In the warm, more tranquil, South of India you will discover Kerala, an exotic and fascination region often referred to as God’s country. From the beautiful Hill Country to the exotic watery Backwaters this trip will leave you spellbound. Cruising on a traditional houseboat is for many the highlight of this tour.
Highlights
* Scenic Hill Country and tea plantations
* Jungle wildlife including elephants
* Cruising on the backwaters
* Relaxing on the beach
Day One: Kochi
Your tour begins in Kochi (previously know as Cochin) an ancient spice trading port. After settling in you will explore the narrow streets this historic city and visit some its main attractions including the Santa Cruz Basillica, The Dutch palace at Mattancherry and St Francis’ Church. In the evening you may like to watch a traditional Kathakali dance.
Overnight at hotel on bed and breakfast basis.
Day Two: Kochi – Munnar
This morning you take a scenic, sometimes breathtaking, drive up to Munnar which is Kerala’s premium hill station. This town is surrounded by vast tea plantations and fantastic mountain views. The air is cooler and fresher up here and, with plenty of great tasting tea on hand too, it makes a refreshing start to your holiday.
Overnight at hotel on bed and breakfast basis.
Day Three: Munnar
Today you have the whole day to explore Munnar. You will visit Evarikulam National Park, which is home to the endangered antelope-like Nilgiri Tahr. You can walk up to Anaimudi peak the highest in the park (2695m) for great views of the region. Madupetty Dam forms a massive lake which is great for boating.
Overnight at hotel on bed and breakfast basis.
Day Four: Munnar – Thekkady (Periyar)
Onwards to Periyar today. The national park is home to herds of elephants. In the evening you take a boat ride on the lake and have a chance to explore some of the local tribal villages.
Overnight at hotel on bed and breakfast basis.
Day Five:Thekkady – Kumaracom
You travel today to Kumaracom and the Backwaters region – an exotic watery wonderland of canals, lagoons and lakes lined by palm trees.
Overnight at hotel on bed and breakfast basis.
Day Six: Kumaracom
Today is a full day to explore the Backwaters, including the Kumaracom bird sanctuary. There is also a chance to do some watersports.
Overnight at hotel on bed and breakfast basis.
Day Seven: Kumaracom – Alleppey
Today at Kottayam you board your houseboat, a surprisingly comfortable converted rice barge, for an exciting overnight voyage in the Backwaters. A fabulous chance to relax and enjoy this region.
Overnight houseboat on bed and breakfast basis.
Day Eight: Alleppey – Kovalam
Arriving at Alleppey you say farewell to your boat crew and drive to Kovalam beach on the Indian Ocean coast.
Overnight at hotel on bed and breakfast basis.
Day Nine: Kovalam
A full day at the beach to relax and reflect on the wonderful experiences you have had in God’s own country.
Overnight at hotel on bed and breakfast basis.
Day Ten: Kovalam – Trivandrum
Finally this afternoon, you drive to the airport to make your return flight home.
What will it cost?
From £495 per person in 3 star hotel accommodation-
Or from £632 per person in 4 star hotel accommodation-
Costs are for 2 persons sharing a room and tour arrangements as described above.
Plus approximately £450/£500 for your return airfare (London/Cochin and Trivandrum/London)
Valid from 01 January to 01 October, subject to availability at time of booking.
Looking for something else?
Give us a call to plan your tailor made India holiday 0208 741 4319
