Kerala Luxe Voyage - 4N/5D Package

As you arrive at Kochi International Airport or Ernakulam Railway Station, you'll be warmly greeted by our professional driver, who will be your trusted companion for the days ahead. From the moment you step into your private, air-conditioned vehicle, your journey into the scenic heartland of Kerala begins.

The drive to Munnar, a beautiful hill station nestled in the Western Ghats, is not just a transfer—it’s the beginning of your Kerala experience. As you leave behind the urban bustle of Kochi, the surroundings gradually unfold into a panorama of lush greenery, open skies, and countryside charm.

You’ll pass through vast rubber plantations, where neat rows of trees with spiral cuts drip latex into small collection cups—a unique and fascinating sight that reflects Kerala’s agricultural richness. The air slowly begins to fill with the warm, earthy aroma of spice gardens, where crops like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and clove are cultivated. These spice gardens dot the roadside and are often open for short visits if time permits, offering a glimpse into Kerala’s long-standing spice trade legacy.

Midway through the journey, the landscape surprises you with two stunning waterfalls—Cheeyappara Waterfalls and Valara Waterfalls. These cascades tumble down the rocky cliffs amidst dense forests, creating a refreshing spray and offering perfect spots to stretch your legs, take photographs, or simply stand still and feel the cool mist on your face. The sound of rushing water blends beautifully with the chirping of birds, making for a soothing nature soundtrack.

As the road climbs higher into the Western Ghats, you’ll notice a dramatic change in climate and terrain. The temperature drops, the breeze turns crisp, and the road winds through rolling hills blanketed with endless tea plantations. These plantations are a signature of Munnar, with their perfectly manicured slopes creating wave-like patterns across the hills. You may even see local women plucking fresh tea leaves, dressed in colorful sarees, adding a splash of life to the green backdrop.

By late afternoon or early evening, you’ll reach the quaint hill town of Munnar, where mist often gently sweeps through the valleys. After checking in at your comfortable hotel, the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy. You can relax and unwind with a cup of freshly brewed Munnar tea, or step outside for a leisurely stroll through the cool mountain air. The nearby town center offers small cafes, local markets, and the chance to interact with the friendly locals. Alternatively, you may wander into the tea estates, watching the sunset behind the mountains—a peaceful and memorable way to end your first day in Kerala.

This journey is not just about reaching Munnar; it's about slowly falling into rhythm with nature—breathing deeper, feeling lighter, and letting Kerala's quiet beauty take over.

After enjoying a wholesome breakfast in the refreshing hills of Munnar, you’ll check out from your hotel and begin your scenic drive to Thekkady—a lush, green destination located in the Idukki district of Kerala, best known for its Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spice plantations. The journey is approximately 100 km and takes around 3.5 hours, but the road itself is a treat to the senses.

As you descend from Munnar’s tea-covered slopes, the terrain gradually transforms into dense forests, cardamom estates, pepper vines, and thick bamboo groves. The air begins to smell of spices—cardamom, clove, and black pepper—grown abundantly in this region. Along the way, you’ll spot locals selling fresh fruits, forest honey, and handmade spice products. Feel free to pause at a roadside shop or viewpoint to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery.

Upon reaching Thekkady, you’ll check into your hotel or eco-resort nestled amidst the greenery. Take some time to relax—perhaps enjoy a cup of spice-infused tea on the veranda, or simply take in the sounds of birds and rustling trees. Thekkady offers a peaceful escape into nature, and your stay here is designed to help you disconnect from city life and reconnect with the wild.

In the afternoon, prepare for an optional but unforgettable experience: a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the most famous and well-preserved sanctuaries in Southern India. Spread across over 900 square kilometers, the sanctuary surrounds the Periyar Lake, a calm reservoir formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam. The best way to explore the sanctuary is by boat cruise on Periyar Lake (subject to availability and weather conditions).

The boat ride usually lasts about 90 minutes, and it’s during this tranquil cruise that you may spot elephants bathing along the banks, sambar deer grazing, wild boars, and sometimes even Indian bison (gaur). Bird lovers will enjoy spotting kingfishers, hornbills, herons, and other exotic bird species flying across the lake. The atmosphere is serene, with forested hills rising around you and the reflection of trees dancing on the water’s surface—an unforgettable wildlife experience in the heart of Kerala.

Once the boat ride is done, you can explore the area further with optional visits to spice plantations, where a guide will walk you through rows of cardamom, vanilla, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and other spices. You’ll learn about how these spices are cultivated, processed, and used—not just in cooking, but also in medicine and cosmetics. These tours are interactive and deeply enriching, offering a glimpse into Kerala’s agricultural soul.

As evening falls, Thekkady comes alive with its vibrant cultural programs. You have the option to attend a traditional Kathakali performance, Kerala’s ancient dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes, colorful makeup, and expressive storytelling through facial expressions and hand gestures. Alternatively, you may watch a thrilling Kalaripayattu martial arts show—one of the oldest martial arts in the world, developed in Kerala centuries ago. These shows are held in local cultural centers and are a must-see to understand the depth of Kerala’s heritage.

After a day filled with nature, culture, and flavors, return to your hotel for a restful night. The calm, cool air of Thekkady and the gentle symphony of crickets and distant animal calls will lull you into a peaceful sleep.

Overnight stay in Thekkady.

After an early breakfast in the forested calm of Thekkady, you’ll check out and begin your journey toward Alleppey (Alappuzha)—fondly known as the "Venice of the East" and the gateway to Kerala’s world-famous backwaters. The drive covers approximately 140 kilometers and takes around 4 to 5 hours, weaving through scenic countryside dotted with spice plantations, rubber estates, and typical Keralite villages. Along the way, watch the landscape shift from lush hills to tropical lowlands lined with swaying coconut palms and glistening waterways.

As you approach Alleppey, the air becomes more humid and salty, and glimpses of canals, backwater lagoons, and traditional wooden boats begin to appear. You’ll arrive at the houseboat boarding point by 12:00 noon, where your floating home for the night awaits.

Step aboard your private, traditionally crafted houseboat, known locally as a kettuvallam. These elegant boats are made from eco-friendly materials like coir, bamboo, and wood, and are fitted with modern comforts including a bedroom with an attached bathroom, dining area, and an open sundeck for viewing the backwaters in all their glory. You’ll be greeted by a warm houseboat crew, typically consisting of a captain, a chef, and a helper, all of whom are dedicated to making your stay memorable.

As the houseboat gently sets off on its cruise through the vast Vembanad Lake and its intricate network of canals, you’ll immediately feel the pace of life slow down. Watch as you glide past endless green paddy fields, coconut groves reflected in still waters, and tiny village hamlets where people live by the rhythm of the backwaters. You might spot fishermen casting their nets, women washing clothes by the riverbanks, or children waving as they cycle along narrow embankments.

While you sit back and relax, your onboard chef will prepare a traditional Kerala lunch—usually featuring rice, sambar, vegetable dishes, papad, and Kerala-style fish curry (or a vegetarian option, as per your preference). Meals are made fresh with locally sourced ingredients, offering an authentic taste of the region. Later in the day, enjoy evening tea or coffee with banana fritters or local snacks, served on the deck as the golden sunlight begins to dip across the water.

The cruise is designed to be peaceful and personal. You can lie on the deck, take photos of flocks of birds flying low over the lake, or simply close your eyes and listen to the gentle sound of water lapping against the boat. This is Kerala at its most serene—a floating retreat through nature’s embrace.

As night falls, the houseboat will anchor near a quiet village or canal bank. The stillness of the backwaters at dusk, with the occasional chirp of crickets and distant temple bells, creates a magical atmosphere. A simple yet delicious dinner will be served onboard, after which you can choose to enjoy some stargazing from the deck or head to your cozy bedroom for the night.

Overnight stay on the houseboat in Alleppey – a truly unforgettable and authentic Kerala experience.

Wake up to the gentle sway of your houseboat as it floats peacefully on the still waters of the Alleppey backwaters. Step outside to the open sundeck and inhale the cool, misty morning air while listening to the soothing sounds of birds chirping and water gently lapping against the boat. The backwaters are tranquil at dawn, with the golden sunlight slowly reflecting on the surface of the lake — an almost spiritual experience that leaves you feeling calm and deeply connected to nature.

Shortly after sunrise, your houseboat crew will serve you a traditional Kerala breakfast on board. This usually includes local favorites like idli, appam, or puttu served with vegetable stew, sambar, or coconut chutney, along with fresh banana chips, filter coffee, or masala chai. All dishes are freshly prepared and served with the same warm hospitality that’s been with you throughout your journey.

As you enjoy your breakfast, the houseboat begins its short final cruise back to the docking point. The scenes around you continue to mesmerize — women collecting water from the canals, fishermen returning from their early morning catch, and schoolchildren walking along the narrow village paths in crisp uniforms. It’s a final glimpse into the everyday life of Kerala’s backwater communities, peaceful yet vibrant in its simplicity.

By around 9:00 AM, your houseboat cruise will come to an end. You’ll disembark at the Alleppey boat jetty, where your driver will be waiting to assist with your luggage and begin the return journey to Kochi.

The drive to Kochi Airport or Ernakulam Railway Station is approximately 90 kilometers and takes around 2.5 hours. As the car moves through scenic stretches of lush paddy fields, traditional Kerala homes, and busy little towns, you’ll have time to reflect on the journey you’ve had — from the misty mountains of Munnar, through the wild forests of Thekkady, and finally the peaceful waters of Alleppey.

Depending on your departure time and interest, if time permits, the driver may take a short detour through Fort Kochi or Lulu Mall for last-minute shopping or sightseeing, though this depends entirely on your schedule.

As you arrive at Kochi Airport or Ernakulam Station, it’s time to say goodbye — not just to your driver and Kerala, but to an experience that likely left you with a deeper appreciation for nature, local culture, and the art of slow, mindful travel.

You’ll carry with you unforgettable memories — from the aroma of spices and tea leaves, to the cool mountain breezes, to the quiet rhythm of life along the backwaters. This farewell may mark the end of the journey, but the essence of Kerala — its hospitality, beauty, and calm — will linger with you long after you've returned home.