Spice Trails & Backwaters of Kerala, India 

Day Two: Cochin - Munnar

After breakfast, we set out on a scenic drive to Munnar, a hill station nestled in the Western Ghats and famed for its rolling tea plantations, misty hills, and cool climate. En route, we’ll pass lush forests, waterfalls, and spice plantations before arriving in Munnar. The afternoon is at leisure to soak in the endless green tea estates and perhaps enjoying a hot tea from the rooftop Thattukada.

Day Three: Letchmi Hills Tea Plantation Trek

This morning, we set out on a trek through the Letchmi Hills, an enchanting journey through some of Munnar’s most diverse and scenic landscapes. Starting at an elevation of around 1,450 metres, the trail begins with a walk through beautifully manicured tea plantations, offering a glimpse into the region’s world-famous tea culture. The trek then continues across rolling grasslands unique to the Western Ghats, where sweeping panoramic views unfold and there’s a chance to spot endemic wildlife in their natural habitat.

Day Four: Munnar - Thekkady

We leave the tea slopes of Munnar for the spice scented jungles surrounding Periyar National Park. Our route is dotted with hairpin bends and rolling hills, offering sweeping views of valleys blanketed in mist. As we approach Thekkady, the landscape changes to dense forests. Periyar National Park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, sambar deer, macaques, and tigers (though sightings are rare). On arrival, we check-in at the hotel perched on a misty hill overlooking the stunning Western Ghats. 

Day Five: Thekkady – Gateway to the Wild

We rise early for a boat safari on Periyar Lake, framed by forested hills and with opportunities to spot elephants, deer, bison and a variety of birdlife along the shoreline. We return to the hotel for breakfast. Later, we set out on a guided spice plantation tour, where we’ll stroll through lush estates and learn the secrets behind Kerala’s world-famous spices. After the tour, savour a traditional Kerala-style lunch hosted by a local family, an authentic experience of home-cooked cuisine.

Day six: Thekkady - Kumarakom

Today we embark on a scenic drive to Kumarakom. Along the way, we pass through lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and serene riverside villages, witnessing the tranquil beauty of Kerala’s lowlands and glimpses of local life.

Upon arrival in Kumarakom, we check-in to our backwater hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax, enjoying the views of Vembanad Lake, or strolling along the peaceful backwater canals.

Day Seven: Houseboat Cruise from Alleppey canals

We set off on a short drive to Alleppey for a day cruise through its famous backwaters. Known as the ‘Venice of the East,’ Alleppey is crisscrossed by a vast network of canals weaving through the town and surrounding villages. Upon arrival, board a traditional houseboat for a day cruise through the magical backwaters of Kerala. Glide across the expansive Vembanad Lake and along narrow canals, observing local life up close—from paddy fields to bustling village markets. Enjoy authentic Kerala meals served on board as we soak in the serene beauty of this unique landscape.

Day Eight: Free time in Kumarakom – or Kumarakom Village Experience (Optional)

Day Nine: Kumarakom - Cochin

We are driven to Cochin to begin a fascinating tour of this historic port city. After exploring Fort Kochi, we walk to the Church of St. Francis, the oldest European-built church in India. Continuinh to Mattancherry, we visit the historic synagogue in the Jewish Quarter and the Dutch Palace, renowned for its exquisite mural paintings depicting scenes from the Hindu epics. We then drive past the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and scenic Willingdon Island.

Day Ten: Depart Cochin

After a final breakfast together, we transfer to Cochin Airport for our onward flight.