From the historic spice-trading centre of Cochin to the picturesque forestlands and rich wildlife of Periyar and miles of ocean, sand and backwaters, this journey is perfect for those looking to discover the best of this incredible region in a short amount of time. With a perfect blend of guided excursions and free time to explore on your own, this week long voyage is crafted for those who want to experience the highlights of Kerala; affectionately called “God’s own country” for its stunning natural beauty.

Your package includes

  • 7 night accommodation in double occupancy
  • Return airport transfers
  • Ground transportation in private air conditioned vehicle
  • English speaking local guides (private guide)
  • 8 meals: 6 breakfasts, 01 lunch and 01 dinner
  • Services of English speaking local expert/ guide as per the program (no guide during boat trip and nature walks. Done with park guides)
  • Sightseeing as per itinerary
  • Entrance fees to sights – as per itinerary
  • Bottled water in the vehicle throughout

Not included · International airfare and airport taxes· Gratuities to hotel personnel, guides and drivers · Beverages · Optional excursions · Visa for India $. · Camera fees for certain sites

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DAY 1 COCHIN

Arrive in Cochin and transfer by our local representative to your hotel.
Kochi, or more familiarly Cochin is spread across islands and peninsulas in a stunning location between the Arabian Sea and the Backwaters. The city was founded in 1341 when a flood created a natural safe port,
which became the principal harbor for Malabar Coast’s spice trade. Cochin was on the main trade route between Europe and China. The Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and the British have all left their mark
here. The Jewish synagogue, the Dutch Palace, the Chinese fishing nets, and other remnants of European and Asian architecture merge smoothly into the traditional fabric of the seaport city.

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DAY 2 COCHIN

Explore the Fort Kochi area with its many small shops and market stalls. On this guided walk, discover historic Kochi, with stops at St Francis Church – believed to be the oldest church in India, the Chinese fishing
nets – a unique mechanical method of catching fish by local fishermen, and little markets along the way.
Next visit “Dutch Palace”, built in the 1550’s by the Portuguese and taken over by the Dutch, who later presented it to the Rajas of Cochin. The palace contains excellent mythological murals and a rare example of
traditional Keralite flooring. Continue to Paradesi Synagogue, built in 1568 and considerably embellished in the mid-18th century by Ezekiel Rahabi who built a clock tower and paved the floor of the synagogue with
hand-painted tiles brought from Canton in China. In the evening, visit a local theatre to experience Kathakali. Literally meaning “story dance”, it is the pantomimic dance drama, the dancing and the acting being blended together into an inseparable form. It is a combination of facial expressions and body movements, which brings out the thought and emotion of the character. (B)

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DAY 3 COCHIN – MUNNAR (130 km/6hrs)

Morning, head into the lush hills of the Western Ghats and the hill-town of Munnar.
Strategically located at the confluence of three rivers, the town sits high amongst the cool highlands, surrounded by tea plantations and the mist shrouded hills of the Western Ghats. Look out for some wonderful
waterfalls on your way up to the tea country. On arrival, check in for your stay. Located in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 1,524 metres, Munnar is close to Anamudi, the highest peak in South India. The
surrounding Nilgiri Hills are covered in a dense carpet of tea and a visit to the town’s Tea Museum reveals how the plant was first introduced and cultivated in the area. As a former colonial hill station, the British would retreat here from the heat of the plains in the summer months and the refreshing climate and stunning hill scenery continue to make it a popular escape. Rest of the day is at leisure for independent exploration. (B)

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