Kerala Tour
Cochin > Munna > Thekkady > Kovalam
Kerala, located in southern India, boasts of a unique set of geographical features that make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia. The state is known for its long coastline with serene beaches, tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush hill stations, and exotic wildlife. It is no wonder that visitors are captivated by the natural beauty of the place.
Some of the highlights of Kerala include the Chinese fishing nets and Kathakali dance of Cochin, the lush tea gardens of Munnar, the wildlife of Periyar (Thekkady), the backwaters of Alleppey, and the pristine beaches of Kovalam. Each of these attractions offers a unique and unforgettable experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression
on travelers.
Upon your arrival in Cochin, you will be greeted by a representative of Vimla India Tours who will escort you to your hotel. After briefing you about the tour and providing you with the travel documents, the rest of the day is free for you to relax. Overnight stay at your hotel.
After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Cochin. Begin by visiting the St. Francis Church, an architectural marvel that holds significant historical value. It is famous for being the burial place of the famous explorer Vasco-da-Gama, although his remains were taken back 14 years later.
The church showcases deep Dutch and Portuguese influences and boasts a beautiful structural design.
Next, head to the Chinese Fishing Nets, which are a staple sight in Cochin and have been for over 500 years. Legend has it that the famous Chinese explorer, ZhengHe, introduced these nets to the local fishermen. These nets have become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Fort Kochi area. Later, visit the Dutch Palace, also known as the Mattancherry Palace, located 12 km from Ernakulam. It is an excellent example of Kerala-style architecture mixed with colonial influences, and was gifted to King Veera Kerala Verma by the Portuguese. After undergoing major repairs at the hands of the Dutch, it came to be known as the Dutch Palace.
The last stop is the Jewish Synagogue, situated at one end of Jew Street in the Jew Town enclave of Mattancherry in Fort Kochi. The synagogue was built by the Cochin Jewish community in 1568, close to the Mattancherry Palace Temple on the land gifted by King Rama Varma. In the late afternoon, enjoy the Kathakali dance show, a traditional Indian classical dance-drama form that originated in the state of Kerala. It involves storytelling through impressive footwork, facial and hand gestures, music, and vocal performances. In the late afternoon, enjoy the Kathakali dance show, a traditional Indian classical dance-drama form that originated in the state of Kerala. It involves storytelling through impressive footwork, facial and hand gestures, music, and vocal performances.
After breakfast, you will drive to Munnar. Munnar is located at the confluence of three mountain streams, namely Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala. Rising 1,600 meters above sea level, it was once the summer resort of the British Government in South India. With its sprawling tea plantations, picturesque towns, winding lanes, and holiday facilities, Munnar has become a popular resort town. The region is home to exotic flora, including the Neelakurinji.
Upon arrival, you will check-in at your hotel and then visit the Tea Museum (closed on Mondays). The origins and evolution of tea plantations have a unique legacy in Munnar. To preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects of this legacy, Tata Tea opened a museum exclusively for tea in Munnar. The Tea Museum houses artifacts, photographs, and machinery that tell the story of the origins and growth of tea plantations in Munnar.
Start your day with breakfast and embark on a scenic drive to Periyar, passing through picturesque tea plantations.
As you approach Thekkady, the very name conjures up images of unending chains of hills, spice-scented plantations, and majestic elephants. The Periyar forests are one of the finest wildlife reserves in India, and the entire district is home to picturesque plantations and hill towns that offer beautiful trails for treks and mountain walks. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel, and later visit a Spice Plantation.
This visit offers you a chance to explore some of the finest spice plantations in the country. Kerala's equable climate and unique geographical position have helped it become the de facto exporter of spices in India. The spices grown here are used by
millions to add flavor to their food and also have medicinal and religious significance, like turmeric and ginger.
Early morning, proceed for a boat ride in the Periyar Lake. During this boat ride one can see herds of elephants grazing near the edges of the shoreline. Deer, sambar, gaur and wild boars can be seen flocking around the place at regular intervals.
A majority of the wildlife activity in the area can be viewed during the summer months of March and April. Darters, egrets and kingfishers can be seen flocking around the withered trees that rise out of the lake. It is a surreal experience that is highly recommended if you are in the area. Back to the hotel for breakfast. Whole day is free at leisure.
In the later afternoon proceed for a nature walk with an experience guide through different nature trails in this programme. The trekking through diverse terrain gives visitors a ringside view of the forest. Though it is difficult to spot many wild animals, trekkers will definitely get to see varieties of birds and butterflies and some animals. The trail passes through evergreen forests and moist, deciduous forests, interspersed with marshy grasslands.
After breakfast, drive to Alleppey. Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, was built in the 9th century AD and is situated on the edge of the great Ashtamudi Lake. With the Arabian Sea to the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons, and freshwater rivers crisscrossing the district, it is a place of immense natural beauty.
It is often referred to as the Venice of the East and is home to a diverse range of animals and birds. Due to its proximity to the sea, Alappuzha has always held a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala. The district is renowned for being the world's premier supplier of coir.
Upon arrival, check in to the houseboat and start sailing through the narrow canals of the backwaters. Lunch will be served on the houseboat. Later in the evening, around 5:00 pm, the houseboat will be docked, and you can take a walk through the villages. Return to the houseboat for dinner and overnight stay.
After breakfast, we will disembark from the houseboat and proceed to Kovalam. Located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, Kovalam is a world-renowned beach destination with three adjacent crescent beaches. Tourists have been drawn to this spot since the 1930s. The calm waters of the bay, created by a massive rocky promontory on the beach, are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also indulge in herbal body toning massages, special cultural programs, and catamaran cruising.
The tropical sun is so potent here that one can see a faint blush of coppery tan on the skin within minutes. Life on the beach doesn't begin until late in the day and continues well into the night. Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel and have the rest of the day at leisure.
Today, you will have the entire day at leisure. There are plenty of wellness retreats to indulge in, ensuring a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Enjoy two full days at leisure to relax and unwind in this tropical paradise.
As your journey comes to an end, take one last look at the breathtaking scenery of Kerala before departing for your onward journey. We'll transfer you to the airport, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey home.