Distance: 100 km

Travel time: 3 hrs

We begin our day with a guided walking tour of the plantations with a naturalist. The naturalist will introduce you to the diverse flora and fauna present in the region. After a nutritious breakfast, we will drive down to Kumily via the famous Gap Road, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and nearby hills.

Once we reach Kumily, check into a boutique hotel perched on the edge of the Western Ghats, where you'll enjoy panoramic views of the Tamil Nadu plains. Relax and unwind before dinner and an overnight stay.

Distance: 35 km

Travel time: 1.5 hr

Delve in a unique experience at the Periyar tiger reserve, prepare yourself for a thrilling jungle safari on an estate jeep, giving old school vibes. Spot various species of wild animals, right from mammals, birds, reptiles and even aquatic animals. Listen to the tune of the jungle, with birds chirping, tigers roaring and the stream flowing. Click pictures and have a great time exploring the wilderness. 

The stay arrangement will be made in the plantation bungalow, located well within the tiger reserve. The bungalow caretaker will meet you in Vandiperiyar Town (in front of Connemara Tea Factory Outlet) around 3:30 pm and guide you to your stay, which would roughly be around 21 kms.

Lunch Suggestion: Savour local flavours at Spice Village  CGH Earth, Thekkady.

Dinner and Overnight Stay: Enjoy dinner and a restful night at the Periyar Forest Bungalow, followed by the exciting night safari.

Distance: 129 km

Travel time: 5 hr

After a pleasant night amidst the woods, it's time to move onto our next destination, which is Kumarakom. This place is prominent for its pristine and clear backwaters. After reaching, you can settle down in your independent villa, surrounded by opulence, giving you a homely feeling, away from home.

The next day is going to be lethargic, after breakfast, you might want to explore the serenity of the backwaters, so, hop on a boat tour and drift your way out to the lush greenery relax by the lakeside and create indelible memories by going on a fishing spree. 

After the cruise, indulge in an authentic Keralastyle lunch, featuring freshly caught backwater fish. Stop at a local toddy shop along the shores of Vembanad Lake, where you can taste Toddy, a traditional alcoholic beverage made from coconut sap. The cruise will last from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, offering ample time to soak in the beauty of the region.

After the boat ride, opt for a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage at the resort spa before dinner.

Distance: 130 km

Travel time: 5 hr

After a refreshing night, wake up to the sound of birds chirping, it's time to move on! Our next destination is the quaint coastal town of Varkala, the suburban city in Trivandrum. It is a lively place with staggering hills, a vibrant beach along with beach shacks giving a glimpse of Goa.

Go for a walk, feel the water gushing to your feet and calm down to the sound of the waves.

Lunch Suggestion: stop at Wyte Portico Hotel, Adoor, for a refreshing meal en route to Varkala.

Once you arrive, settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxed evening by the beach.

Get ready for a day of adventure, start up early and go for a surf at the Varkala Beach even if you are a novice. The gentle shores give an ideal setting, so, without room for any second thoughts, give it a shot, it surely is worth it. Also, you can hop on a jet ski, parasailing and kayaking into the tranquil waters. 

After enjoying water activities, it's probably a good time to lay down and sunbathe. As the sun goes down, stroll along the beach shacks and enjoy fresh seafood dinner at any cafes by the cliffside along with refreshing drinks.

Distance: 39 km

Travel time: 1.5 hr

On the last day, be sure to secure your luggage, before checking out of your hotel and drive to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport for your flight back home. On the way, consider stopping at the historic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, renowned for its startling architecture and spiritual significance. 

Keep in mind the temple’s dress code: Dhoti for men and Saree for women. The temple opens for Darshan at 5:00 pm.

Lunch Suggestion: Thakkaaram Restaurant, Kazhakkoottam, is a great choice for a pleasant meal before heading to the airport. 

Leave your car at the airport parking and depart back home with beautiful memories of Kerala's captivating landscapes, cultural experiences, and serene backwaters.