Kerala – God’s Own Country
Kerala – God’s Own Country
TOUR OVERVIEW
Kerala is a wealth of natural beauty in the form of placid backwaters, lush greenery, picturesque hill towns, and beautiful beaches has resulted in the name ‘God’s Own Country. The beauty of Kerala cannot be defined in words it can only be experienced. Kerala tour starts with Cochin or Kochi as it is now called, is the commercial capital of the Southern Indian State of Kerala, is sometimes referred to as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea. Munnar – The hill station enjoys a favourable and pleasant climate all year round and is famous for its lush green hills and tea plantations. We travel further to discover the beauty and tranquillity of Periyar National Park , enjoying the boat trip on Periyar Lake is the ideal way to sight a variety of wildlife . We continue our journey to Kumarakom it is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake . Then we go to the Alleppey jetty to board our overnight house boat to experience Kerala backwaters that have been known for their mesmerizing and alluring charms spread across the whole area and finally unwinding in Kovalam to enjoy the beach.
IS THIS HOLIDAY FOR YOU?
At Great India Retreats, we provide access to some of the most wondrous nature encounters the world has to offer. This touring and sightseeing adventure holiday incorporates many of the highlights of northern India into little more than a week and is perfect for anyone wanting to experience the culture and architecture to be found in this corner of South India. There is a fair amount of travelling, as we journey between Kochi, Munnar, Periyar and Allepey. However, using private, air-conditioned transportation, the effect of this is kept to a minimum. Whilst sightseeing, there will be some leisurely walking on city streets, local markets and on good trails.
Why Great India Retreats?
We have carefully put together this trip for those wanting to see the outstanding highlights of Royal Rajasthan in one perfect package. More than the typical Golden Triangle tour this area is rightly renowned for, we also include the rich culture and heritage of Jodhpur and Udaipur. With visits to the architectural wonders of Rajasthan and Agra; this holiday represents a trip of the lifetime.
Meeting and assistance on arrival and you will be transferred to your hotel.
Today is all about exploring Kochi! The city is heavily influenced by its colonial history, and you will spot Portuguese, Dutch, and British building styles.
Walk to St. Francis Church, India’s oldest European church, and wander through the narrow streets lined with colonial architecture. The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica an impressive church to visit. Spend a bit of time just wandering around – we were surprised by the many galleries and cafes that can be found in the old town, e.g. the David Hall Art Cafe. In the afternoon, make your way to the Paradesi Synagogue and the old spice markets. The area around Paradesi Synagogue is also worth to walk around in a bit – many souvenir shops can be found here! If you still have time, you could check out Mattancherry Palace.
Before heading to the Kathakali – or if you are catching an early show, directly after – visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets. They are most picturesque at sunset!
After breakfast, make your way to Munnar, a hill station towards the east of Kochi. By car, the journey takes around 4 hours. The drive is spectacular as you wind through cardamom plantations and climb into the misty hills.
Today is all about exploring the beautiful nature of Munnar. Start early, and then you have several options to fill your day:
Wildlife / Tea Plantation walk: Our accommodation offered a sunrise walk through the tea plantations paired with an small “tour” of the wildlife that could be seen in the hills.
Echo Point & Top Station: Head to Echo Point and Top Station. There, you will get panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations.
Depart for Periyar, also known as Thekkady, by private vehicle. Periyar is a renowned national park and one of the tiger reserves in India. Upon arrival in Periyar, check in at your pre-booked hotel.
Morning we take a boat ride on Lake Periyar in a common boat to explore the wildlife. The boating experience here is unique, as the steamer takes you through the lake where you can spot various birds and other species in the nearby Periyar Park.
After the boat ride, visit a spice plantation. Walking through the streets of Kumily or the winding pathways among the plantations, you’ll be struck by the lingering aroma in the air. You might smell cloves, nutmeg, pepper, cinnamon, or cardamom, and sometimes a blend of these scents. The cool climate and elevation of Kumily make it perfect for spice cultivation.
A leisurely breakfast and you will be transferred to the Alleppey Jetty to board a houseboat for a memorable cruise on the Kerala backwaters.
After a warm welcome and a refreshing drink, cruise along the serene lakes and canals. As you glide through the waters, you’ll pass water lilies, lush paddy fields, coir villages, rustic homes, temples, and coconut groves. After cruising for an hour or two, the boat will dock at a scenic spot for lunch. The crew will prepare delicious Kerala meals using fresh vegetables from the local market.
The houseboat will dock just before sunset. This is a perfect time for a walk along the banks by the rice paddies before dinner.
Stay overnight on the houseboat. Dinner will include more delicious traditional Kerala meals.
The houseboat disembarks at Alleppey at 9:30 AM. From the jetty point, you will be picked up and proceed to Kovalam, a renowned beach resort in Kerala. Kovalam is famous for its three adjacent crescent-shaped shallow water and low tidal beaches, and it’s dotted with resorts and Ayurvedic massage centers.
Upon arrival in Kovalam, check in at your hotel.
Spend the day at your own pace, relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Kovalam or by the hotel poolside. You can also explore the nearby areas, indulge in some local cuisine, or treat yourself to an Ayurvedic massage.
A private transfer to the airport for your flight back home.
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