Day 1: Arrival in Cochin – Unveiling Fort Kochi's Colonial Charm
Cochin, now Kochi, transformed from a landlocked village into a global port after a 1341 flood created its estuary. Portuguese arrived in the 15th century, followed by Dutch in 1663 and British in 1795, turning Fort Kochi into a thriving trade, military, and cultural hub. Today, it hosts 13 diverse communities.
Start with a city tour in the old Cochin area, home to one of the world's oldest Jewish communities dating back 2,000 years. Now fewer than 30 members remain, centered in Jewtown around the Paradesi Synagogue (built 1568, rebuilt 1662). Admire its tiled roof, bell tower, hand-painted Chinese willow tiles, and hanging bronze-crystal lamps. Nearby, explore the International Pepper Exchange.
Witness iconic Chinese fishing nets at Vasco da Gama Square—teak-and-bamboo structures from 1350-1450 operating on balance principles. Other highlights include the Basilica of Santa Cruz, St. Francis Church, Cov Gate, Baluarte Bungalow, and Mattancherry Palace. Afternoon brings South Indian dance and martial arts performances. Overnight in Cochin.
This day immerses you in Kochi's multicultural tapestry, where colonial echoes meet local traditions.
Day 2: Road to Munnar – Tea Plantations and National Park Thrills
Journey to Munnar, a hill town at 1,500m in the Annamalai Mountains, famed for endless tea estates. Check into your hotel, then visit British-built Christ Church (1910), spice gardens, and sprawling plantations in the afternoon.
Key stops include Eravikulam National Park in the Western Ghats—one of Kerala's first, teeming with leopards, sambar deer, golden jackals, wild dogs, striped mongooses, small-clawed otters, palm squirrels, and birds like black-and-orange flycatchers, Nilgiri wood pigeons, and Kerala thrushes.
Next, Lock Heart Tea Factory: Drive through scenic hills to see live tea processing and a museum of antique tools, machinery, and photos. Mattupetty Dam offers boating, picnics amid hills and teas. End at Upper Station, Munnar's highest viewpoint with lush greenery and birdsong—dawn visits avoid fog. Overnight in Munnar.
Munnar's cool climate and vistas provide a refreshing contrast to coastal heat.
Day 3: Munnar to Kumarakom – Blissful Houseboat on Backwaters
Head to Kumarakom for your houseboat embarkation into Kerala's famed backwaters. Modern amenities aboard let you cruise canals at leisure, with chef-prepared meals served on deck. Glide past emerald rice paddies, villages, and lagoons, spotting thatched homes and canoers.
Activities enhance the vibe: Scenic cruises reveal local life; savor Kerala cuisine for lunch, dinner, breakfast; relax on deck amid tranquility; optional fishing or village visits (extra fee). Overnight on the houseboat sways you to sleep with the water's gentle rhythm.
Alleppey's backwaters are Kerala's postcard essence—serene, photogenic, and soul-soothing.
Day 4: Kumarakom to Thekkady – Wildlife and Spice Sensations
Arrive in Thekkady, gateway to Periyar National Park in the Western Ghats' evergreen forests, deciduous woods, and grasslands. Spot elephant herds, sambar, gaur by the central lake—a wildlife haven.
Afternoon spice plantation tour showcases cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, coffee, tea; shop fragrant varieties at local markets. Boat safaris on Periyar Lake catch dawn/dusk elephants and birds. Relax at your resort post-check-in. Overnight in Thekkady.
Periyar blends adventure with aromatic exploration, highlighting Kerala's biodiversity.
Day 5: Thekkady to Cochin – Departure with Memories
Post-breakfast, drive back to Cochin for your flight, with airport transfers timed perfectly. Reflect on Kerala's mosaic of forts, hills, waters, and wildlife.
What's Included: Seamless Travel Perks
This package covers airport meet-and-greet with name signs; private AC vehicle and driver; hotel/airport transfers; private local guides (English/Spanish); mineral water bottles; comfy hotels (double/triple/single) with buffet breakfasts; 1N houseboat with full board (B/L/D).
Entry fees include Vallara/Cheeyappara Falls, Eravikulam, Tata Tea Museum, Echo Point, Mattupetty Dam, spice farms, Periyar Tiger Reserve boat ride, honey farm, live Kathakali show. Government-approved guides and all taxes apply. Book now, pay later for flexibility.
Why Choose This Kerala Itinerary?
Perfect for culture lovers, nature enthusiasts, and relaxation seekers, this route hits Kochi's history, Munnar's teas, backwater magic, Periyar's wilds. Spanish-speaking support suits international travelers. Extending to Bandipur or South India classics via Sur De La India.
Kerala shines year-round, but post-monsoon (Oct-Mar) is ideal for clear skies. Pack light layers, camera, insect repellent. Sustainable tips: Support local spices, avoid plastics on houseboats.
Sur De La India, with offices in Kochi, Bengaluru, Chennai, leads South India tours—over 100 packages for hassle-free Spanish adventures.
Ready for Kerala's embrace? Reserve your spot today.