Cochin to Bangalore Backwater, Tea Estate & Temples

Day 1: Arrival in Cochin

Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, meet our representative and transfer to your hotel. Later, explore the colonial heritage of Fort Kochi, visiting the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, and the historic lanes of Jew Town. In the evening, enjoy a captivating Kathakali dance performance, showcasing Kerala's renowned classical storytelling tradition. Overnight stay in Cochin.

Day 2: Cochin – Alleppey Houseboat

Drive: Approx. 55 km | 1.5 hrs

After breakfast, drive to Alleppey and board your private traditional houseboat. Cruise peacefully through Kerala's enchanting backwaters, passing coconut groves, paddy fields, charming villages, and narrow canals while observing local life along the waterways. Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala cuisine onboard as the houseboat glides through the tranquil lagoons. Overnight stay on a private houseboat in Alleppey.

Day 3: Alleppey – Thekkady

Drive: Approx. 140 km | 4 hrs

After breakfast onboard, disembark and drive through scenic hills to Thekkady, home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Check in to your hotel before enjoying an evening of Kerala's traditional performing arts with an exciting Kalaripayattu martial arts demonstration followed by a colourful Kathakali dance performance. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Day 4: Thekkady Sightseeing

After breakfast, enjoy a shared boat safari on Periyar Lake, offering opportunities to spot elephants, deer, bison, birds, and other wildlife along the forested shoreline. Later, visit a fragrant spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves before browsing the local spice market. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

Day 5: Thekkady – Munnar

Drive: Approx. 95 km | 3–4 hrs

After breakfast, drive through picturesque mountain roads to Munnar, surrounded by rolling tea plantations, waterfalls, and mist-covered hills. After checking in, visit the Tea Museum to discover the fascinating history of tea cultivation and processing in the region, followed by a refreshing tea tasting session. Overnight stay in Munnar.

Day 6: Munnar Sightseeing

After breakfast, explore the natural beauty of Munnar with visits to Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, the panoramic viewpoints of Pothamedu, and the scenic surroundings of Devikulam. Enjoy leisurely walks through lush tea gardens while admiring the cool mountain landscapes. Overnight stay in Munnar.

Day 7: Munnar – Madurai

Drive: Approx. 160 km | 4–5 hrs

After breakfast, drive to the ancient temple city of Madurai. Upon arrival, visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, celebrated for its towering gopurams, colourful sculptures, and remarkable Dravidian architecture. Experience the vibrant evening temple ceremony before exploring the bustling local streets. Overnight stay in Madurai.

Day 8: Madurai – Coimbatore

Drive: Approx. 215 km | 5–6 hrs

After breakfast, travel to Coimbatore and check in at your hotel. Later, visit the Gass Forest Museum before continuing to the impressive Adiyogi Shiva Statue and the peaceful Isha Yoga Center, where spirituality and nature blend harmoniously. Overnight stay in Coimbatore.

Day 9: Coimbatore – Ooty

Drive: Approx. 85 km | 3 hrs

After breakfast, drive through the Nilgiri Hills to Ooty. Upon arrival, visit the beautiful Ooty Lake, enjoy an optional boat ride, and explore the colourful Government Botanical Garden. If time permits, experience the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Overnight stay in Ooty.

Day 10: Ooty – Mysore

Drive: Approx. 125 km | 3–4 hrs

After breakfast, drive through scenic forests to Mysore. Visit the magnificent Mysore Palace, one of India's finest royal residences, followed by the sacred Chamundeshwari Temple atop Chamundi Hill, offering panoramic city views. Later, explore the bustling Devaraja Market, renowned for flowers, spices, and local handicrafts. Overnight stay in Mysore.

Day 11: Mysore – Bangalore

Drive: Approx. 150 km | 3–4 hrs

After breakfast, drive to Bangalore and begin exploring India's Garden City. Visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Vidhana Soudha, Bangalore Palace, and conclude the day with free time along the lively MG Road, famous for shopping, cafés, and entertainment. Overnight stay in Bangalore.

Day 12: Bangalore Departure

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Kempegowda International Airport for your onward journey, concluding your memorable exploration of South India's backwaters, tea estates, wildlife, temples, hill stations, and royal heritage.