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Backwaters • Hills • Coast

Kerala

Tea-covered hills, backwater journeys, tropical coastlines and a rich culture of food, wellness and hospitality.

State
Kerala, India
6–8 nights

Tea-covered hills, backwater journeys, tropical coastlines and a rich culture of food, wellness and hospitality.

A traditional houseboat on the Kerala backwaters

Overview

Kerala is ideal for a multi-experience holiday: Kochi adds history and culture, Munnar brings tea-covered highlands, Thekkady introduces wildlife and spice-country, and Alappuzha or Kumarakom offer the classic backwater experience. Beach extensions and Ayurveda or wellness stays can be added depending on the traveller profile.

Why visit Kerala

  • Munnar tea hills
  • Alappuzha and Kumarakom backwaters
  • Kochi heritage
  • Thekkady and spice country
  • Beaches, Ayurveda and cuisine

Top attractions

  • Munnar

    A highland destination of tea plantations, misty valleys and cool-weather scenery.

  • Alappuzha Backwaters

    The classic houseboat and canal landscape associated with Kerala.

  • Fort Kochi

    A heritage district shaped by maritime history, colonial architecture and culture.

  • Thekkady

    A spice-country and wildlife stop centred around the Periyar landscape.

  • Kovalam

    A well-known beach extension near Thiruvananthapuram.

Things to do

  • Explore Fort Kochi
  • Visit Munnar tea landscapes
  • Cruise or stay on the backwaters
  • Explore Thekkady
  • Add a beach stay
  • Experience Kathakali, local cuisine or Ayurveda

Best time to visit

November to February is the most comfortable peak season across many circuits. Monsoon creates lush scenery and suits some wellness-focused travel, while March to May is warmer.

How to reach

Kerala has major airports at Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode, along with a strong rail and road network. The best arrival airport depends on the chosen circuit.

Travel tips

Avoid routing the state as if all destinations are close together. Build the itinerary around sensible road sectors and keep houseboat check-in/out timings in mind.

Nearby places

  • Kochi
  • Munnar
  • Thekkady
  • Alappuzha
  • Kumarakom
  • Kovalam

You may also like

  • Ooty

    Tea estates, cool Nilgiri air and the nostalgic mountain railway in South India’s classic hill station.

  • Goa

    A coastal holiday that moves easily between beaches, Portuguese-era heritage, food, nightlife and relaxed resort time.

Frequently asked questions

Featured in

India / Domestic Travel

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Cruises visiting Kerala