Classic Kerala (11 Days) 

     Upon arrival at Cochin airport, you will be met and assisted by our representative and transferred to the hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. In the evening visit the famous dance drama of Kerala, the “Kathakali”. This dance can be characterized by grotesque gesticulations, amazing costumes and very extensive make-up. The stories are mostly taken from the epics Mahabharatha and Ramayana. Welcome dinner at a local specialty restaurant (for group tours only). Overnight at hotel. (D)

     After breakfast start your sightseeing tour of Cochin by visiting "the Jewish Synagogue" at the heart of what is locally called the Jew Town, "the St. Francis Church", the oldest European Church in India, "the Santa Cruz Basilica" originally built in 1557 by the Portuguese, the Dutch Palace and Spice market in narrow streets. Later return to the hotel and in the evening visit the "Chinese fishing nets" huge cantilevered fishing nets believed to have been brought to Kochi by Chinese traders. Overnight at hotel. (B)

     Morning drive to Munnar. On arrival in Munnar, check-in at hotel and rest of the day is at leisure. Munnar (1,524 m) is the highest town of Kerala with a cool, bracing climate exuding old-world charm. The atmosphere is fragrant with extensive tea and cardamom plantations. There are enchanting high ranges, lakes and streams and beautiful views of low-lying clouds and mist filled valleys. Overnight at hotel. (B)

     Morning visit to “Pothamedu”, located 6 km from Munnar and which offers an excellent view of tea, coffee and cardamom plantations of Munnar. “Devikulam” is located 7 km from Munnar; this idyllic hill station with its velvet lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air is a rare experience. Overnight at hotel.(B)

     Morning drive to the wildlife reserve at Periyar on a scenic route dotted with plantations of rubber, cardamom, cocoa, green pepper and areca nut. Arrive Periyar and check-in at the hotel. In the evening enjoy the most popular boat trip at the National Park. There are many animals to see including herds of elephants, bison and packs of wild boars that roam through the woods and parade along the shores of the lake just before sunrise and sunset. Overnight at hotel. (B)

     In the morning we will leave for a guided plantation tour of the nearby garden where various species of spices and other aromatic plants are cultivated. Afternoon free to visit the local market for spices. Overnight at hotel. (B)

     After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Kumarakom. Kumarakom backwaters are called the jewels of Kerala. In this small water world you will come across plenty of traditional country craft boats and canoes which will take you into the heart of the scenic lake. On arrival check-in at backwaters resort. Visit of Kumarakom bird sanctuary. Overnight at hotel. (B)

     After a leisurely breakfast in the hotel, check out and board your houseboat from Kumarakom jetty at 12:30 hrs. Staying in this moving palace is a breathtaking experience. While sailing down a maze of canals one sees different scenes from the villages, paddy fields, coconut palms, fishermen and local life. Lunch and dinner are served onboard, and you will be spending your night in the middle of the lake. Overnight at houseboat.(B, L, D)

     After a leisurely breakfast on board disembark at Alleppey jetty, which is also known as “Venice of the East” because of the narrow canals and backwaters. Drive to Kovalam. On arrival check-in at a beach resort. Rest of the day to relax on the beach or you have the option to indulge in Ayurvedic massages. It is an ideal place to swim, sunbathe and perhaps enjoy the ancient rites of oil bath. Overnight at hotel. (B)

     Full day on the beach. Overnight in Kovalam. (B)

     Transfer to Trivandrum airport in time to board the flight for your onward journey. (B)