Kerala's Golden Triangle: Backwaters, Tea Hills & Colonial Charm

Travel Adventure

Kerala's Golden Triangle: Backwaters, Tea Hills & Colonial Charm

Embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with amazing experiences

7
Days
34
Activities
1
Traveler
1

Day 1: Arrival in Kochi & Fort Kochi's Colonial Past

Friday, November 7, 2025
+2
Activities
6

Arrival at Cochin International Airport (COK)

Cochin International Airport (COK), Kochi, Kerala
Pre-booking a cab is recommended for convenience. The journey to Fort Kochi takes about 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic. Uber and Ola are also available.

Check-in at a Heritage Hotel

Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala
Suggested mid-range options: Old Harbour Hotel, Forte Kochi, or Eighth Bastion. Book well in advance as November is peak season.

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Kashi Art Cafe, Burgher Street, Fort Kochi
Try their fresh juices and sandwiches. It's a great place to relax after your journey.

Sunset at the Chinese Fishing Nets

Fort Kochi Beach, Kochi
Be prepared for local fishermen to ask for a tip if you take photos. You can also buy fresh fish from them and have it cooked at a nearby stall.

Kathakali Performance

Kerala Kathakali Centre, Fort Kochi
Book tickets in advance, especially during tourist season. They provide a paper with the story's synopsis in English to help you follow the performance.

Seafood Dinner at Oceanos Restaurant

Oceanos Restaurant, Elphinstone Annexe, Fort Kochi
Try the 'Meen Pollichathu' (fish wrapped in banana leaf and grilled) or the Prawn Masala.
2

Day 2: Kochi's Rich History & Culture

Saturday, November 8, 2025
+1
Activities
5

Explore Fort Kochi's Heritage

Fort Kochi, Kochi
Dress modestly as these are active places of worship. A guided walking tour can provide rich historical context.

Discover Jew Town & Paradesi Synagogue

Jew Town, Mattancherry, Kochi
The Synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Jewish holidays. Check opening times before visiting. Photography is not allowed inside.

Lunch in Mattancherry

Ginger House Museum Hotel, Jew Town, Mattancherry
Try their ginger-infused specialties. It's a perfect spot to relax and watch the boats go by on the backwaters.

Visit the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace)

Mattancherry, Kochi
The palace is a short walk from the Synagogue. Photography of the murals is prohibited. Backup option for a rainy day: Kerala Folklore Museum.

Dinner at The Rice Boat

Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Willingdon Island, Kochi
Reservations are highly recommended. It's a fine-dining experience, perfect for a special occasion. A more casual option is Grand Pavilion for a traditional Kerala Sadya.
3

Day 3: Scenic Drive to the Tea Hills of Munnar

Sunday, November 9, 2025
+1
Activities
5

Journey from Kochi to Munnar

Kochi to Munnar
Hiring a private car with a driver for the entire Kerala leg of your trip is the most efficient and comfortable way to travel. The cost is for a single day's hire.

En Route: Cheeyappara & Valara Waterfalls

On Kochi-Munnar Highway
The flow of water is best just after the monsoon season, so November should be perfect. Be cautious on the wet rocks.

Spice Plantation Tour

Near Adimali, on the way to Munnar
You can purchase fresh, high-quality spices here. It's a fragrant and educational experience.

Check-in at Munnar Resort

Munnar, Kerala
Suggested mid-range options: The Fog Munnar, Tea County, or Kaivalyam Wellness Retreat. The evening can get chilly, so pack a light jacket.

Dinner in Munnar Town

Saravana Bhavan, M.G. Road, Munnar
Try their dosas and thalis. It's a simple, no-frills restaurant popular with locals and tourists alike.
4

Day 4: Munnar's Tea Gardens & Majestic Peaks

Monday, November 10, 2025
+1
Activities
5

Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park, Munnar
Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. The park is closed from Feb-March for the Tahr's calving season. Backup: A guided trek through a private tea estate.

Tata Tea Museum (Kanan Devan Hills)

KDHP House, Munnar
The museum is closed on Mondays. It's an interesting look into the region's primary industry.

Lunch in Munnar Town

Rapsy Restaurant, Main Bazaar, Munnar
It's a small and bustling place, so you might have to wait for a table, but the food is worth it.

Mattupetty Dam & Echo Point

Mattupetty, Munnar
You can opt for a speedboat ride at the dam for an additional cost. The area is very scenic and great for photography.

Dinner at the Resort

Your Hotel/Resort in Munnar
Many resorts in Munnar offer excellent dining with beautiful views, making it a perfect way to end the day.
5

Day 5: Journey to the Backwaters of Alleppey

Tuesday, November 11, 2025
+1
Activities
5

Drive from Munnar to Alleppey

Munnar to Alleppey
The journey is approximately 4.5-5 hours. Plan to arrive in Alleppey by 12:00 PM to check into your houseboat.

Check-in to a Private Houseboat

Alleppey Finishing Point, Alappuzha
Book your houseboat well in advance. Choose a 'Deluxe' or 'Premium' boat for better amenities and service. The cost is all-inclusive of stay, crew, and all meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast).

Traditional Keralan Lunch on Board

On the Houseboat
This meal is included in your houseboat package. Inform the operator of any dietary restrictions in advance.

Backwater Cruise

Vembanad Lake & Alleppey Backwaters
The boat will anchor around 5:30 PM for the night near a village. You can take a short walk to explore the village.

Dinner Under the Stars

On the Houseboat
The tranquility of the backwaters at night is a magical experience. Air conditioning in the bedrooms is usually available from 9 PM to 6 AM.
6

Day 6: Alleppey's Local Life & Coastal Charm

Wednesday, November 12, 2025
+1
Activities
5

Disembark and Check-in to a Resort

Alleppey, Kerala
Staying a night on land allows you to explore more of Alleppey. Suggested options: Punnamada Resort, Marari Beach Resort (if you prefer the beach).

Canoe or Shikara Ride in Narrow Canals

Alleppey Backwaters
This is a highly recommended activity to complement the houseboat experience. A 2-3 hour ride is usually sufficient.

Authentic Lunch at a Toddy Shop

Mullapandhal Toddy Shop, Alleppey
The food can be very spicy. If you prefer a less rustic setting, try Thaff Delicacy in Alleppey town for their famous biryani and seafood.

Relax at Alappuzha Beach & Lighthouse

Alappuzha Beach, Alleppey
The lighthouse has specific visiting hours, typically closing around 5 PM, so plan accordingly. The beach is a popular spot for locals in the evening.

Farewell Dinner at Cassia

Cassia Restaurant, Alleppey
It's a great place to reflect on your Keralan journey. Reservations are a good idea.
7

Day 7: Departure from God's Own Country

Thursday, November 13, 2025
Activities
3

Final Keralan Breakfast

Your Hotel/Resort in Alleppey
Savor the last moments of tranquility by the backwaters.

Travel to Cochin International Airport (COK)

Alleppey to COK
Plan your departure time based on your flight schedule, allowing at least 3-4 hours before your flight time for travel and check-in.

Optional: Last-Minute Shopping at Lulu Mall

Lulu International Shopping Mall, Edappally, Kochi
This is only feasible if you have a late evening or night flight. Check your timing carefully to avoid missing your flight.