The Exotic Kerala Tour is designed for those who want to experience and enjoy the beauty of nature in India. Kerala, also known as ‘God’s Own Country’, is where you can indulge yourself in picturesque swinging palm trees, spectacular beaches, exotic animals, sprawling tea plantations and serene backwaters. Kerala is also the land of vast cultural offerings such as the beautiful ancient dance forms of Bharatnatyam and Kathakali. So pack your bags and let us help you enjoy the beauty of exotic Kerala with Mahendra India Travel
Duration : 09 Days / 08 Nights
Destination : Cochin – Munnar – Thekkady – Kumarakom – Alleppey – Cochin
Day 1: Arrival Cochin
Your Exotic Kerala Tour starts with arrival in Cochin, the capital of Kerala. You will be welcomed by a team member of Mahendra India Travel and escorted to your car and an English-speaking driver who will be at your disposal during your entire tour. Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel and enjoy your stay with a spectacular view from your room. Evening is at your leisure and if you wish to dine outside the hotel, your car and driver are available for you.
After breakfast your day starts with a guided tour at the Mattancherry Palace, Jew Town and the Spice Market, where you will smell the many varieties of exotic Indian spices. Next is a visit to St. Francis Church, a historically important site reflecting the early Portuguese settlement in this area. A stop to observe the Chinese Fishing Nets in action and the fish sellers at the market on the waterfront completes your day. In the evening you can either relax at your hotel or take in the most popular classical dance show, Kathakali.
Day 3: Cochin To Munnar
Your journey continues on a picturesque, five hour drive up to the cooler ‘hill station’ of Munnar. Munnar is so beautiful! You will be surrounded by the endless and exciting views of the rolling green hills dotted with sprawling tea plantations and misty waterfalls. Upon arrival check-in to your hotel and relax for the day, perhaps have an Ayurvedic massage and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
After breakfast with a spectacular view from your hotel, enjoy a Tea Plantation Tour where you can learn about the harvesting and processing of tea. Later in the afternoon, if you wish, you can visit Erivakulum National Park, home to the rare Nilgiri Tahr mountain goats. In the evening you can visit scenic Echo Point and perhaps experience the phenomenon of your voice echoing off the nearby mountains! The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Day 5: Munnar To Thekkady/Periyar
Continue your beautiful journey through tea and spice plantations to the next destination, Thekkady, a four hour drive from Munnar. After checking into your hotel, enjoy a relaxing boat ride along Periyar Lake. In the evening we can offer you a visit to the local Tribal Villages where you can learn about their culture. Evening is at your leisure.
Today a four hour drive takes you to Kumarakom, which is known for its beautiful backwaters, houseboats and is also a haven for more than 180 species of birds. Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner and perhaps an Ayurvedic massage.
Day 8: Kumarakom To Alleppey
A one hour drive from Kumarakom to Alleppey brings you to a highlight of this tour, an overnight stay on a luxurious houseboat with delicious meals prepared for you onboard! Cruise leisurely through the backwaters canals, lakes and lagoons enjoying the traditional villages, birds and natural beauty.
Alleppey is also famous for the magnificent Snake Boat Race Festival, which is held every year between July to September depending on the phase of the moon.
The above Itinerary is merely a suggestion and can be customized to your interests and timings. For example, you can extend your stay with two more nights in another beautiful city of Kovalam, or spend more time in any of the cities mentioned above. At Mahendra India Travel all your travel plans can be customized per your request and choices to create the Incredible Custom Experience you are looking for!