
Kerala is where the country traverses to glide under a forest glade so serene and tranquilizing and to bathe in the surreal beauty of backwaters. Stretched between Arabian Sea and Western Ghats, the gorgeous land of Kerala is very fertile soil and is also rich with cultural and historic heritage. The emerald jewels of the region crowning the state are its seemingly infinite number of rice paddies, traditional houseboats, coconut palm groves shading its seashores, tranquilizing backwaters, sandy beaches and sun-worshipping crowds. Its tea and spice plantations further makes the verdant hills aromatic and the meandering water-bodies adds cooling effect to the tropical beauty of Kerala. Escape to Kerala assembles all these highlights of Kerala travel into one week’s tour itinerary to create a fascinating rendezvous with Mother Nature.
Cochin | Munnar | Thekkady | Alleppey | Kovalam
Day 1: Arrive Trivandrum – Kovalam Welcome to God’s Own Country, upon arrival at airport in Trivandrum our ever smiling representative will greet you there at the airport lounge, later proceed towards your hotel in Kovalam. This internationally renowned beach town is a favourite haunt of tourists looking to spend laid-back vacations amidst beauteous environs. A former favourite jaunt of hippies, this tropical beach town is known for its picture perfect looks, traditional fishing villages providing a refreshing India tour experience. Day at Kovalam will be free for trying some recreational activities on the beach or at the hotel.
Day 2: Kovalam – Kumarakom On this day you will proceed to Kumarakom, the charming emerald peninsula sticking out into the ever-sparkling Vembanad Lake which will take you into the heart of the scenic land where you'll come across plenty of traditional country crafts, boats and canoes. Morning drive down through tea and rubber plantations to reach tranquil Kumarakom. Afternoon at Kumarakom will be free to enjoy the facilities at the hotel. You can enjoy swimming, fising, go boating or opt for a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage (at an extra cost) here.
Day 3: Kumarakom On this day you will proceed to the charming emerald peninsula sticking out into the ever-sparkling Vembanad Lake which will take you into the heart of the scenic land where you'll come across plenty of traditional country crafts, boats and canoes. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is an ornithologist's paradise for it is a favourite haunt of beauteous migratory birds such as Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. Avid bird watchers should make plans for a visit to the park early in the morning for that is the time birds leave their nests and fly over the lake in groups creating beauteous patterns in the sky. Return to the hotel for lunch thereafter and enjoy rest of the afternoon at leisure. In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise.
Day 4: Kumarakom – Thekkady Post breakfast check out and drive to Thekkady. Set on a jeep safari inside Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary situated on the banks of the Periyar Lake. The sanctuary is one of the biggest natural reserves in India which covers about 777 km squares. Home to myriad wild creatures this protected area lies in the middle of mountainous region of Cardamom Hills and is cradled with picturesque Periyar Lake. Animals such as elephant, sambar, gaur and wild boars and beauteous bird populations such as darters, cormorants, kingfishers and racket tailed Drongos have made the park their home. Spot these animals coming to the banks of Periyar Lake to quench their thirst while you sail on a boat in the pristine lake. Also, visit a spice plantation in the vicinity later and return to the hotel for night stay.
Day 5: Thekkady – Cochin Proceed to Cochin. Full day sightseeing tour of Cochin will commence today post lunch. On today's sightseeing you explore St. Francis Church, Jewish Synagogue and more. Believed to be the oldest church in India, it was built in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan monks. Jewish Synagogue houses The Great Scrolls of Old Testament. The Mattancherry Palace features Kerala murals displaying Hindu temple art, portraits of former Kings of Kochi. Also watch the Chinese fishing nets in action along the sea front. Evening will come to end with an option of watching a Kathakali dance performance which is the precursor of major classical forms of dances of South India.
Day 6: Cochin-Departure Morning after breakfast our representative will escort you to Cochin Airport/Railway station for onward journey biding goodbye to the stunning land of Kerala.