Exclusive, Backwater of Kerala Tour (04 Nights – 05 Days)

Traveling through Kerala promises a blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and authentic local experiences. This Exclusive Backwater of Kerala Tour offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s highlights in five days, from historic Fort Kochi to tea plantations in Munnar and tranquil houseboat cruises in Alleppey.

While we haven’t taken the journey ourselves, this itinerary appears thoughtfully crafted for those craving a mix of nature, history, and wildlife, all at a fairly accessible price point of $356 per person. Our favorite aspects include the opportunity to explore Kerala’s lush tea gardens, cruise the iconic backwaters in a traditional houseboat, and enjoy immersive cultural performances. That said, travelers should consider the pace—some days are quite packed, which might feel rushed for those seeking a more laid-back experience.

This tour suits travelers eager for a comprehensive Kerala adventure, particularly those who appreciate balancing sightseeing with moments of relaxation. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting a guided, private experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Experience Kerala’s art forms like Kathakali and explore colonial architecture in Fort Kochi.
• Natural Beauty and Wildlife: Enjoy boat rides on Periyar Lake and view elephants, deer, and birdlife in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Travel: Cruise through picturesque backwaters, lush tea gardens, and serene lakes, providing plenty of photo opportunities.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private transportation with air-conditioned vehicles, twin-sharing rooms, and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
• Value for Money: The itinerary packs many highlights into five days, making it a solid choice for travelers short on time but eager to see the best.
• Potential Rushed Feel: With a tight schedule covering multiple destinations, some may find the days slightly hurried.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Arriving in Cochin and Discovering Fort Kochi

Your Kerala adventure kicks off at Cochin International Airport, where a representative from Buddha Travel Hub will meet you with a friendly greeting. Expect a smooth check-in at your hotel, followed by an afternoon of exploring Fort Kochi. Walking through its narrow streets is like stepping back in time—think colonial-era buildings, vibrant art scenes, and bustling markets.

One of the tour’s highlights here is the Chinese Fishing Nets, a landmark icon of Cochin’s waterfront. Watching local fishermen operate these massive contraptions offers a glimpse of traditional fishing techniques still in use today. In addition, you’ll attend a Kerala Kathakali show at the Kerala Kathakali Centre, enjoying one of the region’s most captivating dance-drama art forms. The guide mentioned that Kathakali performances are a favorite among guests, offering insight into Kerala’s storytelling traditions.

Day 2: From Cochin to Munnar – Rolling into the Tea Country

After breakfast, your journey takes you from the coastal city to the cool heights of Munnar, famous for its expansive tea plantations. Along the way, a visit to tea and cardamom plantations gives you an up-close look at how these spices and leaves are cultivated and processed—something we’re told makes the experience much more engaging than just sightseeing.

Once in Munnar, the itinerary includes stops at Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake. The latter, especially, offers calm waters surrounded by hills, perfect for photography and relaxing moments. The guide shared that many guests love the sprawling tea gardens here, often remarking on the peacefulness of sipping tea amid lush greenery. Optional visits to Eravikulam National Park are available, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr—though this depends on availability.

Guests reported that the tea gardens are not only scenic but educational, with guides explaining the entire tea-making process, which adds an interesting layer to the visit. The evening can be spent wandering local markets or simply soaking in the mountain air.

Day 3: From Munnar to Thekkady – Wildlife and Spice Adventures

Leaving behind the cool mountains, you’ll head towards Thekkady, a region celebrated for its spice plantations and wildlife sanctuary. The morning boat cruise on Periyar Lake is a highlight, offering chances to see elephants and deer along the shoreline—an authentic wildlife experience that many guests found memorable.

In Periyar, the tour includes an Elephant Bath Activity—a rare opportunity for a close encounter with these gentle giants. As one reviewer noted, “The elephant bathing and feeding are must-dos and very well-organized.” Afterward, you can explore spice plantations in the evening, smelling and learning about spices like black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon—an aromatic journey that will linger long after.

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Day 4: Backwaters and Houseboat Serenity

This day is the pièce de résistance for many travelers: a cruise on Periyar Lake in the morning, where wildlife sightings are common. After breakfast, the journey continues to Alleppey, the famed backwater town. Here, you’ll embark on a traditional houseboat, drifting silently through Kerala’s canals and waterways.

Guests often describe this experience as peaceful and immersive. Watching villagers go about their daily chores from the deck, savoring homemade Kerala cuisine, and enjoying the sunset over the water creates a sense of calm that’s hard to match. The houseboat stay is inclusive of dinner, adding to the overall value of the experience.

Day 5: Farewell and Transfer to Cochin

Your final morning begins with breakfast on the houseboat before disembarking. The driver will then escort you back to Cochin for your onward flight. Reviews mention that the transfer is smooth and well-organized, allowing you to leave Kerala with lasting memories of its beauty and warmth.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for the Price: At $356, this five-day journey offers a lot—covering cultural highlights, scenic landscapes, wildlife, and a relaxing houseboat stay. Including private transport and guided tours ensures comfort and personalized experiences.

Authentic Experiences: Attending a Kathakali show, visiting spice plantations, and cruising in a traditional houseboat offer genuine, memorable moments that go beyond superficial sightseeing.

Well-Organized Schedule: The itinerary balances busy days with enough downtime, particularly in Munnar and Alleppey, where guests can relax and soak in the scenery.

Diverse Highlights: From colonial architecture and art in Fort Kochi to mountain tea gardens and backwater lagoons, this tour encapsulates Kerala’s diversity.

Natural Encounters: Wildlife sightings in Periyar and the scenic lakes and rivers provide excellent photo opportunities and a chance to connect with nature.

Guided Commentary: The presence of an English-speaking guide helps clarify cultural and natural sights, enriching the experience—this is especially appreciated by those unfamiliar with Kerala.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the tour is comprehensive, some might find the schedule a bit tight, especially on travel-heavy days like the drive from Munnar to Thekkady or the transfer back to Cochin. The itinerary’s emphasis on sightseeing might leave less time for spontaneous exploration or relaxation, so those seeking a slower pace should plan accordingly.

Plus, some destinations like Munnar and Alleppey do not include guided tours, which could be a drawback for travelers who prefer more structured visits. However, the trade-off seems to be more freedom to explore at your own pace.

Practical Tips

• Bring comfortable shoes and clothes for walking and outdoor activities.
• Pack your passport or ID and some cash for small purchases or tips.
• Be prepared for the weather—Kerala can be warm and humid, especially in the coastal and backwater areas.
• Stay hydrated and carry sunscreen, particularly during outdoor sightseeing days.
• If you’re sensitive to boat rides, inform your guide beforehand, as the houseboat cruise can be a little bumpy at times.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the experience is designed for private groups, meaning only your party will participate, ensuring a more personalized journey.

What transportation is used during the tour?
Private, air-conditioned vehicles are provided, varying from sedans for 1-2 people to tempo travelers for larger groups, offering comfort and climate control.

Are rooms shared or private?
Rooms are generally twin-sharing, but if you’re traveling in a group of three, you’ll be in a three-person room unless you pay extra for separate rooms.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What is included in the houseboat stay?
The overnight stay on the houseboat includes dinner, breakfast, and the scenic cruise through the Kerala backwaters.

Are guides available at all locations?
Guided commentary is available mainly in places like Fort Kochi and during specific activities; locations like Munnar and Alleppey are more self-guided, giving you freedom to explore.

Final Thoughts

This Exclusive Backwater of Kerala Tour offers a solid, well-rounded introduction to Kerala’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and tranquil waterways. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with authentic experiences without the stress of planning every detail. The inclusion of wildlife encounters, spice plantations, tea gardens, and houseboat serenity makes it a compelling option for first-time visitors to Kerala.

While it may be slightly rushed for those seeking a lazier pace, the value, diversity, and immersive nature of this trip make it stand out. For explorers eager to see Kerala’s highlights in a comfortable, guided setting—this tour provides a rewarding and memorable journey through “God’s Own Country.”

Note: Always check current availability and specific inclusions, as certain activities like Eravikulam National Park visits depend on timing.

You can check availability for your dates here: