Kerala Hidden Villages & Backwaters Experience

Days

09 Nights / 10 Days

Price

On Request

Trip Route

Kochi - Kuttanad - Kumarakom - Alleppey - Marari - Thrissur

Countries

Overviews

Far from the usual tourist circuits, this journey focuses on the quieter and more authentic side of Kerala, where daily life flows through villages, backwaters, and traditional communities. This Kerala backwaters experience is designed to bring travelers closer to local culture while maintaining comfort through carefully selected stays.

Starting in Kochi, the journey gradually moves into the rural landscapes of Kuttanad, often referred to as the rice bowl of Kerala, where life revolves around waterways and agriculture. The experience continues through Kumarakom and Alleppey, offering a deeper understanding of Kerala’s famous backwater ecosystem.

The itinerary also includes coastal relaxation at Marari and cultural exposure in Thrissur, creating a balanced journey that combines village life, water landscapes, and traditional experiences.

Highlights

  • Authentic Kerala village experience in Kuttanad region
  • Slow backwater exploration across Kumarakom and Alleppey
  • Stay experiences focused on local culture and environment
  • Houseboat or canal cruise through traditional waterways
  • Coastal relaxation at peaceful Marari Beach
  • Cultural exposure in Thrissur with local traditions
  • Less crowded and more immersive itinerary
  • Ideal for travelers seeking real Kerala beyond tourist hotspots
  • Private transfers ensuring comfort throughout the journey
  • Balanced combination of rural life, backwaters, and coastal stay

Itinerary

Upon arrival in Kochi, you are received at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The first day is kept easy, allowing you to settle into the surroundings without any rush. Kochi’s coastal setting and historical background make it a gentle introduction to Kerala.
Later, you can explore nearby areas at a relaxed pace, observing colonial architecture and local life. The calm streets and waterfront views create a comfortable environment for the beginning of your journey.
The evening is free for leisure, where you can enjoy a relaxed dinner and prepare for the deeper rural experiences that follow in the coming days.

After breakfast, you begin your journey towards Kuttanad, a region known for its unique farming practices below sea level. The drive gradually introduces you to Kerala’s rural landscape, with canals, paddy fields, and small villages appearing along the way.
Upon arrival, you check into a village-style stay or boutique property located within the backwater region. The surroundings here are quiet and deeply connected to local life, offering a completely different experience compared to cities.
The rest of the day is spent observing village routines, interacting with locals, or simply relaxing near the waterways. The slow pace of Kuttanad allows you to understand how life revolves around water and agriculture.

The day in Kuttanad focuses on experiencing local life at a comfortable pace. After breakfast, you may explore the village through narrow paths, witnessing traditional homes, farming activities, and daily routines.
A boat ride through smaller canals offers a closer look at how transport and lifestyle are connected to the water. Unlike commercial backwater tours, this experience remains simple and authentic, reflecting the true character of the region.
In the afternoon, you can relax at your stay or engage in light activities such as local cooking interactions or cultural exposure. The day ends with a peaceful evening surrounded by nature and water.

After breakfast, you proceed towards Kumarakom, a well-known yet peaceful backwater destination. The transition from village interiors to wider water channels creates a refreshing change in scenery.
Upon arrival, you check into a backwater resort offering views of the lake and surrounding greenery. The environment is calm and ideal for relaxation, with water bodies stretching across the horizon.
The rest of the day is free to enjoy the property or take short walks around the area. The stillness of Kumarakom allows you to slow down further and appreciate Kerala’s natural beauty.

The day is dedicated to enjoying Kumarakom at your own pace. After breakfast, you may choose to take a boat ride, explore nearby areas, or simply relax within the resort premises.
Birdlife, greenery, and calm waters create a soothing environment that defines Kumarakom. The absence of heavy activity ensures that the experience remains peaceful and rejuvenating.
In the evening, you can enjoy the lakeside atmosphere with sunset views and a relaxed dinner. The slow rhythm of the day aligns perfectly with the overall travel concept.

After breakfast, you head towards Alleppey, where your houseboat experience begins. Boarding the houseboat introduces you to Kerala’s most iconic travel experience.
The cruise moves through canals, lakes, and village areas, offering continuous views of local life along the water. The movement is slow, allowing you to observe and absorb the surroundings in detail.
Meals are served onboard, and by evening the houseboat anchors in a quiet location. The overnight stay on water adds a unique dimension to the journey.

After breakfast, you disembark and proceed towards Marari, a quiet coastal destination away from busy tourist beaches. The drive is short and comfortable.
Upon arrival, you check into your beachside property surrounded by coconut groves. The environment is simple and peaceful, making it ideal for relaxation.
The rest of the day is free to enjoy the beach, walk along the shore, or relax at your resort. The calm setting creates a refreshing break after the backwater experience.

The day is kept completely free at Marari, allowing you to unwind at your own pace. The beach here remains uncrowded, offering a more personal experience.
You may choose to relax, take a walk, or simply enjoy the natural surroundings. The sound of waves and open space create a soothing environment throughout the day.
Evening time offers beautiful sunset views, making it one of the most peaceful moments of the journey.

After breakfast, you proceed towards Thrissur, known for its cultural importance in Kerala. The drive takes you through towns and local landscapes.
Upon arrival, you check into your hotel and later explore key cultural areas. Thrissur offers a different perspective of Kerala with its temples, traditions, and local markets.
The evening allows time to experience the cultural atmosphere of the city, providing a meaningful contrast to the natural destinations visited earlier.

After breakfast, you proceed back towards Kochi for your departure. The journey allows you to reflect on the diverse experiences of villages, backwaters, coast, and culture.
Transfers are arranged according to your schedule, ensuring a smooth end to the trip. The relaxed pace maintained throughout continues until departure.
You leave with a deeper understanding of Kerala’s rural life and natural beauty, making the journey both immersive and memorable.

Inclusions

  • Accommodation in boutique and village-style stays 
  • Daily breakfast at all hotels 
  • Private vehicle with driver for entire journey 
  • Airport transfers 
  • Houseboat stay with meals in Alleppey 
  • All applicable taxesq

Exclusion

  • Monument entry fees 
  • Personal expenses 
  • Lunch and dinner (except houseboat) 
  • Flights or train tickets 
  • Travel insurance 
  • Optional activities

Suggested Vehicles With Tour Packages

We at India World Wide Travel provide our valuable a premium quality SUV / MUV Safe and Comfortable Cars, Van and Luxury Buses with Private Driver for your journey on your India Holiday. If you wish to have more luxury vehicle for your holiday. Please check our vehicle collection page

SUV / MUV CARS

  • SUV / MUV 6 seater Pax
  • Comfortable for 1-4 pax
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Mini Van

Mini Van

  • Mini van 9 seater Pax
  • Comfortable for 1-8 pax
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Mini Bus

Mini Bus

  • Mini Bus 24 seater Pax
  • Comfortable for 1-20 pax
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Volvo Bus

Volvo Bus

  • Volvo bus 41 seater Pax
  • Comfortable for 20-40 pax
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After choosing your preferred itinerary, all you have to do to reserve your spot is send a deposit of 20% plus the cost of each booking for the train and airfare. 

Your final payment won't be due until 45 days before the start of your tour. The entire cost must be paid at the time of booking if your reservation is made less than 60 days before the tour begins.

Note: All airline booking and cancellation restrictions apply, and full payment must be made at the time of booking for both domestic and international tickets.

We know that planning the perfect getaway comes with a few questions, and we're here to help! Whether you're curious about our accommodations, experiences, sustainability initiatives, or bookings, our FAQs have got you covered. If you don't find what you're looking for, feel free to reach out—we're always happy to assist!

We know that planning the perfect getaway comes with a few questions, and we're here to help! Whether you're curious about our accommodations, experiences, sustainability initiatives, or bookings, our FAQs have got you covered. If you don't find what you're looking for, feel free to reach out—we're always happy to assist!

We know that planning the perfect getaway comes with a few questions, and we're here to help! Whether you're curious about our accommodations, experiences, sustainability initiatives, or bookings, our FAQs have got you covered. If you don't find what you're looking for, feel free to reach out—we're always happy to assist! We know that planning the perfect getaway comes with a few questions, and we're here to help! Whether you're curious about our accommodations, experiences, sustainability initiatives, or bookings, our FAQs have got you covered. If you don't find what you're looking for, feel free to reach out—we're always happy to assist!

Note: We strongly advise getting travel insurance that includes coverage for disruptions caused by COVID-19. 
You have up to 45 days before the tour begins to cancel, in which case your entire land deposit and any advance payments you paid will be refunded within 21 business days.

Note: Only the land portion of the journey is subject to cancellation and rebooking policies; domestic and international train and airline tickets are not. 

Note: When purchasing tickets for domestic or international travel, you must pay in full at the time of booking. You must also abide by the cancellation, rebooking and booking regulations of the individual airline and rail operators. 

45 days before the tour's commencement date:
Should government travel restrictions force the cancellation of your journey, your deposit and any progress payments will be fully credited towards a future tour with us at no additional cost.

We are not required to provide any reimbursement for services that you do not use if you cancel a trip after it has started for any reason. On your behalf, Royal India Tours will make every effort to retrieve as much of your money as we can or work out a credit for later usage.

Any costs resulting from a cancellation or adjustment made between thirty days before the tour start date and the tour end date will be your responsibility and must be paid by you within twenty-four hours of the modification. 

We are not required to provide any reimbursement for services that are not used if the tour must be changed or cancelled for any reason other than illness or COVID-19. On your behalf, Royal India Tours will make every effort to retrieve as much of your money as we can or work out a credit for later usage. Any associated costs are your responsibility and must be paid for within a day.

Refunds or cancellations won't take effect until we get official documentation of the cancellation. 

Visit for the complete cancellation and refund policy.

There is a required single surcharge for travellers travelling alone.

Please provide valid passport details Either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the travel date, customers must provide valid passport details. The reservation may be cancelled if this isn't done. Customers will be in charge of any associated costs and fees in this case.

Most visitors need a visa to enter India, except for citizens of Nepal and Bhutan. Tourist visas last for six months but cannot be extended. Nationals of some countries can get a visa on arrival, while others need to apply in advance online. Leaving on a tourist visa means no re-entry within two months, with some exceptions. Businessmen and students can get five-year visas. Certain areas require special permits, and some are off-limits to foreigners.
To get a visa apply online at  https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

The purpose of international travel insurance is to go with you and help you make better-informed travel decisions. Travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers and should be taken out before travel and must be purchase from your home country with Sum Insured $50,000 USD to $200,000 USD. Your insurance must cover personal accidents, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with coverage. We also strongly recommend coverage for cancellation, curtailment, personal liability, loss of luggage and personal effects. You must provide your policy number and the insurer's emergency contact 15 days before the tour starts. Without these details, you will not be able to join the trip.

During the tour, you are in charge of all your possessions. The standard weight limit for checked baggage on Indian domestic airlines is 15 kg, while carry-on luggage is 7 kg.

Unfortunately, wheelchair users and anyone with limited mobility cannot now participate in our tours because our cars are not wheelchair accessible. 
Note that this will require a general degree of fitness. Before making a purchase or booking a trip, please speak with your healthcare physician if you have any concerns.

Please be aware that your schedule may be changed, subject to availability, or an equivalent activity may be provided in its place if entry to a site is impacted by modifications to working hours or public holiday closures.

This covers any modifications to your reservation that you request, including but not restricted to those that call for reissuing the Purchase Confirmation or an airline ticket.
Changes: $100.00 per reservation plus any extra fees levied by the airline, cruise line, lodging or any travel agencies.

In the event that Royal India Tours receives notification of an inaccurate name, there will be a $100.00 booking fee in addition to any additional fees levied by the airline, cruise line, lodging provider or other travel suppliers.

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