Essential Kerala & Backwaters Escorted Tour

Return international flights with checked baggage, 9 nights hotels + 1 night backwaters houseboat, Daily breakfast, All transfers & guided sightseeing, Cultural shows & key experiences

Explore the highlights of Kerala on this carefully curated, flight-inclusive journey through South Indiaโ€™s most scenic and cultural regions. Begin in historic Kochi, shaped by centuries of global trade, before travelling to the cool tea-covered hills of Munnar. Enjoy guided sightseeing, cultural performances and meaningful local encounters, all designed to offer an authentic yet comfortable introduction to Kerala.

The journey continues to the wildlife-rich forests of Periyar, followed by an unforgettable overnight cruise through Keralaโ€™s iconic backwaters aboard a traditional houseboat. The tour concludes in peaceful Kumarakom, where lakeside scenery and relaxed surroundings provide the perfect end to your holiday. With selected hotels, private transfers and flights included, this tour offers a seamless and rewarding travel experience.

Head to the airport for your overnight flight to Cochin in India.

Cochin (Kerala)

Cochin is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula in the prosperous state of Kerala, Cochin is also referred to as the Gateway to Kerala. Cochin is flanked by the Western Ghats on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. Its proximity to the equator, the sea and the mountains provide a range of sightseeing options in an equatorial climate. Perhaps cruise the Alappuzha backwaters, visit fort Kochi, relax on Cherai Beach and explore marine drive.

Arrive in Kochi, where you will be met and assisted before transferring to your hotel. Kochi is a historic port city shaped by Portuguese, Dutch and British influences, offering a relaxed atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. The remainder of the day is free to rest after your journey.

Overnight stay in Kochi.

This morning enjoy a guided heritage walk through Fort Kochi, exploring colonial streets, Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church and Santa Cruz Basilica. Visit the Jewish Synagogue (closed Saturdays) and the Dutch Palace (closed Fridays). The afternoon is at leisure before attending a traditional Kathakali dance performance in the evening.

Overnight stay in Kochi.

After breakfast, drive to Munnar, travelling through scenic countryside. En route, visit a plantation home and enjoy lunch with a local family. Continue to Munnar and check in at your hotel. In the evening, take a relaxed walk through the local market.

Overnight stay in Munnar.

Explore Munnar’s tea plantations and visit the Tea Museum (closed Mondays). There may be an opportunity to visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The afternoon is free to relax or enjoy the mountain scenery. Optional trekking experiences are available.

Overnight stay in Munnar.

Drive to Thekkady, located near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. After checking in, visit a spice garden to learn about Kerala’s famous spices including cardamom, pepper and cinnamon, grown naturally in this region.

Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Enjoy a guided nature walk in Periyar National Park, led by a trained local guide. This gentle walk offers chances to see birds, butterflies and other wildlife. The afternoon is at leisure. In the evening, you may choose to attend an optional Kalaripayattu martial arts performance.

Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Drive to Alleppey and board a traditional houseboat for an overnight cruise through Kerala’s famous backwaters. Glide along narrow canals, passing villages, paddy fields and daily local life. The boat is anchored at sunset.

Overnight stay on board the houseboat.

After breakfast on board, disembark and transfer to Kumarakom, located on the shores of Vembanad Lake. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Overnight stay in Kumarakom.

A full day at leisure to relax by the backwaters or enjoy optional wellness activities such as Ayurveda or yoga. In the evening, take part in a cooking class with the hotel chef, learning to prepare traditional Kerala dishes before enjoying dinner.

Overnight stay in Kumarakom.

Transfer to Kochi International Airport for your return flight to the UK.

Origin Trip Start Date Trip End Date Price
Heathrow 17/02/26 Tuesday 26/02/26 Thursday ยฃ2209 View
Heathrow 19/02/26 Thursday 28/02/26 Saturday ยฃ2309 View
Heathrow 21/02/26 Saturday 02/03/26 Monday ยฃ2039 View
Heathrow 24/02/26 Tuesday 05/03/26 Thursday ยฃ1999 View
Heathrow 26/02/26 Thursday 07/03/26 Saturday ยฃ2149 View
Heathrow 28/02/26 Saturday 09/03/26 Monday ยฃ2029 View
Heathrow 03/03/26 Tuesday 12/03/26 Thursday ยฃ1959 View
Heathrow 05/03/26 Thursday 14/03/26 Saturday ยฃ2079 View
Heathrow 07/03/26 Saturday 16/03/26 Monday ยฃ1959 View
Heathrow 10/03/26 Tuesday 19/03/26 Thursday ยฃ1919 View