Tea Trails and Backwaters of Kerala

Arrive in Kochi and transfer to the hotel. A key trading port throughout history, Kochi (known as Cochin during the rule of the British Raj) is an intriguing blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Following free time to unpack and settle in, we’ll visit the backwater island village of Poothotta. We’ll cross the river in a canoe, explore narrow canals, and observe village activities like coir-making. Afterwards we’ll be welcomed to India with a home-cooked meal courtesy of a local family. 

We’ll begin day three with a guided tour of Fort Kochi. Located in the heart of Old Cochin, it’s known for its colonial-period architecture. Heading out into this historic port city, we'll tick off a host of sights including the Jewish Synagogue, the Dutch Palace and St. Francis Church – the oldest European church in India. We’ll also visit Santa Cruz Basilica, a local spice market, and Dhobi Khana to watch Tamil-speaking Vannan people work as washermen and women – the traditional occupation of this community. 

In the evening, enjoy a sunset boat cruise around Kochi Harbour, admiring the spectacular sunset and the bustling activity of the port. Finally, we’ll return to the hotel for dinner. 

Distance: 2.5 miles (4kms) 

This morning we’ll drive from Kochi to Munnar. Once the summer resort of the British administration in South India, Munnar is a beautiful Hill Station on the Western Ghats that still retains its old-world charm. Famous for its tea plantations, the town is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams Mudrapauzha, Naliathanii and Kundala. With its sprawling estates, rolling hills, sparkling waterfalls, picture-postcard hamlets and undulating valleys, Munnar is a spectacular place to explore. 

Along the way, we’ll stop at the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary for a nature walk where we’re in with a chance of spotting kingfishers, storks, and hornbills. Afterwards, we’ll continue to Munnar, check into our hotel, and spend the rest of the day at leisure or visiting the local market. 

Distance: 5 miles (8km) 

Ascent: 300m (985ft)

Descent: 215m (700ft)

After an early breakfast, we’ll drive through the old town of Munnar and arrive to a tiny village of Nagarmudi, where we start our trek accompanied by a local guide. The trail commences with a gradual ascent through the tea plantations and then climbs into Seven Malai hills. Walking through cardamom and coffee plantations, we’ll reach the top and be rewarded with spectacular views over Annamudi Peak, Changulam Lake, Chittrapuram Dam, Munnar and & local villages. Later, we’ll descend on the same route and be transferred to our hotel.   

Distance: 6.2 miles (10km)

Ascent: 350m

Descent: 420m 

Departing the hotel after breakfast, we'll drive to Ellapetty where we'll start our walk to the top valley, a panoramic viewpoint at an elevation of 2,200 metres above sea- level. Led by a professional guide, this trek takes us through grasslands, evergreen shola and montane forest, and across many ridges of the Western Ghats.  Along the way, we'll be rewarded with spectacular views over the lowlands of Tamil Nadu, plus the chance to spot some of the region's endemic bird species. 

Distance: 2 miles (3km) 

Today we’ll visit the ancient city of Madurai – home of the magnificent Sri Meenakshi temple with its spectacular gopura towers. After exploring this intricate temple complex, we’ll head back to the hotel to freshen up before an evening street food tour. We’ll head out into Madurai with a local guide and visit various eateries to sample authentic South Indian cuisine. It’s a tour guaranteed to satisfy both your tastebuds and sense of adventure. 

Our sightseeing tour of Madurai begins with a visit to Meenakshi Amman Temple, a stellar example of Vijayanagara architecture. Admire the colourful stucco images on the gopurams (towers) and capture memorable photos. Next, explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, built in 1636 in the Indo-Mughal style by the Nayaka Dynasty it boasts intricate carvings and opulent interiors. In the evening, we’ll attend the Aarti ceremony at Meenakshi Temple. Witness this divine ritual as the deity is carried on a palanquin to join Meenakshi – a fascinating insight into India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. 

Distance: 2.5miles (4km) 

This morning we’ll make our way to the bustling village of Thekkady, one of India’s most important spice-growing regions. Enjoy a wonderfully scenic drive which climbs through the Western Ghats with fantastic views across Tamil Nadu before arriving at our hotel. Once we’ve checked in, there’ll be a short tour of a spice garden where we’ll learn all about growing cardamom, cinnamon, turmeric, vanilla, peppercorns, chilies, and more. 

In the afternoon, there’ll be a guided walking tour of Thekkedy followed by a live Kalarippayattu martial arts performance, inspired by the animals of the region. 

Distance: 3 miles (5km) 

Embark on an early morning jungle walk in Periyar National Park, one of the largest in Southern India, for the chance to spot wild Indian elephants, wild boar, buffalo, and more with an expert guide. In the afternoon, there’ll be a boat ride on Periyar Lake, with opportunities to spot rare riverbank wildlife. Later, we’ll participate in a cooking demonstration with a local Keralan family and dine on our creations for dinner. It’s a fun beginner course where you'll be taught how to cook Indian food and use Indian spices—all while getting acquainted with family members of a traditional Indian home. 

We’ll make our way from Thekkady to the coast for one of the highlights of the whole tour today. Climb aboard a traditional Keralan houseboat and cruise the backwaters of Allepey for an authentic snapshot of local life. Built of Anjili wood and bamboo, these enchanting houseboats, were the traditional mode of transporting goods across Southern India for centuries. Now they have been carefully converted into cruise boats. On board, you can try your hand at fishing, grab a drink from the bar or just sit back and savour the peace and quiet of this tranquil waterway. We’ll drop anchor on the beautiful Vembanad Lake and be served a delicious dinner before overnighting in your comfortable cabin.  

After waking to the sounds of birds on the riverbank, we’ll enjoy breakfast on the houseboat, before a drive to beautiful Marari Beach and the fisherman’s village of Mararikulam. We’ll check into a hotel here where we’ll spend the next two nights.

Our final day is free for you to spend relaxing at the beach or joining your guide for a morning walk along the coastline. Optional activities include cycling, canoeing, or an Ayurveda massage. In the evening we’ll enjoy a final dinner together at the hotel. 

Transfer to Kochi airport for your return flight to the UK.