Nine days through Kerala’s highlands, wildlife lake and languid backwaters—this luxury-minded itinerary pairs cultural experiences (Kathakali, village cooks, Ayurvedic massage) with outdoor time in Munnar and Periyar. Read on for what to expect and how to prepare.
Nine days through Kerala’s highlands, wildlife lake and languid backwaters—this luxury-minded itinerary pairs cultural experiences (Kathakali, village cooks, Ayurvedic massage) with outdoor time in Munnar and Periyar. Read on for what to expect and how to prepare.
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Operated by Abyss Tours · Cochin, Kerala
You step off the car in Kochi and the air smells of spice and sea: a briny breath from the harbour, citrus and pepper from the markets, and the faint throttle of a distant boat. Over the next nine days the landscape will push and soothe you—tea-draped slopes of Munnar rise like green waves, Periyar’s lake narrows into reed-fringed corridors where elephants come to drink, and the Alleppey backwaters unfurl into a slow, houseboat pulse that refuses to hurry.
easy.
9 days.
Suitable for travelers in average physical condition; activities include short walks, a jeep safari and boat transfers requiring basic mobility.
The itinerary includes an overnight houseboat stay (about 21 hours between check-in at noon and check-out by 9:00 the next morning), with all meals provided.
Meals noted in the itinerary are included; request dietary preferences (low spice, vegetarian, allergies) before travel so chefs can prepare alternatives.
Yes—early morning or late afternoon boat rides on Periyar Lake increase chances of spotting elephants, sambar deer and birds along the shoreline.
Visitors to India generally need a valid visa and routine vaccinations; check current health recommendations and entry requirements well before travel.
Kochi grew as a spice-trade entrepôt attracting Portuguese, Dutch and British influence; the region’s colonial-era buildings and synagogues reflect centuries of maritime exchange.
Periyar is a protected wildlife sanctuary with active anti-poaching and eco-tourism measures; houseboat operators are increasingly adopting waste-management practices—choose operators that manage sewage and plastics responsibly.
Abyss Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Book with Abyss Tours
Book directly with Abyss Tours for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now