4N 5D Alleppey, Varkala, Kovalam
Overview
Embark on a mesmerizing 5-day journey through the heart of God’s Own Country, where tranquil backwaters meet the dramatic cliffs of the Arabian Sea. This carefully curated tour begins with a serene overnight stay on a traditional houseboat in Alleppey, allowing you to drift through lush paddy fields and witness village life along the Vembanad Lake. The adventure continues as you explore the mythical Jatayu Earth Center before unwinding at the stunning Varkala Cliff. Finally, immerse yourself in the vibrant coastal energy of Kovalam, exploring its iconic beaches, historic temples, and world-class museums. Perfect for travelers seeking a blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, this itinerary offers a seamless exploration of Kerala’s most beloved destinations.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Cochin Airport or Railway Station, you will proceed to Alleppey (approx. 2-3 hour drive). Check in to a traditional houseboat by noon. Enjoy a scenic cruise through the beautiful Vembanad Lake and tranquil backwater canals, passing by lush paddy fields and coconut groves. Traditional Kerala meals will be served on board. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
After breakfast, check out from the houseboat and transfer to Varkala. En route, visit the Jatayu Earth Center, where you can explore the giant bird sculpture and enjoy the panoramic views. Upon arrival in Varkala, check in to your hotel. Spend the evening relaxing at the famous Varkala Cliff and Papanasam Beach, enjoying the sunset and vibrant beach vibes. Overnight stay in Varkala.
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Kovalam. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit Kovalam’s famous shores: Hawah Beach, Lighthouse Beach, Samudra Beach, and the Kovalam Lighthouse. Overnight stay in Kovalam.
After breakfast, proceed for a day of sightseeing in Trivandrum. Visit the sacred Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the artistic Sree Chithra Art Gallery, the historic Napier Museum, and the Zoological Park. Return to Kovalam for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, check out from the hotel. If time permits, enjoy some leisure time for local shopping or a visit to Lulu Mall. You will be dropped at Trivandrum Airport or Railway Station for your departure.
*Note: If your drop-off point is Cochin, please note the travel time is approximately 5-6 hours. Sightseeing in Trivandrum on this day will be challenging due to the travel distance.*
Highlights
- Overnight Houseboat Cruise: Drift through the serene backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional Kettuvallam, enjoying freshly cooked Kerala cuisine as you watch village life pass by.
- Mythical Jatayu Earth Center: Stand in awe of the world’s largest bird sculpture and enjoy panoramic views from the top of the rock at this unique nature-cum-adventure park.
- Varkala Cliff Sunset: Experience the bohemian vibe of Varkala, perched on a laterite cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, and witness a breathtaking sunset at Papanasam Beach.
- Kovalam’s Coastal Trio: Relax and explore the distinct personalities of Kovalam’s three famous beaches—Hawah, Lighthouse, and Samudra.
- Trivandrum Heritage Trail: Dive into Kerala’s royal history and art with visits to the iconic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, and the Chithra Art Gallery.
Inclusions
- Transportation: Private cab for the entire tour (vehicle & driver available from 8 AM to 7 PM as per itinerary).
- Assistance: Multilingual driver with professional sightseeing assistance.
- Transfers: Pickup from Cochin/Trivandrum Airport/Railway Station and drop at Cochin/Trivandrum Airport/Railway Station.
- Transfers: All land transfers and inter-hotel transfers.
- Sightseeing: Coverage of all major sightseeing spots in all destinations.
- Driver Expenses: Driver bata, toll, parking, road tax, and fuel charges.
Exclusions
- All entrance fees at sightseeing spots (to be paid directly by the guest).
- Optional activities mentioned in the itinerary.
- Anything not explicitly mentioned in the "Cost Includes" section.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, telephone calls, and beverages.
- Meals not specified in the itinerary (breakfast details are mentioned per day, but lunch/dinner unless on houseboat).
FAQs
The vehicle and driver are available for your entire trip as per the itinerary between 8 AM and 7 PM. If you require service before 8 AM or after 8 PM, you can consult with the driver directly; if he agrees, you are free to avail his service.
No, the package cost excludes entrance fees to sightseeing spots. All entry fees, camera charges, and activity costs at locations such as the Jatayu Earth Center, museums, and the zoo must be paid directly by the guest at the time of visit.
Yes, you have the option to be dropped at Cochin Airport/Railway Station. However, please note that the travel time from Kovalam to Cochin is approximately 5 to 6 hours. If you choose this option, you will not be able to fit in the Trivandrum sightseeing (Temple, Museum) on the same day.
Yes, the check-in for the houseboat is a private stay for your group. Traditional Kerala meals (typically lunch, evening snacks, and dinner) are served on board as part of the Day 1 experience.
Yes. The Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. The Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.
Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during the offseason.
It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.
For the Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.
