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The Best of North and South Kerala Tour is a thoughtfully designed 16-day immersive journey that explores Kerala from the culturally rich Malabar Coast in the north to the serene backwaters and beaches of the south. Rather than rushing through highlights, this itinerary unfolds Kerala gradually—revealing its layered geography, ancient traditions, tribal landscapes, rainforests, hill stations, and waterways.
Beginning in Kannur, one of Kerala’s most traditional coastal towns, the route moves through the forested highlands of Wayanad, the historic spice ports of Kozhikode, and the rainforest belt of Athirapally. It continues into the misty tea gardens of Munnar, the wildlife-rich forests of Thekkady, and the iconic backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom, before concluding along the palm-lined beaches of Kovalam.
Designed for travellers seeking depth, calm, and authenticity, this journey is ideal for nature lovers, cultural explorers, slow travellers, honeymooners, and international visitors looking to experience Kerala as a living landscape rather than a checklist of attractions.
Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Kannur; one of Kerala’s most culturally rooted coastal towns and an important centre of Malabar history. Rest for some time and later visit St. Angelo (Kannur) Fort, built by the Portuguese and later controlled by the Dutch and British. From its ramparts, enjoy sweeping views of the Arabian Sea and fishing boats lining the coast. Evening at leisure on nearby beaches such as Muzhappilangad, India’s longest drive-in beach, where local life unfolds at sunset. Overnight at the hotel.
Spend the day exploring Kannur’s cultural heart. Visit traditional weaving villages or small temples hidden amid coconut groves. If traveling between October and May, witness a Theyyam ritual—a powerful ceremonial art form where performers embody deities through elaborate costumes, makeup, and trance-like dance. This deeply spiritual experience offers rare insight into North Kerala’s indigenous belief systems. The rest of the day is free to relax by the sea. Overnight: Kannur
After breakfast, check out in the morning and drive inland as the flat coastline slowly gives way to forested hills and winding mountain roads. Enter Wayanad, a green plateau nestled in the Western Ghats, known for its tribal heritage, wildlife corridors, and spice plantations. The air becomes cooler and scented with pepper and coffee. Evening at leisure amidst nature. Overnight at the hotel.
Explore Edakkal Caves; a steep climb leads to prehistoric rock engravings dating back thousands of years. Continue to Pookode Lake, surrounded by forests and hills. Visit spice plantations and learn about pepper, cardamom, coffee, and vanilla cultivation. Optional visit to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast check out and descend from the hills to the historic port city of Kozhikode (Calicut), once the epicenter of the global spice trade. Visit Mananchira Square, historic mosques, and bustling local markets. In the evening, visit Kappad Beach, where Vasco da Gama landed in 1498, marking the beginning of European maritime trade with India. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast check out and drive south through lush countryside to Athirapally, located near the edge of the Western Ghats. Visit the spectacular Athirapally Falls, often referred to as the “Niagara of India,” especially dramatic after the monsoon. Walk along forest trails near Vazhachal Falls, rich in birdlife and endemic species. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast check out and ascend into the misty hills of Munnar, passing waterfalls, dense forests, and endless tea estates. Once a summer retreat of the British, Munnar today is known for its cool climate and rolling green landscapes. Evening free to relax and soak in the mountain atmosphere. Overnight at the hotel.
Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr and vast grasslands. Explore tea museums and viewpoints overlooking valleys carpeted in emerald green. Optional short walks through plantations or leisure time at your resort. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast check out and drive through winding roads and spice-growing regions to Thekkady, gateway to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Visit spice gardens and learn about traditional uses of cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Evening cultural program featuring Kalaripayattu or Kathakali. Overnight at the hotel.
Enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake, gliding silently past forested shores where elephants and deer are often spotted. Optional guided nature walk or bamboo rafting experience. Afternoon at leisure in forest surroundings. Overnight at the hotel.
Descend from the mountains to the low-lying plains of Alleppey, Kerala’s backwater capital. Board a traditional houseboat and begin a gentle cruise through palm-lined canals, paddy fields, village life, and coconut groves. Experience Kerala at its most tranquil. Overnight in houseboat.
After breakfast disembark and drive to Kochi, a city shaped by Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Explore Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and the historic Jewish Quarter. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast check out and drive to Kumarakom, located on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Enjoy birdwatching, village walks, canoe rides, or Ayurvedic therapies in a serene backwater setting. Overnight at the hotel.
Drive south along coastal and inland routes to Kovalam, Kerala’s most famous beach destination. En route, enjoy glimpses of rural life. Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple (exterior view) in Thiruvananthapuram if time permits. Overnight at the hotel.
Day at leisure to explore beach or Ayurvedic massage. Overnight at the hotel.
Spend a relaxed morning by the sea or indulge in a traditional Ayurvedic massage before departure transfer to the airport to board a flight to onward destination.
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