Explore the Kerala Backwaters
Summary
For those seeking a more laid back trip to India, a trip to the peaceful backwaters of Kerala is ideal. On this itinerary, you will have the chance to uncover all the wonders of this serene region as you journey through Cochin, Munnar, Periyar, Alleppey, Kumarakom, with two optional extensions that reveal even more delights visiting Mumbai or Kovalam. Along the way you will have the chance to enjoy sightseeing tours, nature walks and much more, even staying overnight on a houseboat for an authentic backwater experience. Fall in love with the peaceful way of life and stunning scenery here as you see how the locals live and have the chance to admire the wide variety of wildlife.
Duration |
11 Days
Price
From $2,601.00 per person based on 2 people sharing [Guide Price*]Best time to go
The best time to visit India is from October to March when the weather is at its best and most flowers are in full bloom
Day 1: UK Departure
Depart on an overnight flight to Cochin via Mumbai.
Day 2: Bruntons Boat Yard, Cochin (BB)
Arrive this afternoon in Cochin and be transferred to Bruntons Boat Yard where you will be staying for the next 3 nights. The rest of your day is to be spent at leisure to settle into the hotel and refresh ahead of a day of exploring tomorrow.
Day 3: Bruntons Boat Yard, Cochin (BB)
Today you will enjoy a day of sightseeing in Cochin, beginning in the morning with a visit to the Fort Cochin area, the Dutch Palace, Jewish synagogue and St. Francis and Mattancherry.
In the afternoon you will enjoy a visit to a Brahmin’s house where Ms Balamani will make a kolom in front of her house – a daily ritual which is considered to bring goodness into the house. Later pay a visit to the home of a Konkini family before having your evening at leisure to explore some more at your own will.
Day 4: Bruntons Boat Yard, Cochin (BB)
Arise early this morning to enjoy the village rumble experience – driving to the fishermen’s beach to watch the boatmen bringing in their fresh catches for auction. After this you will head to a beautiful local house set by the backwater to enjoy breakfast and interaction with the family that lives there. Following breakfast you will leave for the village area by tuk-tuk to visit a lively market. Head back to your hotel for an afternoon of relaxation before enjoying a Kathakali Dance performance in the evening.
Day 5: Winderemere Estate, Munnar (BB)
Today you will depart Cochin and head to Munnar, checking into the Windermere Estate upon arrival and spending the rest of your day at leisure. Alternatively, you can opt for a guided walk through the tea plantations, learning about the tea cultivation, planting, and picking methods.
Day 6: Spice Village, Periyar (BB)
After breakfast check out and drive to Munnar Town for a visit to the Tea Museum followed by vegetable and fruit markets in Munnar, after this sight-seeing continue to Periyar and check into the Spice Village where you will be staying for the next 2 nights. This evening you will have the chance to enjoy a Kalaripayattu performance, the oldest form of martial arts.
Day 7: Spica Village, Periyar (BB)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before proceeding for the ‘Periyar Bouquet Trail’ a short programme around Kumily that gives you a taste for village life, and exposes you to a variety of flowers, vegetables, and locally grown spices. After the walk return to your hotel for lunch before heading out again in the afternoon to indulge in the Green Walk, a trek offering excellent opportunities to watch birds, butterflies, and other wildlife in a range of habitats throughout the 3 hour walk.
Day 8: Spice Coast Cruise, Alleppey (FB)
After breakfast check out of the hotel and proceed to Alleppey where you will board a houseboat for an overnight stay, an essential to truly experience the backwaters. Spend your day cruising the canals with all meals served on board.
Day 9: Coconut Grove, Kumarakom (BB)
After breakfast on board the houseboat disembark for the drive to Kumarakom. Upon arrival check into the Coconut Grove before continuing to experience this backwater village in open country boats. Later enjoy a village walk which will offer the chance to experience daily life for the local people before enjoying a cultural performance at the hotel in the evening.
Day 10: Coconut Grove, Kumarakom (BB)
Today you will enjoy an early morning bird-watching tour with the rest of the day at your leisure to do as you please.
Day 11: Departure
Today transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Day 11: The Leela Kovalom, Kovalam (BB)
Today transfer from Kumarakom to Kovalam and check into the Leela Kovalam for a 3 night stay. The rest of your day is at leisure to relax and refresh.
Day 12-13: The Leela Kovalom, Kovalam (BB)
These days are at your leisure, perhaps spend some time relaxing on the beautiful beaches after all your previous exploring or even visit the resort’s spa for an Ayurveda treatment.
Day 14: Departure
Today transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Day 11: The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai (BB)
Today transfer from Kumarakom to Mumbai via Cochin. Upon arrival transfer to the Taj Mahal Palace & Tower where you will stay for the next 2 nights. The rest of the day is to be spent at leisure so relax and enjoy the hotel facilities ahead of a full day tomorrow.
Day 12: The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai (BB)
After breakfast this morning enjoy a visit to the Elephant Caves. The cave temples here were excavated between the 5th and 8th centuries AD and are famous for their sculpted panels.
Later in the day enjoy a half day city tour, with highlights including a visit to the Prince of Wales Museum, Jain temple, Mani Bhawan, and Dhobi Ghat. Throughout the tour you will also enjoy views of other popular sights as you drive, such as Marine Drive.
Day 13: Departure
Check out of the hotel after breakfast and head to the airport for your flight home.
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Inclusions
All flights, transfers, meals, accommodation and activities as specified, local English speaking guides throughout
Exclusions
Transfers, meals and activities not specified, visas, insurance, gratuities and items of a personal nature.
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These itineraries are just samples of what we have already done for our guests. Speak to one of our travel experts to create your perfect holiday based on your travel requirements.
* This is a guide price, based on travel in low season