Kerala referred as "God's own Country"; with a vast coastline fringed with coconut palm, extensive stretches of Western Ghats and cultural vibrancy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India as well as Asia. Kerala with its equitable climate, long shoreline and more then 50 serene beaches, extensive tea plantations and spice fields, extensive network of canals and water channels popularly known as Kerala backwaters, diverse wildlife and the ancient art of healing Ayurveda has intoxicated travelers
Meeting and assistance on arrival by our airport, representative and transfer to hotel. Kochi is the green commercial capital of Kerala with one of the finest natural harbours in the world. From times immemorial, Arabs, Chinese, Dutch, British and Portuguese seafarers followed the sea route to Cochin and left their impressions on the town.
Overnight at hotel
After breakfast, proceed for guided city tour visiting, Mattancherry Palace (built in 1555 and renovated by the Dutch in 1663, it contains 17th century murals of the Ramayana), St. Francis Church, the oldest in India and the famous Chinese fishing nets. Stroll through the old Jewish Quarter and visit the old Synagogue (Jews have lived here since the time of King Solomon). In the evening enjoy the classical dance-drama "Kathakali", based on the Hindu epics.
Overnight at hotel
Note: Dutch Palace (Closed on Fridays), Synagogue (Closed Friday Afternoon and Saturdays)
After breakfast drive to the highlands of Periyar (Thekkady). From 1895, the British maintained the area as a wildlife preserve and there are still opportunities to find elephants, bison, deer, various varieties of birds and even the very occasional tiger. The rugged landscape is very tropical and well suited to tea, coffee & spices. On arrival, transfer to hotel.
Overnight at hotel
Early this morning there will be a leisurely guided jungle walk in the reserve to enjoy the flora and fauna. Later afternoon enjoy boat cruise on the man-made lake on your own. This is the best way to observe game in the wild, including herds of elephants, bison and wild boar that roam by the lake just before sunset. Also visit Spice Garden where you can learn about various spices which are grown in this region and are commonly used all over the country.
Overnight at hotel
After breakfast drive for Allapuzha (Alleppey). On arrival, board private House Boat and leisurely cruise through the Backwaters, full of canals, rivers and lakes. Relax on deck or in private lounge, experiencing life on the water - sailing, fishing, swimming, washing, cooking and more. Between the waterways are extensive rice patties and coconut palms.
Overnight Houseboat
After breakfast disembark private House Boat and drive to Kovalam. The word 'Kovalam' in Malayalam stands for 'a groove of coconut trees'. There are three crescent shaped beaches and all three are popular hot spots. The three are separated by rocky headlands. Kovalam beach was discovered by the western hippies in the 1960s. It was they who chanced upon this hidden paradise, till then a fishing village (as it still is on Chowara Beach). It has since become one of the most popular beach destinations.
Overnight at hotel
Day at leisure to enjoy the beach.
Overnight at hotel.
Breakfast followed with Check out before 1200 Hrs. Transfer to Trivandrum airport to connect for your onward Domestic OR return International flight as applicable.
Duration : 7 Nights 8 Days
Destinations covered : Kochi - Periyar – Allapuzha - Kovalam - Trivandrum
