Kerala God's Own Country - Culture & Beaches
12 Nights & 13 Days
KOCHI | MUNNAR | PERIYAR | KUMARAKOM | MARARI | KOVALAM
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kochi (By International Flight)
Upon arrival in Cochin you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Check in at the hotel.
Upon arrival room will be available on immediate occupancy. After check-in proceed for a sightseeing tour of Cochin, which is the financial capital and the most cosmopolitan city of Kerala.
Afternoon visit The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry (Closed on Fridays and National Holidays), renowned for its wall murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana. The Jewish Synagogue (Closed on Fridays and Saturdays as well on Jewish Holidays) at the heart of what is locally called the Jew Town. The St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. The Santa Cruz Basilica originally built in 1557 by the Portuguese. The Chinese fishing nets are huge cantilevered fishing nets believed to have brought to Kochi by Chinese trade.
In the evening witness the world famous Kathakali dance at a local theatre, a traditional art form of Kerala and one among the national dances of India.
(Timings: Kathakali make-up starts at 5.30 PM & the performs starts from 6.30 PM till 7.30 PM)
Hotel: Fragrant Nature
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.fragrantnature.com
Day 02: Kochi - Kumbalangi - Kochi (25 Kms one way)
After breakfast, proceed for Kumbalangi village. Kumbalangi is a picturesque little village in central Kerala close to the suburbs of the portown of Kochi. It has a vast stretch of backwaters connected by interlocking waterways to the whole of Kerala. It is an ideal getaway location for tourists from all over the world. What makes it more interesting to visit Kumbalangi is that, it is a virgin landscape unspoiled by the excessive presence of tourists. Kumbalanghi is declared as the first model fisheries and tourism village of India which has its own tradition and culture. Our village visit package makes your soul transpire through your gleaming eyes and tour the country and bring the wealth of tranquility in to your mind. At the end you will know that the nature cares for you.
The program begins with serving of tender coconut on arrival, followed by a country board ride. Also visit Crab farm, agricultural farm, coin-yarning unit, coconut leave weaving, Chinese fishing net etc. Lunch will be served at the backwater front hall. Return to hotel & afternoon is free for independent activities.
Evening cooking demo class with local family at Cochin.
Though Kerala food is traditionally vegetarian, because of the interaction with different settlers and their cuisines became a part of Kerala. The cuisine of the Portuguese like Vindaloo, Grilled Sardines, Kerala fish curry, Crumb Chops, Ball Curry, Coconut Rice etc all have the origin to the Portuguese. These ship farers from the distant lands also brought with them vegetables, fruits and cash crops, which became an integral part of Kerala cuisine, as it is the case of Tapioca (cassava), where there are umpteen preparations with this tuber. Kerala which is known as the Land of spices and Cochin as it is called “Queen of the Arabian sea” is where the spice and the seafood meet, where seafood is the main diet here, and coconut a main ingredient, though traditionally the staple diet for lunch and dinner is boiled rice.
Hotel: Fragrant Nature
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Website: www.fragrantnature.com
Day 03: Kochi - Munnar (Drive 140 Kms / 4 Hours)
After breakfast, drive to Munnar. Munnar surrounded by lush green-carpeted tea and coffee plantations, Munnar is a picturesque hill station situated in the eastern part of Kerala. The town is located at the confluence of three mountain streams — Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kudala—and is known for its clean, neat, and brightly painted ambience. The beautiful landscapes, cozy weather, and the smell of tealeaves make Munnar one of the most sought-after destinations in South India. Precisely these were the reason why the British always retreated to Munnar when the heat and humidity was on its peak in other parts of Kerala. Munnar is situated near the Anaimudi Peak, the highest peak in the Western Ghats. The hills here are covered with a carpet of flowers in bloom. Also found here is an exotic plant called Neelakurunji that flowers just once in a 12-year period. The last time it bloomed was in 2006. Upon arrival at Munnar, Check in at hotel.
Hotel: Fragrant Nature
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.fragrantnature.com
Day 04: Explore Munnar, Tea Gardens & Tea Museum
After breakfast, proceed for Munnar sightseeing tour and visit Tea Museum (Closed on Mondays).
Munnar has a legacy of its own when it comes to the origins and evolution of tea plantations. Taking account of this legacy and to preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala's high ranges, a museum exclusively for tea was opened some years ago by Tata Tea in Munnar. This Tea Museum houses curios, photographs and machineries; all of which have a story to tell on the origins and growth of tea plantations in Munnar. The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar and is worth a visit.
Hotel: Fragrant Nature
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.fragrantnature.com
Day 05: Munnar - Periyar (Drive 110 Kms / 3 Hrs)
After breakfast depart for Periyar (Thekkady). Morning drive through the Western Ghats to Thekkady, a beautiful area of tea gardens, rubber estates and coffee and pepper plantations, located high in the Cardamom Hills. This wildlife sanctuary is an established tourist spot and home to elephants, tiger, bison, sambar, wild boar, langur etc. The artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar dam across the Periyar Lake adds to the charm of the park. Spread across 777 sq. km, of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a declared Tiger Reserve.
Later in the afternoon explore the town along with your guide.
Evening go for a spice plantation visit. A walk through the plantation opens up a vista of pristine greenery shrouded by low hanging clouds, gurgling brooks and a pale shadow of the Western Ghats in the backdrop. Enjoy the plantation of cardamom, pepper, rubber, vanilla, coffee and tea. The most abundantly found spice in Thekkady is pepper, but you will also see a variety of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, ginger, turmeric and curry leaves on the slanting slopes of the spice plantation.
Hotel: Green Woods Resort
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www. greenwoods.in
Day 06: Periyar - Kumarakom (Drive 145 Kms / 4 Hours)
After breakfast, proceed for Kumarakom, which is a peaceful retreat, which takes you to the world of tranquility. Sprawled across a vast landscaped leisure land with many water bodies, it offers you umpteen reasons to soak in the myriad hues of nature.
Kumarakom is a charming emerald peninsula jutting into the ever-effervescent Vembanad Lake. It will take you into the heart of the scenic lake where you will come across plenty of traditional country barges, boats, and canoes. The fresh water of the lake runs into the mainland making a labyrinth of lagoons, brooks, canals, and waterways. This backwater is a haven for countless varieties of species of both fauna and flora. When you need to find a solace from the monotonous daily routine then Kumarakom is undoubtedly the best choice in the fascinating paradise on Kerala. The splendor coconut palms swaying to the cool winds here, there and everywhere, the never-ending paddy fields, meandering lagoons and backwaters, mangroves nesting birds of a thousand varieties, can calm and energize your soul and body.
Upon arrival check-in at your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Optional:
Hotel: Zuri Resort
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.thezurihotels.com
Day 07: Kumarakom - Day Cruise - Kumarakom
Breakfast at the hotel. At 12.30 PM, board a Kettuvallam (houseboat) and proceed for an unforgettable day cruise, through the mesmerizing unique backwaters of Kerala. You will have an exclusive houseboat which cruises till 16:30 PM, The boat has a fully equipped kitchen and an experienced cook to prepare authentic Kerala cuisine with seafood specialties and fresh vegetables. This is your chance to pick up some fabulous cooking tips!
The waterways of Kerala play a major role in the economy of the state as they link remote villages and islands with the mainland. It is an incredibly different experience to cruise in the backwaters in country boats, absorbing the beauty of Kerala's villages. Houseboats, also known as kettuvallam or rice boats, are today one of the major tourist attractions in Kerala, but these boats were used to carry rice bags in their earlier days. These houseboats are uniquely designed using local materials like bamboo poles, coconut fiber ropes, bamboo mats, carpets etc. and are a fabulous way to enjoy exploring the fascinating beauties of backwaters. With their languid grace and quaint design adding another dimension to your cruise in the shimmering blue waters.
Lunch & evening tea with snacks on board.
Disembark from Houseboat & Overnight at Resort.
Hotel: Zuri Resort
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.thezurihotels.com
Day 08: Kumarakom - Marari Beach (Drive 30 minutes)
Upon arrival check-in at your Resort
The Marari beach is nestled in the Alappuzha district and is a perfect holiday location. This beach is blessed with beautiful coconut palm trees and golden sands. The name of the beach comes from Mararikulam which is a local fishing village on the Arabian Sea coast. The slow pace of life in the beach is a reviving experience. One can soak up the serenity on the sandy beach. There are a lot of sightseeing points around the beach.
Rest of the day is free for independent activities.
Hotel: Marari Beach Resort
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.cghearth.com/marari-beach
Day 09: Explore beach side in Marari
Please carry good books of your interest to read by the poolside in a beautiful Resort
Rest of the day is free for independent activities.
Hotel: Marari Beach Resort
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.cghearth.com/marari-beach
Day 10: Marari | Kovalam Trivandrum (Drive 4 hrs)
Upon arrival check-in at your Hotel
Kovalam - Breathtakingly beautiful - a haven of peace and tranquility - the idyllic tourist destination in God's own country. Kovalam offers an excellent diversity with Kovalam beach to suit all desires and occasions. Three curve shaped beaches, alienated by stony outcroppings, from the major attraction of this coastal resort. Backed by precipitously mounting headlands and covered by fertile coconut palms, the beaches, especially the southern part of lighthouse beach. It is also lined with a host of shops and shacks offering all kinds of services; creating an unmistakable resort atmosphere.
Rest of the day is free for independent activities
Hotel: The Leela
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.theleela.com
Day 11 & Day 12: Explore Kovalam Beach with your Friends
Get appointment from Spa center, They have many good treatment for Body rejuvenation.
Rest of the day is free for independent activities and enjoy hotel facilities.
Hotel: The Leela
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.theleela.com
Day 13: Trivandram | Onward Journey
Optional Sri Lanka Tour - 05 Nights & 06 Days
Upon arrival in Cochin you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Check in at the hotel.
Upon arrival room will be available on immediate occupancy. After check-in proceed for a sightseeing tour of Cochin, which is the financial capital and the most cosmopolitan city of Kerala.
Afternoon visit The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry (Closed on Fridays and National Holidays), renowned for its wall murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana. The Jewish Synagogue (Closed on Fridays and Saturdays as well on Jewish Holidays) at the heart of what is locally called the Jew Town. The St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. The Santa Cruz Basilica originally built in 1557 by the Portuguese. The Chinese fishing nets are huge cantilevered fishing nets believed to have brought to Kochi by Chinese trade.
In the evening witness the world famous Kathakali dance at a local theatre, a traditional art form of Kerala and one among the national dances of India.
(Timings: Kathakali make-up starts at 5.30 PM & the performs starts from 6.30 PM till 7.30 PM)
Hotel: Fragrant Nature
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.fragrantnature.com
Day 02: Kochi - Kumbalangi - Kochi (25 Kms one way)
After breakfast, proceed for Kumbalangi village. Kumbalangi is a picturesque little village in central Kerala close to the suburbs of the portown of Kochi. It has a vast stretch of backwaters connected by interlocking waterways to the whole of Kerala. It is an ideal getaway location for tourists from all over the world. What makes it more interesting to visit Kumbalangi is that, it is a virgin landscape unspoiled by the excessive presence of tourists. Kumbalanghi is declared as the first model fisheries and tourism village of India which has its own tradition and culture. Our village visit package makes your soul transpire through your gleaming eyes and tour the country and bring the wealth of tranquility in to your mind. At the end you will know that the nature cares for you.
The program begins with serving of tender coconut on arrival, followed by a country board ride. Also visit Crab farm, agricultural farm, coin-yarning unit, coconut leave weaving, Chinese fishing net etc. Lunch will be served at the backwater front hall. Return to hotel & afternoon is free for independent activities.
Evening cooking demo class with local family at Cochin.
Though Kerala food is traditionally vegetarian, because of the interaction with different settlers and their cuisines became a part of Kerala. The cuisine of the Portuguese like Vindaloo, Grilled Sardines, Kerala fish curry, Crumb Chops, Ball Curry, Coconut Rice etc all have the origin to the Portuguese. These ship farers from the distant lands also brought with them vegetables, fruits and cash crops, which became an integral part of Kerala cuisine, as it is the case of Tapioca (cassava), where there are umpteen preparations with this tuber. Kerala which is known as the Land of spices and Cochin as it is called “Queen of the Arabian sea” is where the spice and the seafood meet, where seafood is the main diet here, and coconut a main ingredient, though traditionally the staple diet for lunch and dinner is boiled rice.
Hotel: Fragrant Nature
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Website: www.fragrantnature.com
Day 03: Kochi - Munnar (Drive 140 Kms / 4 Hours)
After breakfast, drive to Munnar. Munnar surrounded by lush green-carpeted tea and coffee plantations, Munnar is a picturesque hill station situated in the eastern part of Kerala. The town is located at the confluence of three mountain streams — Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kudala—and is known for its clean, neat, and brightly painted ambience. The beautiful landscapes, cozy weather, and the smell of tealeaves make Munnar one of the most sought-after destinations in South India. Precisely these were the reason why the British always retreated to Munnar when the heat and humidity was on its peak in other parts of Kerala. Munnar is situated near the Anaimudi Peak, the highest peak in the Western Ghats. The hills here are covered with a carpet of flowers in bloom. Also found here is an exotic plant called Neelakurunji that flowers just once in a 12-year period. The last time it bloomed was in 2006. Upon arrival at Munnar, Check in at hotel.
Hotel: Fragrant Nature
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.fragrantnature.com
Day 04: Explore Munnar, Tea Gardens & Tea Museum
After breakfast, proceed for Munnar sightseeing tour and visit Tea Museum (Closed on Mondays).
Munnar has a legacy of its own when it comes to the origins and evolution of tea plantations. Taking account of this legacy and to preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala's high ranges, a museum exclusively for tea was opened some years ago by Tata Tea in Munnar. This Tea Museum houses curios, photographs and machineries; all of which have a story to tell on the origins and growth of tea plantations in Munnar. The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar and is worth a visit.
Hotel: Fragrant Nature
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.fragrantnature.com
Day 05: Munnar - Periyar (Drive 110 Kms / 3 Hrs)
After breakfast depart for Periyar (Thekkady). Morning drive through the Western Ghats to Thekkady, a beautiful area of tea gardens, rubber estates and coffee and pepper plantations, located high in the Cardamom Hills. This wildlife sanctuary is an established tourist spot and home to elephants, tiger, bison, sambar, wild boar, langur etc. The artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar dam across the Periyar Lake adds to the charm of the park. Spread across 777 sq. km, of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a declared Tiger Reserve.
Later in the afternoon explore the town along with your guide.
Evening go for a spice plantation visit. A walk through the plantation opens up a vista of pristine greenery shrouded by low hanging clouds, gurgling brooks and a pale shadow of the Western Ghats in the backdrop. Enjoy the plantation of cardamom, pepper, rubber, vanilla, coffee and tea. The most abundantly found spice in Thekkady is pepper, but you will also see a variety of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, ginger, turmeric and curry leaves on the slanting slopes of the spice plantation.
Hotel: Green Woods Resort
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www. greenwoods.in
Day 06: Periyar - Kumarakom (Drive 145 Kms / 4 Hours)
After breakfast, proceed for Kumarakom, which is a peaceful retreat, which takes you to the world of tranquility. Sprawled across a vast landscaped leisure land with many water bodies, it offers you umpteen reasons to soak in the myriad hues of nature.
Kumarakom is a charming emerald peninsula jutting into the ever-effervescent Vembanad Lake. It will take you into the heart of the scenic lake where you will come across plenty of traditional country barges, boats, and canoes. The fresh water of the lake runs into the mainland making a labyrinth of lagoons, brooks, canals, and waterways. This backwater is a haven for countless varieties of species of both fauna and flora. When you need to find a solace from the monotonous daily routine then Kumarakom is undoubtedly the best choice in the fascinating paradise on Kerala. The splendor coconut palms swaying to the cool winds here, there and everywhere, the never-ending paddy fields, meandering lagoons and backwaters, mangroves nesting birds of a thousand varieties, can calm and energize your soul and body.
Upon arrival check-in at your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Optional:
- Go for an Ayurvedic (Ancient Indian Medical Science) message. All resorts in Kumarakom, have authentic certified Ayurvedic centers, which are managed by a well qualified and highly experienced doctors, assisted by a team of skilled therapists. And they offers several result-oriented therapies designed to unwind, tone up and rejuvenate within a realistic timeframe.
Hotel: Zuri Resort
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.thezurihotels.com
Day 07: Kumarakom - Day Cruise - Kumarakom
Breakfast at the hotel. At 12.30 PM, board a Kettuvallam (houseboat) and proceed for an unforgettable day cruise, through the mesmerizing unique backwaters of Kerala. You will have an exclusive houseboat which cruises till 16:30 PM, The boat has a fully equipped kitchen and an experienced cook to prepare authentic Kerala cuisine with seafood specialties and fresh vegetables. This is your chance to pick up some fabulous cooking tips!
The waterways of Kerala play a major role in the economy of the state as they link remote villages and islands with the mainland. It is an incredibly different experience to cruise in the backwaters in country boats, absorbing the beauty of Kerala's villages. Houseboats, also known as kettuvallam or rice boats, are today one of the major tourist attractions in Kerala, but these boats were used to carry rice bags in their earlier days. These houseboats are uniquely designed using local materials like bamboo poles, coconut fiber ropes, bamboo mats, carpets etc. and are a fabulous way to enjoy exploring the fascinating beauties of backwaters. With their languid grace and quaint design adding another dimension to your cruise in the shimmering blue waters.
Lunch & evening tea with snacks on board.
Disembark from Houseboat & Overnight at Resort.
Hotel: Zuri Resort
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.thezurihotels.com
Day 08: Kumarakom - Marari Beach (Drive 30 minutes)
Upon arrival check-in at your Resort
The Marari beach is nestled in the Alappuzha district and is a perfect holiday location. This beach is blessed with beautiful coconut palm trees and golden sands. The name of the beach comes from Mararikulam which is a local fishing village on the Arabian Sea coast. The slow pace of life in the beach is a reviving experience. One can soak up the serenity on the sandy beach. There are a lot of sightseeing points around the beach.
Rest of the day is free for independent activities.
Hotel: Marari Beach Resort
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.cghearth.com/marari-beach
Day 09: Explore beach side in Marari
Please carry good books of your interest to read by the poolside in a beautiful Resort
Rest of the day is free for independent activities.
Hotel: Marari Beach Resort
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.cghearth.com/marari-beach
Day 10: Marari | Kovalam Trivandrum (Drive 4 hrs)
Upon arrival check-in at your Hotel
Kovalam - Breathtakingly beautiful - a haven of peace and tranquility - the idyllic tourist destination in God's own country. Kovalam offers an excellent diversity with Kovalam beach to suit all desires and occasions. Three curve shaped beaches, alienated by stony outcroppings, from the major attraction of this coastal resort. Backed by precipitously mounting headlands and covered by fertile coconut palms, the beaches, especially the southern part of lighthouse beach. It is also lined with a host of shops and shacks offering all kinds of services; creating an unmistakable resort atmosphere.
Rest of the day is free for independent activities
Hotel: The Leela
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.theleela.com
Day 11 & Day 12: Explore Kovalam Beach with your Friends
Get appointment from Spa center, They have many good treatment for Body rejuvenation.
Rest of the day is free for independent activities and enjoy hotel facilities.
Hotel: The Leela
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Website: www.theleela.com
Day 13: Trivandram | Onward Journey
Optional Sri Lanka Tour - 05 Nights & 06 Days
Price & Inclusions
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Prices
-
Inclusions
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Exclusions
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Cost is valid for the period October 2018 till March 2019.
Except the period from December 20, 2018 till January 10, 2019
Cost in Canadian Dollars
For 2 Persons: CAD$ 3760 Per Person Sharing Double room
For 4 to 8 Persons: CAD$ 3413 Per Person Sharing Double room
Single Room Supplement: CAD$ 2459 using single room
Cost in American Dollars
For 2 Persons: US$ 2850 Per Person Sharing Double room
For 4 to 8 Persons: US$ 2587 Per Person Sharing Double room
Single Room Supplement: US$1864 Per Person
Except the period from December 20, 2018 till January 10, 2019
Cost in Canadian Dollars
For 2 Persons: CAD$ 3760 Per Person Sharing Double room
For 4 to 8 Persons: CAD$ 3413 Per Person Sharing Double room
Single Room Supplement: CAD$ 2459 using single room
Cost in American Dollars
For 2 Persons: US$ 2850 Per Person Sharing Double room
For 4 to 8 Persons: US$ 2587 Per Person Sharing Double room
Single Room Supplement: US$1864 Per Person
- Meeting and assistance upon arrival and departure at all destinations
- Accommodation for 12 Nights & 13 Days as per the program at Five Star Hotels
- Meals are included as mentioned in the program
- Day Cruise by Houseboat with Lunch, Tea & Snacks (Duration 04 Hrs)
- Air conditioned Large car for 2 guests
- Air conditioned Vehicle (9 Seater) above 3 guests
- Local English speaking guide at Kochi & Munnar from 01 to 04 guests
- Above 4 guests, we provide accompanying English speaking guide for the entire trip
- All monuments Fee as per program
- Kumbalangi village visit with lunch & tuk-tuk ride
- Kathakali dance performance at local theatre in Kochi
- Cooking demo class with local family in Kochi
- Periyar boat ride & spice plantation visit at Thekkady
- No Guide service in Marari & Kovalam
- All applicable taxes
- GST
- International Airfare
- Visa charges
- Tips to driver, assistant driver, Guides, laundry, table drinks, telephone calls etc
- Any meal not specified
- Any item not specified in inclusions column
