India is more than a country – it’s a multicultural subcontinent with dozens of languages and religions, and nowhere is this diversity more evident than in the exotic south. The aroma of the tea plantations, the fragrance of the spice gardens, the enchanting mantras and music in the Hindu temples, and the lush green of nature. Discover the mysteries of South India on a journey that invites you to enjoy the richness of Dravidian culture, the colourful gopuram of Hindu temples, houseboats, and much more!
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Kochi: Kochi is a vibrant city situated on the south-western coast of the Indian peninsula in the breath-takingly scenic and prosperous state of Kerala, hailed as 'God's Own Country.'
Periyar: Periyar is famous for its nature reserve with the lake. The city is also known for its spice plantations and is a very important tourist destination in Kerala..
Kumarakom: Experience being on a houseboat amongst the lush green rice fields, waterways and canals.
Kovalam: Kovalam is a beach destination by the Arabian Sea in the town of Thiruvananthapuram, about 16 km from the city centre.
Day 1: ARRIVAL KOCHI
Meet your tour representatives upon arrival at Kochi International Airport, from where you’ll be transferred to the hotel. Kochi, which was formerly known as Cochin, is one of the most culturally diverse cities in India, with ancient Christian and Jewish communities as well as more traditional Hindu, Muslim and Buddhist ones. Its colonial past has also bequeathed a heritage that features Portuguese, Dutch and British culture and architecture. In the afternoon, explore the town’s historical districts. Our walking tour will take us to Jew Town, where we can see the Pardesi Synagogue (Closed on Fridays & Saturdays); the Mattancherry Palace, known locally as the Dutch Palace (Closed on Fridays); Fort Kochi, reminiscent of European streets and houses; the Chinese Fishing Nets on the northern shore of Fort Kochi; and St Francis Church, near a typical English village green. Enjoy some time observing the fishermen working the nets as the sun sets before returning to the hotel.
Overnight in Kochi
Day 2: KOCHI – PERIYAR (105 kms – 4 hrs)
After breakfast, depart to Periyar, where you’ll check-in at around noon. Prepare to discover this land of elephants, unending hills and spice-scented plantations. The flora and fauna of Periyar’s wildlife sanctuary are absolutely thrilling, and the Periyar Lake is a paradise for nature lovers, the greatest delight it offers being the herds of elephants that come down to play in its waters. Enjoy an afternoon boat ride on Periyar Lake and contemplate the wildlife (subject to water level). Keep an eye out for sambhar, bison, spotted deer, tigers, leopards, Malabar flying squirrels, stripe-necked mongooses and more. Then return to the hotel.
Overnight in Periyar.
Day 3: PERIYAR – KUMARAKOM (120 kms – 3.5 hrs)
After breakfast, your journey to Kumarakom begins, a quaint little place on the backwaters of Kerala. It lies on the eastern shore of the Vembanad Lake, which is a gorgeous bird sanctuary. Waterfowl, cuckoo and wild duck can be seen in abundance here. In winter, large flocks of migratory wild duck from Siberia come in spectacular formation to roost. Kumarakom lies in a timeless world of gentle, unhurried activity. Around lunch-time, check-in at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day exploring this wonderful location at leisure. at leisure
Overnight in Kumarakom.
Day 4: KUMARAKOM – ALLEPPEY HOUSEBOAT (35 kms – 1 hr)
After breakfast and a 30-minute drive to Kumarakom’s boat jetty, you get to board a houseboat (Kettuvallom). Kettuvallams are huge, tapering barges traditionally used to get rice and other goods across Kerala. They have a portion covered with bamboo and coir serving as a kitchen and restrooms for the crew. These boats are entirely built without the use of nails. Planks of jack wood are woven together with coir ropes and coated with a black resin made from boiled cashew kernels. Modern-day Kettuvallams carry finished bedrooms, modern toilets, cozy living rooms, kitchens and even balconies where tourists can laze on cushions. Most of the boats are poled by local oarsmen, while some are powered by engines. Gliding on the serene backwaters, visitors can witness a side of Kerala unspoiled by time. Enjoy your day at leisure to better discover the activities of the locals and then spend the night aboard the houseboat.
Overnight on the houseboat. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 5: ALLEPPEY HOUSEBOAT – KOVALAM (250 kms – 5 hrs)
After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and transfer to Kovalam. This calm seaside resort by the Arabian Sea has located about 16 km from the center of Thiruvananthapuram. In Malayalam, the regional language, Kovalam means 'Coconut Tree Grove', as it is enclosed between spectacular beaches and fertile coconut palms. After checking in at the hotel, the remainder of the day is left at leisure for you to explore the internationally renowned beaches, namely Eve's Beach and Lighthouse Beach. The calm waters are ideal for a swim, and the best facilities are available for beach lovers, from sunbathing on the pristine beaches to Ayurvedic massages.
Overnight at Kovalam.
Day 6: KOVALAM
After a leisurely breakfast, the entirety of the day is free for you to explore Kovalam at your leisure. Why not relax on the beach with a good book while you enjoy the tranquillity and the sound of the crystal-clear sea. Or even lose yourself wandering through the streets of the village, trying local food and shopping in local stores. You can also visit the famous Karamana River, or, if you're feeling lazy, relax and enjoy the services available at the hotel. Today, you set the pace.
Overnight in Kovalam.
Day 7: DEPART KOVALAM
After one last breakfast at the hotel, bid farewell to Kovalam as a transfer takes you to Trivandrum Airport, where you will arrive in time to board your flight to your following destination.
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in India. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
