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Coastal scenery while trekking Southern India - Trails of Kerala & Tamil Nadu, India
Coastal scenery while trekking Southern India  | Jaclyn Loft
Happy family at Varkala Beach - Trails of Kerala & Tamil Nadu, India
Happy family at Varkala Beach  | Scott Pinnegar
Breathtaking views while trekking Southern India - Trails of Kerala & Tamil Nadu, India
Breathtaking views while trekking Southern India  | Jaclyn Loft
Local street in Cochin - Trails of Kerala & Tamil Nadu, India
Local street in Cochin  | Scott Pinnegar
Simple but beautiful Indian cuisine - Trails of Kerala & Tamil Nadu, India
Simple but beautiful Indian cuisine  | Jaclyn Loft
Stunning colour on the streets of Southern India - Trails of Kerala & Tamil Nadu, India
Stunning colour on the streets of Southern India  | Jaclyn Loft
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Trails of Kerala & Tamil Nadu

Explore the scenic trails of this iconic part of Southern India

India

9 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: KRT
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 9 Days
Activities
  • 4 day hike
  • 2 days adventure touring
Accommodation
  • 8 nights comfortable hotel/lodge
Meals
  • 6 Dinners
  • 5 Lunches
  • 8 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
4 / 10

Introductory to Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

71kg of CO2-e PP per day

(566kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

South India Hiking Adventure Trip highlights

  • Hike through the Cardamom Hills and Mathikettan Shola National Park, a South Indian biodiversity hotspot
  • Experience the Periyar Tiger Reserve on foot, with the chance to spot elephants and Nilgiri langurs
  • Explore colonial era Fort Kochi with its Dutch mansions, Chinese fishing nets and spice markets
  • Spot rare wildlife in their natural habitat, from the endemic Malabar Giant Squirrel to the iconic Asian elephant
  • Relax in hand-picked heritage lodges and boutique hotels that reflect the charm of South India

Overview

Southern India delivers no end of pleasant surprises on this wonderful trip. Our carefully crafted itinerary offers the highlights of the magnificent hill country of the Western Ghats along with time to relax in the historic coastal town of Kochi. Our hike in the Western Ghats takes us along the Mathikettan Shola rainforest track, an exciting and challenging trekking route that begins in Munnar and traces its path to the famed Periyar Tiger Reserve. If you want to be surrounded by the beauty of nature and venture on a unique trek, this rainforest trek is just what you are looking for.

Itinerary

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Upon arrival in Kochi (Cochin), you will be met by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to our group hotel in the historic Fort Kochi area. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure, allowing time to relax after your journey or explore the charming streets of Fort Kochi at your own pace. In the early evening, we gather for a group welcome briefing, where our guide will introduce the journey ahead and provide important information about the adventure. Transfer time: Approx. 1.5 hours Accommodation: Dutch Bungalow Hotel or similar.

Meals: D

After breakfast, we set out on a guided walking tour of historic Fort Kochi, a fascinating coastal town renowned for its rich cultural heritage and centuries of maritime trade. Once an important trading port on the Malabar Coast, Kochi attracted merchants from across the world, creating a unique blend of cultures, religions and architectural styles. Its colourful history is reflected in the beautifully preserved colonial buildings, historic churches and iconic Chinese fishing nets that line the waterfront. As we explore the charming streets of Fort Kochi and neighbouring Mattancherry, we discover the influence of Portuguese, Dutch and British settlers who competed for control of the region's lucrative spice trade. Highlights include St. Francis Church, one of India's oldest European churches, the historic Paradesi Synagogue and Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, renowned for its traditional Kerala murals and royal heritage. In the evening, we enjoy a traditional Kathakali performance, one of Kerala's most celebrated classical art forms. Combining elaborate costumes, colourful makeup, expressive gestures and rhythmic music, this captivating dance-drama brings ancient stories and legends to life. It is a wonderful introduction to the rich cultural traditions of southern India. Accommodation: Dutch Bungalow Hotel or similar.

Meals: B

After breakfast, we leave Kochi and journey inland towards Munnar, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats, renowned for its rolling green hills and extensive tea plantations. As we ascend into the highlands, the scenery transforms into lush valleys, forested mountains and beautifully manicured tea estates. This region is also home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr and the rare Neelakurinji flower, famous for blooming approximately once every twelve years. On arrival, we set out on the Sivanmalai Trek, a scenic afternoon walk through tea plantations and forested ridges, enjoying sweeping views across the surrounding mountains and valleys. We also visit the Tea Museum to learn about the region's rich tea-growing heritage and traditional production methods. Afterwards, we return to our hotel for a relaxing evening before our trekking adventures continue tomorrow. Driving time: Approx. 4 hours Trekking distance and duration: Approx. 8km (5 miles), 3 hours Accommodation: Eastend Munnar or similar.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we transfer to Suryanelli to begin our trek through the beautiful high-altitude forests near Papathy Shola, also known as the 'Butterfly Forest', named for the thousands of butterflies that migrate through the area each October. These unique cloud forests are home to a remarkable diversity of birdlife and native wildlife, including the striking Malabar giant squirrel. Our trail winds through lush grasslands and dense shola forests, offering sweeping views across the surrounding mountains and valleys of the Western Ghats. As we descend, the landscape opens towards the picturesque Anayirankal Lake, whose name translates to 'the lake where elephants come down'. Surrounded by rolling hills and spice plantations, this tranquil reservoir is an important part of the region's natural landscape. The surrounding communities cultivate cardamom and other spices, thriving in the cool mountain climate. At the end of our trek, we transfer to our accommodation, where we can relax and enjoy the peaceful highland surroundings. Trekking distance and duration: Approx. 7km (4.3 miles), 4 hours Transfer time: Approx. 1 hour to and from the trailhead Accommodation: Sienna Village or similar.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we set out on a rewarding trek through Mathikettan Shola National Park, a protected area in the Western Ghats renowned for its rich biodiversity and pristine mountain landscapes. Our trail winds through dense shola forests, lush grasslands and rolling hills, providing opportunities to appreciate the region's remarkable flora and fauna, including endemic birdlife, Nilgiri langurs and Asian elephants that inhabit these forests. As we continue towards Santhanpara, the landscape opens into picturesque valleys and fragrant cardamom plantations, offering sweeping views across the surrounding Cardamom Hills. This region has long been at the heart of Kerala's spice cultivation, producing cardamom and other aromatic spices that attracted traders from around the world for centuries. After completing our trek, we make our way to our accommodation, surrounded by the beautiful mountain scenery of Kerala's highlands. Trekking distance and duration: Approx. 11.5km (7.1 miles), 5 hours Accommodation: Shola Crown or similar.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we set out on our final trek through the spectacular highlands of the Western Ghats, following a scenic trail from Santhanpara towards Chaturangapara. Our route takes us along a prominent mountain ridge on the eastern edge of the Western Ghats, offering breathtaking panoramic views across the surrounding hills and the vast plains of neighbouring Tamil Nadu. As we make our way through this beautiful landscape, we enjoy a wonderful contrast between the lush green highlands of Kerala and the drier lowlands stretching into the distance. This rewarding walk provides a fitting conclusion to our trekking adventures in the Munnar region. After completing our trek, we transfer by vehicle to Periyar (approx. 2 hours), home to one of South India's most renowned wildlife reserves. On arrival, we check into our hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Trekking distance and duration: Approx. 9km (5.6 miles), 4 hours Transfer time: Approx. 2 hours to Periyar Accommodation: Forest Canopy Hotel or similar.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we set out on a guided wilderness trek through Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of South India's most renowned protected areas, covering approximately 777 square kilometres of the Western Ghats. Accompanied by experienced local guides and forest trackers, we explore the reserve's diverse landscapes, following trails through dense forests, open grasslands and rolling hills. Along the way, we gain a deeper understanding of the region's remarkable biodiversity and conservation efforts while keeping an eye out for wildlife, including Asian elephants, gaur (Indian bison), sambar deer, Nilgiri langurs and a variety of birdlife. The reserve is also home to more elusive species such as wild dogs, leopards and tigers, although sightings are rare. At the heart of the reserve lies Periyar Lake, a picturesque reservoir surrounded by forested hills that provides an important habitat for wildlife. This immersive trekking experience offers a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the sights and sounds of the wilderness while learning about the forest ecosystem from those who know it best. After completing our trek, we return to our accommodation for a relaxing evening. Trekking distance and duration: Approx. 11km (6.8 miles), 5 hours Accommodation: Forest Canopy Hotel or similar.

Meals: B,L,D

Today, we leave the highlands of Periyar behind and journey to Kerala's beautiful coastline and the peaceful fishing village of Mararikulam. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty, Marari Beach offers long stretches of golden sand fringed by swaying coconut palms and traditional fishing villages. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax on the beach, explore the local village or simply unwind and enjoy the tranquil coastal surroundings. Accomodation:

Meals: B

After breakfast, our South India adventure comes to an end. From the lush tea plantations and spectacular mountain landscapes of the Western Ghats to the wildlife-rich forests of Periyar and the tranquil shores of Marari Beach, we hope you leave with wonderful memories of this beautiful region. We transfer to Kochi International Airport for your onward flight, or you may choose to extend your stay and continue exploring the wonders of southern India.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

4 scheduled departures between 13 Dec 2026 and 19 Apr 2027.

  • Departs 13 Dec 2026 – ends 21 Dec 2026 (9 days)
  • Departs 10 Jan 2027 – ends 18 Jan 2027 (9 days)
  • Departs 21 Mar 2027 – ends 29 Mar 2027 (9 days)
  • Departs 19 Apr 2027 – ends 27 Apr 2027 (9 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 8 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
  • comfortable accommodation on a twinshare
  • airport transfer on day 1 and 9
  • all internal transport and support vehicle whilst trekking
  • local specialist guides
  • sightseeing and entry fees as listed in the itinerary
  • drinking water while trekking

Not included

  • International or domestic flights
  • bottled water, aerated & alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry etc.
  • tips
  • airport & departure taxes
  • visas
  • travel insurance

Extra trip info

AccommodationWill My Trip Run?

Heritage and Comfortable Accommodation

Comfortable accommodation is provided throughout, ranging from quality heritage stays to well-appointed 3 to 4-star properties, offering a blend of character and modern amenities.

Trekking in Meesapulimala, Southern India | Scott Pinnegar

Single Supplements

World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone. We will arrange for you to share accommodation with another traveller of the same gender and if we cannot match you up we will provide a single room at no extra charge. If you prefer not to share a single supplement is payable to guarantee your own room. Please refer to our website for the additional cost.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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