Kerala: Wayanad, Munnar, Thekkady & Alleppey

The journey begins in Kochi as you head north into the Western Ghats. The landscape gradually changes from Kerala's tropical plains to forested hills, coffee and spice plantations, and winding mountain roads.

Arrive in Wayanad by afternoon and settle into your stay. Keep the evening easy — this first day is about getting into the rhythm of the hills rather than rushing through sightseeing.

Today takes you into one of Wayanad's most fascinating landscapes.

Begin with Edakkal Caves, reached by a short uphill walk through the hills. Inside the natural rock shelter are ancient engravings that offer a glimpse into the region's prehistoric past.

Continue exploring Wayanad through its green mountain landscapes and plantations, with time to stop at viewpoints and enjoy the quieter side of the region.

Return to your stay in the evening.

After breakfast, leave Wayanad and begin the journey towards Munnar.

It's a longer travel day, but the scenery keeps changing as you cross the Western Ghats — forests and plantations gradually giving way to the rolling tea-covered hills of Munnar.

Arrive in Munnar by evening, check in and relax.

Wake up surrounded by Munnar's famous tea country.

Spend the morning exploring the tea gardens and visit the Tea Museum, where you can learn how tea became such an important part of Munnar's identity.

Later, head towards Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake, travelling through some of the region's most beautiful mountain roads. Continue towards the higher viewpoints if weather and time allow.

Return to Munnar in the evening.

Leave Munnar after breakfast and travel deeper into the Cardamom Hills.

The tea plantations slowly disappear as the landscape becomes thicker and more forested. Along the way, visit a spice plantation and see cardamom, pepper, cinnamon and other spices growing in the hills.

Arrive in Thekkady by afternoon and settle into your hotel.

The evening is free to explore the town or simply relax after the journey.

Start the day with a boat safari on Periyar Lake, travelling through the forested waters of Periyar Tiger Reserve. Keep watch for elephants, deer, wild boar and the many bird species found around the lake.

After the safari, continue towards Alleppey.

By afternoon, you will be in a completely different Kerala — flat paddy fields, coconut palms and waterways replacing the mountain forests.

Board your private houseboat and begin your backwater cruise.

Spend the afternoon watching village life pass slowly along the canals before settling in for dinner on board.

Tonight, you sleep on the backwaters.

Wake up to the quiet of the backwaters and enjoy breakfast aboard the houseboat.

After disembarking, continue towards Kochi.

Spend the afternoon exploring Fort Kochi, walking along the waterfront to see its famous Chinese fishing nets and then wandering through the historic streets around Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.

Take the evening at your own pace, with time for cafés, local food or a final walk through the heritage quarter.

Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Kochi.

Depending on your departure time, have breakfast, take one final walk around Fort Kochi or simply enjoy the city's slower coastal atmosphere before heading to the airport or railway station.

End of journey.