Highlights
Meesapulimala Peak - Take on the highest peak in South India and take in the astounding views at the top. Float along the Backwaters - Recoup with a float along the famous Kerala backwaters on a traditional houseboat. Explore on foot - Walk and hike through tea plantations, forests and park, getting closer to local and village life each step of the way.
Itinerary
If you're drawn to lush landscapes and authentic encounters, the "Walking in Kerala" tour is a captivating blend of wildlife, scenery, and local culture. This moderate activity trip offers experienced travelers an 11-day journey through India's verdant southern state, known as ‘God’s Own Country.’
Starting and ending in Kochi, the route weaves through the misty mountains of the Western Ghats, tea plantations, and the tranquil Backwaters. Trek to the summit of Meesapulimala Peak, the highest in South India, for panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment. In Periyar National Park, walk in search of wildlife and immerse yourself in the rhythms of village life as you pass through communities and learn about the region’s traditions.
A true highlight is floating along the famous Kerala Backwaters on a traditional houseboat—a peaceful retreat after days of exploration on foot. Throughout the trip, comfortable accommodations and included meals ensure your focus remains on discovery.
The unique selling point of this tour package is its blend of active trekking and genuine local interaction—offering travelers the chance to connect deeply with Kerala’s landscapes and people, all while enjoying the region’s famed hospitality.
day 1Join tour in Kochi
Our trip starts in Kochi, a port city on India's Malabar Coast. Also known as Cochin, it's been a port since 1341, when it was used by Arab, Chinese and European merchants. Built across several islands with criss-crossing waterways, the city has a relaxed feel that speaks to artists and artisans from across the globe. Explore the colourful streets or head to the harbour for sunset to see the fishermen bringing in their catch. There are no planned activities today, so you're free to arrive at any time. Our tour leader will hold a welcome meeting in the hotel reception at 6pm and there'll be the chance to go for dinner afterwards. If you arrive later, they'll catch you up in the morning. If you'd like a hotel transfer, you'll need to arrive into Cochin International Airport (COK), which is 40 kilometer/24.90 mile/1.5 hours from the airport.
day 2Tour of Kochi and drive to Munnar
day 3Hike to Seven Malai Hills through tea, coffee and spice plantations
day 4Trek to Silent Valley through tea estates and shola forest
day 5Trek to Meesapulimala Peak
day 6Hike to Koviloor camp
day 7Drive to Thekkady
day 8Trek in Periyar National Park
day 9Drive to Alleppey and backwaters cruise
day 10Backwaters village walk and return to Kochi
day 11Trip ends in Kochi
What's Included
Customer Reviews
It was a great experience . Kerala is a fascinating part of India and the itinerary allowed us to experience all the best bits . Along the way our Guide was able to offer advice and was an excellent host , nothing was too much trouble . I would highly recommend a trip to Kerala with Explore at this time of year , mid to late February .
The trip was perfect for me. The camping was basic but if you're prepared for that it's not an issue. Exploring the national parks would have been very difficult without booking a trip such as this. If the hotel in Cochin was nearer to Fort Cochin that would have been ideal.
Tinu the leader did a great job overall, and the overall trip included challenging hikes , some good downtime to explore and overall a great trip
A fabulous trip with some truly spectacular scenery on the hikes. The camping was superb, a real highlight, as were the hotels and itinerary. My only 2 critiques would be that the 3rd and 4th hikes were classed as moderate, but at altitude and in the heat, they were quite challenging - although totally worth it! Also, the houseboat was a little grubby and the delicious Keralan cuisine a little watered down in terms of spice to cater for a more international palette! Kerala is a dream and thank you to Tinu for keeping our large group in check and showing off his beautiful home state to us all. We had a fabulous trip, our love affair with India continues and we can’t wait for our next adventure with Explore!
The trip was as described. Kerala is beautiful and varied. Good mix of settings and activity: treks (2), ambles, houseboat mini-cruise, cookery class, dance performance, bit of sightseeing and shopping time. It was a good group: they always are. The food was great. Tour leader was excellent, hardworking and fun and he project-managed a complex roster of guides, cooks, drivers and hosts. One or two glitches e.g. accommodation were quickly sorted.
Good to Know
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