Kerala 6 Days 5 Nights Tour Itinerary: Kochi to Varkala via Munnar, Thekkady & Alleppey

After landing in Kochi, meet and greet our representative at the airport or railway station. Set out on a scenic drive to Munnar, a charming hill station known for its tea plantations, rolling hills, and lush green valleys. Munnar is approximately 130 km away from Kochi Airport, and it would take around 4 hours to reach.

En route, visit the following attractions:

• Valara Waterfalls – a beautiful cascade surrounded by dense forests
• Cheyyappara Waterfalls – a seven-step waterfall offering great photo opportunities

Later, check in to your hotel in Munnar. The rest of the day is free for leisure — you may stroll through the local markets or visit nearby places to soak in the natural beauty of the region.

After breakfast at Munnar hotel, we would start the sights of Munnar.

Munnar Sightseeing (You can spread these sights over your stay depending available time. No sights will be visited twice):

• Tea Plantations – Explore the sprawling tea estates and learn about tea processing.
• Mattupetty Dam – Popular for boating and panoramic views of the hills.
• Echo Point – Famous for natural echo phenomenon and picturesque surroundings.
• Attukal Waterfalls – Serene waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
• Kundala Lake & Dam – Pedal boating and tranquil scenery.
• Pothamedu Viewpoint – Scenic viewpoints ideal for photography and short walks.
• Tea Museum – Learn about tea processing (optional).
• Kathakali / Punarjani Traditional Village – Cultural performance showcasing Kerala traditions (optional).
• Rose Garden – Stroll among vibrant flowers and take photos.
• Spice Garden – Explore Kerala’s aromatic spices and plantations.

Optional: Local markets in Munnar town for spices, tea, and handicrafts.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Munnar. Complete any remaining sightseeing if not already done. Depart for Thekkady. Munnar is approximately 90 km away from Thekkady, and it would take around 3–4 hours by road.

En route, visit the following attractions (optional stops depending on time):

• Spice plantations – Explore Kerala’s aromatic spice gardens and learn about cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and more.

Upon arrival in Thekkady, check in to your hotel and rest briefly. Later, enjoy the following sightseeing and activities in Thekkady:

Thekkady Sightseeing & Activities:

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary / Periyar National Park – Jungle safari or boat cruise on Periyar Lake to spot elephants, bison, and other wildlife.
• Periyar Lake Boat Cruise – Scenic boat ride inside the sanctuary, spotting animals and birds along the lake. You can book the boat from Here. https://www.periyartigerreserve.org/program/boating
• Spice Garden Tour – Explore local spice gardens to see cultivation and processing.
• Elephant Rides – Optional elephant-back ride through forest trails.
• Kumily Market – Explore local handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.
• Cultural Shows – Attend Kathakali or Kalaripayattu performances in the evening (ticketed).

Note: Evening can be spent enjoying a leisurely walk around the hotel or local market.

After breakfast, complete any remaining sightseeing in Thekkady such as a spice garden visit, elephant ride, or boating at Periyar Lake (if not done earlier). Later, check out from the hotel and head towards Alleppey for a memorable houseboat experience. Alleppey is approximately 140 km from Thekkady, and it would take around 4 to 5 hours by road to reach. The drive offers scenic views of Kerala’s countryside, with spice plantations, rubber estates, and lush green paddy fields along the way.

Upon arrival in Alleppey, check in to your private houseboat by 2:00 PM and begin your tranquil cruise through the enchanting backwaters. Glide through narrow canals, lakes, and tiny hamlets while witnessing the calm village life of Kerala.

Your houseboat experience includes:

• Cruise through Vembanad Lake and scenic backwater canals
• Traditional Kerala meals freshly prepared on board (lunch, tea/snacks, and dinner)
• Sunset view from the open deck
• Comfortable stay with a private bedroom and attached washroom

Important Points to Remember:

• The boat remains anchored from 5:30 PM to 8:00 AM as per government rules.
• Deluxe Houseboat: AC runs 9:00 PM – 6:00 AM in the bedroom only.
• Premium/Luxury Houseboat: AC runs 24×7 (only one unit active at a time).
• The crew includes a chef, oarsman, and cabin assistant to make your stay comfortable.

Relax in the serenity of the backwaters and enjoy a peaceful overnight stay in the houseboat.

The total distance from Alleppey to Varkala is approximately 90 km, with an estimated travel time of around 2.5 hours. Today, you will travel via the fascinating Jatayu Earth Center, which lies roughly halfway.

En route, visit the following at Jatayu Earth Center:

• Jatayu Sculpture Park – Home to the world’s largest bird sculpture, representing the mythical bird Jatayu from the Ramayana.
• Adventure Activities – Try rock climbing, rappelling, and ziplining amidst scenic hills.

After exploring Jatayu Earth Center, continue your journey to Varkala, a coastal town famed for its dramatic cliffs and pristine beach.

Upon arrival in Varkala, explore these key attractions:

• Varkala Beach – Known for its stunning cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, perfect for sunset views and beach walks.
• Janardanaswamy Temple – An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, showcasing traditional Kerala architecture.
• Cliffside Cafés and Shops – Relax at vibrant cafés perched on the cliffs and browse local handicrafts.

Conclude your day by checking into your hotel in Varkala and enjoying the serene beach atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after your journey.