Southern Highlands & Backwaters Trail

Itinerary: Thiruvananthapuram – Alleppey – Kochi – Thrissur – Wayanad – Mysore – Bangalore

Duration: 12 Days

Operational Period: September to March

Style: Luxury Cultural & Nature Journey

This thoughtfully curated journey blends Kerala’s tranquil backwaters, vibrant cultural heritage, and the forested landscapes of the Western Ghats with the regal charm of Karnataka. Travellers experience serene houseboat cruises in Alleppey, explore the historic spice port of Kochi, discover temple traditions near Thrissur, and journey into the misty hills of Wayanad before concluding among the royal palaces of Mysore and the cosmopolitan city of Bangalore. Travel is conducted in comfort with private transfers, boutique heritage stays, luxury resorts, and immersive cultural experiences, offering a balanced exploration of South India’s landscapes, traditions, and history.

Day 1 — Arrival in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)

• Arrive & transfer to beach resort in Kovalam.
• Evening at leisure overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Stay: Deluxe beach resort in Kovalam

Day 2 — Thiruvananthapuram Exploration

• Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple (outer visit) and Napier Museum.
• Explore local markets and cultural landmarks of the city.
• Optional Ayurvedic wellness therapy.
Stay: Deluxe beach resort

Day 3 — Thiruvananthapuram to Alleppey (Backwaters)

• Drive to Alleppey (approx. 4 hrs drive).
• Houseboat cruise through Kerala’s backwaters.
• Experience village life along tranquil canals and lagoons.
Stay: Deluxe houseboat

Day 4 — Alleppey to Kochi (The Harbour City)

• Disembark from the houseboat after breakfast.
• Drive to Kochi (approx. 1.5 hrs drive).
• Evening stroll through Fort Kochi and the historic waterfront.
Stay: Heritage / Boutique hotel

Day 5 — Kochi Exploration

• Visit Mattancherry Palace and the historic Jewish quarter.
• Explore spice markets and colonial streets of Fort Kochi.
• Evening Kathakali dance performance.
Stay: Heritage / Boutique hotel

Day 6 — Kochi to Thrissur (Cultural Capital of Kerala)

• Drive to Thrissur – Kerala’s cultural capital (approx. 2-3 hrs drive).
• Optional excursion to Athirappilly Waterfalls.
• Visit Vadakkunnathan Temple (outer visit).
• Stay: Boutique / Deluxe hotel

Day 7 — Thrissur to Wayanad (Green Paradise)

• Scenic drive to Wayanad thru Western Ghats (approx. 4–5 hrs drive)
• Evening at leisure amidst forested hills.
Stay: Eco-lodge / Plantation resort / boutique hotel

Day 8 — Wayanad Exploration

• Visit Edakkal Caves or enjoy a guided nature walk.
• Explore coffee and spice plantations.
• Afternoon at leisure surrounded by rainforest landscapes.
Stay: Eco-lodge / Plantation resort / boutique hotel

Day 9 — Wayanad to Mysore (The Cultural capital of Karnataka)

• Drive to Mysore (approx. 3 hrs drive).
• Visit the magnificent Mysore Palace and local markets.
• Evening at leisure.
Stay: Deluxe / Boutique hotel

Day 10 — Mysore Exploration

• Visit Chamundi Hills and St. Philomena’s Cathedral.
• Excursion to Srirangapatna, the historic capital of Tipu Sultan.
• Explore the famous Devaraja Market.
Stay: Deluxe / Boutique hotel

Day 11 — Mysore to Bangalore (Garden City)

• Drive to Bangalore (approx. 3 hrs drive).
• Visit Bangalore Palace or explore the city’s gardens and markets.
• Evening Traditional farewell dinner.
Stay: Deluxe / Boutique hotel

Day 12 — Depart Bangalore

• Transfer to Bangalore International Airport for onward journey.
Tour Concludes with Immersive Experiences of Hills, Culture, and Backwaters of South India