Essence of Kerala Tour
Essence of Kerala Tour
Duration: 10 Nights / 11 Days
Destinations Covered:
Cochin – Munnar – Periyar – Kumarakom – Backwaters – Kovalam
Overview:
Essence of Kerala Tour is one of the finest Kerala tour package that covers best of the essential highlights and experiences of Kerala. This luxury tour of Kerala covers the historic port town of Cochin, the tea plantations of Munnar, the spice gardens and jungles along the river Periyar and palm-fringed Backwaters along with the the inviting Kovalam beach.
Highlights of the tour:
Day 01
Cochin
On arrival in Cochin, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Fort Cochin. Stay at Fragrant Nature Fort Cochin for 02 nights. In the evening enjoy a private sunset cruise along the harbour.
Day 02
Cochin
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Fort Cochin & Mattancherry in the morning. Visit the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St Francis Church, Spice Markets, Chinese Fishing Nets and the local fish market. In the evening witness Kathakali dance performance, the traditional dance drama of Kerala based on stories from Ramayana and Mahabharata. Accompanied by a gong, drums and cymbals, Kathakali performers combine dance and theatre in a ritualistic portrayal of gods and demons.
Day 03
Cochin - Munnar
After breakfast, we drive up the hills to the tea country of Munnar. Stay at Fragrant Nature Munnar for 02 nights. Take a visit to the nearby tea museum and tea factory in the evening.
Day 04
Munnar
Enjoy a short hike in Letchmi Hills through tea plantations, grasslands, mountain ridges and sholay forests which offers beautiful views of the stunning mountains and endless stretch of tea plantations.
Day 05
Munnar – Periyar
A 03 hrs drive through the winding ghat road will take you to Periyar wildlife Sanctuary, South India’s best-kept tiger reserve. Stay at Greenwoods Resort for 02 nights. Visit a spice plantation in the evening to learn more about the spices grown in this area.
Day 06
Periyar
Early morning, you’ll enjoy a nature trek with tribal trackers in Periyar Tiger Reserve. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Periyar to spot wild Elephants, Indian Bisons, Sambar Deers, Nilgiri Langurs and variety of species of birds.
Day 07
Periyar – Kumarakom
This morning, you’ll drive down the hills visiting the tea and rubber plantations enroute to Kumarakom, famous for its tranquil backwaters. On arrival, check-in to Coconut Lagoon, a heritage backwater resort overlooking the Vembanad Lake for the night. Remainder of the day at leisure to relax by the backwaters or to experience some authentic ayurvedic therapies at the Ayurveda spa.
Day 08
Backwaters
Morning at leisure. Afternoon, board your private houseboat (Kettuvallom) for an overnight cruise through the famous Vembanad Lake. Enjoy a relaxing cruise through the tranquil backwaters and narrow canals enjoying the village life. Your lunch, evening tea and dinner will be served on board the houseboat. Overnight on houseboat.
Day 09
Alleppey - Kovalam
After a leisurely breakfast, you disembark from the houseboat at Alleppey, where you’ll be met by the driver and transferred to the famous beach destination of Kovalam. Enjoy a relaxing stay at The Leela Kovalam Resort & Spa for 02 nights. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 10
Kovalam
Day at leisure to relax by the beach or to experience some authentic ayurvedic therapies at the Ayurveda Spa.
Day 11
Transfer to Trivandrum Airport
In good time, you will be transferred to Trivandrum International Airport to connect your flight home.