Embark on an unforgettable journey through Kerala, fondly known as “God’s Own Country,” with this immersive 11-day tour. From the vibrant city of Cochin, where colonial charm meets cultural vibrancy, to the serene backwaters of Alleppey, this adventure showcases Kerala’s breathtaking beauty and unique experiences.
Begin your journey in Cochin, exploring historic landmarks such as Fort Cochin, St. Francis Church, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets. Experience Kerala’s rich culinary heritage with a cooking class by a local chef. Travel to Munnar, a picturesque hill station enveloped by rolling tea plantations, and visit the Rajamalai Wildlife Sanctuary and Tea Museum. Continue to Thekkady, a spice haven, where nature walks and boat cruises on Periyar Lake bring you closer to Kerala’s wildlife and lush landscapes.
Experience the magic of Alleppey’s iconic backwaters on a luxurious houseboat, drifting past swaying palms and rustic villages. Conclude your journey in Poovar, a tranquil island paradise with golden sands and serene backwaters, perfect for relaxation and reflection. This enchanting itinerary blends culture, nature, and relaxation, offering an unforgettable Kerala experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
The short itinerary
Day 1 : DEPART NEW YORK – YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS
Day 2 : ARRIVE IN COCHIN – THE GATEWAY TO KERALA
Day 3 : DISCOVER THE HISTORICAL CHARMS OF COCHIN
Day 4 : COCHIN TO MUNNAR – JOURNEY THROUGH ROLLING HILLS
Day 5 : MUNNAR – A DAY OF NATURAL SPLENDOUR AND CULTURAL HERITAGE
Day 6 : MUNNAR TO THEKKADY – THE SPICE CAPITAL OF KERALA
Day 7 : THEKKADY – NATURE WALK AND PERIYAR LAKE CRUISE
Day 8 : THEKKADY TO ALLEPPEY – THE VENICE OF THE EAST
Day 9 : ALLEPPEY TO POOVAR – A SLICE OF PARADISE
Day 10 : POOVAR – A DAY OF LEISURE
Day 11 : POOVAR TO TRIVANDRUM – FAREWELL TO KERALA
Throughout your journey in South India, you will stay in a thoughtfully curated selection of heritage bungalows, eco-lodges, and boutique hotels. Each property has been carefully chosen for its charm, comfort, and proximity to exceptional wildlife habitats. From colonial tea estates nestled in the hills to forest lodges by peaceful riverbanks, your accommodations offer a seamless blend of nature, authenticity, and warm southern hospitality.
Please note: If any of the accommodations listed in your itinerary are unavailable at the time of booking, we will arrange a suitable alternative of similar quality and character to ensure your comfort and overall experience remain exceptional.
City |
Superior Hotels |
Deluxe Hotels |
Cochin |
Casino Hotel |
Brunton Boatyard |
Munnar |
Siena Village |
Windermere Estate |
Thekkady |
Silver Crest |
The Elephant Court |
Alleppey |
Deluxe Houseboat |
Deluxe Houseboat |
Poovar |
Poovar Island Resort |
Estuary Sarovar Portico |
Extend Your Kerala Holiday – From Cultural Marvels to Island Luxury
Why stop after experiencing the gentle backwaters, misty tea hills, and golden beaches of Kerala? Extend your journey with one of our curated international travel extensions, designed to seamlessly follow your 9-night South India adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the regal grandeur of Rajasthan, the Himalayan beauty of Nepal, the tropical bliss of the Maldives, or the ultra-modern glamour of the Middle East, there’s a perfect finale waiting for you.
Each of these extensions includes flights, carefully selected hotels, local transfers, and handpicked experiences — making them the ideal add-on to your unforgettable Kerala holiday.
1. Golden Triangle Discovery with Flights – Palaces, Forts & the Taj Mahal
Step into a world of history and opulence with a classic Golden Triangle tour of India, covering Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. From the grandeur of the Taj Mahal to the regal architecture of Jaipur’s Amber Fort and the vibrant charm of Old Delhi, this journey takes you deep into India’s royal heart.
Swap Kerala’s peaceful backwaters for North India’s architectural splendour and cultural vibrance — a striking and rewarding contrast.
What’s included?
- Flight from Trivandrum to Delhi, and return flight home
- 5 nights’ accommodation in premium hotels:
Delhi: Park Inn by Radisson New Delhi IP Extension
Agra: Royale Sarovar Portico
Jaipur: Ramada by Wyndham Jaipur Jaisinghpura
- Daily breakfast
- All private transfers, including arrival, departure, and intercity transport
This Golden Triangle Discovery can be booked online and is fully integrated with your Kerala tour.
Explore the full tour here: Golden Triangle Discovery – Delhi, Jaipur & Agra
2. Nepal Extension with Flights – Himalayan Peaks & Sacred Temples
Take a spectacular detour into the Himalayas with our Nepal extension, rich in mountain views, cultural heritage, and wildlife. Begin in Kathmandu, filled with ancient temples and colourful markets. Venture into Chitwan National Park for wildlife safaris, and then relax in Pokhara, a tranquil town nestled beside a glacial lake and the Annapurna range.
Ideal for those seeking spiritual depth and natural wonder, this extension adds a fresh dimension to your journey.
What’s included?
- Flight from Trivandrum to Kathmandu, and return flight home
- 6 nights’ accommodation in handpicked hotels:
Kathmandu: Norbulinka Boutique Hotel
Chitwan: Jungle Crown
Pokhara: Mount View Hotel
- Daily breakfast, plus full board in Chitwan
- All transfers and ground transportation
Download the full itinerary here: 6-Night Nepal Extension PDF
3. 8-Night Sri Lanka Pre-Tour with Flights – Ancient Cities & Tea Country
Start your Kerala holiday with a fascinating Sri Lanka pre-tour, offering a magical blend of culture, nature, and coastline. Climb the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress, enjoy cultural performances in Kandy, experience cool climes in Nuwara Eliya, and unwind on the beaches of Beruwala.
Sri Lanka is the perfect prelude to India — smaller, more laid-back, and brimming with charm.
What’s included?
- Return flights from the UK to Colombo, then onward to Cochin
- 8 nights’ accommodation in Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Beruwala
- Daily breakfast
- All arrival and departure transfers and transportation
Discover more about this tour: Essence of Sri Lanka – Culture, Nature & Coastline
4. Maldives Extension – Pure Island Bliss in the Indian Ocean
Unwind in luxury with a post-Kerala stay in the Maldives, where white sands, crystal-clear waters, and overwater villas redefine relaxation. Ideal for honeymooners or travellers looking to end their journey in style, this tropical escape is just a short flight from Trivandrum.
Choose between 3 or 5 nights of indulgence at a handpicked 5-star resort.
What’s included?
- Flight from Trivandrum to Male, and return flight home
- 3 or 5 nights at a 5-star beach or overwater resort (e.g. Sun Siyam Olhuveli, OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi)
- All-Inclusive meal plan
- Speedboat transfers to and from your island resort
5. Middle East Stopover – City Skylines, Desert Adventures & Luxury Living
Add a glamorous final chapter to your holiday with a Middle East stopover in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Doha. Whether you’re marvelling at skyscrapers, exploring souks, or heading into the desert for a 4×4 safari, these city escapes offer a perfect transition from India to home.
What’s included?
- Flight from Trivandrum to Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Doha, and return flight home
- 3 nights’ accommodation at a premium 5-star hotel (e.g. Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek, Alwadi Hotel Doha, Southern Sun Abu Dhabi)
- Daily breakfast
- Private airport transfers both ways
These stopovers are available with major Gulf airlines including Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways, and can be easily added to your return journey.
Important Information
- Check-in: From 15:00 hours
- Check-out: Until 12:00 hours
- Room occupancy: Maximum 2 adults and 1 child aged 0–17 per room
Offer Basis: The offer is based on twin share, meaning a minimum of 2 full-paying adults must book to validate this offer.
Hotels: If any of the hotels listed in the itinerary are unavailable, we will provide accommodation of a similar standard.
Internet Access: Free Wi-Fi access is available at all hotels, typically in the lounge or public areas.
Wheelchair Access: Please note that this tour and the hotels featured are not suitable for wheelchair users.
Mobile Number: Please ensure that a valid mobile number is provided at the time of booking, as this will help the local driver reach you more easily.
Flight Documents: Once your final payment has been received, you will be sent an email confirmation. Your travel documentation for flights and accommodation will be issued shortly afterwards.
Flight Times: All flight times are provisional and subject to change by the airline. We always aim to secure the best available times and will notify you should any changes occur prior to departure.
Group Size: You will travel in India as part of a group of between 1 and 20 people.
Vaccinations: If travelling to India, it is advised that you check whether vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Tetanus, and Typhoid are recommended. Please consult your GP or visit www.gov.uk for the most up-to-date travel health advice.
Cancellation Conditions: This offer cannot be cancelled or modified. Any Lumle Holidays booking fee paid is strictly non-refundable.