Sublime Kerala

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kerala is a tropical state in Southwest India. The state boasts of cardamom, pepper, nutmeg, tea, coffee, clove, ginger and turmeric that are exported all over the world.  Many Indians term Kerala as God’s Own Country for its rolling hills, crystal lakes and coconut palms.

Arrival (evening): Mumbai

Namaste. Welcome to India! Arrive at Mumbai International airport. You will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is often considered the commercial and entertainment capital of India. The city also houses India’s Hindi film and television industry, affectionately termed as Bollywood. Mumbai is the most populated city in India and attracts visitors and residents from all over the world.  Overnight at the hotel.

Day 1: Mumbai—Cochin

After breakfast, fly to Cochin. Cochin, also known as Kochi, is one of the principal seaports of India and a growing center of international trade and information technology. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Day at leisure to explore the city. In the evening, experience a Kathakali performance, a traditional dance of Kerala.  Overnight in Cochin.

 

 

Day 2: Cochin

After breakfast, proceed for a city tour of Cochin: the Dutch Palace, built in 1555; the Jewish Synagogue, housing scrolls of the Old Testament and copper plates inscribed in Hebrew script; St. Francis Church, where Vasco da Gama was buried in 1524; the Chinese fishing nets at the entrance of Cochin Harbor and Willingdon Island, a manmade island from materials dredged while deepening Cochin port.  Overnight in Cochin.

 

 

 

 

 

Day 3: Cochin—Thekkady

Drive from Cochin to Thekkady (5 hours). Visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the best refuges in India for witnessing and photographing elephants at close range.  It is also home to tigers, sambars, and macaques. Overnight in Thekkady.

Day 4: Thekkady

In the morning, take a boat ride on Lake Periyar to view the wildlife. Later, visit a tea plantation, factory and local market. Overnight in Thekkady.

Day 5: Thekkady—Kumarakom

After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom (3.5 hours). Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Kumarakom is a charming village on the Eastern bank of Vembanadu Lake surrounded by paddy fields. The lake's majestic canals, streams and distributaries weave an intricate and enchanting web. Later proceed for a backwater cruise by motor boat in and around Kumarakom. Overnight in Kumarakom.

Day 6: Kumarakom—Kovalam

After breakfast, drive to Kovalam (4 hours). Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Kovalam is a charming  fishing village and Kerala's most spectacular beach resort. The town boasts numerous resorts and spas that focus on Ayurvedic body treatments and spiritual fitness. Overnight in Kovalam.