✨ Highlights
  • Kolukkumalai: the world's highest tea plantation at 2,400 m, 1930s factory still in operation
  • Alleppey backwaters: kettuvallam cruise on Vembanad Lake, India's longest lake (96 km)
  • Paradesi Synagogue from 1568: hand-painted Chinese porcelain floor, Belgian chandeliers, and 1,600-year-old copper plates
  • Kollam: one of the world's four great trading ports in the 13th century alongside Alexandria, Quanzhou, and Malacca
📆 Best period

October, November, December, January, February, March

⏳ How many days

This itinerary is sized for 12 days. A faster version would fit in 6 days, but you'd lose actual visiting time.

☀️ Weather

Winter (October-March): Perfect weather, cool temperatures, dry conditions, peak tourist season, ideal touring, clear skies, advance booking essential.

Shoulder Season (April & September): Good weather, fewer crowds, moderate temperatures, reasonable prices, transitional seasons, excellent value.

Summer (April-June): Hot weather, challenging conditions, hill stations popular, lowest prices, fewer tourists, air conditioning essential.

Monsoon (June-September): Heavy rainfall, lush landscapes, romantic atmosphere, lowest prices, challenging travel, cultural experiences, spiritual season.

Regional Variations: Diverse climates, altitude differences, seasonal patterns, weather monitoring, regional planning, flexible scheduling essential.

🌍 Discover

Incredible diversity with ancient spirituality, vibrant colors, and rich cultural heritage. Experience Taj Mahal, spiritual traditions, and authentic Indian culture. The country offers cultural immersion with historical significance and culinary excellence. India provides life-changing cultural experiences with incredible diversity and spiritual depth.

📋 Notes

The southwest monsoon (June to September) renders the backwaters impassable and mountain roads to Munnar treacherous. Houseboats must dock before sunset. Book houseboats well in advance during peak season (December-January). Paradesi Synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Jewish holidays.

Official recommendations (UK Travel Advice)

💰 Budget
✈️ Book a flight 🚗 Rent a car ✈️ Your trips
Kerala Backwaters, Tea Hills & Coast Circuit

Kerala Backwaters, Tea Hills & Coast Circuit

📅 12 days📍 10 stops🚗 589 km⏱ 15h

Kochi → Munnar → Alappuzha → Kollam → Varkala

Kochi → Munnar → Alappuzha → Kollam → Varkala

From cosmopolitan Kochi to spiritual Varkala, this 12 days circuit traverses the best of Kerala: the colonial lanes of Fort Kochi, the tea plantations of Munnar at 1,600 meters, the backwater canals of Alleppey aboard a houseboat, the millennial port of Kollam, and the Arabian Sea cliffs of Varkala. A journey between water, mountain, and sand that follows the slow, soothing rhythm of South India.

From cosmopolitan Kochi to spiritual Varkala, this 12 days circuit traverses the best of Kerala: the colonial lanes of Fort Kochi, the tea plantations of Munnar at 1,600 meters, the backwater canals of Alleppey aboard a houseboat, the millennial port of Kollam, and the Arabian Sea cliffs of Varkala. A journey between water, mountain, and sand that follows the slow, soothing rhythm of South India.
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Kochi

★★★★★
Kochi 1
Kochi 2
1

You land at Cochin International Airport in Nedumbassery, roughly 40 km from Fort Kochi. Plan on a solid hour's drive to reach the historic quarter—the route cuts through paddy fields and coconut-lined canals that set the tone for the entire journey. Check into your accommodation and take time to acclimatize to Kerala's humid warmth.

⏱ 90 min
2

Late afternoon, head to Fort Kochi Beach promenade to witness the Chinese fishing nets—massive cantilevered structures of teak and bamboo mounted on granite counterweights, in use since the 14th century and introduced, according to tradition, by merchants from Kublai Khan's court. The spectacle peaks at sunset, when fishermen work the nets by sheer muscle power. If hunger strikes, vendors right beside the nets will grill the fresh fish you pick from their catch.

⏱ 60 min

Activities

Wander through Fort Kochi's lanes as dusk falls. Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial facades succeed one another within a few hundred meters—an architectural palimpsest found nowhere else in India. You'll stumble upon contemporary art galleries installed in former spice warehouses, cafés tucked into Dutch houses, and street art murals. The atmosphere is serene, a world apart from the chaos of India's megacities.

⏱ 75 min

Where to stay in Kochi

J
joseys homestayjoseys homestay
$
joseys homestay9.4
Budget

Comfortable Accommodation: Joseys Homestay in Cochin offers a garden and terrace, providing a relaxing…

Comfortable Accommodation: Joseys Homestay in Cochin offers a garden and terrace, providing a relaxing environment for guests. Each room features a private bathroom with free toiletries, a shower, and tiled floors. Breakfast and Parking: A breakfast is served in the room, highly appreciated by guests. The property includes free parking, ensuring convenience for all visitors. Prime Location: Located 44 km from Cochin International Airport, the homestay is a short walk from Fort Kochi Beach and close to attractions such as Kochi Biennale and Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica. Guest Satisfaction: Highly rated for its friendly host, excellent breakfast, and immaculate room cleanliness, Joseys Homestay provides a comfortable and memorable stay.

Book this hotel
J
Jasmin VillaJasmin Villa
$$
Jasmin Villa9.7
Mid-range

Comfortable Accommodations: Jasmin Villa in Cochin offers recently renovated homestay accommodations with…

Comfortable Accommodations: Jasmin Villa in Cochin offers recently renovated homestay accommodations with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and garden views. Each room includes a balcony or patio, work desk, and free toiletries. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy a garden, terrace, and free WiFi. Additional amenities include a shared kitchen, minimarket, and outdoor seating area. The property provides a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, and room service. Delicious Breakfast: A variety of breakfast options are available, including continental, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. Breakfast is highly praised by guests for its quality and diversity. Prime Location: Located 42 km from Cochin International Airport, the homestay is near attractions such as Kochi Biennale (1.

Book this hotel
O
Old Harbour HotelOld Harbour Hotel
$$$
Old Harbour Hotel9.5
Premium

Old Harbour Hotel is a 300 year old Portuguese restored mansion located in Fort Kochi, Cochin.

Old Harbour Hotel is a 300 year old Portuguese restored mansion located in Fort Kochi, Cochin. Free WiFi access is available in the public areas of the property. The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant. Each room here will provide you with air conditioning, a minibar and a seating area. There is also an electric kettle. Featuring a shower, private bathroom also comes with free toiletries and slippers. At Old Harbour Hotel you will find a 24-hour front desk, a garden and a terrace. Other facilities offered at the property include tour desk and luggage storage. The property offers free parking. The hotel is 50 metres from the Chinese Fishing Net, 100 metres from the Vasco Da Gama Church and 2 km from the Dutch Palace and the Jewish Synagogue.

Book this hotel
J
joseys homestay
$
joseys homestay
9.4Budget
J
Jasmin Villa
$$
Jasmin Villa
9.7Mid-range
O
Old Harbour Hotel
$$$
Old Harbour Hotel
9.5Premium

Kochi

★★★★★
Kochi 1
Kochi 2
Kochi 3
1

Start at St. Francis Church, built of timber in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars—it's the oldest European church in India. The current stone building dates to 1516. Vasco da Gama was buried here in 1524 during his third voyage to India; his remains weren't repatriated to Lisbon until 14 years later, but you'll still see his original tombstone inside. The church passed from Portuguese hands to the Dutch in 1663, then to the British in 1795—each occupant left its mark. Free entry, open 9am–5pm except during Sunday services.

⏱ 45 min
2

A few minutes' walk brings you to Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, originally erected by the Portuguese in 1505 and rebuilt in its present neo-Gothic form in 1902. The interior will surprise you—pastel ceiling frescoes and a richly carved altar offer a burst of color that contrasts sharply with the whitewashed exterior. Stained-glass windows filter soft light into the nave, lending it a contemplative atmosphere even at midday.

⏱ 40 min
3

Catch an auto-rickshaw or ferry to Mattancherry to visit Paradesi Synagogue, built in 1568 by Sephardic Jews who fled Spain and Portugal. The floor is paved with hundreds of hand-painted porcelain tiles imported from Canton in the 18th century—each one unique. 19th-century Belgian crystal chandeliers hang above a brass pulpit. The synagogue also preserves copper plates engraved in ancient Malayalam 1,600 years ago, detailing privileges granted to the Jewish community by the Cochin raja. Note: closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Jewish holidays. Enter barefoot.

⏱ 60 min
4

Exiting the synagogue, lose yourself in the alleys of Jew Town and Mattancherry spice market. The air is thick with cardamom, pepper, turmeric, and cloves—the same spices that drew Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Europeans to this coast for millennia. Antique shops overflow with colonial furniture, vintage porcelain, and old coins. Bargain, but keep in mind that prices here are already more reasonable than Delhi or Mumbai.

⏱ 60 min

Activities

In the evening, attend a Kathakali dance performance. This four-century-old theatrical form from Kerala blends dance, mime, and music. Artists spend over an hour applying makeup—green faces for heroes, red for villains—using natural pigments layered on thickly. Arrive 30 minutes before the show to watch the makeup application, often open to the public. Count on around 1.5 hours for the full experience.

⏱ 90 min

Where to stay in Kochi

J
joseys homestayjoseys homestay
$
joseys homestay9.4
Budget

Comfortable Accommodation: Joseys Homestay in Cochin offers a garden and terrace, providing a relaxing…

Comfortable Accommodation: Joseys Homestay in Cochin offers a garden and terrace, providing a relaxing environment for guests. Each room features a private bathroom with free toiletries, a shower, and tiled floors. Breakfast and Parking: A breakfast is served in the room, highly appreciated by guests. The property includes free parking, ensuring convenience for all visitors. Prime Location: Located 44 km from Cochin International Airport, the homestay is a short walk from Fort Kochi Beach and close to attractions such as Kochi Biennale and Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica. Guest Satisfaction: Highly rated for its friendly host, excellent breakfast, and immaculate room cleanliness, Joseys Homestay provides a comfortable and memorable stay.

Book this hotel
J
Jasmin VillaJasmin Villa
$$
Jasmin Villa9.7
Mid-range

Comfortable Accommodations: Jasmin Villa in Cochin offers recently renovated homestay accommodations with…

Comfortable Accommodations: Jasmin Villa in Cochin offers recently renovated homestay accommodations with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and garden views. Each room includes a balcony or patio, work desk, and free toiletries. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy a garden, terrace, and free WiFi. Additional amenities include a shared kitchen, minimarket, and outdoor seating area. The property provides a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, and room service. Delicious Breakfast: A variety of breakfast options are available, including continental, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. Breakfast is highly praised by guests for its quality and diversity. Prime Location: Located 42 km from Cochin International Airport, the homestay is near attractions such as Kochi Biennale (1.

Book this hotel
O
Old Harbour HotelOld Harbour Hotel
$$$
Old Harbour Hotel9.5
Premium

Old Harbour Hotel is a 300 year old Portuguese restored mansion located in Fort Kochi, Cochin.

Old Harbour Hotel is a 300 year old Portuguese restored mansion located in Fort Kochi, Cochin. Free WiFi access is available in the public areas of the property. The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant. Each room here will provide you with air conditioning, a minibar and a seating area. There is also an electric kettle. Featuring a shower, private bathroom also comes with free toiletries and slippers. At Old Harbour Hotel you will find a 24-hour front desk, a garden and a terrace. Other facilities offered at the property include tour desk and luggage storage. The property offers free parking. The hotel is 50 metres from the Chinese Fishing Net, 100 metres from the Vasco Da Gama Church and 2 km from the Dutch Palace and the Jewish Synagogue.

Book this hotel
J
joseys homestay
$
joseys homestay
9.4Budget
J
Jasmin Villa
$$
Jasmin Villa
9.7Mid-range
O
Old Harbour Hotel
$$$
Old Harbour Hotel
9.5Premium
🚗Drive to next stop: 130 km · 4h

Munnar

★★★★☆
Munnar
1

The drive from Kochi to Munnar (130 km, 4 hours) is a spectacle in itself—don't treat it as mere transit. You climb gradually from the coastal plain into the Western Ghats, passing cardamom, pepper, and rubber plantations. Stop at Cheeyappara Falls, a seven-tiered cascade visible from the road. The higher you climb, the cooler the temperature and the thicker the mist rolling between the hills.

⏱ 240 min
2

Arriving in Munnar, perched around 1,600 meters above sea level, you'll be struck by the sweep of tea estates—rows of emerald-green bushes conforming to every hillside curve as far as the eye can see. Take an initial stroll through the tea gardens near the town center. The air is crisp and fragrant—a bracing contrast to the humid heat of Kochi just hours earlier.

⏱ 60 min
Munnar

Activities

Settle into your lodging and treat yourself to a tea tasting. Munnar produces some of India's finest teas—Broken Orange Pekoe and Flowery Orange Pekoe varieties are particularly prized. If your accommodation sits amid the plantations, the sunset view from the terrace, with mist rising between the tea rows, is a moment of pure tranquility.

⏱ 60 min

Where to stay in Munnar

T
Thoppil Homestay MunnarThoppil Homestay Munnar
$
Thoppil Homestay Munnar9.5
Budget

Comfortable Accommodation: Thoppil Homestay Munnar in Munnar offers family rooms with private bathrooms,…

Comfortable Accommodation: Thoppil Homestay Munnar in Munnar offers family rooms with private bathrooms, balconies, and mountain views. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free WiFi. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy free use of bicycles, a garden, and an outdoor fireplace. Additional amenities include a lounge, outdoor seating area, and picnic spots. Delicious Breakfast: A variety of breakfast options are available, including vegetarian, vegan, and Asian selections. Convenient Location: Located 20 km from Munnar Tea Museum, 25 km from Cheeyappara Waterfalls, and 87 km from Cochin International Airport. Nearby attractions include Mattupetty Dam and Eravikulam National Park. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.0 for a two-person trip.

Book this hotel
T
The Feel Munnar ResortThe Feel Munnar Resort
$$
The Feel Munnar Resort9.4
Mid-range

Comfortable Accommodations: The Feel Munnar Resort in Munnar offers family rooms with air-conditioning,…

Comfortable Accommodations: The Feel Munnar Resort in Munnar offers family rooms with air-conditioning, balconies, and private bathrooms. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free toiletries. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy an infinity swimming pool, lush garden, and modern restaurant. Free WiFi is available throughout the resort. Additional amenities include a hot tub, spa bath, and outdoor seating areas. Dining Experience: The family-friendly restaurant serves Chinese, Indian, and local cuisines for lunch and dinner. Breakfast options include buffet, vegetarian, halal, and kosher. Convenient Location: Located 92 km from Cochin International Airport, the resort is near attractions such as Munnar Tea Museum (15 km) and Mattupetty Dam (24 km).

Book this hotel
E
ElakaiElakai
$$$
Elakai9.7
Premium

Spacious Accommodation: Elakai in Munnar offers a spacious villa with two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Spacious Accommodation: Elakai in Munnar offers a spacious villa with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The property features a living room, balcony with lake and mountain views, and a fully equipped kitchen. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy a lush garden, free WiFi, and private check-in and check-out services. Additional amenities include a hot tub, concierge service, and a games room. Comfortable Living: The villa provides air-conditioning, a kitchenette, and a dining area. Breakfast options include continental, à la carte, and Asian, with local specialities, juice, and fruits. Nearby Attractions: Located 2 km from Munnar Tea Museum and 34 km from Mattupetty Dam, Elakai offers easy access to key sites. Cochin International Airport is 119 km away.

Book this hotel
T
Thoppil Homestay Munnar
$
Thoppil Homestay Munnar
9.5Budget
T
The Feel Munnar Resort
$$
The Feel Munnar Resort
9.4Mid-range
E
Elakai
$$$
Elakai
9.7Premium

Munnar

★★★★☆
Munnar 1
Munnar 2
1

Rise before dawn to reach Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, the world's highest tea plantation at 2,400 meters. Access is by 4x4 jeep only—17 km of bone-rattling dirt track from Suryanelli. The ride is rough but the views are breathtaking. The factory, dating from the 1930s, still produces tea by the orthodox colonial method, no modern machinery. You'll watch pickers harvest 60 kg of leaves per day by hand. Sunrise over the Tamil Nadu plains from the summit is one of South India's finest.

⏱ 180 min
2

Back in Munnar, visit the Tea Museum in the Nallathanni estate. It traces the region's tea-growing history, launched by the British in the late 19th century, with period machinery, colonial photographs, and craft artifacts. Open 9am–5pm, closed Mondays. Allow 45 minutes.

⏱ 45 min
3

If time permits, push on to Top Station, Munnar's highest point (around 1,880 m), 32 km from town. The view plunges into the Theni valley on the Tamil Nadu side and across the Western Ghats. On clear days you can glimpse the Nilgiris in the distance. Morning is best—by afternoon, mist swallows everything.

⏱ 75 min
4

For wildlife enthusiasts, Eravikulam National Park shelters the Nilgiri tahr, an endangered endemic mountain goat with only around 2,500 individuals remaining. The park is accessible on foot from the Rajamalai entrance. Tahrs are habituated to visitors and allow close approach—a rare sight. The park closes during the calving season (January–March). Check opening times before heading out.

⏱ 90 min

Activities

Late in the day, savor a quiet moment facing the mist-shrouded hills. If you've got energy left, a short hike to Pothamedu viewpoint offers a panorama over tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations—especially beautiful in the golden evening light.

⏱ 60 min

Where to stay in Munnar

T
Thoppil Homestay MunnarThoppil Homestay Munnar
$
Thoppil Homestay Munnar9.5
Budget

Comfortable Accommodation: Thoppil Homestay Munnar in Munnar offers family rooms with private bathrooms,…

Comfortable Accommodation: Thoppil Homestay Munnar in Munnar offers family rooms with private bathrooms, balconies, and mountain views. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free WiFi. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy free use of bicycles, a garden, and an outdoor fireplace. Additional amenities include a lounge, outdoor seating area, and picnic spots. Delicious Breakfast: A variety of breakfast options are available, including vegetarian, vegan, and Asian selections. Convenient Location: Located 20 km from Munnar Tea Museum, 25 km from Cheeyappara Waterfalls, and 87 km from Cochin International Airport. Nearby attractions include Mattupetty Dam and Eravikulam National Park. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.0 for a two-person trip.

Book this hotel
T
The Feel Munnar ResortThe Feel Munnar Resort
$$
The Feel Munnar Resort9.4
Mid-range

Comfortable Accommodations: The Feel Munnar Resort in Munnar offers family rooms with air-conditioning,…

Comfortable Accommodations: The Feel Munnar Resort in Munnar offers family rooms with air-conditioning, balconies, and private bathrooms. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free toiletries. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy an infinity swimming pool, lush garden, and modern restaurant. Free WiFi is available throughout the resort. Additional amenities include a hot tub, spa bath, and outdoor seating areas. Dining Experience: The family-friendly restaurant serves Chinese, Indian, and local cuisines for lunch and dinner. Breakfast options include buffet, vegetarian, halal, and kosher. Convenient Location: Located 92 km from Cochin International Airport, the resort is near attractions such as Munnar Tea Museum (15 km) and Mattupetty Dam (24 km).

Book this hotel
E
ElakaiElakai
$$$
Elakai9.7
Premium

Spacious Accommodation: Elakai in Munnar offers a spacious villa with two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Spacious Accommodation: Elakai in Munnar offers a spacious villa with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The property features a living room, balcony with lake and mountain views, and a fully equipped kitchen. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy a lush garden, free WiFi, and private check-in and check-out services. Additional amenities include a hot tub, concierge service, and a games room. Comfortable Living: The villa provides air-conditioning, a kitchenette, and a dining area. Breakfast options include continental, à la carte, and Asian, with local specialities, juice, and fruits. Nearby Attractions: Located 2 km from Munnar Tea Museum and 34 km from Mattupetty Dam, Elakai offers easy access to key sites. Cochin International Airport is 119 km away.

Book this hotel
T
Thoppil Homestay Munnar
$
Thoppil Homestay Munnar
9.5Budget
T
The Feel Munnar Resort
$$
The Feel Munnar Resort
9.4Mid-range
E
Elakai
$$$
Elakai
9.7Premium
🚗Drive to next stop: 165 km · 4h30

Alappuzha

★★★★☆
Alappuzha
1

The descent from Munnar to Alleppey (165 km, 4.5 hours) is as spectacular as the ascent: you leave the tea estates, crossing spice forests, waterfalls, and Tamil villages before returning to the coastal plain. The lower you drop, the more heat and humidity return—brace yourself for the shift. Stop en route for lunch at a "meals" restaurant (local canteen): rice, sambar, rasam, and vegetables served on a banana leaf.

⏱ 270 min
2

Arriving in Alleppey, board a kettuvallam—these traditional houseboats, 20 to 25 meters long, built from jackwood planks assembled without a single nail, bound with coir rope (coconut fiber), and waterproofed with fish oil. Once used to transport rice from the flooded paddies of Kuttanad, they've been converted into floating accommodations with bedroom, bathroom, and galley. You glide through a labyrinth of coconut-fringed canals, passing fishermen casting nets and children waving from the banks.

⏱ 120 min
Alappuzha

Activities

Dine aboard the boat—the cook prepares Keralan dishes with ingredients bought that very morning from riverside villages. Karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot grilled in a banana leaf) is the local specialty not to miss. Watch the sun set from the upper deck, with Vembanad Lake—India's longest lake at 96 km—turning shades of orange and rose. Boats must moor before nightfall so as not to interfere with fishing.

⏱ 120 min

Where to stay in Alappuzha

T
The Mayflower - Heritage VillaThe Mayflower - Heritage Villa
$
The Mayflower - Heritage Villa9.6
Budget

Comfortable Accommodation: The Mayflower - Heritage Villa in Alleppey offers homestay accommodation with a…

Comfortable Accommodation: The Mayflower - Heritage Villa in Alleppey offers homestay accommodation with a garden and free WiFi. Family rooms include air-conditioning, private bathrooms with baths and showers, and ground-floor units. Convenient Facilities: Guests can enjoy a shared kitchen, paid shuttle service, bike and car hire, and free on-site private parking. Additional amenities include a dining area, microwave, wardrobe, and garden views. Local Attractions: Alleppey Beach is less than 1 km away, while Alleppey Lighthouse is a 17-minute walk. Nearby attractions include Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple (2.3 km) and Alappuzha Railway Station (2.7 km). Boating is available in the surroundings.

Book this hotel
B
Beside The RiverBeside The River
$$
Beside The River9.7
Mid-range

Elegant Accommodation: Beside The River in Alleppey offers a serene guest house experience with a beautiful…

Elegant Accommodation: Beside The River in Alleppey offers a serene guest house experience with a beautiful garden and terrace. Guests enjoy free WiFi, air-conditioning, and stunning river views. Comfortable Amenities: Each room features a private bathroom, balcony, and dining area. Additional amenities include a tea and coffee maker, hairdryer, refrigerator, and free toiletries. Convenient Location: Located 95 km from Cochin International Airport, the property is close to attractions such as Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple (10 km), Alappuzha Railway Station (11 km), and Alleppey Lighthouse (12 km). Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.8 for a two-person trip. Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

Book this hotel
K
Kalappura Houseboats & ToursKalappura Houseboats & Tours
$$$
Kalappura Houseboats & Tours9.7
Premium

Comfortable Accommodation: Kalappura Houseboats & Tours in Alleppey offers a sun terrace, restaurant, and…

Comfortable Accommodation: Kalappura Houseboats & Tours in Alleppey offers a sun terrace, restaurant, and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy lake and river views from their balconies or terraces. Dining Experience: The family-friendly restaurant serves Indian cuisine with vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free options. Meals include brunch, lunch, dinner, high tea, and cocktails in traditional, modern, and romantic ambiances. Amenities and Activities: The boat features air-conditioning, kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and outdoor dining areas. Activities include fishing and film nights. Nearby attractions include Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple, a 9-minute walk away. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.8 for a two-person trip.

Book this hotel
T
The Mayflower - Heritage Villa
$
The Mayflower - Heritage Villa
9.6Budget
B
Beside The River
$$
Beside The River
9.7Mid-range
K
Kalappura Houseboats & Tours
$$$
Kalappura Houseboats & Tours
9.7Premium

Alappuzha

★★★★☆
Alappuzha 1
Alappuzha 2
1

Wake on the water—breakfast served on the boat deck, facing the silent morning canals, is one of those moments that alone justify the journey. The morning cruise passes through Kuttanad, nicknamed the "rice bowl of Kerala": it's one of the few places on earth where rice is grown 1.5 to 2 meters below sea level. The FAO has designated this farming system a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System.

⏱ 120 min
2

After disembarking, explore the village on foot to observe daily life along the canals: coir rope making, fish drying, women in saris washing clothes on the ghats. Locals are welcoming and curious—a smile and a "namaskaram" open every door.

⏱ 60 min
3

For deeper immersion, board a wooden canoe—these flat-bottomed craft slip into narrow channels where houseboats can't go. You'll glide beneath tunnels of tropical vegetation, threading between water lilies and kingfishers. Count on 1 to 1.5 hours for this silent excursion.

⏱ 90 min

Activities

Spend the afternoon birdwatching along the Vembanad banks. Herons, cormorants, egrets, kingfishers—the diversity is remarkable. If you're into photography, the late-afternoon light on the canals offers perfect conditions. Finish the day with a stroll on Alleppey Beach, a long ribbon of golden sand facing the Arabian Sea, often deserted by tourists who stick to the backwaters.

⏱ 90 min

Where to stay in Alappuzha

T
The Mayflower - Heritage VillaThe Mayflower - Heritage Villa
$
The Mayflower - Heritage Villa9.6
Budget

Comfortable Accommodation: The Mayflower - Heritage Villa in Alleppey offers homestay accommodation with a…

Comfortable Accommodation: The Mayflower - Heritage Villa in Alleppey offers homestay accommodation with a garden and free WiFi. Family rooms include air-conditioning, private bathrooms with baths and showers, and ground-floor units. Convenient Facilities: Guests can enjoy a shared kitchen, paid shuttle service, bike and car hire, and free on-site private parking. Additional amenities include a dining area, microwave, wardrobe, and garden views. Local Attractions: Alleppey Beach is less than 1 km away, while Alleppey Lighthouse is a 17-minute walk. Nearby attractions include Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple (2.3 km) and Alappuzha Railway Station (2.7 km). Boating is available in the surroundings.

Book this hotel
B
Beside The RiverBeside The River
$$
Beside The River9.7
Mid-range

Elegant Accommodation: Beside The River in Alleppey offers a serene guest house experience with a beautiful…

Elegant Accommodation: Beside The River in Alleppey offers a serene guest house experience with a beautiful garden and terrace. Guests enjoy free WiFi, air-conditioning, and stunning river views. Comfortable Amenities: Each room features a private bathroom, balcony, and dining area. Additional amenities include a tea and coffee maker, hairdryer, refrigerator, and free toiletries. Convenient Location: Located 95 km from Cochin International Airport, the property is close to attractions such as Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple (10 km), Alappuzha Railway Station (11 km), and Alleppey Lighthouse (12 km). Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.8 for a two-person trip. Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

Book this hotel
K
Kalappura Houseboats & ToursKalappura Houseboats & Tours
$$$
Kalappura Houseboats & Tours9.7
Premium

Comfortable Accommodation: Kalappura Houseboats & Tours in Alleppey offers a sun terrace, restaurant, and…

Comfortable Accommodation: Kalappura Houseboats & Tours in Alleppey offers a sun terrace, restaurant, and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy lake and river views from their balconies or terraces. Dining Experience: The family-friendly restaurant serves Indian cuisine with vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free options. Meals include brunch, lunch, dinner, high tea, and cocktails in traditional, modern, and romantic ambiances. Amenities and Activities: The boat features air-conditioning, kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and outdoor dining areas. Activities include fishing and film nights. Nearby attractions include Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple, a 9-minute walk away. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.8 for a two-person trip.

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T
The Mayflower - Heritage Villa
$
The Mayflower - Heritage Villa
9.6Budget
B
Beside The River
$$
Beside The River
9.7Mid-range
K
Kalappura Houseboats & Tours
$$$
Kalappura Houseboats & Tours
9.7Premium
🚗Drive to next stop: 70 km · 2h

Kollam

★★☆☆☆
Kollam 1
Kollam 2
Kollam 3
1

Leave Alleppey southward for Kollam (70 km, 2 hours), one of the world's oldest trading ports. Marco Polo described it in the 13th century under the name "Coilum," and Ibn Battuta in the 14th century counted it among the five greatest ports he'd seen in 24 years of travel. Phoenicians, Romans, Chinese, and Arabs traded spices, silk, and porcelain here for millennia. Today, the town is the global cashew capital—you'll catch the roasting aroma in certain neighborhoods.

⏱ 120 min
2

Visit Ashtamudi Lake, Kerala's second-largest body of water, a Ramsar-designated wetland. Its name means "eight arms" in Malayalam, referring to the eight channels branching through the mangroves. It's the southern gateway to the backwaters, far quieter than Alleppey. If you haven't had your fill of canals, a short cruise on Ashtamudi will offer wilder scenery, with coconut palms leaning over the water and sleepy fishing villages.

⏱ 90 min
3

Detour to Munroe Island (Munroethuruthu), an archipelago of eight small islands at the confluence of Ashtamudi and the Kallada River. You reach it by boat. Life here has remained virtually unchanged—copra drying, toddy (palm wine) production, shrimp fishing in the canals. Allow 2 to 3 hours for a boat tour with a local guide.

⏱ 150 min

Activities

Late in the day, climb Thangassery Lighthouse, a relic of Portuguese and then Dutch presence on this coast. From the top, the view sweeps across the Arabian Sea and the red roofs of the old colonial quarter. Thangassery was the first European trading post established in Kollam in 1502. Catch the sunset from the adjacent beach.

⏱ 60 min

Where to stay in Kollam

P
Panamthodil PSRA-147Panamthodil PSRA-147
$
Panamthodil PSRA-14710
Budget

Comfortable Accommodation: Panamthodil PSRA-147 in Kollam offers a holiday home with one bedroom and two…

Comfortable Accommodation: Panamthodil PSRA-147 in Kollam offers a holiday home with one bedroom and two bathrooms. The property includes a fully equipped kitchen and a washing machine, ensuring a pleasant stay. Convenient Amenities: Guests benefit from free on-site private parking and access to a washing machine. The holiday home provides a comfortable environment with modern amenities. Local Attractions: Thangassery Light House is a 15-minute walk away, while Thirumullavaram Beach lies 2.3 km from the property. Other attractions include Ashtamudi Lake (12 km) and Kollam Railway Station (3.4 km). Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is 64 km distant. Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

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A
A S home stayA S home stay
$$
A S home stay10
Mid-range

Spacious Accommodation: A S home stay in Kollam offers a spacious apartment with two bedrooms and two…

Spacious Accommodation: A S home stay in Kollam offers a spacious apartment with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The living room provides ample space for relaxation. Modern Amenities: Guests enjoy free WiFi, air-conditioning, and a terrace. The apartment includes a kitchenette, balcony, washing machine, and TV. Convenient Facilities: The property features a hot tub and free on-site private parking. An electric vehicle charging station is available for electric vehicle owners. Local Attractions: Kollam Railway Station is 1.9 km away. Nearby attractions include Ashtamudi Lake (16 km), Thangassery Light House (4.7 km), and Varkala Cliff (25 km). Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is 65 km from the apartment. Boating is available in the surroundings.

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M
Mayooram Back water Pool VillaMayooram Back water Pool Villa
$$$
Mayooram Back water Pool Villa10
Premium

Elegant Accommodation: Mayooram Back water Pool Villa in Kollam offers a villa with one bedroom, two…

Elegant Accommodation: Mayooram Back water Pool Villa in Kollam offers a villa with one bedroom, two bathrooms, and a spacious living room. Guests enjoy a rooftop swimming pool, indoor pool, and a lush garden. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Comfortable Amenities: The villa features air-conditioning, a kitchenette, washing machine, and a private pool. Additional amenities include a minibar, TV, and kitchenware. Free bicycles are provided for exploring the surroundings. Convenient Location: Located 15 km from Ashtamudi Lake and 7 km from Kollam Railway Station, the property is close to attractions such as Thangassery Light House (9 km) and Varkala Cliff (28 km). Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is 65 km away.

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P
Panamthodil PSRA-147
$
Panamthodil PSRA-147
10Budget
A
A S home stay
$$
A S home stay
10Mid-range
M
Mayooram Back water Pool Villa
$$$
Mayooram Back water Pool Villa
10Premium
🚗Drive to next stop: 40 km · 1h

Varkala

★★★☆☆
Varkala
1

The drive from Kollam to Varkala is short (40 km, 1 hour)—you'll arrive mid-morning. Varkala is the antithesis of Kerala's flat beaches: here, reddish laterite cliffs 15 to 20 meters high plunge straight into the Arabian Sea. The path along the clifftop, lined with cafés, boutiques, and bougainvillea, is one of South India's loveliest coastal walks.

⏱ 60 min
2

Descend the steps to Papanasam Beach, the main beach at the cliff's foot. Its name means "destruction of sins" in Sanskrit—Hindus believe bathing here washes away sins. The beach is monitored by lifeguards, but watch for currents—they can be strong, especially during the monsoon. Early morning, you'll see fishermen hauling nets onto the sand.

⏱ 90 min
Varkala

Activities

Settle on the clifftop for sunset—it's Varkala's daily ritual. Terrace cafés fill up as the sun descends toward the horizon. The vibe is laid-back, almost hippie—far from the mass tourism of Goa. If you fancy an Ayurvedic massage, reputable centers along the cliff offer traditional treatments. Stick with those affiliated to the Kerala government for quality.

⏱ 90 min

Where to stay in Varkala

P
PlanNothing Surf & StayPlanNothing Surf & Stay
$
PlanNothing Surf & Stay10
Budget

Comfortable Accommodations: PlanNothing Surf & Stay in Varkala offers family rooms with private bathrooms,…

Comfortable Accommodations: PlanNothing Surf & Stay in Varkala offers family rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and free WiFi. Each room includes a walk-in shower, wardrobe, and carpeted or tiled floors. Relaxing Facilities: Guests can enjoy a garden, terrace, and outdoor seating area. The property features a lounge, shared kitchen, and 24-hour front desk. Free on-site private parking is available. Local Attractions: Varkala Beach is less than 1 km away, Varkala Cliff a 13-minute walk, and Janardhanaswamy Temple 1.6 km distant. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is 39 km from the property. Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

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G
G' de CASAG' de CASA
$$
G' de CASA9.5
Mid-range

Comfortable Accommodations: G' de CASA in Varkala offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private…

Comfortable Accommodations: G' de CASA in Varkala offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies. Each room includes a kitchenette, work desk, and free WiFi. Leisure Facilities: Guests can relax in the garden, terrace, or indoor swimming pool. Additional amenities include yoga classes, a lounge, and a business area. Convenient Location: Aaliyirakkm Beach is an 8-minute walk away, Janardhanaswamy Temple 700 metres nearby, and Varkala Cliff a 16-minute walk. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is 37 km from the property. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.8 for a two-person trip. Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

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V
Villa AkasaVilla Akasa
$$$
Villa Akasa9.6
Premium

Comfortable Accommodations: Villa Akasa in Varkala offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private…

Comfortable Accommodations: Villa Akasa in Varkala offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and garden views. Each room includes a balcony or patio, ensuring a pleasant stay. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy a sun terrace, year-round outdoor swimming pool, and free WiFi. Additional amenities include a garden, outdoor seating area, and free bicycles for exploring the surroundings. Delicious Breakfast: A variety of breakfast options are available, including local specialities, warm dishes, and fresh fruits. Vegetarian, halal, and Asian selections cater to diverse dietary needs.

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P
PlanNothing Surf & Stay
$
PlanNothing Surf & Stay
10Budget
G
G' de CASA
$$
G' de CASA
9.5Mid-range
V
Villa Akasa
$$$
Villa Akasa
9.6Premium

Varkala

★★★☆☆
Varkala 1
Varkala 2
1

Dedicate the morning to a surf lesson on Papanasam or Black Beach. Local operators offer beginner sessions of 1.5 to 2 hours, equipment included. Waves are moderate and suited to beginners—it's one of Kerala's best learning spots. Book early morning when waves and heat are gentler.

⏱ 120 min
2

Visit Janardhana Swami Temple, a shrine dedicated to Vishnu over 2,000 years old, perched on the cliff above Papanasam Beach. The temple is an important pilgrimage site—Keralans perform funerary rites by the sea here. The interior is reserved for Hindus, but the exterior architecture, sculptures, and atmosphere are worth the visit. A great sacred banyan shades the entrance.

⏱ 45 min
3

In the afternoon, push north to Kappil Beach, 6 km from Varkala. This beach is bordered by a lagoon—the mouth of the Edava River meets the sea in a landscape of sand, freshwater, and coconut palms. Much quieter than Papanasam, it's ideal for a calm swim or a picnic.

⏱ 90 min

Activities

Late in the day, join a Keralan cooking class. Operators in Varkala offer 2- to 3-hour workshops where you'll learn to prepare a tamarind fish curry, appam (fermented rice pancake), and payasam (coconut milk dessert). You cook and eat your own meal—a delicious way to close your penultimate evening in Kerala.

⏱ 150 min

Where to stay in Varkala

P
PlanNothing Surf & StayPlanNothing Surf & Stay
$
PlanNothing Surf & Stay10
Budget

Comfortable Accommodations: PlanNothing Surf & Stay in Varkala offers family rooms with private bathrooms,…

Comfortable Accommodations: PlanNothing Surf & Stay in Varkala offers family rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and free WiFi. Each room includes a walk-in shower, wardrobe, and carpeted or tiled floors. Relaxing Facilities: Guests can enjoy a garden, terrace, and outdoor seating area. The property features a lounge, shared kitchen, and 24-hour front desk. Free on-site private parking is available. Local Attractions: Varkala Beach is less than 1 km away, Varkala Cliff a 13-minute walk, and Janardhanaswamy Temple 1.6 km distant. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is 39 km from the property. Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

Book this hotel
G
G' de CASAG' de CASA
$$
G' de CASA9.5
Mid-range

Comfortable Accommodations: G' de CASA in Varkala offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private…

Comfortable Accommodations: G' de CASA in Varkala offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies. Each room includes a kitchenette, work desk, and free WiFi. Leisure Facilities: Guests can relax in the garden, terrace, or indoor swimming pool. Additional amenities include yoga classes, a lounge, and a business area. Convenient Location: Aaliyirakkm Beach is an 8-minute walk away, Janardhanaswamy Temple 700 metres nearby, and Varkala Cliff a 16-minute walk. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is 37 km from the property. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.8 for a two-person trip. Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

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V
Villa AkasaVilla Akasa
$$$
Villa Akasa9.6
Premium

Comfortable Accommodations: Villa Akasa in Varkala offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private…

Comfortable Accommodations: Villa Akasa in Varkala offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and garden views. Each room includes a balcony or patio, ensuring a pleasant stay. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy a sun terrace, year-round outdoor swimming pool, and free WiFi. Additional amenities include a garden, outdoor seating area, and free bicycles for exploring the surroundings. Delicious Breakfast: A variety of breakfast options are available, including local specialities, warm dishes, and fresh fruits. Vegetarian, halal, and Asian selections cater to diverse dietary needs.

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P
PlanNothing Surf & Stay
$
PlanNothing Surf & Stay
10Budget
G
G' de CASA
$$
G' de CASA
9.5Mid-range
V
Villa Akasa
$$$
Villa Akasa
9.6Premium
🚗Drive to next stop: 184 km · 3h30

Kochi

★★★★★
Kochi
1

The drive from Varkala to Kochi (184 km, 3.5 hours) takes you back north. If you leave early, you'll have time to visit Mattancherry Palace (also called the Dutch Palace), built by the Portuguese in 1555 as a gift to the Cochin raja, then renovated by the Dutch in 1663—hence its nickname. Don't miss the 17th-century murals illustrating scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata—they rank among Kerala's finest wall paintings. The palace also houses royal portraits, palanquins, and ceremonial garments.

⏱ 60 min
2

If your flight is in the evening, use the remaining time to explore Jew Town's antique shops—vintage ceramics, textiles, and brass objects. Or enjoy one last Keralan meal at a Fort Kochi restaurant: a full thali with rice boat (rice shaped like a boat), fried fish, mango pickle, and payasam for dessert. Cochin International Airport is about 1 hour 15 minutes from Fort Kochi—allow a comfortable margin.

⏱ 60 min
Kochi

Activities

Before leaving Kerala, if time allows, swing by Broadway Market in Ernakulam (the mainland part of Kochi). This covered market, far less touristy than Mattancherry, is where locals buy their spices, fabrics, and kitchen utensils. You'll find black pepper, green cardamom, and turmeric powder at unbeatable prices—perfect for useful souvenirs.

⏱ 60 min

Where to stay in Kochi

J
joseys homestayjoseys homestay
$
joseys homestay9.4
Budget

Comfortable Accommodation: Joseys Homestay in Cochin offers a garden and terrace, providing a relaxing…

Comfortable Accommodation: Joseys Homestay in Cochin offers a garden and terrace, providing a relaxing environment for guests. Each room features a private bathroom with free toiletries, a shower, and tiled floors. Breakfast and Parking: A breakfast is served in the room, highly appreciated by guests. The property includes free parking, ensuring convenience for all visitors. Prime Location: Located 44 km from Cochin International Airport, the homestay is a short walk from Fort Kochi Beach and close to attractions such as Kochi Biennale and Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica. Guest Satisfaction: Highly rated for its friendly host, excellent breakfast, and immaculate room cleanliness, Joseys Homestay provides a comfortable and memorable stay.

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J
Jasmin VillaJasmin Villa
$$
Jasmin Villa9.7
Mid-range

Comfortable Accommodations: Jasmin Villa in Cochin offers recently renovated homestay accommodations with…

Comfortable Accommodations: Jasmin Villa in Cochin offers recently renovated homestay accommodations with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and garden views. Each room includes a balcony or patio, work desk, and free toiletries. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy a garden, terrace, and free WiFi. Additional amenities include a shared kitchen, minimarket, and outdoor seating area. The property provides a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, and room service. Delicious Breakfast: A variety of breakfast options are available, including continental, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. Breakfast is highly praised by guests for its quality and diversity. Prime Location: Located 42 km from Cochin International Airport, the homestay is near attractions such as Kochi Biennale (1.

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O
Old Harbour HotelOld Harbour Hotel
$$$
Old Harbour Hotel9.5
Premium

Old Harbour Hotel is a 300 year old Portuguese restored mansion located in Fort Kochi, Cochin.

Old Harbour Hotel is a 300 year old Portuguese restored mansion located in Fort Kochi, Cochin. Free WiFi access is available in the public areas of the property. The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant. Each room here will provide you with air conditioning, a minibar and a seating area. There is also an electric kettle. Featuring a shower, private bathroom also comes with free toiletries and slippers. At Old Harbour Hotel you will find a 24-hour front desk, a garden and a terrace. Other facilities offered at the property include tour desk and luggage storage. The property offers free parking. The hotel is 50 metres from the Chinese Fishing Net, 100 metres from the Vasco Da Gama Church and 2 km from the Dutch Palace and the Jewish Synagogue.

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J
joseys homestay
$
joseys homestay
9.4Budget
J
Jasmin Villa
$$
Jasmin Villa
9.7Mid-range
O
Old Harbour Hotel
$$$
Old Harbour Hotel
9.5Premium

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India Grand Tour: From the Taj Mahal to the Backwaters30 days · 7595 km
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This itinerary has been reviewed several times before publication. If you spot an error, let us know. It is fully editable on this page (stops, durations, order) and you can add hotels, photos and reservations on the next page.