Itinerary

Day 1, Kochi to Thekkady

This morning drive to Thekkady (5 hrs). Enjoy the enchanting journey as the road winds through tranquil countryside, rich plantations and thick jungles.

Stay at Wildernest for two nights

Day 2, Periyar National Park

The Periyar Wildlife Reserve is one of the largest in India. There are plenty of elephants, sambhar, wild pig, flying squirrel and over 260 species of bird life.

Periyar is centred around a vast artificial lake and the best way to explore the Reserve is by an early morning boat trip, which allows visitors to watch animals drinking at the lakeside.

Thekkady is considered a heaven for exotic spices such as cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, clove, rubber, vanilla and coffee. Enjoy the aromas of these spices with a morning walk in a spice plantation.

Day 3, Houseboat

Drive to Allapuzha to board a houseboat, your home for the next 24 hours!

One of the most tranquil and relaxing things you can do in Kerala is take a trip in a houseboat along the palm-fringed Kerala canals, known as the backwaters

The houseboats are very comfortable, and come complete with well furnished air-conditioned bedroom, bathroom, deck, driver, and personal chef.

There is a larger open sitting area where you can relax and watch the world go by, sipping from a tender coconut and enjoying the sheer peace of the surroundings.

Stay on a deluxe air-conditioned Houseboat

Day 4, Allapuzha to Kovalam

Drive to Kovalam (4 hrs), Kerala’s most famous beach resort.

Even though popular, the beaches are still fairly quiet by European standards. It is still possible to watch the fishermen bringing in the night’s catch if you visit the beach in the early mornings. The bare rocks and the sandy beaches create some stunning settings at sunrise and sunsets.

Stay at Thapovan Heritage Home for two nights

Day 5, Kovalam

Kovalam is an excellent place to soak in the sun and enjoy the sea and perhaps enjoy the ancient rites of an Ayurvedic massage. If you have time, a day excursion to the Padmanabhaupuram Palace and Kanyakumari is recommended.

Day 6, Kovalam

On the final day of your Kerala Highlights tour, you can take your time to enjoy a tasty breakfast while the sun slowly warms the Arabian Sea. The module ends after this, and you’ll be free to continue with the rest of your trip. We can arrange a transfer to Trivandrum airport for you to connect with your onward travel.