Classic Kerala

Highlights

Kerala’s backwaters and beaches with an extension to the tea covered hills and to wildlife descending through the magical scenery of the hills. Passing picture postcard tropical landscape takes you to experience the floating accommodation knows as “Houseboat”

Itinerary

Day 1:  COCHIN

Meet, Greet and you will be transferred to your hotel in Cochin. Later sightseeing at Cochin, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, Old Quarter, Pardesi Synagogue, Santa Cru Basilica

Day 2:  COCHIN > MUNNAR

After breakfast proceed to Munnar the hill station, en-route stop at a tea plantation for a tea experience. South Indian lunch at a local restaurant. After that visit Thirumeny Cultural Centre for Indian Kathakali dance show and a display of Indian martial arts…Kalari. Continue the journey to Munnar for your overnight stay

Day 3:  ACTIVITIES IN MUNNAR

After a hot cup of south Indian filtered coffee and a refreshing breakfast the group will be taken to Erivakulum National Park, it’s a must visit in Munnar. Lunch in the national park resort. Later visit the Echo Point and Thommankthu Waterfalls. Return back to the hotel

Day 4:  MUNNAR > THEKKADY

Today you will have a scenic drive through the Cardamom hills to Thekkeady the wild corridor of South with lush greenery. Check in at your hotel. Afternoon experience the tribal heritage walk, accompanied by a tribal guide. A unique opportunity of a close interaction with a tribal community.

Day 5:  ACTIVITIES IN THEKKADY

After an early breakfast you will be taken on a Boat trip to observe Wildlife and lush coconut grooves on Periyar Lake. Rest of the day at leisure or you are free to explore the local market for sandalwood, body oils and spices.

Day 6:  THEKKADY > KUMARAKOM

After a leisure breakfast you will be driven to Kumarakom, known for its series of backwaters. Check in at the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure on Vembanad Lake surrounded by coconut trees and paddy fields with a chilled Beer or enjoy an Ayurveda massage. Overnight at the hotel

Day 7:  LOCAL VILLAGE TOUR

On this day you will be given an opportunity to experience the local village lifestyle with a village walk, Pull down Chinese fishing nets, Coir making centre, Demonstrate coconut tree climbing and have your very own coconut plucked, Handloom and handicraft making centre. Rest of the day at leisure for your own activities.

Day 8:  HOUSEBOAT ON BACKWATERS

Today is the day you will experience the highlights of Kerala, Overnight Backwater Cruise from Kumarokom to Alleppey. These man- made living houses on the river have everything to make you get a different experience from scenic beauty to south Indian delicacies. You can also enjoy Kayaking through narrow backwater canals to see the lifestyle of fisherman families – don’t forget to take books & pencils for the children who will greet you while you kayak. A typical south Indian cuisine will be served on boat.

Day 9:  HOUSEBOAT > KOVALAM

After breakfast you will be picked up from Alleppey boat jetty and continue the journey to south of Kerala to Kovalam. En-route stops at Kuttanad the “rice bowl of Kerala” and experience the traditional country lifestyle with a sip of toddy local alcoholic beverage made from coconut. Continue to Kovalam for your beach stay

Enjoy a beach stay at Kovalam at a resort of your own choice. Optional trips can be arranged including a visit to Kanyakumari, the southern tip of India.

Day 10:  LEISURE AT KOVALAM BEACH

Full day leisure by the beach or optional visit to hill top temple by tuk tuk. It’s your day to explore places on your own or just chill in the hotel pool.

Day 11:  KANYAKUMARI TRIP

Breakfast at the hotel; take the one and half hour’s drive to Kanyakumari the southern tip of India. See the Vivekananda Rock in the midst of the sea. After lunch see padmanabhapuram Palace – best examples of Kerala Architecture and Wax museum of Kanyakumari. Return back to the hotel

Day 12:  DEPARTURE

Today you will be dropped at the airport for your return journey