Himalayan Footsteps

Kerala And Kathakali

Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady, Madurai, Rameshwaram, Kovalam, Kumarakom, Alappuzha

Kerala is a perfect destination for Honeymoon, art, culture, tradition, health care, yoga, ayurveda and meditation. Join us here for a holiday between lush, green, rolling hills, the air smelling of exotic spices. Travel on a houseboat through the calm backwaters of Kerala, enjoying colourful sunsets. Relax at beautiful beaches and make your way through wild rainforests, this tour has got it all.

Itinerary

Day 01
Arrive Cochin
Arrive at Cochin and meet our representative in the arrival lounge. Transfer to the hotel and rest of the day free.


Day 02 – B
Cochin
Cochin is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula in the breathtakingly scenic and prosperous state of Kerala, hailed as ‘God’s Own Country’. Informally, Cochin is also referred to as the Gateway to Kerala. Today you will explore the area with your guide.


Day 03 – B
Cochin | Munnar
In the morning visit Fort Cochin and Mattancherry (the Dutch Palace), which constitutes the entrance to the backwaters from the Arabian Sea, the district where trading commenced. The influence of the Portuguese, Dutch and British, as well as those of earlier explorers from China and the Arab countries can be seen in the variety of architecture.  In the afternoon drive to Munnar and enjoy the scenic beauty en route. Upon arrival check-in at your hotel.


Day 04 – B
Munnar
Munnar is a small town at the confluence of the mountain streams Muthirappuzha, Chanduvarai and Kundala. It is surrounded by wild jungles, wet and cool for most of the season, situated at an altitude of 1,700 metres. It lies far away from the din and bustle of city life, with its incomparable charm and the rich green tropical rainforests. Take a sightseeing tour of the city and trek to tea plantations and the nearby village of Mattupetty.


Day 05 – B
Munnar |Thekkady
Morning drive for Thekkady (Periyar) en-route visiting countryside and on arrival check-in at your hotel. Thekkady is a mystical travel destination in Kerala and conjures up images of mighty elephants, endless chains of green hills and spice scented plantations. The entire district has picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold great opportunities for treks and mountain walks. Thekkady is a popular hill station and wildlife centre. For the rest of the day there is time to explore the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.


Day 06 – B
Thekkady | Madurai
Drive to Madurai and enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city, including temples.  Madurai is famous for the Meenakshi Temple, around which the town  was built in shape of a lotus. This temple town of South India was once the capital of the Pandya rulers. Originally it was named ‘Madhurapuri’. It is said that Lord Shiva showered divine nectar here on the day it was to be named. Jasmine flowers of Madurai are very famous. In the evening Aarti at Madurai.


Day 07 – B
Madurai | Rameshwaram | Madurai
Rameshwaram is one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in India. No pilgrimage is complete without taking a trip to this holy island. It is said that this is the place where Lord Rama offered thanks to Lord Shiva in return for his support in defeating King Ravana. The main attractions here are temples that bejewel this holy land. Explore the grandeur and return to Madurai by evening.


Day 08 – B
Madurai | Kovalam
Today you will proceed to Kovalam beach. Check into the Beach resort. Kovalam is world famous and consists of three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favorite haunt of tourists, especially Europeans since the 1930s.  A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm waters ideal for sea bathing. The leisure options at this beach are plenty and diverse – sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmes, Catamaran cruising etc. The tropical sun acts so fast that one can see the faint blush of coppery tan on the skin in a matter of minutes. The day is at leisure.


Day 09 – B
Kovalam
Morning, stroll down the beautiful beaches of Kovalam followed by a journey to Cape Camorin. Visit Vivekananda Rock & Ashram, the Amman Devi Temple and see the three seas meet here (Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean & Arabian Sea). Enjoy the magnificent sunset from here before driving back to Kovalam in the evening.


Day 10 – B
Kovalam
Today is at leisure at the beach.


Day 11 – B
Kovalam | Kumarakom
In the morning set off to Kumarakom, taking stops in the countryside on the way. Upon arrival check-in at your hotel.  Kumarakom is a picturesque clean village that reflects the true natural beauty of Kerala. It has only recently been developed as a tourist centre. Boat races, houseboat cruises, canoeing and fishing are the attractions worth exploring. One of the major attractions of Kumarakom is the backwater.  Rest of the day to explore at your own or visit Kumarakom Bird sanctuary.


Day 12 – B L D
Kumarakom | Alappuzha
In the morning start your journey towards Kottayam and upon arrival check-in into a beautifully decorated houseboat to Alappuzha (formerly: Alleppey). The picturesque small town of Alappuzha with its exotic charm and serene surroundings never fails to enchant your mind and soul. Travelling through the coconut fringed canals passing through many exotic spots will provide you with a very special experience. You will also enjoy delicious meals on board and stay overnight on the houseboat.


Day 13 – B
Alappuzha | Cochin |Marari Beach
Deboard the house boat and transfer to Marari beach resort.


Day 14 – B
Cochin
Drive to the airport, your guide will help you and bid you farewell.

Season

J F M A M J J A S O N D (Month to visit with Bold letter)

13 nights/14 days
From £1562 p/p*
*on twin share basis

Costs Include
Twin sharing Standard hotels & best available in small towns
Meals as in itinerary
1 night houseboat stays with all meals
A/c private car for all tours, transfers, sightseeing as per program
English speaking guide and naturalist during jungle visits
Entrance fees at monuments for one time entry

Costs Exclude
International airfares
India visa fees
Tips

Map

Included

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