Overview

With the Arabian Sea in the west, and the Western Ghats towering 500 – 2700 m in the east and networked by forty-four rivers, Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Asia. An equable climate, long shoreline with serene beaches, tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, sprawling plantations and paddy fields, Ayurvedic health holidays, lush hill stations and exotic wildlife, historic and cultural monuments, and divine cuisine all of which offer you a unique experience. In this 5 day, Alleppey and Kovalam tour packages these charming destinations are only a two-hour drive from each other. A singular advantage no other destination offer. You will enjoy the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala. Board a houseboat to enjoy the lush landscape of this land.

Trip Highlights

Stay in a houseboat on Alleppey backwaters

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari

Explore wonderful Poovar Island, Kovalam

Darshan at Padmanabha Swamy Temple, Trivandrum

5 Days Alleppey Kovalam Itinerary

Day 1: Cochin – Alleppey

On your arrival at Cochin airport, continue your journey towards Alleppey often referred to as the ‘Venice of the East' by travellers from across the world. Alleppey is a district of immense natural beauty. Caressed by the Arabian Sea in the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and freshwater rivers crisscrossing it, this backwater country shelters some unique animal and bird life.  After arriving, go onboard, a luxury houseboat, locally known as Kettuvallam.

After completing your check-in formalities, relax for a while. Now enjoy the traditional food in a houseboat freshly prepared by the chef on your boat. Now enjoy a backwater cruise on the Vembanad Lake.  In the evening, visit Alleppey Beach, which is one of the most popular picnic spots in Alappuzha. Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park add to the attractions of the beach. There is also an old lighthouse which is fascinating to visitors. Overnight stay in the houseboat.

Day 2: Alleppey - Kollam

After breakfast, start your journey to Kollam 95 km away. On reaching, check in at your pre-decided hotel.  Start your day by visiting Jatayupara, the huge rock at Chadayamangalam takes its name from the epic Ramayana, who is believed to have collapsed on the rock after failing in his attempts to thwart Ravana’s kidnapping of Sita. Later on, proceed to the Ashtamudi Backwaters so called because of its 8 arms or channels, Ashtamudi Lake is the gateway to the backwaters. This 16 km long lake is the second largest in Kerala, finding its way into the sea through the Neendakara estuary.

The next prime attraction is the Thenmala Ecotourism Centre which is India’s first planned ecotourism destination, the hills that flow with honey, is the nerve – centre of a chain of ten satellite ecotourism destinations. It has a leisure zone with unwinding pathways, a sway bridge, a sculpture garden and boardwalk, a culture zone with an amphitheatre, and a musical fountain. In the evening, enjoy Kollam beach, had many activities that attract thousands of tourists throughout the year to this perfect beach. Dinner and overnight in the hotel.

Day 3: Kollam - Kovalam

On the 3^rd day of the tour, savour your breakfast and then head to Kovalam. Upon reaching, complete the check-in and go sightseeing in Kovalam. This internationally renowned seaside destination has been a favourite haunt of tourists. First head towards Poovar Island, an isolated but spectacular beach, Poovar is situated close to the Neyyar River estuary. A trading port in its early days, it is today an important tourist destination. Later visit the three adjacent crescent-shaped beaches – Lighthouse Beach, Eve’s or Howah Beach and Ashok Beach. Dinner and overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 4: Kovalam - Kanyakumari - Kovalam

On the 4^th day of the trip, get ready for the full-day excursion of Kanyakumari located around 80km, after a short breakfast. Later, proceed on a sightseeing tour of Kanyakumari, a beautiful coastal town where the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and The Indian Ocean takes place. At the break of dusk and dawn, one can click some awesome photos of the yellow and orange-coloured horizon.

The Kumari Amman Temple is one of the most important temples in India, which is dedicated to Goddess Kanyakumari, who is the sister of Lord Vishnu. After paying homage to the Goddess Kumari, move towards Vivekanand Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue by a short ferry ride from the Kanyakumari port. The view of the crystal clear water on the way will be unbelievable.

Some other major attractions in Kanyakumari that will keep you enthusiastic are Thanumalyan Temple, Gandhi Mandapam, Kanyakumari Beach, Sanguthurai Beach, Vattakotai Fort and many more. One can explore the serene temples, historical monuments and calm beaches for the best experiences. In the evening, return back to Kovalam for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Kovalam - Trivandrum

After breakfast, leave for Trivandrum. On arrival, begin the city excursion by visiting the Napier Museum which houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artefacts, bronze idols, and ancient ornaments. Later, pay your homage to the Padmanabha Swamy Temple located inside the East Fort, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.  Later, get transferred to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.