Active Southern India Adventure: Hiking, Culture, Beaches & Spice Trails of Kerala - 15 Days

Highlights

• Enjoy boat cruises around port cities, backwaters, and nature reserves
• Spend multiple days trekking around the plantations of the Westen Ghats
• Visit organic farms, meet locals, learn to prepare traditional Indian cuisine
• Relax on the finest beaches in southern India, like Marari

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Cochin, Boat Tour & Dance Show

Welcome to India! After a connecting flight, you'll arrive in Cochin, a gem of the country's southwest coast. Also known as Kochi, this dynamic port city is located along the Arabian Sea in the state of Kerala. In fact, Cochin's long history stretches back to King Solomon's time, when it was known as Queen of the Arabian Sea. Back then, Arab, Chinese, and European merchant traders came in search of spices, silk fabrics, and sandalwood.

Upon arrival at the airport, you'll meet your tour representative for a traditional swagat (welcome) followed by a transfer to your hotel. Take some time to settle in before heading out on a two-hour boat tour that leaves from the jetty. It's a great intro to the city, as you'll pass famous landmarks like the 16th-century Fort Kochi, Bolgatty Island, and the shipyards. The ride culminates with a shimmering sunset over the water, after which you'll attend a traditional Kathakali dance show at a cultural center. These classic dances are a form of theater and storytelling, complete with elaborate costumes.

Day 2: Cochin City Tour & Family Cooking Class

Rise and shine! This morning, meet a guide for a half-day tour around Cochin. It begins in the Fort Kochi area of the historic center, known for its Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture. Next, visit Mattancherry Palace (popularly known as the Dutch Palace), built by the Portuguese in 1557 as a gift to the then-king. Nearby are some fine churches as well as Jewish synagogues. Later, stop at the Dhobi Khana, a historic laundry station dating the Dutch occupation of the 17th century, and an aromatic spice market where you can pick up souvenirs.

Later, you'll be welcomed into the home of a local Keralan family for a cooking class. This special experience begins with a traditional sari draping, where you'll be shown how a long strip of cloth can be wrapped in various styles. Then, participate in 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. This is an enriching cultural and culinary experience that you won't soon forget.

Day 3: Transfer to Thodupuzha, Homestay at Organic Farm

Hit the road this morning with your driver on a two-hour drive inland to Thodupuzha. This picturesque town is located in the Idukki district of Kerala, near the foothills of the Western Ghats mountains. It's a great place to escape the bustle of the city and enjoy some rural tranquility, which is exactly what you'll do over the next two days.

Upon arrival, you'll transfer to the family farm where you'll overnight. Located on the banks of the Kannadipuzha River, it's a slice of unspoiled heaven and a peaceful spot to relax and unwind. During the days, you can spend time in the hammocks or swim in the pool. You'll also enjoy home-grown, fresh-cooked Keralan food.

Other activities include visiting local markets, strolling around town, and cycling to nearby farms and orchards. Several plantations growing rubber, cocoa, banana, and spices are spread across the city, adding to its scenic beauty.

Day 4: Thodupuzha Tour: Villages, Cooking Classes & Spice Gardens

Take the day to unwind and explore the enchanting surroundings. Begin exploring the neighboring hamlet, where you'll visit traditional homes and meet locals. This cultural exchange is a great way to glean insight into a more traditional way of life. As you wander the area, you'll also pass by a rubber plantation, where you can witness the fascinating production process.

Then, immerse yourself in the local cuisine with a cooking demonstration offered by a neighborhood family. Learn the art of preparing traditional dishes and savor the region's authentic flavors. To further enrich your experience, visit the nearby temples and witness the pious spectacle as devotees gather for worship. Observe the temple rituals and enjoy some local festivities.

Back at the homestay, enjoy a leisurely walk through the garden, where you can discover the origins of the exotic spices exported to grocery stores worldwide. Engage your senses as you inhale the fragrant aromas of staples like pepper, vanilla, clove, nutmeg, and cardamom. Taste fresh herbs and observe how these flavorsome spices are grown and produced. At the end of the day, you'll have dinner with your host family before retiring for the evening.

Day 5: Transfer to Munnar, Stop at Cheeyapara & Valara Waterfall

After breakfast, you'll continue traveling through Kerala's hill interior on a drive to Munnar. Sitting at 5,249 feet (1,600 m) above sea level in the Western Ghats, this hill town is famous for its tea plantations. The drive there takes three hours, but not to worry, as there will be plenty of scenic stops along the way.

Specifically, you'll visit two enchanting waterfalls: Cheeyapara and Valara. First up is Cheeyapara, which is located on the roadside and cascades 1,000 feet (304 meters) down a mountain. Valara is another mesmerizing waterfall that plunges over rocky terraces. At each location, you can stop, hike around, and enjoy the panoramic views and mountain scenery.

Upon arrival in Munnar, you'll check into your accommodation. You can then spend the rest of the day strolling the streets and browsing the bazaars.

Day 6: Trekking Day 1: Silent Valley to Rhodho Valley

Eat a hearty breakfast because afterward, you're off on a multiday trek around the Western Ghats. First, meet your guide for the ride outside Munnar and through tea plantations to the lush Silent Valley, where the adventure begins.

From a trailhead at around 5,250 feet (1,600 m), set off on a gradual walk across plains and alongside plantations, followed by a gentle climb up to the grasslands. When you reach these meadows, you'll be treated to views of the surrounding tea estates and rolling hills. 

After lunch, continue on the second leg of your trek, which gets steeper. You'll leave the tea plantations behind, and by late afternoon, you'll reach your camp in the Rhodo Valley, where you'll spend the next two nights. All told, the hike takes approximately four to five hours. 

Day 7: Trekking Day 2: Up to Meesapulimala & Transfer to Idukki

After breakfast, continue on a half-day trek up Meesapulimala Peak (8,630 ft/2,630 m), the highest point in the area and the second-highest in South India. The trail ascends through rough shola grasslands from the camp until it reaches open ridges. From there, it winds across broad meadows and then gets steeper as you get closer to the summit. 

Once you reach the top, your efforts will be rewarded with epic views over Kerala and the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. It will take about 2-3 hours to reach the top, and after a short break, you'll descend back to the guest house for a late lunch and a free afternoon. The hike takes about four to five hours, and you'll overnight in the densely forested Idukki district.

Day 8: Trekking Day 3: Rhodo Valley to Top Station

Rise early and start the day's trek through the thick wilderness of Silent Valley, continuing into the pine forests and streams of the Rhodo Valley. Then, walk through lush shola (tropical montane) forest, where you might spot giant squirrels, wild boar, and gaur (Indian bison). Stop for a packed lunch picnic and continue to Yellapatty Village, arriving late afternoon. From there, hop in a vehicle for the ride to your campsite at Top Station (Oorkadu). The day's hike takes approximately 5-6 hours, and the Jeep transfer takes 45 minutes. 

Day 9: Trekking Day 4: Top Station to Thekkady & Periyar

The final day of the trek is a fairly easy excursion to the beautiful village of Koviloor. Along the way, you'll pash through the verdant farming region of Pazhathottam, which is filled with flourishing vegetable plantations. From there, continue to the old village of Vattavada, where you'll stop for lunch. You'll also have the chance to meet farmers and learn more about their culture. You may also spot some rare butterfly species fluttering around. 

After lunch, the final leg of the trek will take you across a small canal to Koviloor. There, you'll hop in a car for the transfer to Thekkady, a small town close to Periyar National Park. Periyar is home to one of India's most fascinating wildlife sanctuaries, featuring habitats that support over 30 species of mammals and rich birdlife. You'll get to explore it tomorrow; for now, spend the evening relaxing.

Day 10: Hiking & Rafting in Periyar, Evening Martial Arts Show

Leave early on a half-day day excursion around Periyar National Park. First up is a guided jungle walk where you'll spot exotic animals like elephants, gaur, deer, and birds like kingfishers, storks, and hornbills—get lucky, and you might even spot a tiger. Then, hop on a bamboo raft for a ride around the park's centerpiece, Periyar Lake, for a fun cruise to spot more regional wildlife. Afterward, you'll return to your hotel in Thekkady and have the rest of the day free.

However, the fun is far from over. This evening, you'll head to a local venue for a live performance of Kalaripayattu. Originating in south India around the 11th century, this ancient practice is known as the mother of all martial arts. It was inspired by the raw power of animals like lions, tigers, elephants, wild boars, snakes, and crocodiles, represented in the acrobatic movements. After the one-hour performance, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 11: Transfer to Alappuzha, Overnight Cruise

After breakfast, you'll meet your driver for the five-hour ride back to the coast and to Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey. Located on the shores of Vembanad, Kerala's largest lake, this entire area is laced with a network of wetlands and waterways traditionally used for transportation. These "backwaters" are now one of the major draws for tourists seeking a peaceful cruising experience.

When you arrive, you'll set off on an overnight houseboat cruise, sure to be a highlight of your trip. The area's famous houseboats are made out of Anjili wood and bamboo, which have traditionally transported goods for hundreds of years. Now, they have been decorated and turned into comfy cruise boats. During the ride, enjoy the scenic backdrop of paddy fields, canals, villages, coconut trees, and diverse birdlife. You'll take your meals onboard, made by the professional crew, and at night, you'll be rocked to sleep by the gentle waves.

Day 12: Transfer to Kumarakom, Village Hike

Meet your driver this morning for the transfer to nearby Kumarakom. After you've settled into your hotel, you'll set off on a 2-3-hour hike to a nearby local village to learn more about coir, a coconut fiber that's one of the main exports from the area. Meet the locals who make coir for a living, then learn how traditional tappers extract toddy (sap) from coconut trees.

Day 13: Transfer to Marari, Optional Activities

After breakfast, leave Kumarakom on an hour's drive to Marari. This eco-friendly resort mimics the style of a traditional fishing village and features a stunning beachfront setting surrounded by lush coconut groves. Upon arrival, check-in, get settled, then spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach—making sure to catch a glorious sunset over the Arabian Sea.

Day 14: Free Day at Marari Beach

Your penultimate day in India is free to enjoy however you see fit. If you like, spend it lazing on the golden sands of Marari Beach. You can relax, go for a swim, and indulge in an Ayurvedic massage. Other options include a bicycle tour to the many nearby villages. You can see people make items from handspun coir (coconut fiber), visit arts and crafts markets, and sit down at a beachside eatery to sample some of the delicious (and spicy) fish that Marari is famous for.

Day 15: Transfer to Cochin, Depart

It's been a whirlwind couple of weeks, and now it's time to bid a fond farewell to india. If you like, rise early and enjoy some more beach time in Mararikulam before hopping in the car for the 1.5-hour drive north to Cochin. There, you'll transfer to the airport and board your flight home. Alavida!

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