Embark on a captivating 10 Days / 9 Nights Kerala and Tamil Nadu tour starting from Kochi, blending South India’s lush landscapes, sacred temples, rich heritage, and serene coastlines. This thoughtfully curated itinerary takes you through the misty hills of Munnar, the wildlife haven of Thekkady, the cultural splendor of Madurai and Rameswaram, and the coastal charm of Kanyakumari and Kovalam. A tranquil houseboat cruise in Alleppey adds the perfect Kerala touch. Ideal for families, couples, and spiritual seekers, this journey offers a balanced mix of nature, heritage, and relaxation.
Tour Highlights
Begin your unforgettable South India adventure in Kochi, a vibrant coastal city rich in colonial heritage and cultural fusion. Upon arrival at Kochi International Airport or railway station, a friendly tour representative will escort you to your hotel. After check-in and a short rest, set out to explore the historic precincts of Fort Kochi, known for its Portuguese, Dutch, and British architectural influences. Highlights include the Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) with its exquisite murals, the ancient Paradesi Synagogue in Jew Town, and the Chinese Fishing Nets swaying along the shoreline. Spend your evening indulging in fresh seafood or watching a traditional Kathakali performance, setting the perfect tone for your Kerala journey.
After a hearty breakfast, leave the coast behind as you ascend to the mist-draped hills of Munnar, Kerala’s crown jewel among hill stations. The scenic 4-hour drive offers glimpses of rubber plantations, cascading waterfalls, and tea gardens stretching as far as the eye can see. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take in the cool mountain breeze. Later, visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about Munnar’s colonial tea legacy and take a leisurely walk through nearby plantations. Optional visits to Pothamedu Viewpoint or Old Munnar’s markets add a charming local touch to your day.
Today, immerse yourself in Munnar’s natural wonders. After breakfast, begin with a visit to Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the rare, seasonal Neelakurinji flowers. Next, head to Mattupetty Dam for boating, followed by a trip to Echo Point, known for its natural acoustic phenomenon. Continue to Kundala Lake, a serene spot for Shikara rides amidst cherry blossom trees, and end your day at Top Station, where panoramic views of the Western Ghats await. Spend the evening enjoying the tranquil charm of Munnar.
Depart from Munnar after breakfast and journey to Thekkady, a lush region famous for its spice plantations and wildlife. After checking in at your resort or eco-lodge, set out to explore the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you may choose an optional boat cruise on Periyar Lake, offering glimpses of elephants, deer, and exotic birds. Later, enjoy a guided spice plantation tour, showcasing Kerala’s rich bounty of cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper. In the evening, consider attending a Kalaripayattu martial arts show or a traditional dance performance.
Say goodbye to Kerala’s forests as you cross into Tamil Nadu, arriving in Madurai, one of India’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. After hotel check-in and some rest, visit the architectural marvel of Meenakshi Amman Temple, with its towering gopurams and vibrant sculptures. This 2,500-year-old temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture and a spiritual center. Optional excursions include the ornate Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace and the Gandhi Memorial Museum, providing insights into the Mahatma’s legacy in South India.
After breakfast, drive to Rameswaram, one of India’s holiest pilgrimage towns, situated on an island in the Gulf of Mannar. Upon arrival, explore the revered Ramanathaswamy Temple, which houses one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and boasts the world’s longest temple corridor. Visit Agni Theertham, a sacred seashore where devotees take holy dips, and marvel at the engineering feat that is the Pamban Bridge. Don’t miss the APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial, a tribute to India’s beloved former president and scientist who was born here.
Start your day early with a scenic drive to Kanyakumari, India’s southernmost tip, where the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean converge. Check in and explore the unique attractions, starting with a ferry ride to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, built in honor of the philosopher-saint. Next, visit the Thiruvalluvar Statue, dedicated to the ancient Tamil poet. Explore the Kanyakumari Temple and end your day at Sunset Point, where the sun dips below the horizon over three water bodies—a breathtaking spectacle.
After witnessing the mesmerizing sunrise over the sea, journey northward to Kovalam, Kerala’s premier beach destination. Once you arrive and settle into your resort, spend the day unwinding along the golden shores of Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, or Samudra Beach. Whether you choose to sunbathe, take a dip in the Arabian Sea, try your hand at surfing, or indulge in a soothing Ayurvedic massage, Kovalam offers the perfect mix of leisure and luxury.
Post breakfast, travel to Alleppey, the famed hub of Kerala’s backwater network. On arrival, step aboard your private, well-appointed houseboat, and begin a serene cruise through palm-fringed canals, green paddy fields, and charming villages. As the houseboat floats gently on the tranquil backwaters, enjoy freshly prepared Kerala cuisine served onboard. Capture the rhythm of local life from your sundeck and experience a once-in-a-lifetime overnight stay surrounded by nature’s calm.
After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and drive back to Kochi. Your tour concludes with a transfer to the airport or railway station for your onward journey. You leave with unforgettable memories of Kerala’s lush greenery and backwaters, Tamil Nadu’s rich spiritual legacy, and the vibrant cultures that make South India so special.
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Please note that after the finalization of the tour/service cost, if there are any hikes in entrance fees of monuments/museums, taxes, fuel cost or guide charges by the Govt of India and Rajasthan state government the same would be charged as extra.