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Classic Kerala

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9 days

PRIVATE TOUR: 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.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

9 days

Starts

Kochi

Ends

Kochi

Range

Private

Tour Guide

Yes (for locally included sights)

Group Size

Minimum age

15 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Any day of the year

Hotel Rating

Our rating: Superior

Countries

India

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

Yes

Meals included

Breakfast: 8, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 2
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Per Person From
$2,765.00
NZD$2,488.50
Deposit From
Final payment
NZD$1,660.00
$3,317.00

Tour Highlights

Historic Kochi - Explore the Parsi Synagogue, Dutch Palace, St Francis Church, Fort Cochin, colourful boats and Chinese fishing nets on the waterfront
Munnar – Stroll through a tea plantation on a guided walk and visit a local market
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary - Spot herds of elephants from an included boat ride on Lake Periyar
Kumarakom – Relax on the shores of Lake Vembanad and opt to visit the local bird sanctuary and the famous Kerala backwaters
Alleppey - Visit the Venice of the East

Included

Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 2 dinners
7 nights 3-4 star hotels
1 overnight - Traditional Keralan rice houseboat on Keralan backwaters
Touring and excursions as per itinerary
Boat ride on Lake Periyar OR visit to a tea plantation
Services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides for all included sight-seeing
Entrance fees to all included sights
An airport arrival transfer day 1 and a departure transfer day 9
All relevant transfer and transportation in private modern Chauffeur driven air-conditioned vehicles

Not Included

International flights and visas
Tipping - An entirely personal gesture

Itinerary

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
Meals: Breakfast

Days 3-4 - Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Kochi - Periyar. A 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.

Overnight: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Meals: Breakfast x2

Day 5 - Munnar

Periyar - Munnar. A drive east 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 splendor. At a height of 1525 meters, Munnar offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Enjoy an included visit to the lush nearby tea estates.

Overnight: Munnar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6 - Kerala backwaters

Munnar - Allepey. Departing Munnar we drive to Alleppey where we board a simply furnished private rice-boat for a journey through the backwaters in and around Alleppey. 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
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 7-8 - Kumarakom

Disembarking at 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
Meals: Breakfast x2

Day 9 - Kochi

Kumarakom - Kochi. Today marks the end of our arrangements, consider extending your stay in Kochi or elsewhere in Kerala. Alternatively, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Casino Hotel
Kochi

Casino Hotel is a modern hotel located on Willingdon island, set in tropical gardens it is a beautiful blend of art deco and colonial Indian architectural styles. With a large pool and and spacious comfortable rooms this hotel offers a fantastic experience when in Kochi. Casino Hotel boasts 2 restaurants, a 24-hour health club as well as free wifi in public areas.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
The Fern Ecotel Hotel
Kochi

Nestled on the tranquil Willingdon Island, The Fern Hotel, formerly known as the Trident Hotel, offers a comfortable stay filled with indulgent amenities. Guests can unwind at the Ayurvedic spa, take a refreshing dip in the inviting outdoor pool, or stay active in the modern fitness center. The elegantly designed, air-conditioned rooms and suites overlook lush gardens or the pool, and each room is equipped with modern conveniences like satellite TV and minibars. Suites add an extra touch of luxury with spacious, separate living areas. With four diverse restaurants, The Fern Hotel invites guests on an exceptional culinary journey.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel
The Elephant Court
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Located on 4 acres of land, the Elephant Court is a grand hotel decked out in cooling teak wood. Guest rooms are beautifully appointed with earthy hues of brown and pale green set off by crisp cotton sheets. Dining options include local specialities and international cuisine, all served in the restaurant with beautiful views of the swimming pool and surrounding area. A trip to the beautiful rooftop curio shop to pick up some souvenirs is a must. The accommodation is well located close to the Thekaddy forests.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel
Greenwoods Resort Thekkady
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Nestled amidst the picturesque greenery of Kumily, Greenwoods stands as retreat offering an array of amenities and recreational activities. Guests can unwind in the inviting outdoor pool or partake in hiking adventures and gym sessions for a rejuvenating experience. The cozy rooms, adorned with light wood furnishings and ample natural light, provide a serene sanctuary, complete with modern amenities like TVs, tea/coffee makers, and work desks. Dining at the Amritham restaurant promises a culinary journey through Indian, Chinese, and Continental flavors, while room service caters to personalized dining preferences.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Amber Dale Munnar
Munnar

Experience a stay of comfort and convenience at Amber Dale Munnar, where complimentary WiFi and an inviting restaurant await. The property offers a children's playground and fitness center, ensuring entertainment for all. Rooms are well-appointed, each with a private bathroom, free toiletries and a hairdryer. All include amenities like a kettle and flat-screen TV. A 24-hour front desk is ready to assist, while the hotel also offers a serene garden and a games room, creating a well-rounded retreat for guests seeking relaxation or entertainment.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
The Tall Trees Resorts
Munnar

Imagine being surrounded by canopies of leaves, hearing the sound of nature and taking in the lush greenery. Imagine no longer - The Tall Trees Resorts are hidden away in one of the world's eight biodiversity hotspots. At this resort, you'll live in cottages under around 600 tall trees, and get to experience wildlife trails, trekking and hiking.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Houseboat - premium, air-conditioned
Alleppey

Premium houseboats are elegantly furnished with up to four bedrooms, equipped with modern en suites and 24 hour air conditioning. There is an open lounge, dining area and deck to relax and admire the beautiful backwater views. The cruises are full board and you'll be served tasty meals, freshly prepared by the on board chef.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
Deluxe House Boat
Eastend Lakesong
Kumarakom

Nestled among the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, Eastend Lakesong comprises of 8 acres of facility packed leisure land. Guests sleep in villas and cottages, which are all well furnished with colourful interiors and comfortable beds. The onsite restaurants offer an excellent selection of local and international cuisine. Why not treat yourself to a relaxing massage at the Ayurveda on site Spa? It is the perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring in the fierce Indian heat.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Rhythm Kumarakom
Kumarakom

Nestled in the heart of Kumarakom, Rhythm Kumarakom offers a luxurious retreat with 42 air-conditioned rooms equipped with modern amenities. Immerse yourself in relaxation with a visit to the spa, featuring rejuvenating body treatments, or take a dip in the outdoor pool while enjoying panoramic views of the lake. Indulge in regional cuisine at La Breeze, one of the two on-site restaurants, or opt for 24-hour room service. The hotel also provides complimentary wireless internet, concierge services, and an arcade/game room for added convenience.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel

Prices & Dates

Prices shown are per person when there are 2 persons sharing a room. The 'Single Room' price is applicable when a single room is required, based on a travelling party of at least 2 adults.

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.

2024
Twin/Double
Single
4 Dec - 12 Dec
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5 Dec - 13 Dec
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6 Dec - 14 Dec
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7 Dec - 15 Dec
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8 Dec - 16 Dec
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9 Dec - 17 Dec
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10 Dec - 18 Dec
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11 Dec - 19 Dec
$3,075
$4,905
2025
Twin/Double
Single
10 Jan - 18 Jan
Save 10%
$3,075$2,768
$4,905$4,415
11 Jan - 19 Jan
Save 10%
$3,075$2,768
$4,905$4,415
12 Jan - 20 Jan
Save 10%
$3,075$2,768
$4,905$4,415
13 Jan - 21 Jan
Save 10%
$3,075$2,768
$4,905$4,415
14 Jan - 22 Jan
Save 10%
$3,075$2,768
$4,905$4,415
15 Jan - 23 Jan
Save 10%
$3,075$2,768
$4,905$4,415
16 Jan - 24 Jan
Save 10%
$3,075$2,768
$4,905$4,415
17 Jan - 25 Jan
Save 10%
$3,075$2,768
$4,905$4,415
2026
Twin/Double
Single
10 Jan - 18 Jan
$3,345
$5,345
11 Jan - 19 Jan
$3,345
$5,345
12 Jan - 20 Jan
$3,345
$5,345
13 Jan - 21 Jan
$3,345
$5,345
14 Jan - 22 Jan
$3,345
$5,345
15 Jan - 23 Jan
$3,345
$5,345
16 Jan - 24 Jan
$3,345
$5,345
17 Jan - 25 Jan
$3,345
$5,345

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