meters above sea level at the confluence of three mountain streams—Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundale—was once a summer retreat for the British government in South India. 

Upon arrival in Munnar, check in to your hotel, where an overnight stay will be arranged.

Day 3 :- Munnar Sightseeing

After breakfast, spend the day exploring local sights in Munnar. Start with the Tea Museum, which showcases the history and evolution of tea plantations in the region; it's open to visitors until 5 PM. Next, visit the Floriculture Centre, commonly known as the Rose Garden, featuring over a hundred varieties of flowers and herbal plants. This center is open from 10 AM to 5 PM.

Then head to the Mattupetty Dam/Lake, one of Munnar's most popular attractions, surrounded by lush greenery. It is open from 9:30 AM to 5 PM, and you can enjoy boating and horse rides, depending on availability. Don’t miss Kundala Lake/Dam, known for its picturesque scenery. Boating activities here range from ₹100 to ₹200, and visitors are welcome until 5 PM.

Head to Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and known for its breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. The park offers excellent opportunities for nature photography and is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

Wrap up your day with visits to Photo Point and Echo Point, ideal spots to capture memories against picturesque backdrops. Return to your hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Day 4 :- Munnar – Thekkady

After breakfast, check out from the hotel in Munnar and drive to Thekkady (approximately 4 hours), a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel and get ready to explore Thekkady's natural beauty.

Begin with the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a Tiger Reserve established in 1978, covering 777 sq km. The sanctuary is open to visitors from 6 AM to 6 PM, with entry fees applicable. Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake, a popular activity that offers a chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.

Visit a Spice Plantation (entry fee around ₹100 per person) to learn about various spices and stroll through the captivating farm.If time permits, witness the vibrant Kathakali dance performance (₹200 per person) and explore the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu (₹200 per person). Visit the local spice shops or try some authentic Kerala cuisine.

For the adventurous, consider a Jeep Safari (approximately ₹1,500 per person) or an Elephant Ride in the wilderness (approximately ₹500 per person). Relax at your hotel, surrounded by nature, with an overnight stay arranged in Thekkady.

Day 5 :- Thekkady Sightseeing

After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Thekkady. Begin with the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a Tiger Reserve covering 777 sq km, with 360 sq km of dense evergreen forest. The sanctuary is open from 6 AM to 6 PM, with entry fees ranging from ₹5 to ₹450 per person.

Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake (₹225 per person) to spot wildlife, or opt for a jeep safari (approximately ₹1,500 per person) for a thrilling adventure. You can also enjoy an elephant ride in the wilderness (approximately ₹500 per person).

Visit a Spice Plantation (entry fee around ₹100 per person) to learn about various spices and stroll through the captivating farm & Tea Museum. If time permits, witness the vibrant Kathakali dance performance (₹200 per person) and explore the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu (₹200 per person). An overnight stay is arranged in Thekkady.

Day 6 :- Thekkady – Alleppey Houseboat

Start your day with breakfast before heading to Alleppey (approximately 4.5 hours), often dubbed the “Venice of the East”. On arrival, board a traditional houseboat and cruise through the tranquil Kerala’s mesmerizing waterways backwaters. Witness rustic villages, swaying coconut palms, and emerald-green paddy fields as you float along the serene backwaters. 

Relish freshly prepared meals on board as you glide past picturesque landscapes. The houseboat experience offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility. Spend the night aboard the houseboat, lulled to sleep by the gentle ripples of the water.

Day 7 :- Alleppey – Varkala

After a refreshing breakfast, check out from the houseboat and drive to Varkala. En route, visit Jatayu Park, a 200-meter diversion from MC Road, featuring a stunning Jatayu sculpture and Ram Temple. The entry cost of ₹550 per person includes a cable car ride and access to various attractions.

Upon arrival in Varkala, check-in to your hotel and spend the evening unwinding at the picturesque Varkala Beach. Enjoy the spectacular sunset, take a leisurely stroll, or indulge in a refreshing swim. An overnight stay is arranged at the hotel, providing a perfect conclusion to your day.

Day 8 :- Varkala – Kovalam

After breakfast, check out from the hotel in Varkala and drive to Kovalam/Trivandrum (approximately 1 hour). Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel and get ready to unwind in this beachside paradise.

Kovalam boasts three stunning beaches: Samudra Beach, Hawah Beach, and Lighthouse Beach. Visit Poovar for breathtaking views of the river, lake, and sea. Don't miss the Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium, featuring an array of marine life, with an entry fee of ₹20 for adults and ₹10 for children.

In the evening, relax while watching a spectacular sunset or enjoy a swim at the picturesque Kovalam Beach. An overnight stay is arranged at the hotel, providing a perfect conclusion to your day in this beachside haven.

Day 9 :- Kovalam – Kanyakumari – Kovalam

After breakfast, embark on a thrilling day trip to Kanyakumari (approximately 2-3 hours), India's southernmost tip. En route, visit the picturesque Thirparappu Waterfalls, Vattakottai Fort, Sucheendram Temple, and Padmanabhapuram Palace, each offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and natural beauty.

Upon arrival in Kanyakumari, visit the Vivekananda Rock, a sacred monument commemorating Swami Vivekananda's visit in 1892. Explore the Devikanya Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess Kanyakumari, and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of this sacred site.

As the day closes, witness the breathtaking sunset at Kanyakumari, where the sky is painted with hues of orange, pink, and purple. After a memorable day trip, return to Kovalam in the evening and relax at your hotel, reliving the experiences of the day. An overnight stay in Kovalam will help you recharge for the next day's adventures.

Day 10 :- Trivandrum sightseeing

Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala, is an ancient city with a rich tradition dating back to 1000 BC. This beautiful seaside metropolis is built on seven hills and offers a variety of attractions. Visit the Padmanabha Swamy Temple, a significant pilgrimage destination for Hindus, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Please note the temple's strict code of conduct and specific visiting hours.

Escape the city's hustle at Shanghumukham Beach, offering stunning views and beautiful sunsets. For culture and history enthusiasts, the Napier Museum is a must-visit, featuring Indo-Saracenic architecture and hosting exhibits in the National Heritage Museum, Zoological Park, and Sri Chitra Art Gallery. Visiting hours are from 10 AM to 5 PM, except on Mondays and Wednesday mornings, with an entrance fee of ₹20 per person.

As you explore Trivandrum's attractions, immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage and natural beauty, creating unforgettable memories of your visit.

Please note that entrance fees and activity charges are not included unless specified in the inclusions

Day 11 :- Trivandrum Departure

After a delicious breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Trivandrum Airport or the railway station, depending on your departure point. Bid farewell to the breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture of Kerala, fondly known as God's Own Country. As you head home, you'll feel content after a wonderful holiday spent exploring the natural beauty, rich heritage, and warm hospitality of this incredible destination.