9-Day Kerala Spice Tour

Private journey through Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady and Kumarakom, discovering Kerala's tea estates, spice plantations, backwaters and authentic local culture

Discover the essence of Kerala on this carefully crafted 9-Day Kerala Spice Tour, exploring the state's rich spice heritage, mist-covered hills and tranquil backwaters. Journey from the historic port city of Kochi to the tea-covered slopes of Munnar, continue to the fragrant spice plantations of Thekkady, and unwind beside the peaceful backwaters of Kumarakom. Blending nature, culture, cuisine and relaxation, this private journey showcases Kerala's most iconic landscapes and traditions.

Detailed Kerala Spice Tour Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Kochi — Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, meet your private representative and transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a leisurely walk through Fort Kochi, explore the historic waterfront, Chinese Fishing Nets, and vibrant cafés. Overnight stay in Kochi.
• Day 2: Kochi Sightseeing — Discover Kochi's rich heritage with visits to Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), Paradesi Synagogue, St. Francis Church and the historic spice markets that made Kerala famous across the world. In the evening, enjoy an optional Kathakali dance or Kalaripayattu martial arts performance. Overnight stay in Kochi.
• Day 3: Kochi → Munnar
  Driving Distance: Approx. 130 km / 4–5 hrs
  After breakfast, drive into the Western Ghats towards Munnar. Along the way, admire waterfalls, spice gardens, tea estates and beautiful mountain scenery. Stop at Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls before arriving at your plantation resort. Overnight stay in Munnar.
• Day 4: Munnar Exploration — Spend the day exploring Munnar's rolling tea plantations, Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point and Kundala Lake. Visit Eravikulam National Park (subject to opening schedule) and enjoy optional tea tasting experiences. Overnight stay in Munnar.
• Day 5: Munnar → Thekkady
  Driving Distance: Approx. 90 km / 3–4 hrs
  Continue to Thekkady, Kerala's renowned spice-growing region. Visit a working spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. Later, enjoy free time to explore local spice markets or attend an optional cultural performance. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
• Day 6: Thekkady & Periyar Experience — Enjoy an optional morning boat safari on Periyar Lake, renowned for its scenic beauty and wildlife. Spend the remainder of the day exploring plantation trails, local spice shops or indulging in an authentic Ayurveda wellness treatment. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
• Day 7: Thekkady → Kumarakom
  Driving Distance: Approx. 125 km / 4 hrs
  Drive to Kumarakom, one of Kerala's most tranquil backwater destinations. Check into your luxury lakeside resort overlooking Vembanad Lake. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure with optional canoe rides, birdwatching or sunset views across the backwaters. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.
• Day 8: Kumarakom Leisure — Enjoy a relaxed day exploring Kerala's peaceful backwaters. Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, stroll through nearby villages, enjoy a sunset cruise or simply unwind at your resort with optional Ayurveda therapies. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.
• Day 9: Kumarakom → Kochi Airport
  Driving Distance: Approx. 50 km / 1.5 hrs
  After breakfast, drive back to Kochi International Airport for your onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of Kerala's spice plantations, tea estates, wildlife, backwaters and warm hospitality.

Please Note: Driving distances and journey times are approximate and may vary depending on road conditions, weather, traffic, sightseeing stops and seasonal factors. Wildlife activities, plantation visits and optional experiences are subject to local operating schedules.

Tour Inclusions

• Private air-conditioned chauffeur-driven vehicle throughout the journey
• Accommodation in handpicked heritage hotels, plantation resorts and luxury lakeside resorts with daily breakfast
• Airport transfers, sightseeing and all intercity transportation as per the itinerary
• Guided spice plantation experience featuring cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and other aromatic spices
• Optional Periyar Lake boat safari and nature experiences in Thekkady
• Tea plantation visits and scenic hill experiences in Munnar
• Relaxing backwater experiences and luxury lakeside stay in Kumarakom
• All toll taxes, parking charges, fuel expenses and driver allowances
• Optional multilingual guides, Ayurveda treatments, cultural performances and culinary experiences available on request

Personalize Your Kerala Spice Tour

• Upgrade to luxury plantation retreats, heritage hotels or ultra-luxury lakeside resorts
• Add Ayurveda wellness therapies, yoga sessions and spa experiences
• Extend your journey with Varkala, Kovalam, Wayanad or additional nights in Munnar
• Private guides available in English, French, German, Spanish and other languages
• Add tea tasting, cooking demonstrations, village walks and cultural performances
• Flexible pacing designed for honeymooners, families and senior travelers

Best Time to Visit

• October – March: Ideal weather for hill stations, spice plantations, wildlife and backwater experiences.
• April – June: Warmer days with fewer visitors and attractive luxury hotel offers.
• July – September: Monsoon transforms Kerala into a lush green paradise, perfect for Ayurveda and plantation visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Why is this called a Kerala Spice Tour?
  A: The journey focuses on Kerala's famous spice-growing regions, historic spice markets, tea estates and plantation experiences while combining them with the state's beautiful backwaters.
• Q: Are spice plantation visits included?
  A: Yes. Thekkady's aromatic spice plantations are one of the main highlights of this itinerary.
• Q: Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors?
  A: Absolutely. It offers an excellent introduction to Kerala's culture, tea estates, spice plantations, wildlife and backwaters.
• Q: Can I add beaches or more destinations?
  A: Yes. Kovalam, Varkala, Wayanad and other destinations can easily be added to create a longer itinerary.
• Q: Can the itinerary be customized?
  A: Yes. Every tour is tailor-made to match your interests, travel style and preferred hotel category.

Why Choose Premium India Tours

• Expertly crafted private Kerala journeys showcasing authentic spice plantations and local culture
• Handpicked heritage hotels, plantation resorts and luxury lakeside retreats
• Private chauffeur-driven travel with flexible, tailor-made itineraries
• Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
• Dedicated local support from planning until the end of your journey