Enchanting Kerala
- Days 13
- Tour Code EK
- Tour Type Private Journey
- Tour Price From $ 2015 Per person sharing DBL/TWN
- Best Time Sep-May
- Destinations Kochi, Athirapally, ... Kochi, Athirapally, Munnar, Kumarakom, Alleppey/Houseboat, Mararikullam
Tour Overview
Dreaming of a truly special escape from the UK? Holidays to Kerala offer something genuinely unlike anywhere else on earth. This 13-day Enchanting Kerala journey takes you through the very best of what this remarkable South Indian state has to offer — from colonial port cities and roaring waterfalls to misty tea-covered hills, peaceful village backwaters, and golden beaches lapped by the Arabian Sea. Your adventure begins in the historic city of Kochi (also called Cochin), where centuries of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial history blend naturally with vibrant local Kerala culture. Here you watch an authentic Kathakali dance performance — a 2,000-year-old classical art form unique to Kerala, featuring extraordinary costumes, intricate make-up, and stories drawn from ancient Indian epics. Next, you travel inland to Athirapally, home to Kerala's most spectacular waterfall, often called the Niagara of India. From there, the road climbs up into the Western Ghats to Munnar — a breathtaking hill station blanketed in endless tea plantations and cool mountain air. In addition, you spend time in Kumarakom, a tranquil backwater haven recognised by National Geographic as one of the world's top places to visit. Here you walk through peaceful villages, share a home-cooked lunch with a local family, and experience the warmth of everyday Kerala life. Then you board your private houseboat in Alleppey — a traditional rice barge fully converted into a comfortable floating retreat — and glide through the famous Kerala backwaters as the sun sets over coconut-fringed canals. Finally, your journey ends with pure relaxation on the serene, unspoilt beach at Mararikullam, where golden sands, Ayurvedic massages, and fresh seafood bring everything to a perfect, peaceful close. This is Kerala holidays at their very finest.
Highlights
Explore the colonial charm of Kochi — its historic streets, iconic Chinese fishing nets, and aromatic spice markets — followed by an unforgettable Kathakali dance performance that brings Kerala's classical art tradition to vivid life.
Visit the breathtaking Athirapally Waterfalls, the largest and most spectacular cascade in all of Kerala, tumbling 80 feet into the Chalakudy River through dense tropical rainforest.
Wander through the mist-covered hills of Munnar, surrounded by rolling tea plantations, fragrant spice gardens, and crisp mountain air that feels like a world away from everyday life.
Witness the traditional lifestyle of Kumarakom's villagers — stroll through paddy fields, visit coir-making units (coir is the natural fibre made from coconut husks, used to make ropes, mats, and more), and enjoy warm, genuine conversations with local people who are happy to share their daily routines.
Board a traditional houseboat and sail through the legendary Kerala backwaters — gliding past charming villages, swaying coconut palms, and glittering green canals while enjoying authentic local food prepared fresh on board.
Finally, unwind on the golden sands of Mararikulam — a serene, off-the-beaten-track coastal retreat where Ayurvedic massages, fresh sea air, and pure tranquillity restore you completely before the journey home.
Day-by-day
Day 1
Welcome to Kochi (Arrival by International Flight)
Your holidays to Kerala India begin the moment you land at Cochin International Airport. Our India Tours & Travels representative meets you in the arrivals hall, holding a placard in your name, and transfers you comfortably to your hotel for check-in.
Kochi — also known as Cochin — is a marine port city on India's beautiful southwest coast, with a remarkable trading history stretching back over six centuries. Known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi serves as Kerala's financial, cultural, and commercial heart. The rest of the day is yours to settle in, take a gentle stroll along the waterfront, and breathe in that first wonderful sense of being in Kerala.
Overnight stay in Kochi (Cochin). Hotels: Casino Hotel or similar (3-star), Holiday Inn or similar (4-star), The Fern-An Ecotel Hotel or similar (5-star)
Meals: No meals included.
Day 2
Explore the Sights of Kochi
This morning, your English-speaking local guide meets you at the hotel and takes you on a full day of sightseeing through the historic heart of Fort Kochi. Your first stop is the Jewish Synagogue (closed on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Jewish holidays) — the oldest working synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, filled with rare antiques including beautiful Chinese hand-painted floor tiles, ornate chandeliers, and a brass-plated pulpit.
Next, visit Mattancherry Palace — also known as the Dutch Palace — a magnificent example of traditional Kerala architecture combined with colonial influences. This two-storey mansion houses one of the finest collections of royal murals in all of India. Then explore St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European churches in India, originally built entirely of wood. The legendary Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was buried here in 1524 before his remains were later taken to Lisbon.
In the late afternoon, walk along the waterfront to witness the famous Chinese fishing nets — enormous, cantilevered fishing structures operated by teams of four to six fishermen. These iconic nets are one of Kerala's most photographed symbols and watching them in action at sunset is genuinely mesmerising. In the evening, attend a Kathakali Dance Performance — a classical Kerala art form over 2,000 years old, combining storytelling, dance, and elaborate make-up in a truly unforgettable cultural spectacle.
Overnight stay in Kochi (Cochin). Hotels: Casino Hotel or similar (3-star), Holiday Inn or similar (4-star), The Fern-An Ecotel Hotel or similar (5-star)
Meals: Breakfast at the hotel's designated restaurant.
Day 3
Travel to Athirapally
After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to Athirapally (approx. 2 to 3 hours). As you travel deeper into Kerala's lush interior, the landscape opens up into stretches of vibrant greenery, winding rivers, and quiet villages. As you approach Athirapally, you start to hear it before you see it — the distant roar of water growing steadily louder. The Athirapally Waterfalls, often called the Niagara of India, cascade from a height of 80 feet into the Chalakudy River below, surrounded entirely by dense tropical forest. Arrive, check in to your nature retreat, and spend the rest of the day soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this extraordinary natural setting.
Overnight stay in Athirapally. Hotels: Sterling or similar (3 star), Flora Misty Falls or similar (4 star), Rainforest or similar (5 star)
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner at the hotel's designated restaurant
Day 4
Athirapally Waterfalls & Sholayar Rainforest Trek
Today you embark on a guided trek through the magnificent Sholayar Rainforest, leading you to the full dramatic glory of the Athirapally Waterfall. Wind through jungle trails shaded by towering ancient trees, with the sounds of birdsong, rustling leaves, and trickling streams as your constant companions. Along the way, keep your eyes open for vibrant butterflies, Malabar giant squirrels, and the Great Hornbill — one of India's most spectacular birds.
As you approach the falls, the roar builds to a crescendo until suddenly the full 80-foot cascade comes into view, plunging into a cloud of mist and spray below. Stand at the viewpoint, take it all in, and capture some truly spectacular photographs. Return to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at complete leisure — relax by the pool, enjoy the hill views, or simply do nothing at all.
Overnight stay in Athirapally. Hotels: Sterling or similar (3 star), Flora Misty Falls or similar (4 star), Rainforest or similar (5 star)
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner at the hotel's designated restaurant.
Day 5
Travel to Munnar
After breakfast, check out and begin a scenic drive to Munnar (approx. 4 to 5 hours) — one of the most beautiful hill stations in all of India. As your vehicle climbs up through the Western Ghats, the landscape transforms dramatically. Rolling plains give way to vast, sweeping tea plantations, misty valleys, and green ridgelines that seem to stretch on forever.
The air fills with the fresh fragrance of cardamom, pepper, and coffee as you pass through spice plantations along the route. If you are lucky, you may spot exotic birds or even wildlife native to these highlands. Arrive in Munnar, check in to your retreat, pour yourself a cup of freshly brewed local tea, and sit back to enjoy some of the most beautiful hill views you will ever see.
Overnight stay in Munnar. Hotels: Abad Copper Castle or similar (3 star), Tall Trees or similar (4 star), Fragrant Nature or similar (5 star)
Meals: Breakfast at the hotel's designated restaurant.
Day 6
Explore Munnar
After breakfast, spend a full, rewarding day exploring the wonders of Munnar. Start by walking through the lush tea estates, learning about the history and cultivation of some of India's finest teas directly from the people who grow them. The crisp mountain air and endless green hillsides make this one of the most peaceful and beautiful walks you will ever take.
Next, visit the famous Lockhart Tea Factory and Museum (closed on Mondays) — a working tea factory where you can watch the entire journey of tea production from leaf to cup. See how freshly plucked leaves go through withering, rolling, fermentation, drying, sorting, and packaging — all explained clearly by knowledgeable local guides. The museum section showcases antique machinery and traditional tools, giving a fascinating glimpse into how tea-making has evolved over generations in Munnar. In the afternoon, the rest of the day is entirely yours — unwind at your resort, explore the town, or simply sit with a cup of Munnar's finest brew and enjoy the view.
Overnight stay in Munnar. Hotels: Abad Copper Castle or similar (3★), Tall Trees or similar (4★), Fragrant Nature or similar (5★)
Meals: Breakfast at the hotel's designated restaurant.
Day 7
Travel to Kumarakom
After breakfast, check out and make your way to Kumarakom (approx. 3 to 4 hours) — a serene backwater village nestled in the Kottayam region of Kerala. The journey winds through rolling hills, lush rubber plantations, vibrant paddy fields, and swaying coconut palms. Kumarakom sits on the edge of Vembanad Lake and is famed for its tranquil backwaters, thriving mangrove forests, and extraordinary birdlife. National Geographic has recognised Kumarakom as one of the top places in the world to visit — and it is easy to see why. Check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, listening to the gentle sounds of lapping water and letting the peace of this remarkable place wash over you.
Overnight stay in Kumarakom. Hotels: Abad Whispering Palms or similar (3★), Backwater Ripples or similar (4★), The Zuri or similar (5★)
Meals: Breakfast at the hotel's designated restaurant.
Day 8
Kumarakom Village Walk & Local Lunch
Today you embark on a peaceful half-day village walk through the scenic backwater villages of Kumarakom. Stroll through lush paddy fields, past traditional coir-making units, and along the quiet lanes between rustic village homes. This walk gives you a genuine, unfiltered look at everyday life in rural Kerala — a world away from tourist trails. Chat with friendly local villagers, observe their traditional crafts and farming practices, and learn about the way communities here have lived for generations.
After the walk, sit down and enjoy an authentic Kerala meal with a local family — freshly prepared home-cooked dishes made from ingredients sourced directly from the village. This is one of the most personal and memorable experiences on the entire tour, and one that our travellers consistently talk about long after they return home.
Overnight stay in Kumarakom. Hotels: Abad Whispering Palms or similar (3★), Backwater Ripples or similar (4★), The Zuri or similar (5★)
Meals: Breakfast at the hotel's designated restaurant. Lunch arranged with local family during the village walk.
Day 9
Travel to Alleppey & Board Your Houseboat
After breakfast, check out and drive to Alleppey (approx. 2 hours) — also known as Alappuzha and often called the Venice of the East. On arrival, you board your private houseboat — a traditional Kettuvallam, which is a beautiful wooden rice barge fully converted into a comfortable floating retreat complete with bedrooms, a sitting area, a full kitchen, and an open deck.
As your houseboat glides out onto the Kerala backwaters, the world slows down completely. Coconut-fringed canals stretch in every direction, rice fields shimmer in the afternoon light, and small wooden country boats drift past in perfect silence. Your onboard cook prepares fresh, delicious Kerala meals as you float through this timeless landscape. Watching the sun set over the backwaters from the deck of your houseboat is, without question, one of the most beautiful moments in all of India. This is India Kerala holidays at their absolute finest.
Overnight stay on a Houseboat. Houseboat options: Athira Houseboat or similar (3★), Lakes & Lagoons or similar (4★), Xandari or similar (5★)
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; Lunch and Dinner served in the houseboat's dining area.
Day 10
Disembark & Travel to Mararikullam
Bid a fond farewell to the backwaters of Alleppey and disembark your houseboat after breakfast. Next, set off on a picturesque drive to Mararikullam (approx. 1.5 to 2 hours) — a charming, unspoilt coastal village known for its pristine, palm-lined beach and deeply relaxing atmosphere. The road winds through coconut groves, paddy fields, and quiet fishing villages, offering one final beautiful glimpse of Kerala's lush rural landscape.
Check in to your beachside retreat, where golden sand and swaying palms invite you to do absolutely nothing. Mararikullam sits well away from the busy tourist circuit, making it the perfect destination for those seeking complete peace and rejuvenation. Take a stroll along the unspoilt shoreline, feel the warm Arabian Sea breeze, and let yourself fully unwind.
Overnight stay in Mararikullam. Hotels: Abad Turtle Beach or similar (3★), Xandari Pearl Resort or similar (4★), Marari Beach Resort (5★)
Meals: Breakfast at the hotel's designated restaurant.
Day 11
Mararikullam Beach Day
Today belongs entirely to you. Enjoy a relaxed, unhurried day in the serene coastal setting of Mararikullam. Take a leisurely morning walk along the pristine beach, watch local fishermen head out to sea in their traditional wooden boats, or simply sit beneath a coconut palm and read a book. For the ultimate Kerala holiday treat, book yourself in for a traditional Ayurvedic massage — a deeply therapeutic treatment using warm herbal oils and gentle techniques designed to restore balance to the body and mind. In the afternoon, enjoy fresh seafood by the shore or relax by the pool. As the sun sets over the Arabian Sea in a blaze of colour, you will feel completely restored.
Overnight stay in Mararikullam. Hotels: Abad Turtle Beach or similar (3★), Xandari Pearl Resort or similar (4★), Marari Beach Resort (5★)
Meals: Breakfast at the hotel's designated restaurant.
Optional Experience : Full-body Ayurveda massage
Indulge in a rejuvenating experience by enjoying a full-body Ayurveda massage at your hotel's in-house spa. Ayurveda is an ancient healing system that focuses on the holistic well-being of the body and mind. The Ayurvedic massage utilizes herbal oils and therapeutic techniques to promote relaxation, relieve stress, and enhance overall wellness. The skilled therapists will tailor the massage to your specific needs, targeting areas of tension and providing deep relaxation. Allow yourself to be pampered as you unwind and let go of any remaining stress or fatigue from your travels. The Ayurvedic massage will not only leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized but also help balance your energy levels and promote a sense of harmony within. Timings: Depends on spa time slot availability. Inclusions 60 minutes of full-body Ayurveda massage in the in-house spa of your hotel.
Starts at 18:00 Hrs (Approximately)Ends at 21:30 Hrs (Approximately)
Day 12
Mararikullam — A Day at Leisure
Enjoy one final, beautifully unhurried day in Mararikullam. Stroll the beach, watch the fishing boats, lounge by the pool, or indulge in another Ayurvedic treatment. Fresh seafood by the shore is always worth returning to. As the evening draws in, soak in the golden and crimson colours of the Arabian Sea sunset — a perfect way to close your last full day of this enchanting holidays to Kerala India experience.
Overnight stay in Mararikullam. Hotels: Abad Turtle Beach or similar (3★), Xandari Pearl Resort or similar (4★), Marari Beach Resort (5★)
Meals: Breakfast at the hotel's designated restaurant.
Day 13
Travel to Kochi International Airport — Farewell to Kerala
Your final morning begins with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Afterwards, your private air-conditioned vehicle transfers you to Kochi (Cochin) International Airport (approx. 2 to 2.5 hours) to board your return or onwards flight. You leave Kerala richer in every sense — with memories of waterfalls, tea hills, village lunches, houseboat sunsets, and golden beaches that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
No accommodation on this day. Meals: Breakfast at the hotel's designated restaurant.
What’s Included
11 nights hotel accommodation plus 1 overnight stay on a traditional houseboat
17 meals as specified — 12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners
Sightseeing with a professional English-speaking local guide in Kochi, Munnar, and Kumarakom
Air-conditioned, chauffeur-driven private vehicle throughout the entire tour
Mineral water bottles, disposable face masks, hand sanitisers, and wet wipes available in the vehicle at all times
Return airport transfers with a full meet-and-greet service on arrival
All monument entrance fees and rides as listed in the itinerary
What’s not Included
Any international or domestic flights
Visa fees, travel insurance, medical tests, or quarantine costs if applicable
Any meals beyond the 17 specified (12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners)
Alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages not listed in the itinerary
Optional tours, single-room supplements, early check-in, or late check-out
Any additional transfers not mentioned in the itinerary
Personal expenses and tips or gratuities for guides and drivers
Any service not specifically listed under “What's Included”
Book & Travel With Confidence
24/7 Support:
Travel with confidence knowing that our dedicated support team is available around the clock while you are on the tour. Whether you need assistance during your journey or require help in unforeseen circumstances, we're here to ensure a seamless experience.
Flexible Booking Options
You're free to make changes to your travel plans at no additional cost up to 45 days before your tour’s departure.
Payment Flexibility
Secure your tour by making an initial payment of only 20% at the time of booking, with the remaining 80% of the balance due 45 days before departure.