Kerala Tour- Nature, Culture & Backwaters

OVERVIEW

This 7-day Kerala family tour combines nature, wildlife, culture, and soft adventure across some of South India’s most scenic destinations. Designed for families and nature lovers, the journey offers a relaxed mix of wildlife experiences, hill station landscapes, backwater cruises, and cultural encounters.

Your adventure begins near Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, one of the best destinations for birdwatching in Kerala. After arriving in Kochi, travel to a peaceful riverside camp surrounded by tropical forests. You can relax by the river or enjoy an evening kayaking experience on the Periyar River. The following day, explore the sanctuary with a naturalist and look for colourful birdlife, elephants, Malabar Giant Squirrels, and Bonnet Macaques.

From Thattekkad, continue to the scenic hill station of Munnar. Along the way, pass through spice plantations, tea gardens, and mist-covered mountain landscapes. In Munnar, families can explore local markets and visit a traditional tea factory. The journey also includes a scenic trek to Meesapulimala in the Western Ghats, offering panoramic views and opportunities to spot the rare Nilgiri Tahr.

The tour then continues to Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of Kerala’s top wildlife destinations. Guided forest walks provide chances to see elephants, Sambar Deer, Nilgiri Langurs, and other wildlife. Later, enjoy a live Kalarippayattu performance and experience Kerala’s ancient martial art traditions.

From Periyar, travel to Alleppey for a memorable houseboat cruise through Kerala’s famous backwaters. Enjoy views of coconut palms, village life, and peaceful canals while tasting authentic local cuisine onboard.

Finally, conclude your journey in the historic coastal town of Fort Kochi. Explore colonial streets, Chinese fishing nets, and historic landmarks before enjoying a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

This flexible Kerala family holiday can be tailored to match your travel dates, interests, and activity levels, creating a personalized and memorable experience in Kerala.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Wildlife Encounters in Periyar Tiger Reserve
  • Overnight Houseboat Backwater Cruise in Alleppey
  • Cultural Exploration in Fort Kochi

ITINERARY

Day 1:
Thattekkad
All Meals
Kayaking & walking
Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, a Tropic Trails representative will greet you and accompany you to Thattekkad, a drive of approximately one hour. Your accommodation is set along the banks of the Periyar River, offering a peaceful retreat in nature. Take the day to relax by the river or, for an adventurous start, set out on an evening kayaking session along the serene Periyar River.
Day 2 & 3:
Munnar
All Meals
Sightseeing & tea factory visit
Begin Day 2 with an early morning birdwatching excursion in Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, renowned for its rich avian diversity, including many migratory and endemic birds. As you wander through this lush sanctuary, keep an eye out for sightings of Malabar Giant Squirrels, Bonnet Macaques, and possibly even Elephants. Later, start for Munnar, traversing scenic routes lined with lowland forests, cardamom plantations, and tea gardens, as you ascend to the higher altitudes of the Nilgiri Hills. Spend the evening exploring the charming Munnar town, visiting its vibrant markets, and touring a local tea factory for a firsthand taste of freshly brewed tea. On Day 3, embark on a trek to Meesapulimala, an exhilarating 14 km trail through high-altitude forests. The hike offers sweeping views of the Western Ghats and ample birdwatching opportunities, with a chance to spot the rare Nilgiri Tahr, an iconic species of the region. Overnight in Munnar.
Day 4:
Periyar
All Meals
Hiking and art shows
Today, drive to the famed Periyar Tiger Reserve (approx. 120 km, 4 hours). Known for its diverse ecosystems spanning 777 sq. km, Periyar offers a mix of dense evergreen forests and moist deciduous woodlands. Join a guided nature hike, led by experienced forest guards, to witness diverse wildlife, including Gaur, Elephants, Sambar, Nilgiri Langurs, and the Malabar Giant Squirrel. In the evening, immerse yourself in Kerala’s cultural heritage by witnessing a live Kalarippayattu performance, an ancient martial art of Kerala.
Day 5:
Alleppey
All Meals
Houseboat cruise
Start the day with a boatsafari on Periyar Lake, then journey toward Alleppey, leaving the hills behind for Kerala’s renowned backwaters. Board a private houseboat where all meals are freshly prepared, showcasing traditional Kuttanadan flavours. As you cruise the backwaters, enjoy views of rustic villages, coconut groves, and the vibrant flora along the banks. In the evening, your boat will anchor by the shore, allowing a restful night aboard.
Day 6:
Fort Kochi
All Meals
Sightseeing
On Day 6, arrive in historic Fort Kochi, where you’ll be joined by a knowledgeable guide for an exploration of the area’s cultural heritage. Discover the famed Chinese fishing nets, the Jewish Synagogue, and the Dutch and Portuguese architectural gems that echo Fort Kochi’s colonial past. Experience Kerala’s traditional arts with captivating performances of Kathakali dance and Kalarippayattu.
Day 7 Departure:
Kochi
All Meals
Airport Drop
Following an enriching experience in Kerala, you’ll be transferred back to Cochin International Airport, approximately one hour away, for your onward journey.

Reviews

Laura Davies

I went on a 2 week tour of Kerala with Abid from Tropic Trails. I travelled solo to India from the UK and joined a small group from the USA….

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GALLERY

Please note that the cost of our tour includes the activities and accommodations specified in the itinerary as per twin sharing basis(min 2 PAX). For single traveller price may vary. Any additional expenses, such as laundry services or beverages (including alcoholic drinks), are not covered and can be settled directly with the hotels or establishments where these services are provided.

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