Discover the enchanting beauty of Kerala — from the colonial charm of Fort Kochi and the emerald tea hills of Munnar to the wild reserves of Periyar, the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, and the sun-kissed beaches of Kovalam. This bespoke 8‑day journey is crafted to immerse you in the very soul of God's Own Country.
Every Lawrence Travels trip is tailored to your personal preferences. Below you'll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own bespoke journey.
Spectacularly located at the meeting point of the Arabian Sea and the Kerala backwaters, Cochin offers a heady mix of colonial history, vibrant street art and world-class seafood. Walk along the waterfront to the iconic Chinese fishing nets, then explore the 16th‑century Portuguese churches and spice markets.
Welcome to God's Own Country. Transfer from Cochin International Airport to your boutique hotel. Evening at leisure — stroll along the harbour promenade and watch the Chinese fishing nets at sunset. Overnight at Cochin.
Morning sightseeing of Fort Kochi including Santa Cruz Basilica, St. Francis Church, the Dutch Palace and the Jewish Synagogue. Afternoon scenic drive to Munnar (130 km, approx. 4 hours) through winding roads, waterfalls and cardamom hills. Check-in at heritage resort. Overnight at Munnar.
Nestled at 1,600 metres in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a canvas of undulating tea gardens, misty peaks and rare wildlife. The cool mountain air, fragrant tea bushes and spectacular viewpoints make it one of India's most enchanting hill stations.
Full day to explore Munnar. Visit the KDHP Tea Museum to learn the art of tea processing. Drive up to Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Visit Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point. Evening at leisure. Overnight at Munnar.
Munnar to Thekkady is a 3-hour drive (98 km by road). Transfer to hotel. Evening boating at Periyar Lake to see the wildlife — watch elephants, bison and deer come down to the water's edge. Overnight at Thekkady.
Home to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, Thekkady offers one of the finest wildlife experiences in southern India. The reserve's centerpiece is the stunning Periyar Lake, where boat cruises bring you within sight of elephants, bison and rich birdlife amid dense tropical forest.
Thekkady to Kumarakom is a 3.5-hour drive by road (132 km). Transfer to hotel. Afternoon sightseeing of Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary set on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Overnight stay at Kumarakom.
A labyrinth of tranquil canals, lagoons and palm-fringed waterways, the Kumarakom backwaters are the beating heart of Kerala. Board a luxury houseboat (kettuvallam) and let the gentle rhythm of the water carry you past village life and coconut groves.
Board an authentic luxury houseboat at Kumarakom. Ride along serene and peaceful backwaters. Observe the local lifestyle and fishing. Fresh Kerala cuisine prepared on board. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
Alleppey to Kovalam is a 4‑hour drive by road (170 km). Disembark the houseboat at Alleppey and drive south to the sun-kissed beaches of Kovalam. Transfer to hotel. Overnight stay at Kovalam.
The crescent beaches of Kovalam are the perfect finale to your Kerala journey. With the iconic lighthouse perched on rocky cliffs above, these palm-shaded shores offer world-class Ayurvedic spas, fresh seafood and the gentle rhythm of the Arabian Sea.
Morning Trivandrum sightseeing — visit the magnificent Sree Padmanabha Swami Temple, Kuthira Malika (Horse Palace) and Napier Museum. Afternoon free at Kovalam beach for relaxation or an optional Ayurvedic spa experience. Overnight at Kovalam.
Departure transfer to Trivandrum Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey. Farewell from Lawrence Travels — until your next adventure.