14 Days - Kerala Ayurveda Retreat with Somatheeram, Backwaters & Beach
Key Experiences
- Chinese Fishing Nets Visit in Kochi
- Kathakali Dance Show in Kochi
- Tea Plantation Walk in Munnar
- Kerala Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey
- Vembanad Lake Birdwatching in Kumarakom
- Ayurvedic Massage & Therapies at Somatheeram
- Yoga & Meditation at Somatheeram
- Chowara Beach Relaxation
- Kerala Backwaters Boat Ride
- Trivandrum Local Sightseeing
About This Tour
Many travellers find that standard multi-city tours leave them feeling exhausted rather than refreshed. At KoiKoi Travel, we solve this by creating a balanced itinerary that blends cultural exploration with genuine rest.
This 14-day journey takes you through the colonial heritage of Kochi and the misty tea gardens of Munnar, before guiding you into the serene backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom. The final leg offers a transformative wellness experience at the renowned Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort. By combining sightseeing with slow-paced wellness days, KoiKoi Travel ensures you return home feeling truly rejuvenated. Whether you are wandering spice markets or enjoying a private houseboat cruise, this route is crafted for those who value quality time and holistic comfort in the heart of South India.
Day By Day Itinerary
Day 1:Arrival in Kochi
Upon your arrival at Kochi International Airport, a KoiKoi Travel representative will greet you and provide a smooth transfer to your hotel. This first day is intentionally kept relaxed to help you adjust to the tropical climate and recover from your journey. You can spend the afternoon settling in or taking a gentle walk around the coastal neighbourhood. Kochi's unique blend of colonial history and maritime charm makes it the ideal place to begin your South Indian holiday.
Activities:
Arrival & Transfer: Meet and greet followed by a private transfer to your hotel.
Sightseeing & Activities: Relaxing time at leisure to explore the local surroundings.
Overnight Stay: Kochi
Day 2:Fort Kochi Heritage Sightseeing
We start the day with a gentle exploration of Fort Kochi, where history is etched into every street corner. We visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets, followed by a walk through the historic St. Francis Church and the vibrant Santa Cruz Basilica. The afternoon allows for flexible time to browse the antique shops of the Jewish Quarter or visit the Mattancherry Palace. As evening falls, we attend a captivating Kathakali dance performance, showcasing the elaborate costumes and expressive storytelling that define Kerala’s classical arts.
Activities:
- Morning Breakfast & Sightseeing: Guided tour of colonial landmarks and spice markets.
- Afternoon: Free time for local shopping or café hopping in the historic quarter.
- Evening: Traditional Kathakali cultural performance.
- Overnight Stay: Kochi
Day 3:Kochi to Munnar
After breakfast, we set off for the hill station of Munnar. The drive is a scenic ascent into the Western Ghats, passing through lush forest slopes, rushing waterfalls, and sweeping spice plantations. As we gain altitude, the air becomes crisp and cool. Upon arrival, we check into our mountain resort, where the panoramic views of rolling hills provide a perfect transition into our wellness-focused itinerary. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy the quiet mountain atmosphere and sip locally grown tea.
Activities:
- Morning Breakfast & Transfer: Scenic drive from the coast to the high-altitude hills.
- Afternoon: Arrival and check-in at your mountain resort.
- Evening: Relaxing time at leisure to enjoy the resort grounds.
- Overnight Stay: Munnar
Day 4:Munnar Tea Gardens & Scenic Exploration
Today is dedicated to the natural beauty of Munnar. We explore the expansive tea estates, visiting the Tea Museum to understand the heritage of the region’s plantation culture. We will also visit scenic viewpoints such as the Mattupetty Dam, where the calm water reflects the surrounding green hills. The pace remains gentle, allowing plenty of time for photography and walks through the mist-covered valleys. This day is designed to connect you with nature without the rush of a typical sightseeing schedule.
Activities:
- Morning Breakfast & Sightseeing: Visit to tea plantations and the local museum.
- Afternoon: Scenic tour of Mattupetty Dam and valley viewpoints.
- Evening: Free time for rest or an optional wellness treatment at the hotel.
- Overnight Stay: Munnar
Day 5:Munnar Leisure & Plantation Walk
This day is planned as a slower, restorative experience in the hill country. We begin with a quiet plantation walk, breathing in the fresh mountain air as we stroll through the emerald tea gardens. The rest of the day is free for you to engage in light wellness activities, such as a tea-tasting session or simply reading in the resort gardens. This time helps prepare your body and mind for the transition to the low-lying backwaters, ensuring you feel balanced and rested throughout your holiday.
Activities:
- Morning Breakfast & Nature Walk: Guided walk through the tea plantations.
- Afternoon: Leisure time for relaxation or personal wellness activities.
- Evening: Quiet evening at the resort overlooking the hills.
- Overnight Stay: Munnar
Day 6:Munnar to Alleppey
Once we check out of the hotel, we descend from the hills and drive toward Alleppey, the gateway to Kerala’s world-famous backwaters. The landscape shifts from high-altitude tea bushes to expansive coconut groves and paddy fields. Upon arrival, we board our private houseboat for a journey through the narrow canals and vast lagoons. Watching life unfold along the banks from the deck of the boat is a highlight of this trip, offering a peaceful look at traditional village life near the water.
Activities:
- Morning Breakfast & Transfer: Descent from the Western Ghats to the coastal backwaters.
- Afternoon: Boarding the private houseboat for a canal cruise.
- Evening: Sunset views and dinner served on board the houseboat.
- Overnight Stay: Alleppey (Houseboat)
Day 7:Alleppey to Kumarakom
After a morning breakfast on the houseboat, we disembark and travel to Kumarakom, a tranquil village situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Known for its rich birdlife and peaceful environment, Kumarakom is the perfect place to slow down. We check into our lakeside resort, where you can spend the afternoon birdwatching or taking a gentle stroll through the village paths. The serene environment here is a cornerstone of our wellness journey, offering a quiet space to disconnect and reflect.
Activities:
- Morning Breakfast & Disembarkation: Check-out from the houseboat and transfer to Kumarakom.
- Afternoon: Birdwatching and exploration of the lakeside village.
- Evening: Leisure time at the resort by the lake.
- Overnight Stay: Kumarakom
Day 8:Kumarakom Wellness & Relaxation
This day is dedicated to relaxation in Kumarakom. We focus on the slow rhythm of the backwaters, allowing you to enjoy the resort's amenities or take a small boat out to explore the quieter inlets of the lake. There is no set sightseeing schedule today, as we believe in the importance of downtime during a wellness holiday. You might choose to visit a local craft workshop or simply enjoy the sounds of nature from your balcony, ensuring you are fully refreshed before the final leg of your trip.
Activities:
- Morning Breakfast & Leisure: Time to enjoy the serene lakeside surroundings.
- Afternoon: Optional gentle village walk or local boat excursion.
- Evening: Relaxing evening at the resort.
- Overnight Stay: Kumarakom
Day 9:Kumarakom to Chowara (Somatheeram)
We start the day with a journey toward Chowara, near Kovalam, where we will stay at the renowned Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort. This drive takes us further south along the coast to our dedicated wellness destination. Upon arrival, you will undergo a personalized Ayurveda consultation with the resident doctors, who will tailor your therapy plan based on your individual needs. This marks the beginning of your structured wellness retreat, designed to restore balance through traditional treatments, meditation, and healthy, balanced meals.
Activities:
- Morning Breakfast & Transfer: Long drive south to the Ayurveda retreat.
- Afternoon: Arrival and check-in at Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort.
- Evening: Initial consultation with the Ayurveda doctor.
- Overnight Stay: Chowara
Day 10:Wellness Retreat at Somatheeram
Today, your structured wellness program begins in earnest. The morning starts with a yoga and meditation session, followed by traditional Ayurvedic therapies as prescribed by your doctor. The resort’s location near Chowara Beach provides a calming backdrop for your healing journey. Throughout the day, you will enjoy nutritious, wellness-focused meals designed to complement your treatments. The focus is entirely on your physical and mental restoration, allowing you to immerse yourself in the ancient traditions of Kerala in a peaceful, beachside setting.
Activities:
Morning: Yoga, meditation, and prescribed Ayurvedic therapy.
Afternoon: Balanced wellness lunch and time for rest or beach strolls.
Evening: Evening therapy session and healthy dinner.
Overnight Stay: Chowara
Day 11:Wellness Retreat at Somatheeram
We continue our retreat program with a focus on deep relaxation and rejuvenation. Following your morning yoga session, you will receive further specialized treatments aimed at detoxification and stress relief. The atmosphere at Somatheeram is designed to support your wellness goals, with professional staff ensuring every detail of your stay is handled with care. The afternoon is kept free for personal reflection or gentle walks along the coast, helping you maintain the calm and balanced state that you have cultivated during your stay.
Activities:
Morning: Yoga session followed by personalized wellness treatments.
Afternoon: Nutritious lunch and time for relaxation.
Evening: Evening therapy session and wellness-focused dinner.
Overnight Stay: Chowara
Day 12:Wellness Retreat at Somatheeram
Our wellness retreat continues with a steady pace that allows for deep healing. The daily routine of yoga, meditation, and specialized therapies becomes a natural part of your day. You may notice an improvement in your energy levels and overall sense of calm as you engage with the treatments. The resort’s tranquil environment, combined with the rhythmic sound of the waves from nearby Chowara Beach, enhances the therapeutic experience. We continue to prioritize rest and healthy nourishment throughout this penultimate day of our wellness journey.
Activities:
Morning: Yoga, meditation, and ongoing Ayurvedic therapy.
Afternoon: Time for rest and enjoying the resort’s peaceful atmosphere.
Evening: Final evening treatment and wellness-focused dining.
Overnight Stay: Chowara
Day 13:Final Wellness Day
On our final day at the retreat, we enjoy a concluding session of yoga and meditation. You will have a final consultation with the Ayurveda doctor to discuss tips for maintaining your wellness routine at home. The day is kept intentionally quiet, allowing you to fully absorb the benefits of your stay before preparing for your departure. Whether you spend your time at the beach or simply relaxing on the resort grounds, this day offers a final space for peace and reflection before the end of your holiday.
Activities:
Morning: Final yoga and meditation session.
Afternoon: Consultation with the Ayurveda doctor and free time.
Evening: Relaxing final evening at the resort.
Overnight Stay: Chowara
Day 14:Departure from Trivandrum
After breakfast and check-out, we provide a private transfer to Trivandrum International Airport for your onward flight. We hope you leave Kerala feeling refreshed, restored, and deeply connected to the peace of the backwaters and the healing power of Ayurveda. This final transfer marks the end of your 14-day journey with KoiKoi Travel. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey home, taking with you the memories of lush hills, tranquil canals, and a truly restorative wellness experience.
Activities:
Morning Breakfast & Check-out: Final morning at the resort.
Afternoon: Private transfer to Trivandrum International Airport.
Departure Drop-off: Assistance with airport check-in.
Overnight Stay: None
What's Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing
- Accommodation in hotels, resorts, and a traditional houseboat
- Daily breakfast at all hotels and resorts
- All meals included during the houseboat stay
- Full-board wellness meals during the stay at Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort
- Private houseboat cruise in Alleppey
- Personalized Ayurveda consultation and therapy sessions at Somatheeram
- Entry fees for monuments and museums as per the itinerary
- Kathakali dance performance tickets
- English-speaking driver-guide for the tour
What's Excluded
- International and domestic airfare
- Lunch and dinner (except where specifically included)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and tips
- Camera fees at monuments
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Why Book With KoiKoi Travel
- Expertly balanced itinerary combining sightseeing with structured wellness time.
- Authentic Ayurveda experience at the world-renowned Somatheeram Resort.
- Private, air-conditioned transport for a comfortable and stress-free journey.
- Carefully selected accommodation ranging from heritage stays to lakeside resorts.
- Dedicated support from the KoiKoi Travel team throughout your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Simple answers about booking, payments, trip plans and help during your holiday.
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Trip Guide & Travel TipsEssential Trip Guide: Kerala Ayurveda Retreat with Somatheeram, Backwaters & Beach
Detailed day-by-day insights, local tips, what to pack, and cultural etiquette for this journey.
Read Full Guide Hide Guide
Essential Trip Guide: Kerala Ayurveda Retreat with Somatheeram, Backwaters & Beach
Detailed day-by-day insights, local tips, what to pack, and cultural etiquette for this journey.
A. Essential Trip Guide
Kerala is known as 'God's Own Country', a title that reflects its lush, green landscape and serene atmosphere. For first-time visitors, the transition from the bustling streets of Kochi to the quiet backwaters and mountain tea gardens is a remarkable experience. This route is designed for slow travel, allowing you to appreciate the humid tropical air, the scent of spice plantations, and the gentle pace of village life. Practical planning is key; ensure you allow enough time for transfers, as road travel in the Western Ghats can be slower than on the coast.
B. Local Experiences
Beyond the itinerary, you can enjoy tea-tasting sessions in Munnar or take a short birdwatching walk in Kumarakom. Kochi offers vibrant spice markets where you can learn about local culinary traditions. The houseboat cruise is a quintessential Kerala experience, offering a front-row seat to life along the canal banks.
C. Local Food and What to Try
Kerala’s cuisine is famous for its use of fresh coconut, curry leaves, and local spices. Try 'Appam' with vegetable stew, or fresh river fish prepared in traditional banana leaves. Vegetarian options are abundant and delicious. Please note that meals included in the tour are outlined in your itinerary; local café experiences are a great way to explore further.
D. Money and Payments
The local currency is the Indian Rupee. While many hotels and larger shops accept cards, smaller markets and local boat operators prefer cash. Always keep small denominations for tips and small purchases. ATMs are widely available in cities like Kochi, but less reliable in remote hill areas.
E. What to Pack
Pack light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. A light sweater is essential for the cool evenings in Munnar. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring heritage streets. Do not forget sun protection, a hat, and personal medication. If you are visiting religious sites, modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is appropriate.
F. Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is from September to March, when the weather is pleasant and dry. The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rain, which makes the landscape incredibly green but can limit outdoor activities. Always check the weather forecast before your departure.
