Kerala 8-Night Complete Explorer: South to North Coastal & Hill Highlights | 8 Nights and 9 Days Kerala Package

8 Nights and 9 Days
Kovalam / Thiruvananthapuram - 2NVarkala - 1NAlleppey - 1NThekkady - 1NMunnar - 2NKochi - 1N
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  • Transfer Included
  • Stay Included
  • Meals Included
  • Sightseeing Included

Overview

Kerala 8-Night Complete Explorer: South to North Coastal & Hill Highlights

Discover the best of Kerala on this balanced 8-night / 9-day journey from the southern beaches to the lush hill stations and vibrant coastal towns up north. This Kerala tour package blends relaxed beach time, a peaceful houseboat experience, wildlife encounters, spice plantation visits, and scenic hill station exploration—ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and adventure.

Highlights:

  • Kovalam: golden b...

Itinerary

Day1

Arrival at Thiruvananthapuram – Transfer to Kovalam & Beach Relaxation

Arrive at Trivandrum International Airport and transfer to nearby Kovalam (short drive). Check into your beachside hotel and unwind. Enjoy the golden sands, watch the famous lighthouse beach sunset, and opt for an evening Ayurvedic massage or a walk along the shore.

Suggested activities:

  • Relax on Lighthouse Beach
  • Optional Ayurvedic spa session (payable locally)
  • Dinner at a seaside restaurant serving fresh seafood

Tip: Light layers and sunscreen—coastal evenings are breezy.

Day2

Kovalam: Beach Activities & Local Culture

A full day to soak in the coastal vibe. Begin with a gentle yoga session or beach walk, followed by a visit to the nearby Vellayani Lake and local markets for handicrafts and spices. Late afternoon free time to enjoy water sports or unwind.

Highlights:

  • Sunrise yoga
  • Beach-based water sports (optional)
  • Local market stroll

Note: Water activities depend on seasonal conditions.

Day3

Drive North to Varkala – Cliffside Views & Sunset

After breakfast, drive north to the beautiful cliffside beach of Varkala (approx. 2.5–3 hours). Explore the famous Varkala Cliff, visit beaches below the cliffs, and browse vibrant cafes and boutiques. Enjoy a spectacular sunset from the cliff edge.

Activities:

  • Walk along Varkala Cliff
  • Visit Papanasam Beach (known for its spiritual significance)
  • Sunset at the cliff cafes

Tip: Varkala is known for relaxed cafes and live music—perfect for a chilled evening.

Day4

Drive to Alleppey – Embark on a Traditional Houseboat

Travel to Alleppey (Alappuzha) after breakfast. Board a traditional Kettuvallam (houseboat) by midday and cruise the serene backwaters surrounded by paddy fields and village life. Enjoy freshly prepared local Kerala cuisine on board and relax as the boat gently glides through canals.

Included experience:

  • Overnight houseboat cruise with meals

Important: Houseboat cabins are cozy—pack light and bring motion-sickness remedies if prone.

Day5

Alleppey to Thekkady – Spice Plantations & Sunset Boardwalk

Disembark after breakfast and drive inland to Thekkady (Periyar region). Afternoon spice plantation visit with a guided tour explaining cultivation of pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and other spices. Evening option: attend a cultural performance such as Kalaripayattu (traditional martial art) or a Kathakali demonstration.

Activities:

  • Guided spice plantation tour
  • Optional cultural show in the evening

Note: Wear comfortable shoes for plantation walks.

Day6

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary – Boat Safari & Bamboo Rafting

Early morning visit to Periyar Tiger Reserve for a guided boat safari on Periyar Lake—great for spotting elephants, sambar deer, wild boar, and diverse birdlife. Optional bamboo rafting or a nature walk with a local guide.

Highlights:

  • Guided boat safari
  • Bamboo rafting or walking trails

Tip: Morning safaris are cooler and maximize wildlife sightings; carry binoculars and light rainwear during monsoon months.

Day7

Drive to Munnar – Tea Gardens & Scenic Stops

Scenic drive up to Munnar, the misty hill station known for sprawling tea estates. En route visit vista points, waterfall stops, and a tea museum if time permits. Check into your hill-side hotel and enjoy panoramic views of lush valleys and tea gardens.

Must-see:

  • Tea plantations and factory visit
  • Local viewpoints and photo stops

Note: Temperatures drop in the evenings—carry a light jacket.

Day8

Explore Munnar: Eravikulam, Mattupetty & Echo Point

Full day exploring Munnar's highlights. Visit Eravikulam National Park (home of the Nilgiri Tahr), Mattupetty Dam, and Echo Point. Afternoon tea tasting and a relaxed walk through manicured tea gardens.

Activities:

  • Eravikulam NP visit (permit may be required)
  • Boat ride at Mattupetty (optional)
  • Tea plantation walk and tasting

Important: Eravikulam entry may close seasonally for conservation—check ahead.

Day9

Drive to Kochi – Fort Kochi Heritage Walk & Departure

After breakfast, descend to Kochi. Spend your day in historic Fort Kochi, exploring colonial-era architecture, St. Francis Church, Dutch Palace, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets. Enjoy a farewell meal featuring Kerala specialties before transfer to Kochi Airport or railway station for onward travel.

Highlights:

  • Fort Kochi walking tour
  • Sunset at the Chinese fishing nets

Tip: Allow extra time for transfer to the airport (traffic can vary). If your flight is later, consider visiting Jew Town and antique shops.

Inclusions

  • Accommodation for 8 nights (as per itinerary) in selected hotels/resorts and 1 night on a traditional houseboat.
  • Daily breakfast and select meals as specified (houseboat meals included).
  • All transfers and sightseeing by private air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Guided visits: spice plantation, Periyar boat safari, Munnar tea plantation visit, Fort Kochi walking tour.
  • Entrance fees for listed attractions (where applicable) and local taxes.
  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure (as per itinerary).

Note: Specific hotels can be customized based on preferences and availability.

Exclusions

  • International or domestic airfare to/from Kerala.
  • Travel insurance (recommended).
  • Visa fees and airport departure taxes.
  • Optional activities and personal expenses (spa treatments, water sports, gratuities, laundry).
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions.
  • Any incidental charges on the houseboat (beverages, tips).

Important: Peak-season supplement may apply (dec–jan, festival dates). Please confirm exact inclusions when booking.

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