Grand Tour of Kerala - 9 Days

After breakfast at your hotel, checkout and begin your scenic drive to the picturesque hill station of Munnar. Along the way, make a stop at the renowned Spice Garden, where you can immerse yourself in the aromatic world of spices such as cardamom, pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. This visit offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultivation and processing of these essential ingredients, often referred to as the heart of Kerala's spice trade.

Continuing your journey, you’ll come across the stunning Cheeyappara Waterfalls, cascading down in seven steps and creating a breathtaking sight. Take a moment to relax, enjoy the cool, refreshing mist, and capture some beautiful photos to remember the experience. After soaking in the natural beauty, proceed with your drive through the lush green hills and tea plantations that mark the approach to Munnar.

Upon arriving in Munnar, check into your accommodation and take some time to unwind. Depending on your energy levels, you might want to explore the local area, taking in the charming town, visiting nearby markets, or simply relaxing in the serene environment of your hotel. This day sets the tone for your upcoming adventures in Munnar, combining travel with delightful stops that highlight the unique attractions of the region.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before setting out to explore the charming hill station of Munnar. The following attractions are included in today sightseeing tour:

• Your first stop will be at the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park offers stunning views of the rolling hills and is a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Next, head to the Tea Museum, operated by Tata Tea, where you can learn about the history of tea cultivation in Munnar, see the tea-making process, and sample some freshly brewed tea. This museum provides an insightful look into the tea industry that Munnar is famous for.
• Continue your tour with a visit to the Mattupetty Dam, a popular spot for boating and picnicking. The dam and its reservoir are surrounded by lush green hills, making it a perfect place for photography and enjoying the serene environment. Close by, you can also visit the Mattupetty Dairy Farm, known for its high-yielding cattle.
• Afterwards, proceed to the Kundala Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride amidst the beautiful scenery. The lake is surrounded by forests and hills, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the town.
• Your next stop will be the Top Station, the highest point in Munnar, which provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the valley below. This is a must-visit for photography enthusiasts and those looking to soak in the majestic beauty of the region.
• Finally, conclude your day with a visit to the Echo Point, named for the natural echo phenomenon it offers. It’s a fun place where you can shout and hear your voice reverberate back to you from the surrounding hills.

Return to your accommodation in the evening, where you can relax and reminisce about the day’s adventures. Enjoy a delicious dinner and prepare for the next day of exploration.

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation in Munnar, begin your journey to Thekkady, a picturesque town known for its wildlife and spice plantations. The drive will take you through beautiful landscapes, featuring lush greenery, rolling hills, and picturesque villages.

Upon arriving in Thekkady, check into your accommodation and freshen up before heading out to explore. Your first stop will be the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of India's most famous wildlife reserves. Opt for a boat ride on the Periyar Lake, which offers a unique opportunity to spot various wildlife, including elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species, in their natural habitat.

After your boat ride, visit a spice plantation where you can see and learn about the cultivation of a variety of spices such as cardamom, pepper, vanilla, and cloves. The guided tour will provide interesting insights into the spice-growing process and its significance in the local economy.

Later, visit the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre to witness a traditional Kalaripayattu performance. Kalaripayattu is an ancient martial art form that originated in Kerala, and the performance showcases the impressive skills and techniques of the practitioners.

Conclude your day with a visit to the local market in Kumily, where you can shop for spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Return to your accommodation in the evening, where you can relax at your hotel, reflecting on the day’s adventures. This day combines wildlife, culture, and natural beauty, giving you a comprehensive experience of Thekkady's unique attractions.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation in Thekkady before setting off for Alleppey, often referred to as the "Venice of the East" due to its intricate network of backwaters and canals. The drive to Alleppey will take you through scenic landscapes, including verdant countryside and charming villages.

Upon arrival in Alleppey, board your traditional Kerala houseboat, known as a kettuvallam, for an unforgettable backwater cruise experience. These houseboats are equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and luxurious stay. As your houseboat sets sail, enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the backwaters, characterized by serene waters, lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and quaint villages. The houseboat cruise offers a unique perspective on Kerala's rural life, with opportunities to see locals engaged in traditional activities such as fishing and farming.

A freshly prepared lunch will be served on board, featuring a variety of delicious Kerala dishes. Savor the flavors of the local cuisine while soaking in the picturesque views. Throughout the afternoon, your houseboat will meander through the backwaters, passing by small islands and charming settlements. You can relax on the deck, take photographs, or simply unwind as the boat gently glides along the water.

In the evening, enjoy a beautiful sunset over the backwaters, a truly magical sight. Dinner will be served on board, offering another opportunity to taste the region's culinary delights.

Spend the night on the houseboat, lulled to sleep by the gentle sounds of the water and the serene ambiance of the backwaters. This overnight stay on the houseboat is a highlight of any trip to Kerala, providing a peaceful and unique experience.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast on your houseboat, enjoying the peaceful morning scenery of the backwaters. After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and set out for Kovalam, a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The drive to Kovalam will take you through scenic landscapes, offering glimpses of rural Kerala and coastal vistas.

Upon arriving in Kovalam, check into your accommodation and freshen up. Once settled, head out to explore the famous beaches of Kovalam, starting with Lighthouse Beach, the most popular and bustling beach in the area. Named after the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse located on a rocky promontory, this beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports.

Next, visit the quieter Hawah Beach, also known as Eve's Beach, which offers a more tranquil setting with its serene waters and golden sands. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing beach stroll or simply unwinding by the sea. For a more secluded experience, head to Samudra Beach, located to the north of Hawah Beach. This beach is less crowded and provides a peaceful escape, perfect for those looking to enjoy some solitude amidst natural beauty.

In the evening and explore the local markets, where you can shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products. As the sun sets, head to one of the beachfront restaurants to enjoy a delicious dinner, featuring fresh seafood and other Kerala delicacies, while taking in the beautiful views of the Arabian Sea.

Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the beach, enjoying the cool sea breeze and the sound of the waves. Return to your accommodation for a restful night’s sleep, rejuvenated by the coastal charm of Kovalam.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation in Kovalam before heading to Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), the capital city of Kerala, located just a short drive away.

• Begin your sightseeing tour with a visit to the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a stunning and historically significant temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Known for its intricate Dravidian architecture and towering gopuram, this temple is one of the richest and most famous in India. Please note that entry is restricted to Hindus, and a strict dress code is enforced.
• Next, visit the Napier Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, bronze idols, and traditional ornaments. The museum's unique architectural style, combining Indian, Chinese, Kerala, and Mughal influences, makes it a fascinating place to explore.
• Adjacent to the Napier Museum is the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, home to an extensive collection of traditional and contemporary Indian art. The gallery features works by renowned artists like Raja Ravi Varma and Nicholas Roerich, as well as Tanjore, Mughal, and Rajput paintings.
• Continue your tour with a visit to the Kuthiramalika (Puthenmalika) Palace Museum, a magnificent palace built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma. The museum showcases a rich collection of royal family artifacts, including paintings, musical instruments, and exquisite wooden carvings.
• Before returning to Kovalam, take a stroll through the Zoological Gardens, one of the oldest zoos in India, set within a lush, beautifully landscaped park. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, birds, and reptiles, providing an enjoyable and educational experience.

Return to Kovalam in the afternoon, where you can spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach. Head to Lighthouse Beach or Hawah Beach to soak up the sun, swim in the warm waters, or enjoy water sports like surfing and parasailing. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the beach, watching the sunset and feeling the cool sea breeze. Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local Kerala dishes while listening to the gentle sound of the waves.

Conclude your day with a peaceful evening by the sea, reflecting on the rich cultural heritage of Trivandrum and the natural beauty of Kovalam. Return to your accommodation for a restful night’s sleep, ready for the next day of your journey.

Your day begins with the refreshing sea breeze of Kovalam, as you prepare for an unforgettable excursion to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India. Known as Cape Comorin, this enchanting town is where the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean converge. Your journey takes you along the scenic coastal road, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the picturesque countryside.

Upon arrival in Kanyakumari, start your sightseeing tour with a visit to the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial. This serene spot, accessible by ferry, is dedicated to Swami Vivekananda who is said to have meditated here. The memorial offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding waters and the town. Next, head to the Thiruvalluvar Statue, a towering tribute to the renowned Tamil poet and philosopher, which stands majestically on a nearby island.

Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the pristine Kanyakumari Beach. The beach is renowned for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views, where you can witness the sun painting the sky in hues of orange and pink as it rises and sets over the horizon. Don't miss the chance to visit the Gandhi Memorial, built on the spot where Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were kept before immersion, and the Kanyakumari Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to the virgin goddess Devi Kanya Kumari.

As you explore, enjoy the vibrant local markets, where you can shop for seashell artifacts, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Savor the local cuisine at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood delicacies and traditional South Indian dishes.

In the late afternoon, begin your return journey to Kovalam, reflecting on the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty you’ve experienced throughout the day. This excursion not only enhances your understanding of India's diverse landscapes and traditions but also leaves you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Start your final day in Kovalam with a relaxed breakfast at your accommodation. With the morning free until checkout, you have the opportunity to enjoy some leisure time. Here are a few options for your morning: Relax on the Beach, Ayurvedic Spa Treatment, Shopping for Souvenirs, Short Walk or Exploration etc.

After enjoying your morning activities, return to your accommodation, pack your belongings, and check out. Depending on your flight schedule, you might want to have a light lunch at a local restaurant.

Later, your driver will pick you up for the transfer to Trivandrum Airport. The drive from Kovalam to Trivandrum Airport typically takes around 30-45 minutes, ensuring you have plenty of time to complete check-in and security procedures comfortably. Safe travels and hope you have a pleasant flight back home! with everlasting memories of Kerala tour package.