Kerala, often called God’s Own Country, is a destination where nature unfolds in its purest form. Among its many wonders, the backwaters stand out as an enchanting experience for travelers seeking peace, beauty, and cultural immersion. Choosing a 7 days Kerala backwater tour package is the perfect way to explore this serene network of canals, lagoons, and lakes while enjoying a blend of relaxation and discovery. With a weeklong itinerary, you can glide on houseboats, witness village life, and rejuvenate amidst Kerala’s timeless charm.
Why a 7 Days Kerala Backwater Tour Package?
A shorter trip may leave you craving more, but a 7 days Kerala backwater tour package allows you to truly immerse in the tranquil setting. It gives you time to explore not just the iconic backwater destinations like Alleppey and Kumarakom, but also offbeat gems such as Kottayam and Kollam. The tour is designed to offer balance—time spent cruising on houseboats, discovering local culture, savoring traditional meals, and unwinding in wellness retreats.
Day 1: Arrival in Kochi – Gateway to Backwaters
Your journey begins in Kochi, a bustling city with a mix of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Explore Fort Kochi’s historic streets, Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace, and spice markets. An evening Kathakali dance performance sets the cultural tone for your trip. Stay overnight in Kochi before heading to the backwaters.
Day 2: Kochi to Alleppey – Boarding the Houseboat
On the second day, you travel to Alleppey, famously known as the “Venice of the East.” Here, you board a kettuvallam, a traditional houseboat converted into a floating hotel. As you cruise through calm canals lined with coconut trees, you’ll see paddy fields, fishing nets, and everyday life in backwater villages. Relish freshly cooked Kerala meals on board and spend the night anchored under a starlit sky.
Day 3: Alleppey to Kumarakom – Lakeside Bliss
From Alleppey, your journey continues to Kumarakom, situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Kumarakom is renowned for its bird sanctuary where migratory species like Siberian cranes can be spotted. Here, you can enjoy canoe rides, indulge in Ayurvedic massages, or simply relax by the lakeside. This stop is a nature lover’s paradise.
Day 4: Kumarakom to Kottayam – A Cultural Encounter
On day four, you head to Kottayam, known for its serene landscapes dotted with rubber plantations and waterways. This town offers a blend of cultural and religious heritage with ancient churches and temples. It’s also a great place to learn about local art forms or watch coir-making demonstrations. A stop in Kottayam adds cultural depth to your backwater journey.
Day 5: Kottayam to Kollam – Hidden Gem of Backwaters
Next, your 7 days Kerala backwater tour package takes you to Kollam, one of Kerala’s oldest seaports. The highlight here is Ashtamudi Lake, a vast expanse offering boat cruises and views of traditional fishing villages. Kollam provides a more authentic, less touristy backwater experience. It is also famous for cashew processing and historic temples.
Day 6: Kollam to Kovalam – Coastal Serenity
After days on the water, your journey transitions to the beach town of Kovalam. Known for its crescent-shaped beaches, golden sands, and lighthouses, Kovalam offers the ideal place to unwind. This is also a hub for Ayurvedic therapies and yoga retreats, making it a perfect place for rejuvenation before you conclude your tour.
Day 7: Departure from Trivandrum – Memories to Cherish
On the final day, head to Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), Kerala’s capital. Before departure, visit landmarks like Padmanabhaswamy Temple or Napier Museum, or shop for souvenirs such as spices, handicrafts, and traditional Kerala sarees. By the end of your weeklong adventure, the calm waters and vibrant culture will have left you with unforgettable memories.
Highlights of the Tour Package
- Houseboat Stay: Overnight experience on traditional kettuvallams.
- Cultural Immersion: Kathakali, local markets, and traditional villages.
- Nature Escapes: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and lush paddy fields.
- Wellness: Authentic Ayurvedic treatments and yoga retreats.
- Coastal Charm: Relaxation in Kovalam alongside the backwaters journey.
Best Time to Travel
The best time for a 7 days Kerala backwater tour package is from September to March, when the climate is cooler and more comfortable for houseboat stays and outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June to August) is perfect for wellness seekers looking to combine backwaters with Ayurveda but may come with frequent rains.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Book your houseboat well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Choose eco-friendly packages that minimize environmental impact.
- Carry lightweight cotton clothing, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent.
- Don’t miss tasting Kerala’s specialties such as fish curry, appam, and Karimeen Pollichathu.
- Consider customizing the itinerary for added leisure or wellness activities.
Conclusion
A 7 days Kerala backwater tour package is more than a holiday; it is a soulful experience that allows you to reconnect with nature and yourself. From drifting through tranquil waters on houseboats to embracing the vibrant culture and wellness traditions, this journey is designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Kerala’s timeless charm, warm hospitality, and breathtaking landscapes ensure that every moment becomes part of a memorable story. For anyone seeking serenity and an authentic travel experience, Kerala’s backwaters are an invitation you cannot resist.
