DAY 1
Arrive, at Kochi airport.
Kochi- commercial capital of Kerala and the most cosmopolitan of the state’s cities, Cochin or Kochi have long been eulogized in tourist literature as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea.’ Strategically located on the east – west sea route, Cochin is Kerala’s major port, boasting of one of the finest natural harbors in the world. With its wealth of historical associations and its setting on a cluster of islands and narrow peninsula, the city of Kochi perfectly reflects the eclecticism of Kerala.
Meet & Assist: Our representative will be waiting at the airport to welcome the guest, holding a signage. As you exit the airport, you will be met & transferred to your hotel, where you stay for 2 nights.
Overnight: Hotel
DAY 2
Morning sightseeing tour of Kochi
Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest church constructed by the Europeans in India. Built by the Portuguese in 1510, it housed the remains of Vasco da Gama for 14 years before it was transferred to Lisbon. His tombstone can be seen inside the church.
Later visit the Chinese fishing nets. The cantilevered fishing nets line the entrance to the harbour mouth. The long rows of Chinese Nets silhouetted against the sunset present a spectacular sight of Cochins waterfront. These are large nets, which hang from bamboo or teak posts, still used by the local fishermen of Fort Cochin.
Back at hotel.
Evening visit Cochin Culture Centre to witness a Kathakali Dance Performance by local artists.
Kathakali represents a synthesis of all that is best in dance, drama and music and has been recognized by connoisseurs of art, the world over as a `total art form of immense sophistication and power’. It is the impression created by make-up and the costumes that make Kathakali a visual par excellence. You will witness the Kathakali artists readying themselves up with the make up for the final performance. Costume is elaborate with the face painted up. Great importance is laid on the Vesham or make-up, which are of five types – Pacha, Kathi, Thadi, Kari and Minukku. The pomp and magnificence of Kathakali is partly due to its decor part of which is the kireetam or huge headgear and the kanchukam the oversized jackets, and a long skirt worn over a thick padding of cushions. The identity of the actor is completely mutilated to create a super human being of larger-than-life proportion.
Overnight: Hotel
DAY 3
Breakfast at hotel.
Later drive to Munnar covering a distance of 140kms in 3½ hrs. approximately.
Munnar is a magnificent hill station in the Western Ghats at about 5000 feet above sea level and is the major center of Kerala’s tea industry. It is surrounded by about 30 tea estates, amongst the highest in the world and a forest that is still rich in wildlife that continues to survive the increasing commercial use of the hills. The luxuriant forest is hung with pepper vines. The hills around Munnar are covered with the rare Neelakurunji plant giving it a wonderful look, especially when the flowers bloom to cover the entire mountain range. It is said that this exotic plant flowers every 12 years.
Arrive at Munnar by this afternoon and check in to your hotel for 2 night.
Balance day at leisure to explore the town.
Overnight: Hotel
DAY 4
Full day explore the town with car at disposal.
Overnight: Hotel
DAY 5
This morning you will drive from Munnar to Periyar covering approx. 160kms in 4 hrs.
Periyar or Thekkady is located about 4 km from Kumili in Idukki district. The very sound of the name conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice scented plantations. Experience the crisp, cool air of the Western Ghats with an enchanting holiday. In the Periyar forests of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India, and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold great opportunities for treks and mountain walks.
Arrive in Periyar and check in at your hotel for an overnight.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, the pride of Kerala and a testimony to nature’s splendor and human innovation is situated on the banks of the Periyar Lake – an artificial lake. Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world’s most fascinating natural wildlife reserves spread across 777 sq. km, of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forests. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger reserve in 1978. Noted for its geomorphology, diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the reserve attracts visitors from all over the world.
The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar dam across the Periyar River adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar is the herds of wild elephants that come down to play in the lake.
Overnight: Hotel
DAY 6
Moring enjoy boat ride on Lake Periyar to view wildlife.
Afternoon at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel
DAY 7
This morning leave for Jetty to board the traditional Rice barge (boat) for an overnight cruising on the backwaters of Kerala.
The backwaters represent a unique geological formation and are the basis of a distinct lifestyle. Tranquil and alluring, they offer you the experience of a lifetime. Traveling through the backwaters of Kerala is a marvelous experience with the simple, unique pleasures it offers. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the beautiful backwaters of Kerala in a Kettuvalom’s (house boat). Kettuvalom’s of Kerala are giant country crafts that were used in the early days to transport goods from the isolated interior villages to the towns. Now converted to beautiful dwellings, they are accommodated with fully furnished bedrooms with attached bathrooms, sundeck, open lounge, kitchenette and a crew comprising of a chef, guide and oarsmen.
Enjoy traditional meals that will be served piping hot on board. Float through the placid waters passing palm fringed canals, lakes and villages and leisurely explore the Kerala backwaters from the comforts of your houseboat.
Overnight in Deluxe Houseboat
DAY 8
Post breakfast disembark from boat & drive to Kovalam.
14 kms south of Trivandrum is one of the finest beaches in India. Kovalam is endowed with unusual beauty. The sheltered beach is ideal for sea bathing and is safe even during the roughest weather. The scenery around is enchanting and the drive to the beach through palm groves, refreshing
Upon arrival check in at Hotel.
Balance day at leisure for independent activities.
Overnight: Hotel
DAY 9
Day free at leisure & enjoy activities at beach.
Overnight: Hotel
DAY 10
In time transfer to Trivandrum airport to connect flight for onward destination.
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