Kerala Backwater Tour

Duration
7 Days
Destination Covered
Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarkom, Kettuvalam, Allepey
Places
6 Places

Overview

Embark on a soul-soothing journey with our Kerala Backwater Tour, a 7-day escape into the heart of one of India’s most beautiful and peaceful states. Known as “God’s Own Country,” Kerala is famous for its calm backwaters, swaying palm trees, rich greenery, and warm hospitality. This Kerala backwater package is specially designed for travellers who want to relax, explore, and enjoy nature at its finest. The tour covers six scenic places – Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom, Alleppey, and a memorable stay on a traditional Kerala backwater houseboat tour known as a Kettuvalam.

Your journey begins in Cochin and continues into the lush hills of Munnar, a charming hill station known for its misty mountains and green tea plantations. The cool breeze, fresh air, and breath-taking views make Munnar a perfect start to your trip. Next, you will head to Thekkady, where the spice-scented air and peaceful forests invite you to explore nature and wildlife. Here, you may spot elephants, deer, and exotic birds in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the best-known parks in India.

The tour then brings you to the magical world of backwater tourism in India, with a visit to Kumarakom and Alleppey. These towns are famous for their quiet canals, beautiful lakes, and local life along the water. The highlight of the tour is a stay on a backwater houseboat in Kerala, where you will sail slowly through palm-lined canals while enjoying delicious Kerala food cooked fresh on board. Watching the sun set over the calm waters while you relax on the deck is an experience you’ll never forget.

This tour is one of the most popular Kerala backwater tours and includes top-quality stays, local sightseeing, cultural experiences, and chances to shop and try tasty food. You will get to see the peaceful side of life in Kerala, where people still use small boats to travel and the sound of birds fills the air.

Whether you are planning a family vacation, a honeymoon, or a solo trip to relax your mind, our Kerala Backwater Tour Packages have something for everyone. The slow pace, clean air, and natural beauty help you feel refreshed and reconnected with yourself. The friendly locals, rich culture, and stunning views make it one of the best backwater experiences in Kerala.

Do not miss this opportunity to enjoy a backwater trip in Alleppey and experience the famous Kerala backwaters houseboat packages that travellers from all over the world come to see. Come cruise the waters, taste the spice, and take home unforgettable memories.

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HIGHLIGHTS:

Explore 6 scenic destinations across Kerala including Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom, Alleppey, and experience a memorable overnight stay on a traditional houseboat.
Spend 1 night on a classic Kerala backwater houseboat, enjoying serene views and relishing delicious meals freshly prepared on-board.
Discover the beauty of Munnar with guided sightseeing to Rajamalai (Eravikulam National Park), home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, along with visits to Echo Point and Muttupetty Dam.
Experience the wilderness of Thekkady with a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can optionally enjoy a peaceful boat ride and spot exotic animals.
Enjoy scenic stopovers at lush spice plantations as you travel between destinations, learning about Kerala’s rich agricultural heritage.
Cruise along the tranquil waters of Vembanad Lake in Kumarakom, known for its calm atmosphere and enchanting backwater scenery.
Savour local Kerala cuisine freshly prepared aboard the houseboat, using authentic regional spices and traditional cooking methods.
Visit renowned birdwatching sites in Kumarakom, a paradise for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Enjoy authentic cultural experiences and scenic photo opportunities throughout the journey, capturing Kerala’s diverse beauty.
Get convenient transfers from and to the airport or railway station in a clean, air-conditioned private vehicle.
Stay in carefully selected deluxe or premium hotels, each providing daily breakfast and comfort to unwind after your day’s exploration.
Be guided by an experienced tour manager and assisted by friendly local guides who enrich your journey with insights and stories.
Travel comfortably across Kerala in a private air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a relaxed and personalized road journey.
Cruise through the iconic Kerala backwaters, witnessing everyday village life, lush landscapes, and a unique ecosystem during the houseboat stay.
Receive a traditional Kerala welcome upon arrival, featuring local hospitality and cultural rituals that make you feel at home.
Choose to relax with optional Ayurvedic massage arrangements, a rejuvenating experience using time-honoured herbal practices.
Enjoy special arrangements for honeymooners or families, making your trip extra personal and memorable upon request.
Benefit from 24/7 ground support and tour assistance, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience from start to finish.
Take advantage of ample leisure time and shopping opportunities at each destination to explore local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Get help with flight or train bookings through our travel team, available upon request to simplify your journey planning.

Important notes for Kerala Backwater Tour

All guests are required to carry valid government-issued ID proofs such as Aadhaar, Passport, or Driving License for hotel check-ins and travel documentation.
Footwear must be removed before entering temples and traditional houseboats, as a mark of respect in accordance with local customs.
Consumption of alcohol is strictly restricted or prohibited in religious areas and during specific cultural events.
Please exercise caution near lakes, rivers, and other water bodies, especially during boat rides; wearing life jackets is mandatory for safety.
Houseboat check-in time is 12:00 PM and check-out is at 9:00 AM the following day; early or late check-ins are not permitted.
Houseboats may have limited power backup facilities, especially during the night; carry essential electronic items accordingly.
Carry mosquito repellent and sunscreen to stay protected while outdoors, especially during the backwater cruise or plantation visits.
It’s recommended to pack light woollen clothing for the hill stations of Munnar and Thekkady as the evenings can get chilly.
Mobile network coverage may be weak or unavailable in remote locations, including parts of the backwaters and hilly terrains.
Kindly respect local traditions, wildlife rules, and silence zones, especially inside national parks like Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
If you’re planning to travel during Onam or peak season (December to February), early bookings are highly recommended due to high demand.
Hotel upgrades and specific room requests (like lake view or honeymoon decor) are subject to availability at the time of check-in.
Unless mentioned otherwise, entrance fees to sightseeing places, national parks, or monuments are not included in the tour package.
Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear for nature walks, spice plantation visits, and sightseeing in uneven terrain.
Kerala may experience light rainfall throughout the year, so it is advisable to carry a light raincoat or foldable umbrella.

Best time to go for Kerala Backwater Tour

October to March

These months are considered the most ideal for planning a Kerala Backwater Tour. The weather stays pleasantly cool and dry, making it perfect for houseboat rides through the scenic backwaters of Kerala. Whether you are drifting through the canals of Kumarakom or enjoying the peaceful beauty of Alleppey, the temperature and climate are just right for a relaxing experience. It is also the best time to enjoy hill stations like Munnar, where the misty mornings and lush green plantations come alive. For nature lovers, it is also a great season to visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady, with better chances of spotting wildlife in the open.

April to June

These summer months bring warmer temperatures, but they are still a good time for travellers looking for budget-friendly Kerala backwater packages. The tourist crowd is thinner, which means more peaceful stays, better hotel availability, and discounted prices. Early mornings and evenings are pleasant, offering great windows of time for backwater tourism in India. You can enjoy sightseeing, shopping, and slow-paced houseboat cruises without the rush of the peak season.

July to September

Monsoon season transforms Kerala into a lush green paradise, and it is one of the most magical times to explore the backwaters tour Kerala offers. While heavy rainfall may limit some outdoor activities, the rains add a fresh charm to the landscape. The backwater houseboat in Kerala experience becomes especially romantic and scenic during this time, as raindrops ripple through the calm waters. It is also the best season to indulge in traditional Ayurvedic therapies, which are more effective during the monsoon. For those who love nature and do not mind the rain, this is a peaceful and rejuvenating time for a backwater tour Kerala.

Shopping and Dining Options in Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom, Kettuvalam and Alleppey

Day 1 – Cochin

Dining

Kashi Art Café: Known for continental fare and a quirky ambiance—great for brunch.
Ginger House Restaurant: On the waterfront, ideal for authentic Kerala seafood.

Shopping

Lulu Mall: One of India’s largest malls—offers apparel, electronics, and gourmet foods.
Broadway Market: A bustling bazaar for spices, silk fabrics, jewellery, and coir products.

Day 2 – Munnar

Dining

Saravana Bhavan: Classic South Indian vegetarian meals made authentically.
Rapsy Restaurant: Beloved by locals for crispy Kerala parotta and beef fry.

Day By Day Itinerary

DAY 1

Cochin - Munnar

On arrival at the airport, you will be greeted by our team and briefed on the 7-day Kerala Backwater Tour. We travel via road on a two hour trip to Munnar, the picture perfect hill station of Kerala. Experience nature at its very best, with breath taking scenery and awe inspiring beauty of the valley. We check into the hotel where you can kick back, rest and rejuvenate in a fun filled day at the hotel.
DAY 2

Munnar

After some traditional breakfast, we start our day that promises picturesque sights at this hill station. We first visit Rajamalai, the highest peak of Munnar where you can see the mountain goats, also called Neel Thar. Later, we visit the Muttupetty dam and then the Echo Point. We shall then return to the hotel for a night’s rest.
DAY 3

Munnar - Thekkady

We then travel to Thekkady, a place filled with lesser hills. These comparatively lower altitude hills are home to plantations of spices in Kerala. The name, Thekkady also brings images of elephants bathing at the Periyar Lake. After checking in at the hotel, the day is reserved for some rest.
DAY 4

Thekkady Sightseeing

The Periyar National Park is located at Thekkady. With an area of over 700 sq. km., the Park is home to exotic wild life. Today, we shall take a boat ride at the Periyar Lake and you may be able to see the elephants, tigers, sambar deer and some wild monkeys during this trip. The Park was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978 and thick evergreen forests do not allow any visitors.
DAY 5

Thekkady - Kumarkom

By road, we travel to Kumarkom. On our way, we take a small stop at some spice plantations after which we head to our destination, the Vembanad Lake. This is a freshwater lake and is known for its houseboats. Kumarkom is also known for its boat races, held around the festive time of Onam. We shall rest at the hotel for the night.
DAY 6

Kumarkom - Kettuvalam (House Boat)

Today, we take the Kettuvalam for an amazing experience of the backwaters of Kerala. Witness the canals, rivers and the sea water at Kumarkom on board its famous houseboats. Now used for the purpose of tourism alone, Kumarkom has a wide variety of houseboats on offer from budget to lavish styled ones. You might also see some migratory birds here and we are sure you will enjoy the views of the flora and fauna of this region from your houseboat. There is only one way to complete this experience, i.e. by staying overnight in the houseboat.
DAY 7

Kettuvalam - Alleppey - Cochin

By morning, we shall reach the Alleppey boat jetty and here we will take to the road once again. We travel to Cochin for your onward journey. A drop to the airport or the railway station, as desired by you, will be arranged for.

How to book a Kerala Backwater Tour?

Booking your dream Kerala Backwater Tour Package is just a few simple steps away. Whether you’re planning a peaceful getaway for two or an adventurous family vacation, our booking process is designed to be quick, smooth, and hassle-free.

To get started, simply visit our official website and explore our wide range of Kerala backwaters tours. Select your preferred travel dates, number of travellers, and the type of experiences you’d like to include from a relaxing backwater houseboat in Kerala to exciting sightseeing tours in Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady, and more.

We also offer different stay options including deluxe hotels and traditional Kerala backwater houseboat tours, so you can find something that fits your comfort and budget. If you’re unsure what to choose, our expert team is always ready to help you select from the best Kerala backwaters houseboat packages available.

All you need to do is enter your details and follow the easy booking instructions. We accept various payment options, and you’ll receive instant confirmation and trip details via email or WhatsApp.

If you are looking for a custom tour, please submit the contact form on the website. Our team will contact you as soon as possible.