14 Days - Kerala Walking Tour

Welcome to India! On arrival at Cochin International Airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to your Munnar.

Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats at around 1,600 metres above sea level, is one of Kerala’s most scenic and refreshing hill stations. Known for its cool climate, mist-covered hills and expansive tea plantations, it was once a favoured retreat of the British during colonial times. The landscape here is a mix of rolling green slopes, high-altitude shola forest, grasslands and sparkling streams, making it a haven for walkers, birdwatchers and nature lovers. Munnar also forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and lies within a recognised UNESCO World Heritage site due to its exceptional biodiversity. It is home to endemic species such as the Nilgiri tahr and the rare Neelakurinji flower, which blooms only once every 12 years.

On arrival, we’ll leave the tea fields and head to the hills, where we will camp for the night. With its peaceful trails, wildlife-rich habitats and rich cultural backdrop, Munnar offers an ideal starting point for a walking journey through Kerala’s highlands.

The presence of vast tea estates in Munnar has left a lasting legacy of ‘tea culture’, first introduced during British colonial rule and still very much alive today. Much of the land in and around the region remains under the management of large tea companies, most notably Tata Tea, which operates some of the oldest and largest plantations in South India. These estates not only define the visual landscape, with their neatly terraced slopes, but also shape the social and economic life of the area.

One of the highlights of spending time in Munnar is the opportunity to step away from the plantations and walk through pockets of shola forest - high-altitude evergreen woodlands unique to the Western Ghats. These forests, interspersed with grasslands, are part of a rare and ecologically sensitive ecosystem that supports a high number of endemic species. The sholas are often shrouded in mist, with moss-covered trees, cool streams and an abundance of birdlife - making for a magical walking experience.

As part of your walking tour, you’ll have the chance to camp overnight in this pristine environment, surrounded by the sounds of the forest and far from the distractions of urban life. It’s a memorable way to experience the natural beauty of Kerala’s high country and gain a deeper appreciation for the fragility and richness of the region’s ecology.

You may notice that we haven’t mentioned specifics on altitude, distances and destinations in the Western Ghats. This is down to the nature of the itinerary - as a private tour with a local trekking guide, there’s a great deal of customisation to choose from. We work with you to plan your ideal route through the Ghats based on your level of fitness and personal interests.

As we continue our trek through the Western Ghats, venture deeper into the high-altitude shola-grassland ecosystem that forms the source of many of Kerala’s rivers. These lush, mist-covered landscapes are the starting point for virtually all of the state’s major waterways, with rainfall collected in the forested hollows and filtered through the mossy ground before feeding into the rivers that flow down to the plains and backwaters. It’s a region of both ecological and cultural significance.

The sholas - montane evergreen forests interspersed with open grassland - are recognised as a hub of biodiversity and endemism. They form part of the Western Ghats, one of just 34 globally recognised biodiversity hotspots, and are home to an extraordinary number of species found nowhere else on earth. From rare orchids and ancient ferns to elusive wildlife and endemic bird species, the area is a naturalist’s dream and a vital conservation zone.

These remote upper reaches are also home to the Muduvan and Malapulayan communities - Indigenous groups who have lived in harmony with the landscape for generations. Traditionally forest dwellers and subsistence farmers, they maintain a deep knowledge of the local ecology, medicinal plants, and seasonal patterns. Encounters with these communities, though approached respectfully and with care, offer a valuable glimpse into the cultural richness of the region and the sustainable ways of life that continue to exist here, far from the modern world.

Eravikulam National Park, located in the high ranges near Munnar, is home to the world’s largest population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr - a sure-footed mountain goat native to the Western Ghats. Once teetering on the edge of extinction, the species has made a remarkable recovery thanks to decades of dedicated conservation and professional park management. Today, the park supports a stable population of over a thousand Tahrs, a true success story in Indian wildlife protection.

The park itself is part of the Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage region and is characterised by high-altitude grasslands interspersed with shola forest - a habitat that supports a wide range of endemic species, both plant and animal. The landscape here is sweeping and dramatic, with rolling hills, cool misty air and striking views that stretch across Kerala and Tamil Nadu on clear days.

At Rajamala, a designated viewing area within the park, you’ll have the opportunity to see Nilgiri Tahrs in their natural environment - grazing on steep slopes, moving confidently across rocky terrain, or resting in small groups. With a bit of luck and a quiet approach, these sure-footed creatures can often be observed at close range.

After a day of exploration and wildlife viewing, settle in for an overnight camp in the hills, surrounded by the sounds of the forest and crisp mountain air. It’s a rare opportunity to sleep under the stars in one of South India’s most biodiverse and protected natural areas - a memorable part of your walking journey through Kerala’s high country.

Today you’ll leave the cool highlands of Munnar and descend into the lush, tropical lowlands of Periyar, a journey that takes you through a dramatic change in landscape and climate. Located in the southern stretch of the Western Ghats, Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve is one of India’s most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries, known for its rich biodiversity, well-managed eco-tourism and striking natural beauty.

Periyar encompasses a vast expanse of tropical rainforest, grasslands and lake systems that support an impressive variety of flora and fauna. While spotting a tiger is rare, the reserve is home to elephants, wild boar, sambar deer, Nilgiri langurs and an array of birdlife, butterflies and amphibians. The artificial Periyar Lake, created by a dam on the Mullaperiyar River in the late 19th century, adds a tranquil focal point and is best explored on foot or by boat, with early mornings offering the best chance to see wildlife.

You’ll spend the first of three nights at Wildernest, a charming boutique guesthouse located right in the heart of Thekkady town, just a short walk from the park entrance. Despite its central location, Wildernest feels peaceful and secluded, thanks to its leafy garden setting and homely design. The accommodation is simple yet full of character, with a strong commitment to local materials, sustainable practices and a welcoming, personal atmosphere. Each room is thoughtfully decorated with handwoven fabrics, traditional furnishings and a distinct sense of place, offering a comfortable base from which to explore the surrounding rainforest.

Over the next few days, you’ll have a chance to choose from a range of treks, nature walks and cultural experiences that make Periyar one of the most engaging destinations in Kerala.

Today, set out on a guided trek through Periyar National Park, one of India’s most biologically rich and environmentally significant wildlife reserves. Accompanied by experienced forest guides, you’ll walk along well-established trails that wind through dense rainforest, bamboo groves and open grasslands, giving you a deeper insight into the park’s diverse ecosystems and the species they support.

Periyar forms part of Project Tiger, a national conservation program aimed at protecting India’s dwindling population of Royal Bengal Tigers. While sightings are rare due to the dense forest cover and the shy nature of the animals, signs of their presence - tracks, scratch marks and occasional calls - are sometimes encountered, adding a quiet thrill to your time on the trail.

Beyond tigers, the park is home to a wealth of other wildlife. It’s known for its thriving population of Asiatic elephants, which often move in herds and are occasionally spotted bathing or grazing near water sources. Indian bison (gaur), wild boar, sambar deer, and the Nilgiri langur also inhabit these forests. Birdwatchers are particularly well rewarded in Periyar, with over 330 recorded species including the vibrant Malabar trogon, crested serpent eagle and the impressive Great Hornbill - a large, colourful bird that can be heard long before it is seen, thanks to the distinctive whoosh of its wings.

Trekking in Periyar is generally conducted in small groups to minimise disturbance to the environment, and the pace is relaxed, allowing plenty of time for observation and interpretation. Your guides are not only skilled trackers but also possess an intimate knowledge of the forest, its medicinal plants, animal behaviour, and local lore - adding layers of meaning to your walk.

After a morning or afternoon immersed in the wild, return to the comfort of Wildernest. You may like to relax in the leafy courtyard with a book or take a short stroll through Thekkady’s spice shops and cafes - a gentle contrast to the untamed beauty of the forest you’ve just experienced.

Today offers another opportunity to explore the beauty and complexity of Periyar National Park, and how you spend your time is entirely up to you. For those keen to continue walking, there are additional guided treks available that take you deeper into the reserve, through a mix of terrain ranging from rolling hills to open grasslands and along the forested edges of the lake. These treks provide a different perspective from the previous day and allow for further wildlife encounters and birdwatching in the quieter corners of the park.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Periyar experience is the chance to learn directly from the park’s guides, many of whom are former poachers who have since undergone extensive training and now contribute to the conservation efforts they once worked against. Their personal stories, knowledge of the forest and tracking skills add incredible depth to your understanding of the park’s history and its ongoing role in wildlife protection, particularly under India’s Project Tiger initiative.

Alternatively, if you’d prefer a more relaxed experience, you might like to take a boat cruise on the artificial lake that lies at the heart of the sanctuary. Spanning around 55 square kilometres, the lake was created in the late 19th century by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam and has since become a haven for wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to spot animals coming to the water’s edge, including herds of elephants, bison, and a variety of bird species. The stillness of the lake, framed by misty hills and thick forest, makes for a scenic and peaceful outing.

The park’s vegetation is largely moist deciduous forest, providing a rich green backdrop throughout much of the year, with bursts of bamboo and clusters of tall hardwood trees. Whether you choose to explore on foot or by boat, today offers another meaningful opportunity to connect with one of South India’s most important wilderness areas.

This evening, return for your final night at Wildernest, where you can reflect on your time in the forest and enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere of this character-filled retreat.

This morning, depart Periyar and travel by road to Kumarakom, a peaceful village on the edge of Vembanad Lake, nestled within the famed backwaters of central Kerala. The drive takes around two hours and brings you from the forested hills of the Western Ghats into the lush, flat landscapes of the coastal plains, where coconut palms line the waterways and life moves to the rhythm of the water.

On arrival in Kumarakom, board a traditional kettuvallam - a converted rice barge - for an overnight houseboat cruise through the region’s intricate network of lagoons, canals and lakes. These beautifully crafted boats are made using age-old techniques with coir rope and wooden planks, and have been thoughtfully converted into floating cottages, complete with private bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, and an open-air dining area where freshly cooked Keralan meals are served by your onboard crew.

As the boat glides gently through the backwaters, you’ll witness scenes of everyday life along the banks - fishermen casting their nets, women washing clothes at the water’s edge, and flocks of ducks being herded by canoe. You may also spot villagers collecting lime-rich shells from the lakebed or working in the verdant paddy fields that stretch into the distance.

The cruise offers a unique window into rural Kerala, where life is intimately connected with the water. With no particular schedule, you can sit back and enjoy the ever-changing scenery, watch local birdlife, and experience the peaceful, unhurried pace that defines the backwater lifestyle.

As evening falls, your boat will anchor in a quiet stretch of water, allowing you to enjoy the stillness of the surroundings. A freshly prepared dinner onboard rounds off a truly memorable day, before you retire for a restful night on the water under Kerala’s starry skies.

This morning, disembark from your houseboat and step into another chapter of your Kerala journey as you arrive at a charming heritage home nestled in the heart of the Kuttanad backwaters. This beautifully preserved 150-year-old timber residence, constructed in the traditional nalukettu style with a central open courtyard, offers a warm and character-filled base for exploring one of the most picturesque and culturally rich regions of Kerala.

Surrounded by coconut groves, narrow canals and emerald-green rice fields, the property is set in the Kuttanad region - often referred to as the ‘rice bowl of Kerala’. This is one of the few places in the world where farming is done below sea level, and the landscape is a distinctive patchwork of paddies, dykes, and water channels. The slower pace of life here and the deep connection between the land, water and local traditions make it an ideal place to slow down and discover the “real” Kerala - far from the more tourist-trodden areas.

The heritage home itself is full of stories, with handcrafted wooden beams, antique furnishings, and wide verandahs that look out onto the gently swaying palms and passing canoes. You’ll be welcomed with genuine hospitality, and meals are often cooked by the family using fresh local produce, served in the traditional Kerala style.

This is a perfect place for gentle walking, with quiet paths leading through the countryside, along the canals, and past small hamlets where you can observe daily life up close - toddy tappers scaling palm trees, women weaving coir rope, and children paddling home from school. With no rush and no schedule, you’re free to explore at your own pace, soaking up the natural beauty and the strong sense of place that defines this unique corner of the state.

Over the coming days, you’ll explore the enchanting backwaters of Kerala around Alleppey on foot - a truly immersive way to experience the rhythm of rural life in this unique water-bound region. Each day brings gentle walks through the lush Kuttanad countryside, following narrow village paths that wind along canals, across rice fields, and through coconut groves.

This part of Kerala is best appreciated slowly, and walking allows you to engage with your surroundings in a way that few other forms of travel can. You’ll pass local homes, chat with villagers along the way, and witness the ebb and flow of daily life - from fishermen mending their nets to farmers tending crops in waterlogged paddies. It’s common to come across women weaving coir rope from coconut husk fibres or to hear the soft clatter of looms from small weaving sheds tucked behind palm trees.

Transferring between islands by local dugout canoes, you’ll traverse a maze of serene canals and shaded waterways, offering a different perspective with each journey. These quiet rides serve not just as transport but as part of the experience, gliding past waterbirds, floating water lilies, and reflections of swaying palms.

Along your walks, you’ll also have the chance to visit small local temples, often set beneath ancient banyan trees or beside tranquil ponds, where daily rituals are carried out with quiet devotion. These visits provide insight into the spiritual life of the region and its close-knit communities.

With no rush and plenty of time to pause, this walking tour through the backwaters offers a deeper connection to Kerala - its landscapes, people and way of life - experienced at the gentle pace of your own footsteps.

Enjoy a relaxing day exploring the peaceful villages and scenic backroads of the Alleppey region, where daily life unfolds at an unhurried pace. As you walk along the narrow earthen paths that crisscross the canals and rice fields, you’ll pass vibrant houses shaded by banana and coconut trees, friendly children waving from doorways, and farmers knee-deep in the paddy fields tending to their crops with quiet determination.

These walks offer a genuine window into the everyday rhythms of life in Kerala’s backwaters - where communities remain closely connected to the land and water. You might pause to watch traditional methods of farming, spot kingfishers darting over the canals, or simply enjoy the calm and natural beauty of this lowland landscape.

For those who feel like taking a break from walking, Alleppey (also known as Alappuzha) offers a number of other worthwhile experiences. You could take a short rickshaw ride into town to visit the local markets, full of fresh produce, spice stalls and homeware shops, or spend time at the old lighthouse, which offers panoramic views across the coastline and inland waters. Alleppey’s modest but interesting Revi Karunakaran Museum houses an impressive private collection of crystal, antique furniture, and traditional art.

Alternatively, a gentle canoe ride through the quieter backwater channels can be arranged, allowing you to relax and watch life go by from the water. If you’re after something hands-on, a local cooking class can introduce you to the spices and flavours of Keralan cuisine, while giving you a chance to engage with local hosts in their own homes.

Whether on foot, by canoe, or exploring the small-town charm of Alleppey itself, today offers a gentle yet rewarding insight into the heart of backwater life in Kerala.

Arrive in Cochin today and check in to your heritage hotel, located in the heart of atmospheric Fort Cochin. With its leafy streets, historic architecture and distinctive coastal setting, Fort Cochin offers a fitting final stop to your Kerala journey.

Cochin - also known as Kochi - has long been one of the most historically significant ports on the Indian Ocean. For centuries it attracted traders from across the globe, drawn by Kerala’s prized spices, especially black pepper and cardamom. Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and the British all passed through or settled here, leaving behind a rich legacy of cultural and architectural influence.

Fort Cochin, once the hub of colonial power in the region, still retains a strong sense of its layered past. The area’s mix of European-style churches, colonial bungalows, spice godowns and cobbled lanes sits comfortably alongside older Portuguese, Dutch and British structures - many now restored as boutique hotels, galleries or cafés. There is a quiet charm to the neighbourhood, with its old-world character and slower rhythm making it ideal for wandering and absorbing the atmosphere.

Staying within this historic precinct gives you the opportunity to reflect on the diverse cultural tapestry that defines Kerala. From its ancient trade links to its colonial chapters, Cochin’s past is never far from view - and spending your final nights here offers a relaxed yet meaningful end to your travels through the state.

Today, set out to explore the backstreets and hidden corners of Cochin, a city that perfectly embodies Kerala’s layered history and cultural richness. Spread across a series of islands, inlets and peninsulas, Cochin is a city where past and present sit side by side - a place of leafy laneways, slow-moving ferries, vibrant contemporary art, and centuries-old Portuguese villas gently weathered by the sea breeze.

Begin your day with a guided walking tour of Fort Cochin - undoubtedly the most atmospheric part of the city. This compact and easily walkable area is best explored on foot, allowing you to take in the subtle architectural details, peek into old courtyards, and pause under the banyan trees that line the streets. With its colonial-era churches, spice warehouses, and elegant Dutch and Portuguese buildings, Fort Cochin reveals its history quietly, around every corner. Walking here also gives you a real feel for the community - from schoolchildren on their way home to fishermen hauling in the day’s catch near the old Chinese fishing nets.

In the evening, enjoy a performance of Kathakali, Kerala’s distinctive classical dance-drama. Known for its elaborate costumes, striking facial makeup, and expressive gestures, Kathakali brings to life stories from Indian mythology with powerful emotion and stylised movement. Arriving early to watch the performers apply their makeup and prepare for the stage adds another layer to the experience, offering insight into the discipline and tradition behind the art form.

Together, the day offers a beautiful blend of Cochin’s everyday charm and deep-rooted cultural identity - a fitting way to experience this unique coastal city.

Depart Cochin today for your onward journey - whether continuing to another destination within South India or heading to the airport for your international flight home.