Trails of Kerala & Tamil Nadu

Upon arrival you will be met by a representative of World Expeditions and transferred to the group hotel. The rest of the afternoon is spent at your leisure with a group arrival briefing held in the early evening. Overnight: Dutch Bungalow Hotel or similar Transport: Airport Transfer (1.5 hours)

Meals:  Nil

Today, you will explore Kochi's cultural heritage through its museums and temples, and in the evening, enjoy a vibrant Kathakali dance performance—a traditional Keralan art form that blends storytelling, music, and elaborate costumes. Kochi’s fascinating history comes alive in its colonial bungalows, an ancient synagogue, Chinese fishing nets, the oldest European church in India, and a medieval Portuguese palace. Founded in 1341 after a flood created a natural harbour, it quickly became the chief port on the Malabar Coast. In the 1400s, Jewish, Arab, and Christian settlers arrived, drawn by the royal family’s relocation from Muziris, 50 km to the north. From the 1500s, Europeans—including the Portuguese, Dutch, and English—competed to control the port and its lucrative spice trade. The city has three distinct areas: Ernakulam, the modern hub to the east, and the historic districts of Mattancherry and Fort Kochi on a western peninsula. You will stay in the heart of Fort Kochi, India’s oldest Indo-European town. Overnight: Dutch Bungalow Hotel or similar Activity: Guided Fort Kochi walk

Meals:  B

Today, you will head to the hill town of Munnar, nestled amidst lush green mountains and home to some of the world’s highest tea plantations. Along the way, you will pass the spectacular tea estates that define this region. This is the land of Neelakurinji, a rare flower that blooms in these hills once every twelve years, and the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, an ibex species found only in this area. In the afternoon, you will visit a tea museum to uncover fascinating insights into tea cultivation and production in Munnar. Later, you can unwind and relax, ready to begin your hiking adventure tomorrow. Overnight: Eastend Munnar or similar. Transport: 4 hours drive Activity: Tea plantation hike (4km/2.5mi) and bazaar walk

Meals:  B,L,D

Today transfer to Suryanelli and begin your trek. Your walk starts in the high-altitude forests near Papathy Shola, or ‘Butterfly Forest’ named for the thousands of butterflies that migrate here each October. These cloud forests are also home to a rich diversity of birdlife and endemic species such as the striking Malabar Giant Squirrel. As you trek through stretches of grasslands and thick forest, take in the remarkable biodiversity and panoramic views. The walk concludes with a descent towards the tranquil Anaerangal Lake, whose name means “the lake where the elephants come down.” This peaceful waterbody draws wildlife and sustains local communities. Around its banks, tribal settlements farm cardamom and other spices, thriving in the cool, misty climate of the region. Overnight: Sienna Village or similar Activity: 10km/6mi approx. hike Transfers: Approx. 1 hour to and from trail head

Meals:  B,L,D

Today, you will trek through Mathikettan Shola National Park, a haven of biodiversity teeming with endemic plants, animals, and wildlife such as Asiatic elephants and Nilgiri langurs. Your journey leads to Santhanpara, nestled among lush vegetation and cardamom spice plantations, earning the region its name, the 'Cardamom Hills.' This area is the heart of Kerala's spice cultivation, renowned for centuries and a magnet for traders from across the world. Overnight: Shola crown or similar Activity: 14km/9mi approx. hike

Meals:  B,L,D

Today, you will trek from Santhanpara to Chaturangapara, marking the final stretch of your rainforest journey in Munnar. The route follows a prominent ridge along the eastern edge of the Western Ghats, offering breathtaking views over the plains of neighbouring Tamil Nadu. Transfer to Periyar after the trek. Overnight: Forest canopy or similar Activity: 9km/5.5mi approx. hike Transfer to Periyar: 2 hours after the trek

Meals:  B,L,D

Today you will explore Periyar Tiger Reserve on foot. Periyar is one of India’s best-managed wildlife reserves, covering 777 sq km of lush forest in the Western Ghats. Breathing in the crisp mountain air, you’ll immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the wilderness. The reserve’s centrepiece is Periyar Lake, a man-made reservoir formed over a century ago by damming the Periyar River. Surrounding the lake, the open grasslands and varied terrain provide a haven for a remarkable range of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, gaur (Indian bison), sambar, barking deer, Nilgiri langurs, lion-tailed macaques, wild dogs, and with luck, even a tiger — around 40 are thought to inhabit the park. You’ll spend the day hiking through the forest alongside local guides and tribal trackers. This is a true highlight of your journey — a chance to experience the forest up close, listening, watching, and learning from those who know it best. Overnight: Forest canopy or similar Activity: 12km/7.5mi approx. hike

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast, you will head back to Fort Kochi. Once back in Fort Kochi you will have the afternoon to relax in your comfortable accommodation or perhaps venture out for one last stroll in this iconic colonial city. Overnight: Dutch Bungalow Hotel or similar Transport: 5.5 hour drive

Meals:  B

Trip concludes after breakfast.

Meals:  B