Classic Kerala - 9 Days

FROM USD $1,899

Combining historic Kochi, the hill station of Munnar and a houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Kerala. In nine sunfilled days feast upon the amazing natural wonders, wildlife, beauty and diversity of stunning Kerala - God's own country.

Day 1: Kochi

Once you arrive Kochi you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at leisure. Overnight - Kochi

Day 2: Kochi

Formerly a princely state, Kochi is also fondly referred to as “The Queen of the Arabian Sea”. This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of the town including the beautiful Parsi Synagogue built in 1568, the Dutch Palace built by the Portuguese in 1555 and St Francis’ Church. A walking tour of Fort Cochin takes you through streets still graced with traces of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial architecture. Afternoon/evening free. Overnight - Kochi (B)

Day 3: Munnar

Kochi - Munnar. A drive east to to Munnar - a quaint hill station nestled on the verdant slopes of tea plantations, that exudes a rare old world charm and reminds one of the days of the Raj in its elegant splendour. At a height of 1525 metres, Munnar offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Overnight - Munnar (B, D)

Days 4 - 5: Periyar NP

Munnar - Periyar. A short drive south to Periyar, South India’s most popular wildlife sanctuary and home to bison, antelopes, sambar, wild boar, birds and even the odd tiger! Kumli, close to the sanctuary and where you’ll stay, is a pretty little town dotted with small spice and handicraft shops. There is plenty to do in and around Periyar, so we leave the choice to you. Enjoy an included boat ride on Lake Periyar to spot herds of wild elephants or visit the lush nearby tea estates. Overnight - Periyar NP (B:2)

A brightly coloured vehicle, decorated for festival time

Days 6 - 7: Kumarakom

Periyar - Kumarakom. A drive to Kumarakom. Perched sleepily on the eastern banks of the mighty Lake Vembanad in the heartland of Kerala’s famed backwaters, Kumarakom has changed little since the Middle Ages but for it’s string of exotic resorts, making it the perfect point to explore the backwaters. Although right in the thick of a tangle of lush tropical waterways, Kumarakom is technically an island on Lake Vembanad. This is an ideal place to chill-out for a few days. There is also a wonderful bird sanctuary, winter home to many migratory birds which is worth a visit. Overnight - Kumarakom (B:2)

A Keralan house boat floating on the backwaters

Day 8: Kerala backwaters

This morning board a simply furnished private rice-boat for a journey through the backwaters in and around Alleppey. Crewed by a poler to push the rice boat through the water, a distance of some 20 kms will be covered, during which time the boat will glide past colourful local villages. As for dining, the on-board cook will prepare meals using fresh local produce. Overnight - Rice Boat (B, L, D)

Day 9: Kochi

Alleppey - Kochi. Disembarking at Alleppey, you’ll be driven the short distance back to Kochi. Consider extending your stay in Kochi or elsewhere in Kerala. Alternatively, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

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FROM USD $1,899

Prices & Departure Dates

Prices shown are ‘per person’, based on a travelling party of at least 2 adults. The single supplement price needs to be added to the twin/double price if single rooms are required. If travelling solo, an additional ‘1-person’ supplement will apply.

Prices are indicative and will vary depending on your chosen hotels, room availability as well as time of travel i.e. during India’s peak travel season of 21 Dec - 10 Jan, additional supplements will apply. Equally, if you with to travel to India during the summer, rates will be cheaper than those quoted. Please bear this in mind if comparing prices as we always aim to deliver exceptional value.

This itinerary is based upon superior accommodation. Standard and deluxe properties are also available upon request.

Please note that discounts will apply if there are more 4 our more people in your travelling party, since fixed costs like transportation and guiding are shared across the group.



Date	Price/Person	Single Supp.
Classic Kerala - 9 Days	USD $1,899	USD $1,139

Experiences

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The Great Outdoors

The crystal clear waters and white sands of a Sri Lankan beach

By the Sea

Nothing beats a little rest and relaxation by the sea - wind down from an action packed tour with a few days lazing on golden sands or spend your entire holiday soaking up the sun. From the coral rich Red Sea and the azure Aegean and Mediterranean to the crystal clear waters of the Indian ocean, choose from a wide range of idyllic destinations.

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Sailing & Cruising

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Highlights & Inclusions

Below is a list of key highlights and what is included on this tour. Further, where appropriate, we have listed the items that are not included in the tour price.

Trip Highlights

Historic Kochi - Parsi Synagogue, Dutch Palace, St Francis Church, Fort Cochin, colourful boats and Chinese Fishing nets on the waterfront
The protected Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Lake - elephant and tiger reserve.
Coastal Alleppey - the Venice of the East